From ship to shore: Hurtigrutemuseet’s tribute to Norway’s legendary coastal voyages

Located in Stokmarknes, Hurtigrutemuseet is a museum dedicated to preserving and conveying the history of Hurtigruten – the lifeline of Norway’s coast for more than 130 years.

Norway’s famous coastal express, Hurtigruten, has long played a central role in both maritime history and the history of coastal communities. The very first Norwegian coastal express company was founded by Captain Richard With in Stokmarknes in 1893, so it’s only fitting that a museum in its honour should be established 100 years later in the very same place.

“Hurtigrutemuseet is a tribute to the people and communities that have shaped Norway’s coastline for over a century. Hurtigruten is a symbol of connection—linking remote villages, transporting goods, and opening doors to the world,” says Aliz-Katalin Fülöp, marketing and events manager at Hurtigrutemuseet.

The museum combines traditional exhibitions with modern technology, including interactive screens, recordings, and visual set-ups to give visitors a complete deep dive into the history of Hurtigruten. “Our biggest attraction, MS Finnmarken (1956), is an authentic motor ship, where visitors may explore the ship and learn of how life was on board,” says Fülöp. “In addition to exploring the old cabins, halls, and machinery, you can enjoy a delicious meal in the dining hall from 1956.”

In addition to the permanent exhibitions, Hurtigrutemuseet often set up different temporary exhibitions that seek to explore relevant topics, such as environment, coastal culture, and technology. “As a museum, we believe it’s our job to take care of the objects and stories that make up Hurtigruten’s rich heritage,” she explains. “We want to bridge a gap between past and future, and show how the coastal express is still relevant in today’s society, both as a mode of transport and as an important part of Norwegian travel life.”

Fülöp adds; In addition to continuing the development of the museum as a node of coastal history, the local community, and Hurtigruten’s modern history, we want to continue integrating more about the environment in our exhibitions, especially as Hurtigruten is setting off on a new journey of greener technology and more sustainable travel products.”

Web: www.hurtigrutemuseet.no
Facebook: hurtigrutemuseet
Instagram: @hurtigrutemuseet

Visit Hurtigrutemuseet!
Richard Withs Plass 1, 8450 Stokmarknes, Norway