12-Day Arctic Wonders

Bergen to Kirkenes

Coastal Cruising | 11 Nights

BERGEN, NORTHBOUND ARCTIC CRUISE, KIRKENES, OSLO - Enjoy a 12 day Arctic Wonders tour and cruise

Top▲Highlights

Set sail from Bergen on a leisurely northbound Arctic tour to the sheltered harbor at Kirkenes. Along the way, discover Arctic Wonders including Europe's most northerly point, the North Cape, and-with luck-revel in the magical Northern Lights. At Kirkenes, visit the Russian border, sample a taste of Sami life, and spend a night at the storied Snow Hotel.

Top▲Itinerary

NOTE: All itineraries on the website are constantly being updated. This itinerary may not be the most current, so please check with one of the Specialty Cruise Advisors on the left to ensure that this is the most current one.

Top▲Dates & Prices

Seasonality

December to March

Prices valid for North American residents

This example may be available on other dates or with different itineraries. We will gladly research other options for you! Special savings may be available for groups of 6 or more. Prices shown are per person, based on double occupancy, for standard and/or inside stateroom unless stated otherwise, are capacity controlled and are subject to availability. Fare is shown in US dollars unless otherwise stated. Government Fees and Taxes are additional. Refer to appropriate supplier brochure for terms and conditions. Pricing for Singles, 3rd, 4th or 5th guests if available, will be provided upon request and is subject to stateroom category availability. Unless specified, airfare is not included. Full details of airfare offers will be provided upon request and may vary by departure location. Prices vary by date of travel, were available when written, but are subject to restrictions and availability when booked, and may be withdrawn at any time. Offer not combinable with other promotions or discount offers. FST #ST37451 / CST #2092247-50 / WST #602-708-936

Top▲What's Included

Top▲Optional Add-ons

Shore Excursions and Activities (Optional)   Show All Details    Hide All Details

• Click to Show

  Shore Excursion or Activity: A Taste of Lappland (Kjøllefjord- Mehamn)

  $116 (US Dollar)

  May 10 - Sept 10, 2 ½ hours
  Code: 6C

  From verdant valleys to the grey stone desert of the Finnmark plateau, experience the exciting story of the Arctic Ocean coast in this educational excursion that takes you through some diverse, truly fascinating natural wonders. First visit the Coastal Heritage Centre in Foldalbruket, which is a quaint fish processing plant abandoned back in the 1940s. Here you'll enjoy a heritage experience that will give you an insight into Finnmark's history, right from the birth of Christ up to the present day. At Foldalbruket you'll learn how dried cod developed into a commercial product, before sampling some for yourself. Continue through Kjøllefjord and into the mountains, where you'll head to a Sámi camp and meet the Utsi family, who will welcome you into their lavvo dressed in traditional costumes. In this atmospheric tent you'll be warmed by the fire, while enjoying some bouillon and coffee. You will hear about the traditions and the Sámi people's way of life. You will also get to see typical Sámi equipment and artifacts, and hear traditional Sámi songs ("joik"). You will then go out to see the reindeer, and try your hand at lassoing. The trip continues up to the Finnmark plateau, 980 feet above sea level, where you might see a herd of reindeer in their natural habitat. On the way to the next port, Mehamn you'll learn about the intriguing reality of every day life in this area.

  PRACTICAL INFORMATION
  Transportation: Bus Food Included: Coffee, bouillon and a taste of dried fish Dress: Comfortable footwear
  Level: 1

• Click to Show

  Shore Excursion or Activity: Art Nouveau Tour Alesund (Ålesund)

  $39 (US Dollar)

  Jan 1 - April 15, Sept 16 - Dec 31
  2 hours
  Code: 2C

  Distinguished by its numerous spires, towers and highly detailed ornamentation, Alesund is a town renowned across the world for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture. This is largely due to the devastating fire of 1904, following which the entire town was rebuilt in the then fashionable Art Nouveau style. Your shore excursion around Alesund will begin at the pier where you will be met by a guide who will take you on a pleasant walk through the streets of this enchanting town. Along the way you will pass the picturesque fishing port of Brosundet, the special Apotekertorget square, and the beautifully decorated main street. You will also visit Jugendstilsenteret, which is the national centre for Art Nouveau. The museum offers everything from modern multimedia presentations to original interiors, and provides a fascinating insight into the history of Art Nouveau. This trip around Alesund provides you with a great opportunity to savour both the rich history of the town and the lively street life.

