Norway's famous coastal ships sail every day from Bergen up past the Arctic Circle to Kirkenes near the Russian border, calling at more than 30 ports among fjords and islands. Here's what the Hurtigruten coastal voyage is like, when to go and how long to stay.
Norway is in the Schengen area, so the new EU entry checks apply. Prices are high, and alcohol on board is expensive. Check entry rules on GOV.UK before you book.
Temperatures are the average daytime high in °C.
The ships sail all year, and each season is different. From late September to March, long dark nights bring a good chance of the northern lights, and snow covers the coast. From mid May to late July the sun never sets in the far north. Summer is mildest, around 15°C, while winter in the Arctic is often near freezing, though the coast stays milder than you might expect thanks to the Gulf Stream.
On winter nights the crew announce sightings over the speakers, and some voyages promise another trip if you see none.
The ships wind through the Lofoten islands, with red fishing huts below jagged peaks.
In good weather the ship squeezes into this narrow fjord with cliffs on both sides, and turns round at the end.
The Arctic Cathedral, a cable car and, in winter, husky sledding and reindeer tours.
A coach trip to the cliffs at Europe's northern tip, from the port at Honningsvåg.
At the end of the line, a hotel built of snow and ice, with husky rides nearby.
Yes for children who love wildlife, snow or the idea of the northern lights. These are working ships rather than resort cruise ships, so there are no water slides, but there's lots to see from the deck.
The full round trip from Bergen to Kirkenes and back takes 12 nights. Many people sail one way in six or seven nights and fly home, or take a shorter section such as Tromsø to Kirkenes.
Fly into Bergen Airport, then take the airport bus or a taxi to the Hurtigruten terminal in the city, about 30 minutes away. Many people spend a night in Bergen before sailing.
There's a good chance on a winter voyage, but it depends on clear skies. Sailing north of the Arctic Circle for most of a week gives you more chances than a few nights in one place.
Put Hurtigruten coastal voyage on standby with everyone's other ideas. You each spread your points in secret, get one veto, and the draw picks where you go.