across 5 categories
Size
Based on gross tonnage and length
Capacity
Based on passengers and crew
Modernity
Based on year built
Service
Based on passenger-to-crew ratio (lower is better)
Spaciousness
Based on gross tonnage per passenger (higher is better)
MS Nordlys
Star Seeker
Gross Tonnage
MS Nordlys
11,200 GT
Star Seeker
9,315 GT
Length
MS Nordlys
123 m
Star Seeker
131.5 m
Beam
MS Nordlys
19 m
Star Seeker
19 m
Passengers
MS Nordlys
479
Star Seeker
224
Crew
MS Nordlys
57
Star Seeker
135
Decks
MS Nordlys
—
Star Seeker
8
Year Built
MS Nordlys
1,994
Star Seeker
2,025
Space Ratio
MS Nordlys
23.4 GT/pax
Star Seeker
41.6 GT/pax
Passenger:Crew Ratio
MS Nordlys
8.40 :1
Star Seeker
1.66 :1
| Specification | MS Nordlys | Star Seeker |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | ||
| Cruise Line | Hurtigruten Expeditions | Windstar Cruises |
| Class | Coastal | Star Seeker Class |
| Status | active | active |
| Year Built | 1,994 | 2,025Winner |
| Dimensions | ||
| Gross Tonnage | 11,200 GTWinner | 9,315 GT |
| Length | 123 m | 131.5 mWinner |
| Beam | 19 m | 19 m |
| Draft | ||
| Capacity | ||
| Passengers | 479Winner | 224 |
| Crew | 57 | 135Winner |
| Key Ratios | ||
| Space Ratio | 23.4 GT/pax | 41.6 GT/paxWinner |
| Passenger:Crew Ratio | 8.40:1 | 1.66:1Winner |
| Build | ||
| Builder | Ulstein Hatlo | WestSEA Shipyard |
| Flag | Norway | Bahamas |
| IMO Number | 9107784 | 9904819 |
MS Nordlys is the significantly larger vessel at 11,200 GT — 20% more than Star Seeker's 9,315 GT. Star Seeker offers more personal space with a space ratio of 41.6 GT per passenger versus 23.4. Built in 2025, Star Seeker is 31 years newer — an advantage for travellers seeking modern amenities and design.
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Size | Star Seeker |
| Capacity | MS Nordlys |
| Modernity | Star Seeker |
| Service | Star Seeker |
| Spaciousness | Star Seeker |
Bottom line: Star Seeker wins more categories (4 vs 1), making it the stronger all-round choice based on current data.
MS Nordlys
Good value for money
Premium onboard experience
Well-suited for cruise newcomers
Good range of onboard options
Star Seeker
42 GT/pax means plenty of quiet space
1.7:1 passenger-crew ratio means exceptional service
Built in 2025 with modern facilities — great for a first cruise
Good range of onboard options
Free cancellation on most rooms
Bundle & save on your cruise trip
Medical, trip cancellation & luggage cover
We may earn a commission from partner bookings at no extra cost to you.
4.8 m |
| Decks | — | 8 |
