When it comes to expedition cruising, there are two names that stand out: Hurtigruten and Panache Cruises. As someone who craves adventure and exploration, I was eager to compare and contrast these two expert expedition cruise options to help fellow travelers make an informed decision on their next adventure.
Hurtigruten, with its fleet of 16 ships, offers discovery voyages to explore Norwegian culture and exciting destinations around the world. Their focus on sailing to destinations that larger ships can’t reach is a major draw for those seeking a more authentic and unique experience.
On the other hand, Panache Cruises specializes in tailored trips and takes pride in their motto of ‘Nothing is too much trouble.’ As someone who values flexibility and customization in my travels, I was excited to see how this compared to Hurtigruten’s more structured approach.
Let’s dive in and see which expedition cruise option comes out on top.
- Hurtigruten offers both discovery voyages to explore Norwegian culture and exploration cruises to exciting destinations around the world, with a fleet of 16 ships.
- Panache Cruises specializes in expedition cruises and tailors trips to exact requirements, with a motto of ‘Nothing is too much trouble.’
- Hurtigruten’s ships are not as big as those of other ocean cruise lines, with the biggest ship holding just 822 passengers, and focuses on sailing to destinations larger ships can’t reach.
- Cruise Tips, founded by Mike Schimdt, helps over 1 million people per month plan their perfect cruise holidays and provides useful information about the cruise industry.
Hurtigruten’s Fleet
I’ve learned that Hurtigruten has a fleet of 16 ships, half of which are under the Norwegian Coastal Express brand and the other half under the Expeditions brand. What sets Hurtigruten apart from other cruise lines is their focus on sailing to destinations that larger ships can’t reach. Although their ships aren’t as big, the fleet offers a range of modern comforts despite some being old.
The newest ship in the fleet is the MS Fridtjof Nansen, built in 2020. The MS Trollfjord is currently due to undergo an extensive refurbishment in Spring 2023. While many ships don’t have balconies, some have suites and balcony cabins. Cruisers can also expect gyms and free WiFi on board Hurtigruten ships.
Additionally, the crew is exceptionally knowledgeable about the destinations visited, and guests will be well looked after, even if service isn’t six-star.
Destinations and Itineraries
Exploring unique and exotic destinations is a top priority for me when choosing an itinerary for my upcoming expedition cruise. Hurtigruten offers a wide range of exploration options, including voyages to destinations that are inaccessible to larger ships.
From the stunning fjords of Norway to the remote islands of Antarctica, Hurtigruten’s itineraries promise to take you on a journey of discovery to some of the most unique destinations in the world.
In addition to its Norwegian Coastal Express routes, Hurtigruten Expeditions offers itineraries to some of the most remote and fascinating corners of the globe, including the Amazon rainforest, the Galapagos Islands, and the Northwest Passage.
Whether you’re looking to explore the Arctic tundra or discover the rich cultural heritage of South America, Hurtigruten’s expeditions offer a unique and unforgettable experience for adventurous travelers.
Onboard Comforts
The onboard comforts on these ships are quite impressive, with modern amenities like gyms and free WiFi available to guests. Here are three cruise ship amenities that stood out to me during my expedition with Hurtigruten and Panache:
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Gyms: Both Hurtigruten and Panache offer gyms on their ships, allowing guests to maintain their fitness routines while at sea. The gyms are well-equipped with state-of-the-art machines and free weights. It was great to have the option to work out and stay active while on vacation.
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Free WiFi: In today’s digital age, having access to the internet is important. Both Hurtigruten and Panache offer free WiFi to guests, although it may be limited to certain fares. This allowed me to stay connected with loved ones back home and share my adventure with them.
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Comfort vs. Adventure: While both cruise lines offer modern amenities, they also provide a sense of adventure and exploration. Hurtigruten’s focus on sailing to destinations that larger ships can’t reach allows for a unique and immersive experience. Panache’s tailoring of trips to exact requirements ensures that guests can customize their expedition to fit their needs.
Overall, the onboard comforts enhance the experience without taking away from the sense of adventure.
Land Holidays and Charters
I particularly enjoyed learning about the land holidays and charter options offered by Hurtigruten and Panache Cruises.
Hurtigruten’s land holiday brand, Svalbard, offers exciting expedition breaks around the Svalbard region, allowing guests to experience the Arctic wilderness up close. These expeditions include dog sledding, hiking, and even polar bear spotting. Hurtigruten also offers charter options, such as the MS Santa Cruz II for sailings around the Galapagos Islands.
On the other hand, Panache Cruises specializes in tailoring trips to exact requirements, including chartering options. This means guests can have a customized expedition cruise, exploring destinations that are not part of the typical itinerary. Additionally, Panache Cruises offers exclusive access to some of the world’s most remote and untouched destinations.
Overall, both Hurtigruten and Panache Cruises provide opportunities for guests to explore unique destinations and have unforgettable experiences.
Drinks and Gratuities
Interestingly, it’s important to note that gratuities are not included in the price of a Hurtigruten cruise. The suggested tip is only 80 NOK per passenger per day, which may seem small, but can add up quickly. It’s important to keep in mind that many crew members rely on tips as a significant portion of their income.
