MS Spitsbergen

MS Spitsbergen

Named after the largest island in the Svalbard archipelago, MS Spitsbergen embodies the history of Hurtigruten's 1896 'Sports Route' between mainland Norway and Svalbard. She is a modern and environmentally progressive ship, perfect for exploring off-the-beaten-track.

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Highlights

About the ship

Rebuilt in 2016 and extensively refurbished in 2025, MS Spitsbergen combines modern expedition capability and adaptability with elegance and simplicity. With space for just 220 guests, she offers a relaxed, intimate atmosphere that speaks to Scandinavian style — and the agility to access remote places larger ships can’t.  

Ship features

On every voyage, you’ll be joined by our dedicated Expedition Team — a close-knit group of naturalists, historians, and guides. They lead landings, host science lectures, and share stories that deepen your understanding of the places we explore. From spotting whales to discussing Norwegian friluftsliv, they make each encounter more meaningful. 

Welcome aboard

An HX trip includes everything from daily excursions and activities to our onboard Science Centre, meals, gratuities, drinks* and more. All designed to give you the expedition experience of a lifetime.

All-inclusive | Click here to learn more

Your Floating Basecamp

Life on MS Spitsbergen is casual, calm, and connected to nature. Whether you’re sipping coffee by the window or watching the world go by from the observation deck, the spirit of discovery stays with you, even between landings.

MS Spitsbergen Aune HX 46546 Photo Espen Mills

Scandinavian by Design

The interiors are inspired by the sea — clean lines, soft tones, and materials that feel natural underfoot. Panoramic windows and wide, open decks make sure you’re always in sight of something spectacular.

Expedition Suite MX HX 46442 Photo Espen Mills

Expedition Suites

The best accommodation on our expedition ships. Spacious, private, and with wide windows to watch the world drift by, suites are comfortable and calm havens at sea. Selected suites also offer a private balcony for added luxury.

Discover our expedition suites

MS Spitsbergen Explorer Lounge HX 46532 Photo Espen Mills

Explorer Lounge & Bar

This relaxed space is where the day’s stories gather. With sweeping views and a warm atmosphere, it’s the perfect setting for sharing discoveries, attending briefings, or simply watching the waves roll by.

MS Spitsbergen Science Centre HX 46521 Photo Espen Mills

Science Centre

This is the core of the onboard experience. The Science Center is packed with state-of-the-art technology and high-tech gadgets such as touch screens and science equipment. This is where guests and staff/crew meet, mingle, and create a deeper understanding of the areas you explore.

The flexible venue features lecture spaces, a small library, and speciality areas for workshops in photography, biology, and more. This is also where you'll find HX’ hand-picked Expedition Team.

Explore the Science & Education program

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A Taste of the Journey

Food connects us to place. That’s why, wherever possible, flavours on board are inspired by the regions we explore. Expect seasonal ingredients, regional dishes, and sustainable seafood, all served in relaxed surroundings.

MS Spitsbergen Aune HX 46548 Photo Espen Mills

Restaurant Aune

MS Spitsbergen’s main restaurant serves three meals a day from generous breakfast buffets, casual lunches, to beautifully plated dinners that spotlight regional dishes. 

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Take Away

Prefer a quieter evening? Aune’s takeaway service lets you enjoy a freshly prepared meal in the comfort of your cabin or suite, perfect for laid-back nights in. 

MS Spitsbergen Brygga HX 46535 Photo Espen Mills

Brygga Bistro

A casual venue new since 2025 serving snacks and light meals between restaurant hours. Perfect for when you've worked up an appetite in between landings. 

Spaces to Rebalance

Whether you want to relax after a day of excursions or to get moving after wildlife watching out on deck, MS Spitsbergen has everything you need.

Sauna, MS Spitsbergen

Panoramic Sauna

Perched high on the ship, the sauna offers not just heat but horizon. The ultimate way to warm up and wind down after a day in the elements. 

Gym & Fitness Room, MS Spitsbergen

Fitness Room

Well-equipped and compact, the gym includes treadmills, bikes, weights — and even a ping pong table. Finish your workout with a breath of fresh air on deck. 

Hot tub Alkefjellet Svalbard, MS Spitsbergen

Hot Tubs

Two open-air hot tubs, each with space for five, offer a soothing way to soak in the scenery. Ideal for easing tired muscles or simply watching the world roll by. 

Cabins and Suites

Expedition Suite

The pinnacle of comfort at sea, our Expedition Suites are designed for those who want more space to unwind — and more views to savour. Expansive windows and private balconies (some with hot tubs) immerse you in the passing landscape. Inside, you’ll find a seating area, premium bedding, a Nespresso machine, and even binoculars for wildlife spotting. A thoughtful balance of luxury and exploration. 

Q4 | Mini Suite

  • Lower-deck suite 

  • Window 

  • Double bed 

  • Sofa bed 

  • Pullman bed 

  • Bathrobes and slippers on request 

  • Guests: up to 4 | Size: 21-22 m2 

  • Cabin Code: Q4

  • Double bed
  • Window

Q3 | Mini Suite

  • Lower-deck suite

  • Window

  • Double bed

  • Sofa bed

  • Bathrobes and slippers on request

  • Guests: up to 3 | Size: 22-23 m2

  • Cabin Code: Q3

  • Double bed
  • Window

Q2 | Mini Suite

  • Lower-deck suite

  • Window

  • Double bed

  • Bathrobes and slippers on request

  • Guests: 2 | Size: 16-17 m2

  • Cabin Code: Q2

  • Double bed
  • Window

MG | Grand Suite

  • Upper-deck suite

  • Private balcony

  • Double bed

  • Sofa bed

  • Bathrobes and slippers on request

  • Guests: up to 4 | Size: 28-29 m2

  • Cabin Code: MG

  • Double bed
  • Private Balcony

MX | Owners Suite

  • Upper-deck two-room suite

  • Private balcony

  • Seating area

  • Some are wheelchair accessible, may be available for general booking

  • Double bed

  • Sofa bed

  • Bathrobes and slippers on request

  • Guests: up to 4 | Size: 32-33 m2

  • Cabin Code: MX

  • Double bed
  • Private Balcony

Decks

Explore our decks

  • 3
    Plan of Deck 3 onboard MS Spitsbergen, an HX Hurtigruten Expedition ship.
  • 4
    Plan of Deck 4 onboard MS Spitsbergen, an HX Hurtigruten Expedition ship.
  • 5
    MS-WE Deck 5
  • 6
    MS-WE Deck 6
  • 7
    Plan of Deck 7 onboard MS Spitsbergen, an HX Hurtigruten Expedition ship.
  • 8
    Plan of Deck 8 onboard MS Spitsbergen, an HX Hurtigruten Expedition ship.

Specifications

MS Spitsbergen

  • Year built - 2009
  • Capacity - 220
  • Year of refurbishment - 2025
  • Ship yard - Estaleiro Navais de Viana do Castelo, Portugal
  • Gross tonnage - 7344 T
  • Speed - 14,5 knots
  • Length - 100 m
  • Beam - 18 m

Take a look at our other ships

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Penguins perched on the ice of Cuverville Island, Antarctica. Credit: Espen Mills / HX Hurtigruten Expeditions

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