We begin the excursion at the quay in Sortland, where our guide warmly welcomes us. Then we board the bus and set out on a scenic journey through the beautiful coastal landscape of Vesterålen. Along the way, we learn why Sortland is called “the Blue City,” hear fascinating stories about the region’s development, and discover how, during the period 1850–1960, Richard With, through Vesterålen’s Steamship Company, laid the foundation for today’s coastal route.

On the way to Stokmarknes, we enjoy the views along Sortlandssundet, and on clear days, we can see all the way to Higravtinden – the highest mountain in Lofoten at 1,148 meters above sea level.

After crossing the 1,011-meter-long Hadsel Bridge, we visit Hadsel Church – one of the most impressive and distinctive wooden churches in Vesterålen. The church was built in 1824 and is beautifully situated atop a wooded hill with views over the fjord. However, the site has a much older history – records show a church stood here as early as 1382, and it is possible that previous churches existed on the site even earlier. Visiting the church provides an excellent opportunity to put the region’s history into perspective – from the Ice Age and the Viking Age, through Catholicism and Protestantism, to the development of the fishing and farming community.

Next, we continue to Stokmarknes, known as the birthplace of the coastal route. Here, we visit the Coastal Express Museum, a spectacular preservation building that houses a full-size ship – the MS Finnmarken from 1956. The retired and well-preserved ship stands as the heart of the museum.

During a guided tour, we learn how the coastal route ships have served as the lifeline along Norway’s coast and the role they have played for local communities, industry, and the people living there. MS Finnmarken is filled with artifacts, archives, photographs, and exhibits that bring the history to life and give us an intimate glimpse into life on board over the years.

From the top deck of MS Finnmarken, we also have the chance to see your Havila ship sail into Stokmarknes – a truly memorable moment that brings the history of the coastal route to life.

The visit concludes with coffee and carrot cake, served in the café area on board MS Finnmarken.  By 3:00 PM at the latest, we head back to the ship. The distance from the museum to the quay is approximately 50 meters, and the guide ensures that everyone finds their way safely.