When it comes to drink prices on a Hurtigruten ship, they can be quite expensive compared to other cruise lines. A bottle of wine can cost around £48, while a bottled beer can cost around £10.50. However, major currencies can be exchanged on board, so it may be worth taking advantage of that to avoid high drink costs.
It’s also worth noting that some cruise fares include select drinks, so it’s always a good idea to check the details of your booking.
Lastly, it’s important to remember that tipping etiquette can vary depending on the culture and destination, so it’s always a good idea to research beforehand or ask the crew for guidance.
- Drink prices can be expensive on a Hurtigruten cruise.
- Major currencies can be exchanged on board to avoid high drink costs.
- Some cruise fares include select drinks, so it’s always a good idea to check the details of your booking.
- Gratuities are not included in the price of a cruise, but the suggested tip is only 80 NOK per passenger per day.
- tipping etiquette can vary depending on the culture and destination, so it’s always a good idea to research beforehand or ask the crew for guidance.
WiFi and Gym Facilities
Moving on from drinks and gratuities, let’s talk about the modern comforts that Hurtigruten ships offer. WiFi is available on all ships, but it is important to note that it is only free on Select or Platinum fares. The WiFi reliability can vary depending on the location of the ship, but overall, it is a convenient way to stay connected with family and friends back home. Additionally, some ships have gyms for those who want to stay active while on board. The MS Fridtjof Nansen and MS Roald Amundsen have the best gym equipment quality in the fleet, and it’s a great way to stay in shape while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
To give you a better idea of the WiFi and gym facilities, I have created a table below:
| Ship Name | WiFi Reliability | Gym Equipment Quality |
|---|---|---|
| MS Fridtjof Nansen | Good | Excellent |
| MS Roald Amundsen | Good | Excellent |
| MS Trollfjord | Average | Good |
| MS Nordstjernen | Average | Average |
As you can see, the MS Fridtjof Nansen and MS Roald Amundsen are the best options for those who prioritize reliable WiFi and high-quality gym equipment. However, it’s important to note that the WiFi can vary depending on the location of the ship. Overall, the amenities on Hurtigruten ships are modern and comfortable, allowing guests to stay connected and active while enjoying their expedition cruise.
Service and Expertise
When looking for a cruise, one of the most important factors to consider is the level of service and expertise provided by the crew. Hurtigruten is known for its knowledgeable crew who are exceptionally well-informed about the destinations visited. They offer a high level of customer service, ensuring guests are well looked after throughout the voyage.
Moreover, Panache Cruises prides itself on providing a tailor-made service to meet the exact requirements of each guest. Their motto, "Nothing’s too much trouble,"reflects the high quality of customer service they offer. Their expert crew and staff are dedicated to making sure guests have an unforgettable experience. They go above and beyond to ensure this is achieved.
Whether it’s a special request or a particular dietary requirement, Panache Cruises will do everything possible to make sure guests have a fantastic time on board.
Panache’s Tailored Trips
I was impressed by how Panache Cruises creates tailor-made trips that fit each guest’s exact requirements, giving them a personalized and unique experience. They offer customizable packages that allow guests to choose their preferred destinations, activities, and even the type of ship they want to travel on. This level of customization is a great way to ensure that guests have a truly memorable and enjoyable experience.
To give you an idea of what kind of customized trips Panache Cruises can offer, here is an example table:
| Customizable Options | Examples |
|---|---|
| Destinations | Arctic, Antarctic, Galapagos, Amazon, Indonesia |
| Activities | Hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, wildlife watching, cultural immersion |
| Type of Ship | Expedition vessel, luxury yacht, sailing ship, icebreaker |
As you can see, Panache Cruises’ tailored trips allow guests to create a personalized experience that suits their interests and preferences. This is a great way to ensure that guests have a unique and unforgettable expedition cruise.
What is the average age range of passengers on a Hurtigruten expedition cruise?
The average age range of passengers on a Hurtigruten expedition cruise is typically 50-70 years old. There are no packing restrictions, but guests are encouraged to pack for the unpredictable weather and outdoor activities.
Does Hurtigruten have any restrictions on the amount of luggage passengers can bring on board?
When packing for a Hurtigruten expedition cruise, it’s important to keep in mind the luggage restrictions. Each passenger is allowed one suitcase and one carry-on bag. Packing tips include planning for layers and comfortable shoes.
Are there any age restrictions for passengers on Hurtigruten’s land holidays with Svalbard?
There are age requirements for passengers on Hurtigruten’s land holidays with Svalbard, with a minimum age of 8 years old. Trips range from 4 to 10 days, offering exciting expedition breaks around the Svalbard region.
Does Hurtigruten offer any activities or excursions specifically for families with children?
Oh, sure, Hurtigruten offers activities for families with children. Activities like ‘watch the scenery,’ ‘listen to the waves,’ and ‘read a book.’ Who needs fancy water parks and kids’ clubs anyway?
What sets Panache Cruises apart from other expedition cruise booking experts?
Panache Cruises stands out for their commitment to sustainability initiatives and their ability to create customized itineraries tailored to individual preferences. They prioritize the client’s needs and desires, ensuring a unique and unforgettable expedition cruise experience.