  PRACTICAL INFORMATION
  Transportation: Walking Tour
  Dress: Comfortable footwear
  Note: *This shore excursion is not available on December 24 or 25. The Art Nouveau Centre is closed on the 9th and 10th of April.
  Level: 2

• Click to Show

  Shore Excursion or Activity: ATV/QUAD-SAFARI TO THE RUSSIAN BORDER (Kirkenes)

  $188 (US Dollar)

  May 1 - Sept 30, 2 ½ hours
  Code: 7E

  Get geared up to travel via ATV/Quad. You'll drive through "Kjerringstupet," near Kirkenes. The story of "Kjerringstupet" is presented to you during the tour and you'll also look at settlements located here more than 10,000 years ago. Drive through the town centre and stop to have a look in the A/S Sydvaranger mines, where a short history is presented. You will continue to the Norwegian - Russian border where your guide talks about the history and culture of the area. You can visit a Norwegian military watch tower which is often manned. From the tower you'll see the imposing Boris Gleb on the Russian side, and you will make a stop at the border station to have coffee, tea and muffins. Finally you return to Kirkenes with its amazing views through the Prestefjellet Mountain.

  PRACTICAL INFORMATION
  Transportation: ATV/QUAD
  Food Included: Coffee/tea and muffins
  Dress: Warm clothing, warm shoes or boots. Special clothing and helmet is provided
  Note: Bring drivers license. This excursion is only sold on board.
  Level: 3

• Click to Show

  Shore Excursion or Activity: Birdwatching Safari (Honningsvåg)

  $184 (US Dollar)

  May 1 - Aug 31, 3 ½ hours
  Code: 6B

  On this shore excursion you will travel to the small fishing village of Gjesvaer, with a population of around 120. Along the way you'll receive an introduction to the local flora and fauna, before visiting one of the world's most exciting nature reserves, Gjesvaerstappan, which lies approximately nine miles west of the North Cape. From the vessel study Finnmark's largest flock of puffins, together with large numbers of kittiwakes. During the nesting season this area teems with life as mighty sea eagles hover above in search of prey, while guillemots, razorbills, cormorants, Arctic skuas, northern fulmars, Brünnich's guillemots, and the large northern gannet fill the air with a cacophony of shrieks and screeches. In the autumn you can also catch a glimpse of Europe's smallest seabird, the British storm-petrel.

  PRACTICAL INFORMATION
  Transportation: Bus, boat
  Dress: Comfortable shoes, warm, wind proof clothing
  Note: Fantastic filming and picture-taking opportunities. Bring a camera and binoculars. Note: This tour is not suitable for people with impaired mobility. Going ashore in the nature reserve is not permitted. Types of birds vary throughout the year.
  Level: 2

• Click to Show

  Shore Excursion or Activity: Dogsledding (Tromsø)

  $198 (US Dollar)

  Jan 1 - April 30, 3 ½ hours
  Code: 5B

  Complete your winter holiday experience with a thrilling husky dog sled ride! Your shore excursion begins with a drive to the island of Kvaloya where you will change clothes and footwear before hopping aboard the sleds. The huskies pull you over the frozen landscape past stunning views of the ocean, mountains and open plateaus. During the polar night, the only light you'll see will come from your headlamps, the uniquely Nordic starry sky, and perhaps, the magical Northern Lights. You are invited into a lavvo with an open fire for a hot drink. During this adventure you will also experience a working day at the Wilderness Centre, where you can learn more about dog sledding and the dogs themselves. Join us on a miniature polar expedition you will not soon forget!

  PRACTICAL INFORMATION
  Transportation: Bus, dog sled
  Food Included: Coffee/tea and cake
  Dress: Comfortable shoes, warm clothing
  Note: Special clothing is provided. There is no guide on the bus. Subject to weather/snow conditions.
  Level: 3

• Click to Show

  Shore Excursion or Activity: Geiranger-Alesund (Geiranger - Ålesund)

  $119 (US Dollar)

