MS Spitsbergen, a small cruise ship, was built in 2009 as a car and passenger ferry in Portugal, but never sailed due to the financial crisis. In 2015, Hurtigruten decided to buy the ship and extensively refurbish it for service as one of its "Explorer" ships. Now accommodating up to 290 passengers, MS Spitsbergen navigates the narrow fjords along the Norwegian coast from September to May, calling in at 34 ports on a 1,250-nautical-mile journey from Bergen to Kirkenes. Passengers on board enjoy a contemporary classic Scandi-style interior, with one restaurant, one bistro/cafe, one bar and one observation lounge. The ship's main draw is the chance to witness the northern lights, and Hurtigruten offers a Northern Lights Promise: If you don't spot them between October 1 and March 31, you'll be invited back for a free six- or seven-night cruise the following year during these same dates. The food served onboard is of exceptional quality, always sourced ultra-locally from the port you've just pulled away from. The cabins are comfortable and contemporary, with big picture windows and modern bathrooms. Cruise Critic U.K. recognized MS Spitsbergen's excellence in 2018, awarding it the Best Small Ship category in the U.K. Cruisers' Choice Awards. If you're looking for a small, well-designed ship with a fantastic chance to see the northern lights, MS Spitsbergen is the perfect choice.