Hurtigruten is to offer winter sailings from the Port of Dover for the first time.

The 14-day cruises form part of the line’s new Norway Expedition 2021/22 programme and will sail between October 2021 and March 2022 on MS Maud, one of three Hurtigruten vessels to be transformed into a hybrid-powered ship. The vessels will join MS Roald Amundsen, which launched this summer as the line’s first hybrid-powered cruise ship.

Every day guests will be offered a free activity to explore the history, culture and wildlife on the Norwegian coastline. From a visit to the North Cape, the most northerly part of Europe, to visits with a traditional fishing community, guests will have the opportunity to explore a host of hidden gems.

There will also be excursions such as fishing, hiking and a Northern Lights safari at night, all available at an additional charge.

Hurtigruten UK MD Anthony Daniels said: “We are delighted to launch our first ever season from Dover. This new route offers a truly exceptional way for guests to explore the coast of Norway and experience the Northern Lights all at the convenience and comfort of a UK departure.

“Not only will we take guests to new highlights, but with an increased presence of expedition team leaders onboard we will help new and existing guests to become immersed in the rich wildlife and cultural offering of Norway.”

Port of Dover chief commercial officer Barbara Buczek said: “Hurtigruten’s expedition cruises have an amazing sense of adventure and are a fantastic advocate for green cruising that explores nature at its best. We are really excited to be working with Hurtigruten to bring a new winter cruise season to Dover, and to become their first UK port of call.”

Prices for Hurtigruten’s Norway Expeditions start from £3,299pp.