  April 16-May 31 4½ hours
  Code: 2A

  This shore excursion invites you to explore one of the world's most beautiful travel destinations - the Geirangerfjord- officially praised by National Geographic and placed on UNESCO's list of World Heritage Sites. While at the Geiranger Fjord Centre you will enjoy an informative introduction via a multimedia presentation that takes you through all four seasons of Geiranger. This is followed by a drive up Orneveien ("Eagle Road") and a stop at Ornesvingen ("Eagle Bend"), where a breath-taking, panoramic view of the fjord, the magnificent mountains, the waterfall and "De Syv Søstre" ("The Seven Sisters") provides an excellent photo opportunity. The tour continues along the idyllic Eidsdalsvatnet Lake before journeying by ferry from Eidsdal to Linge. From here you continue on to Alesund, a distinctive town known for its unique Art Nouveau architecture. An afternoon here is best enjoyed from the town's highest point - Aksla ("Town Mountain"), where you can savour the beautiful view of Alesund below with the stunning Sunnmore Alps as a backdrop. From there you'll board the bus and enjoy a short sightseeing trip around Alesund itself, before heading to the Hurtigruten pier and continuing your cruise.

  PRACTICAL INFORMATION
  Shore Excursion Transportation: Boat/Bus
  Dress: Comfortable footwear
  Please note that only shore excursion participants can go ashore in Geiranger. Landing is by tender so getting on and off the craft may be difficult for people with impaired mobility
  Level: 1

• Click to Show

  Shore Excursion or Activity: Geiranger-Molde (Western Norway)

  $196 (US Dollar)

  June 01-September 15, 7½ hours
  Code: 2B

  Geiranger is one of the world's most beautiful travel destinations, -officially praised by National Geographic and placed on UNESCO's list of World Heritage Sites. Your shore excursion begins with a drive up Orneveien ("Eagle Road"), enjoying magnificent views of Geiranger Fjord, en route to the beautiful Eidsdalsvatnet Lake. From there you'll enjoy a picturesque ferry ride from Eidsdal to Linge, no doubt marvelling at the strength of the river as it cuts through Gudbrandsjuvet gorge, heading for the stark, wild high alpine areas. One of the many highlights of this trip is navigating all of the 11 hairpin turns on the way down the winding Trollstigen pass. Once safely down at the bottom, it's time for a hot drink and a bite to eat before continuing on to the gentler landscape of the Romsdalsfjord. Conclude with dinner in Molde before boarding the Hurtigruten ship again. Put simply, if you like fjords, magic mountains and stunning views, you'll be in your element on this trip.

  PRACTICAL INFORMATION
  Transportation: Boat/Bus
  Food Included: Coffee/tea, roll, pancake and dinner
  Dress: Comfortable footwear
  Note: Only shore excursion participants can go ashore in Geiranger. Landing is by tender so getting on and off the craft may be difficult for people with impaired mobility.
  Level: 1

• Click to Show

  Shore Excursion or Activity: Glacier Adventure (Ørnes- Bodø)

  $184 (US Dollar)

  May 1 - Sept 30, 4 ½ hours
  Code: 4A

  This sailing adventure takes you on a wonderful visit through Norway's second largest glacier, Svartisen, situated near Ornes. Sail between islets and skerries while the guide tells you all about the area and the scenery - an impressive view best enjoyed out on the deck. It's important not to forget your camera for taking beautiful shots of the sea eagle, Europe's largest predatory bird. Once you move on to the Svartisen Tourist Centre, you will be able to admire the beauty of this enigmatic ice world while enjoying a warm drink and the centre's varied buffet of delicious cakes. Your journey continues along the beautiful coast of Helgeland, before rejoining your Hurtigruten cruise in Bodo. Time and weather permitting, you may also be able to enjoy a quick visit to a local fishing village.

  PRACTICAL INFORMATION
  Transportation: Boat (transfer from cruise ship to smaller vessel)
  Food Included: Coffee/tee and buffet of griddle cake
  Dress: Comfortable shoes, warm clothing
  Note: You will not go all the way up to the glacier
  Level: 2

• Click to Show

  Shore Excursion or Activity: KIRKENES SNOW HOTEL (Kirkenes)

  $79 (US Dollar)

  Jan 1 - May 1, Dec 15 - 31, 2 ½ hours
  Code: 7D

  Kirkenes Snow Hotel is set in idyllic surroundings near Gabba Reindeer Park. Begin your shore adventure with a stroll up to the hotel and into Norway's largest ice bar, where you are welcomed with an ice cold crowberry shot, locally known as "Rudolf's Revenge!" The guide will then show you around the Snow Hotel, including some of the magnificent suites containing art made from snow and ice. After the tour you'll meet the reindeer. This is an excellent photo opportunity so don't forget to bring your camera! You can also visit Gabba Kennel and take a look at some of the many Siberian Huskies who live there. Afterwards, you will enjoy a meal at the Gabba restaurant where you'll be greeted by a roaring fire. Snack on sausages with potato pancakes and mustard before returning to Kirkenes where you first stop at Prestfjellet Mountain, with its magnificent views of both the town and your Hurtigruten cruise ship.

