Never again
Wanting to see Polar bears we were advised by our travel agent that Hurtigruten offered cruses from Spitzbergen. They did advise us not to expect much and how understated that was. Having spoken with them since our return they couldn't believe the poor service we received. The ship MS Nordstjernen is very basic akin to a youth hostel with little or no service. Predominantly self service meals, except the day they did a roast turkey and ran out before everyone was served, no cabin cleaning or even bed making. I had cabin 301 for sole use, so not cheap. Shore excursions were only for the very fit and able, some no more than scrambling over rocks. Guides provide no assistance whatsoever. If you weren't up to what was on offer you were just left behind. For students run by students. Even the ships officers didn't interact with customers. The captain kept himself to himself, not introducing them until the farewell. The ship may be old but that's no excuse for such abysmal service. I certainly wouldn't recommend Hurtigruten and will not be using them again.