The MS Lofoten is definitely not your normal cruise ship and very much all the better for it in my view. It is probably the only ship on the seas running year round for those who would not want to be on or seen on a cruise ship and is probably unsuitable for those who want all the conveniences on a modern cruise liner. It cannot carry passengers with mobility issues as there no lifts and a rudimentary metal loading ramp at each port to get on/off the ship. There are no fitness centres, jacuzzis, pools etc The cabins reflect a bygone era so are basic and small but they are perfectly suitable for this voyage where you really are there to spend as much time as possible on deck viewing the scenery. Showers and toilets are generally shared facilities so you must be happy to accept that and wander the corridors in towels or nightgowns.

in the lounges at night you will find the day travellers, mainly locals, travelling between centres, sleeping on the couches. This is a true working ship serving a function for the locals as well as tourists on a trip.

The ship does not have stabilisers due to its age and it is small, around 2,650 tonnes, so on the open sea crossings it moves a lot in both roll and pitch so if you are prone to seasickness it is likely these parts of the voyage will see you in your cabin unwell. For those without such problems it is all part of the experience of being on such a wonderful old ship. The chairs in the lounges and dining area are chained down to ensure they do not send you flying. The brass and wood panelling echo the classic nature of this ship. Read more