  PRACTICAL INFORMATION
  Transportation: Bus, car
  Food Included: Crowberry shots, sausages with potato pancakes
  Dress: Warm clothing and warm shoes or boots
  Note: Subject to weather and snow conditions.
  Level: 1

• Click to Show

  Shore Excursion or Activity: LOFOTR VIKING FEAST

  $139 (US Dollar)

  Jan 1 - April 15, Oct 15 - Dec 31, 3 hours
  Code: 4E

  Visit the Lofotr Viking Museum, where the largest Viking building ever found has been recreated. The original Chieftain's house was established in about 500 AD and was inhabited until around 900 AD. The rebuilt version exhibits original finds from the Viking age. The Chieftain and the Lady of the house want nothing more than to give you an unforgettable night as they invite you to join in on a real Viking feast in the banquet hall. Experience the magic and excitement of such an occasion as they make sacrifices to the Gods, hoping that the sun will turn to avoid Armageddon. After the Viking feast served with home-brewed mead, you travel by bus to Svolvær, where you will re-join your cruise ship.

  PRACTICAL INFORMATION
  Transportation: Bus
  Food Included: Dinner, mead
  Dress: Comfortable shoes, warm clothing
  Note: This shore excursion is available on both north and southbound sailings
  Level: 1

• Click to Show

  Shore Excursion or Activity: LOFOTR VIKING FEAST (SUMMER)

  $117 (US Dollar)

  Apr 16 - Sept 15, 3 hours
  Code: 4F

  Embark on a historical journey from Stamsund to Borg, and on to the Lofotr Viking Museum. During your trip to Lofotr, your guide discusses the Viking Ages, the museum and how life was for the Vikings who lived here. Upon arrival you will experience the Chieftain's house, which has been recreated in full size, with exhibits of finds from the Viking age. The Chieftain and the lady of the house welcome you to join them for a real Viking feast in the banquet hall; an unforgettable night giving you a taste of the Viking Ages, with traditional food, costumes, singing and dancing in authentic surroundings. After the feast, served with home-brewed mead, you will travel by bus to Svolvær, learning more about the history of Lofoten along the way before re-joining your Hurtigruten cruise.

  PRACTICAL INFORMATION
  Transportation: Bus
  Food Included: Dinner, mead
  Dress: Comfortable shoes, warm clothing
  Level: 1

• Click to Show

  Shore Excursion or Activity: Nidaros Cathedral & Ringve (Trondheim)

  $72 (US Dollar)

  April 17 - Oct 2, 3 hours
  Code: 3A

  Few large cities have managed to preserve their intimacy as effectively as Norway's third largest city, Trondheim. This ancient city was founded by the Viking King Olav Tryggvason as early as 997. Your shore excursion begins with a tour of the city from the pier to Norway's national shrine, Nidarosdomen (Nidaros Cathedral) - Norway's only Gothic style cathedral, built over the burial place of St. Olav, Norway's patron saint. Here you'll be impressed by the unbelievable architectural details and exquisite works of art. After a guided tour of the cathedral, you'll have some free time to explore. From Nidaros Cathedral you'll travel by bus to the Ringve Museum of Musical History where enthusiastic tour guides will take you on a musical journey through history. This beautiful manor house was the childhood home of Norwegian naval hero Petter Wessel Tordenskiold and is surrounded by a wonderful botanical garden. The Museum is conveniently located just outside Trondheim and represents an idyllic spot to enjoy the beautiful views of both the town and the fjord.

