Hurtigruten is best known in New Zealand for its unique ‘working ship’ journeys along the Norwegian coast, however, there is another little-known travel gem operated by Hurtigruten called ‘Fram’.
MS ‘Fram’ was purpose-designed for Hurtigruten as an expedition cruise ship to explore the Arctic region and Antarctica cruises. She’s a cruise ship with a difference because she’s small (just 310 guests) & built to handle polar conditions & her passengers get to access remote regions that are quite out of reach to large conventional cruise ships. ‘Fram’ isn’t a converted survey or scientific research ship either, she was built with passenger comfort in mind with a good restaurant, bars and expansive lounges.
Hurtigruten’s Explorer programme is perfect for Kiwis who want a really ‘hands on’ experience in our polar regions. Many experienced Kiwi cruisers have been put off by the somewhat spartan conditions provided by cruiselines who offer real ‘on the ice’ experiences in the Arctic and Antarctica and it’s possible that Hurtigruten has the answer for you with ‘Fram’. Not only does she provide you with ample creature comforts on board from a highly experienced Norwegian crew but the shore excursion programme is quite unique and even includes an option for an overnight camp on the ice.
‘Fram’ spends the southern hemisphere summer cruising Antarctic waters from Ushaia in southern Argentina and the northern hemisphere summer visiting Greenland, Iceland & Spitsbergen. The new direct Air New Zealand service to Argentina makes for an ideal connection.
