Although the sea route of the Norwegian Coastal Express is considered by many to be the most beautiful voyage in the world, the Coastal Express has a utilitarian role ​ — that of ferrying goods, mail, and passengers as far as the terminal port at Kirkenes, well inside the Arctic Circle.
Kuigi paljud peavad merereisi rannikuekspressil üheks maailma kauneimaks turismireisiks, on sellel reisil ka praktiline külg, sest liini laevad veavad kaupa, posti ja reisijaid isegi põhjapolaarjoone taha Kirkenesi sadamasse, liini lõpp - peatusesse.