Hurtigruten announced its updated shore excursion offering for the 2018-2019 cruise season, with the big news being the implementation of coastal expedition teams on Norwegian coastal sailings.

“While this coastline is our home, innovation is our tradition. We have been sailing the Norwegian coast since 1893, yet we are reinventing how guests experience our unique voyages through the introduction of Norwegian coastal expedition teams and even more unique excursions,” said Hurtigruten CEO Daniel Skjeldam, in a prepared statement.

The company is adding 35 shore excursions to its coastal portfolio, with some new options including silent whale exploring in an eco-friendly ship, a Sami adventure in Tromso and a winter expedition in the Arctic wilderness, including a night at the Kongsfjord guest house.

There is also a young explorer program for children offered on select sailings and ships.

The coastal expedition excursions accommodate all ages and activity levels, the company said, ranging from the popular midnight concert in the Arctic Cathedral in Tromsø, to exploring the mountains outside Kristiansund by dogsledding with Alaskan huskies.

Passengers can even chase the Northern Lights during a snowmobile safari between the ports of Mehamn to Kjøllefjord.

“An expedition sailing with Hurtigruten is about exploring, not cruising. Whether it is under the Midnight Sun or the Northern Lights, we offer a premium floating basecamp that works as a stepping stone to adventurous and educational experiences with Norway’s unparalleled natural sites as the majestic backdrop,” added Skjeldam.

Available on nine out of eleven ships, onboard experts make up the expedition teams and share their first-hand knowledge about wildlife, history and landscapes, the company said.

They are also able to detour shore excursions when opportunities arise.

“Hurtigruten encourages all guests to interact with the spectacular Norwegian nature, and with our distinctive culture and history. A Hurtigruten coastal expedition sailing is an active learning experience which gives immediate and lasting meaning and value to your travels,” noted Skjeldam.

The teams offer both onboard and shore excursions and activities such as lectures and presentations, gatherings and story-telling, historical plays, guided tours, and voluntary environmental activities such as beach clean-ups.