Hurtigruten and Norwegian Cruise Line have both announced major upgrades to their respective fleets. Explorer cruise line Hurtigruten has begun upgrading four of its 11 Norwegian Coastal ships, and is adding its first new expedition ship in 10 years. The refurbishment of the first two ships—MS Kong Harald and MS Polarlys—has already been completed, and the renovation of the MS Nordkapp and MS Nordnorge will be completed in April and November, respectively. “New Arctic Interior” is the theme of the makeover, combining modern Scandinavian design elements with the colors and textures of the coast and sea, and incorporating natural materials such as wood, slate and leather. The refurbishment will include all of the ships’ common areas, including reception foyers, cafes and bistro areas and the aft deck. The restaurants are also undergoing transformation, and Hurtigruten has partnered with dozens of local food suppliers to create the coastal kitchen concept—emphasizing Norwegian cuisine with seasonal ingredients and freshly sourced produce.
Hurtigruten has also purchased the MS Spitsbergen, which is currently undergoing an almost complete reconstruction to make it ready for polar waters. All cabins, suites and public spaces of the 320-passenger vessel will be upgraded, and the power plants and emissions will be adjusted to meet Hurtigruten’s high standards. The new ship will join the fleet on the Norwegian Coastal Voyage route later this spring and replaces the MS Midnatsol. For more information, call (877) 301-3117 or visit hurtigruten.us.
Meanwhile, Norwegian Cruise Line has completed an extensive renovation to its US-flagged Pride of America ship. The vessel has returned to its homeport of Honolulu following a three-and-a-half week dry dock, and has undergone ship wide enhancements that include new venues, refreshed decor and redesigned public spaces.
The renovation is a part of The Norwegian Edge program, a $400 million investment that embraces every aspect of the guest experience. In addition to new contemporary decor and furniture throughout the Pride of America, several new venues have been added such as the Soho Art Gallery, featuring original works of art available for purchase; the Perspectives Photo Studio, where guests can capture professional photo memories of their vacation; and Dolce Gelato, Norwegian’s signature gelateria. The ship’s pool deck has also undergone a complete refurbishment, as has the conservatory area and The Mandara Spa, which has been expanded with added treatment rooms and Mexican decor throughout.
Complimentary dining venues throughout the vessel have been refurbished, notably the Skyline Main Dining Room, which received a new entrance, carpet design and other features. La Cucina, East Meets West, Cagney’s Steakhouse and Jefferson’s Bistro also received modernizing enhancements, and all dining outlets now have new menus offering additional choice and increased variety. Pride of America sails year-round from Honolulu on 7-day intra-Hawaii cruises. For more information, call (888) 625-2784 or visit ncl.com.
