Looking for something different from the standard cruise excursions? Explore the Norwegian-Russian borderland near Kirkenes
Although Hurtigruten and Havila only spend a few hours in port, that’s enough time to discover the Russian border, Arctic landscapes and fascinating local history. Our morning excursions are designed specifically for cruise guests, beginning shortly after your ship arrives and returning you comfortably before departure.
We’ll pick you up directly at the harbour, store your luggage if needed and take care of the logistics, allowing you to make the most of your morning ashore. Like the idea of exploring the Russian border but don’t want to spend the day on a bus? Our guided Russian Border Hike gets you there on foot, in a small group. Prefer something else? Try our Spy Games in the Arctic minivan tour or a Summer E-Fatbike Tour, all led by experienced guides in small groups (maximum 7 guests).
If you’re wondering what to do in Kirkenes when you only have one morning, these excursions are designed for exactly that.
Season
May - November
Duration
2.5 - 3 hours
Pickup
After ship arrival (approx. 09:15)
Languages
English & German
Group size
Maximum 7 guests
Meeting point
Pickup at Kirkenes Harbour after your ship arrives.
Top excursions to do in Kirkenes when you only have one morning:
- 9:00 and 13:00
- 3 hours
Russian Border Hike
Want to explore the Russian border without spending the day on a bus? Join Norway’s only guided hike to the official border markers between Norway and Russia.
- From 1,500 NOK
- 09:00 and 13:00
- 2.5 hours
Spy Games in the Arctic: Russian Border Tour by Minivan
Explore the Russian border in Kirkenes on a personal minivan tour. Visit Cold War sites, Storskog border crossing & hear real spy stories from WWII to today.
- From 1,500 NOK
- 9:00 and 13:30
- 3 hours
Summer E-Fatbike Tour
Ride e-fatbikes through the landscape around Kirkenes: Get a feeling for the Arctic nature, stop at scenic viewpoints, and visit a WWII bunker town.
- From 1,700 NOK
FAQ - What our Hurtigruten & Havila guests wish they’d known before arriving
Do you pick us up directly at the harbour?
Yes. We meet you shortly after your ship arrives and return you well before departure.
Will we get back in time for the ship?
Absolutely. Every excursion is planned around the regular Hurtigruten and Havila timetable.
I’m boarding Hurtigruten or Havila in Kirkenes. Can I still join an excursion?
Absolutely. Our morning excursions are a great option if you’re spending the night in Kirkenes before your voyage. We’ll store your luggage during the tour and drop you off at the harbour in time for check-in and departure.
Can you store my luggage before I board Hurtigruten or Havila?
Yes. If you’re starting your voyage in Kirkenes, we can store your luggage while you’re on the excursion and take you directly to the harbour afterwards, giving you plenty of time to check in before your ship departs.
Our cruise ends in Kirkenes. Can we explore before flying home?
Yes! Many guests finish their Hurtigruten or Havila voyage in Kirkenes and have several hours before their flight departs. Rather than waiting at the airport, why not make the most of your final morning in the Arctic?
Our morning excursions are perfectly timed for arriving ships. We’ll collect you at the harbour, safely store your luggage during the excursion. It’s a great way to visit the Russian border and experience the region before heading home.
When should I leave my hotel if I’m boarding Hurtigruten or Havila in Kirkenes?
If you’re starting your voyage in Kirkenes, there’s no need to arrive at the harbour as soon as the ship docks. Boarding usually begins around 11:00, and the ship departs at 12:30.
Instead of spending the morning waiting at the harbour, make the most of your time in the Arctic. We can pick you up from your hotel in the morning, store your luggage during the excursion, and drop you off at the harbour with plenty of time for check-in before departure.
Do I need cash in Kirkenes?
You generally do not need cash in Kirkenes. In Norway, it is very common to pay by card almost everywhere, including restaurants, cafés, and shops. However, if you plan to visit the Norwegian–Russian border crossing at Storskog, there is a small gift shop where the owner only accepts cash (NOK, EUR, or USD).
Are these official Hurtigruten or Havila excursions?
No. Kirkenes Tours is an independent local tour operator and is not affiliated with Hurtigruten or Havila. Our excursions are simply scheduled to fit their regular arrival and departure times in Kirkenes.
