Is Trollfjord worth it?
The MS Trollfjord is operated by Hurtigruten on the Norwegian coast and into Svalbard, carrying up to 500 guests on her Signature Voyages against a maximum capacity of around 860. Built in 2002 and refurbished in 2016 and 2020, she is rated Polar Class 6 with hybrid propulsion. She feels more like a cruise ship than a classic expedition vessel, while remaining equipped for Arctic waters.
Ship at a glance
Specifications
- Operator
- Hurtigruten
- Guests
- Capped at 500 on Signature Voyages; approx. 860 maximum capacity
- Ice class
- Polar Class 6
- Built
- 2002, refurbished 2016 and 2020
- Tonnage
- Approximately 16,140 GT
- Propulsion
- Diesel-electric hybrid
- Regions
- Norwegian coast, Svalbard, Arctic
- Style
- Larger expedition-lite ship
Is the Trollfjord an expedition ship?
Not in the strict sense. At up to 500 guests on Signature Voyages she is far larger than a purpose-built expedition vessel and carries the amenities of a coastal cruise ship — multiple dining venues, a spa, a library, a fitness centre. She carries Zodiacs and an expedition team, but the balance sits closer to comfort than to landings.
The Trollfjord was refitted in 2023 for Hurtigruten’s Signature Voyages — the Svalbard Express and the North Cape Express among them — and carries a reduced complement on those sailings: 500 guests rather than her roughly 860-guest maximum capacity.
We describe her as expedition-lite. That isn’t a criticism — for travellers who want Arctic scenery without the intensity of a small-ship expedition, that balance is the point.
What is she like to board?
Embarking on the MS Trollfjord in September 2024, the first thing that stands out is the ship’s size and thoughtful design. It feels more like a cruise ship than a classic expedition vessel, yet it’s fully equipped to navigate Arctic waters safely and responsibly.
The blend of modern comfort, eco-friendly technology, and Norwegian style creates a welcoming environment for both expedition novices and seasoned travelers.
What are the cabins like?
A wide variety of cabins, from cozy inside rooms to spacious suites with balconies and panoramic views. All cabins are tastefully decorated with Nordic design influences and modern conveniences. The ship also has a limited number of accessible cabins.
- Cabins and suites: wide variety, from cozy inside rooms to spacious suites with balconies and panoramic views.
- All cabins are tastefully decorated with Nordic design influences and modern conveniences.
- Also has a limited number of accessible cabins.
What’s the food like?
Several dining venues serve a range of options including local Norwegian cuisine, international dishes, and fresh seafood. Casual buffet options and formal dining rooms offer flexible dining experiences.
- Dining: several venues serving local Norwegian cuisine, international dishes, and fresh seafood, with casual buffet options and formal dining rooms.
- Røst: at an extra charge unless you are in a suite, it has some exquisite offerings and is worth trying at breakfast, lunch and dinner. It is worth trying for the foodie!
What are the excursions like?
The ship carries a fleet of Zodiacs for shore landings and wildlife viewing, allowing close-up exploration of glaciers, fjords, and wildlife-rich islands. Knowledgeable guides deliver engaging lectures and lead excursions, and multiple decks are designed for wildlife watching.
- Zodiac excursions: the ship carries a fleet of Zodiacs for shore landings and wildlife viewing, allowing close-up exploration of glaciers, fjords, and wildlife-rich islands.
- Expert expedition team: knowledgeable guides including naturalists, geologists, and photographers deliver engaging lectures and lead excursions, enriching every moment.
- Outdoor decks: multiple decks designed for wildlife watching with heated seating areas and binocular stations.
What’s daily life aboard like?
Multiple lounges, several bars, panoramic observation decks, and a dedicated expedition lounge for briefings and lectures. The ship also features a library, fitness center, and a small spa with sauna and treatment rooms. Her size fosters a sense of community among guests.
- Public areas: multiple lounges, several bars, panoramic observation decks, and a dedicated expedition lounge for briefings and lectures. The ship also features a library, fitness center, and a small spa with sauna and treatment rooms.
- Wellness and relaxation: after active days, guests can unwind in the spa, sauna, or fitness center, or enjoy the cozy lounges with panoramic views.
- Social atmosphere: the ship’s size fosters a sense of community among guests, with social events, group dining options, and casual gatherings.
How sustainable is she?
Eco-friendly tech: the hybrid propulsion system reduces emissions and noise, creating a more peaceful and environmentally conscious expedition.
Who should book her?
Travelers who want a larger, well-appointed expedition ship with extensive amenities, guests looking for a balance between comfort and adventure, nature lovers and photographers seeking diverse Arctic wildlife, and families, couples, solo travelers, and groups seeking flexible activity levels.
- Travelers who want a larger, well-appointed expedition ship with extensive amenities.
- Guests looking for a balance between comfort and adventure.
- Nature lovers and photographers seeking diverse Arctic wildlife.
- Families, couples, solo travelers, and groups seeking flexible activity levels.
The verdict
The MS Trollfjord provides a unique expedition experience combining the comforts of a larger ship with the excitement of Arctic exploration. Sailing through Norway and Svalbard in September 2024, I was impressed by the ship’s ability to deliver both adventure and relaxation, all while maintaining a strong focus on sustainability.
Related reading
Written by your expedition advisor
Chris Commisso · Expedition Expert
Signature Travel Expert
Chris and Erika have sailed ten expedition voyages and toured seven more expedition ships. Favorite explorations so far: Antarctica, Svalbard, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, Alaska, the Galápagos, the Scottish Hebrides, Churchill and French Polynesia.
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