MS Finnmarken to undergo biggest refurbishment in Hurtigruten history

Hurtigruten, the leader in expedition travel, will be transforming MS Finnmarken into MS Otto Sverdrup in 2020. The renovation will begin in the first quarter of the year and be completed in 2021. The ship has been named after a great Norwegian polar hero. Otto Sverdrup was a key member of polar expeditions, the first person to ski across Greenland and the captain of the legendary Arctic ship, Fram. He also served as a Hurtigruten Expeditions captain between expeditions.

The keel-to-mast upgrade will bring a number of exciting new features to the ship, some highlights include:

• Substantially upgraded, low-emission engines, instalment of shore-power connectivity and preparation for her future battery pack installation
• Fully refurbished cabins and suites will add to the premium onboard experience. Natural Scandinavian materials such as granite, oak, birch and wool will be used to create a relaxed and stylish feel
• Five suites with panoramic windows and spectacular views will be introduced
• Three brand new restaurants will be added; Aune, Lindstrøm and Fredheim
• Hurtigruten’s signature Science Center will be added on Deck 4, packed with state-of-the-art technology such as interactive touch screens and science equipment and also home of the Expedition Team
• Deck 7 will see a new wellness area complete with a lounge, treatment rooms, a gym and a panoramic sauna
• The outdoor pool area will be fully refurbished
• The onboard shop will be expanded
• The Car Deck will be replaced by the launching area for the Hurtigruten explorer boats and expedition equipment

Daniel Skjeldam, CEO of Hurtigruten said, “We will transform her into a full-fledged premium expedition cruise ship, with all the comforts, facilities and expertise you need for creating a perfect adventure. Imagine standing on the deck watching the aurora borealis glimmer above in a star-riddled sky, sailing within nearly touching distance of a sheer 1,000-metre high mountainside, or experiencing small communities, perpetual daylight and a never-setting sun north of the Arctic Circle. This is what you get when booking your Norwegian adventure with Hurtigruten.”