Forget for a moment the sun-drenched clichés of the Mediterranean, the pastel terraces, azure seas, and aggressively photogenic gelato. Beautiful? Yes, but about as original as socks at Christmas. If you're looking to swap crowded beaches for soul-stirring vistas, summer in Norway by ship is your golden (midnight-sunlit) ticket. 

The midnight sun: extra hours, extra magic

Above the Arctic Circle, the sun stubbornly refuses to set, bathing the fjords in a soft, surreal glow long past bedtime. Imagine sipping your favourite drink on deck at midnight, marvelling as daylight lingers lazily, turning your voyage into a perpetual golden hour. Hurtigruten’s coastal express voyages offer one of the most iconic ways to witness this natural phenomenon, and Cruise Collective members enjoy 5% off, making midnight sun indulgence taste even sweeter.

Fjords like you’ve never fjorded before

Travelling by car or train is lovely, of course, but if you're not seeing Norway's coastline from the deck of ship, you're genuinely missing out on nature’s grandest theatre. From the staggering cliffs of Geirangerfjord to the majestic beauty of Sognefjord, cruising grants you front-row seats to landscapes sculpted by ice giants (who we presume they had excellent taste). On land, you'd catch glimpses; by sea, you’re immersed in the spectacle. 

Birdlife (and more) along the coast

Norway in summer is a feathered frenzy, and cruising offers wildlife lovers unmatched viewing opportunities. Puffins, white-tailed eagles, and gannets perform daring aerial displays worthy of an Olympic medal or two. While those touring on wheels crane their necks from roadside laybys, you'll be casually photographing wildlife over breakfast. It feels unfair, but that's cruising life—don't feel guilty, just remember your camera.

Cultural treasures only accessible by sea

Exploring Norway by ship lets you uncover communities unreachable by road, tucked away like well-kept secrets. Remote fishing villages and charming coastal towns, like Ålesund’s whimsical Art Nouveau architecture or Tromsø's vibrant Arctic culture, become accessible without a single hairpin turn. Notably, Hurtigruten's coastal express is not just a cruise—it’s a vital lifeline connecting these coastal communities, adding authenticity (and perhaps an extra cinnamon bun or two) to your voyage.

Glacier gazing without breaking a sweat

Summer is prime time for glaciers, and cruising offers the gentlest of encounters with these icy titans. The glaciers of Norway’s rugged coast put on quite the performance, calving icebergs with dramatic flair. Watching from your ship means witnessing raw, primal power—without needing crampons or ice picks, leaving your dignity fully intact.

Coastal cuisine that goes beyond cod

If your idea of cruise dining is endless buffets of indistinguishable fare, think again. Norway’s coastal route is a gastronomic journey, highlighting local, seasonal produce—from freshly caught king crab in Kirkenes to cloudberries harvested under the midnight sun. It's a menu you might never encounter inland, each meal telling the story of the landscapes you're sailing past. 

Norway by sea: summer's best-kept secret

While southern Europe sweats in summer heat, Norway remains pleasantly cool and deliciously quiet. Cruising along Norway’s summer coast isn't just a holiday—it’s a revelation, a story told by the rhythm of the sea. So this year, why not swap sunburn for scenic bliss, crowds for coastal charm, and discover why Norway by ship should be your ultimate summer destination?

Your only regret will be not voyaging here sooner.