  PRACTICAL INFORMATION
  Transportation: Bus
  Dress: Comfortable shoes are advised as the Ringve Museum has many stairs
  Note: Photography is not allowed inside Nidaros Cathedral and Ringve Museum
  Level: 1

• Click to Show

  Shore Excursion or Activity: POLAR HISTORY CITY WALK

  $59 (US Dollar)

  Jan 1 - April 15, Oct 15 - Dec 31, 3 hours
  Code: 5D

  Tromso is not just the largest town in northern Norway; it's also a town brimming with history. Your shore excursion begins at the quay where your guide will take you to the Polar Museum. On the way there you'll visit the statue of Roald Amundsen, the hunting monument, and the marketplace, where you can enjoy a wonderful view of the sound and the Arctic Cathedral. The Polar Museum is located in an old customs house from the 1830s and features exhibits from Norway's proud polar history; including the Arctic Ocean hunt and numerous polar expeditions. You will also see a film of the polar region made by the Arctic hunters. The tour continues to Tromso's main street, Storgaten, and on to the Beer Hall (Olhallen), Tromso's oldest pub, which was a popular meeting place for fishermen, hunters and polar explorers. Here, you can taste beer from the world's northernmost brewery, Mack, while one of the local heroes tells stories about the old days.

  PRACTICAL INFORMATION
  Transportation: Walking Tour
  Food Included: 1 beer, mineral water
  Dress: Comfortable shoes, warm clothing
  *Note: Not available on Dec 24th-26th, Jan 1 and during the Easter period
  Level: 2

• Click to Show

  Shore Excursion or Activity: RIB SAFARI, SALTSTRAUMEN (Bodo)

  $159 (US Dollar)

  April 1 - Oct 31, 2 hours
  Code: 4D

  Head to Saltstraumen where you will witness the world's most powerful tidal current! Four times a day, 13 billion cubic feet of water are forced in and out through a passage 492 ft wide and 102 ft deep. On this exciting excursion through wild landscape there is a good chance you will observe sea eagles and parts of the Caledonian fold belt - a range of mountains that are over 250 million years old. While you sit safely and comfortably in sturdy rubber rafts - operated by highly experienced and knowledgeable pilots - you can be sure to enjoy a day of rare adventure, in harmony with nature, eagles and the deep blue sea. Welcome aboard!

  PRACTICAL INFORMATION
  Transportation: RIB (inflatable boats)
  Dress: Comfortable shoes, warm clothing
  Note: The strength of the current depends on the tide. Special protective clothing is provided
  Level: 3

• Click to Show

  Shore Excursion or Activity: Riverboat Safari (Kirkenes)

  $160 (US Dollar)

  June 1 - Sept 10, 2 ½ hours
  Code: 7B

  The riverboats are ready and waiting to take you up the Pasvikelva - a river with a cultural history dating back thousands of years. This is the place to hear about the history of the Sámi people, the sacred princes Boris and Gleb, St. Trifon of the Pechenga Monastery, and to see the rich animal and plant life that thrives in this area. Reindeer, fish and bear make this one of the most exciting wilderness areas in Norway. At the border you will go ashore and learn a little bit more about Norway's relationship with its neighbor to the East, Russia before being served a hot drink complemented by cloud berries with cream. Come and join us on the river and experience the unique history, beautiful scenery and rich array of animal life this intriguing area has to offer.

  PRACTICAL INFORMATION
  Transportation: Riverboat
  Food Included: Coffee/tea, cloud berries with cream
  Dress: Comfortable shoes, warm clothing
  Note: Life vests will be provided
  Level: 2

• Click to Show

  Shore Excursion or Activity: Scenery & Huskies (Tromsø)

  $76 (US Dollar)

  June 1 - Aug 31, 3 ½ hours
  Code: 5C

  This shore excursion starts at the Tromso Wilderness Centre on Kvaloya Island, a scenic area with views of the ocean and mountains. Here you will meet more than 250 huskies and puppies, and be given an introduction to dog sled driving and learn about the world's longest dog sled race -- the Iditarod, presented through unique pictures and film illustrating how hard the race is on the dogs and mushers. It's important to wear good footwear if you want to join the Wilderness Centre's guide in exploring the plant and bird life around the centre before meeting back in the lavvo for a hot drink and cake.

  PRACTICAL INFORMATION
  Transportation: Bus
  Food Included: Coffee/tea and cake
  Dress: Comfortable shoes, warm clothing
  Note: There is no guide on the bus
  Level: 2

• Click to Show

  Shore Excursion or Activity: Scooter trip in Lappland (Kjollefjord-Mehamn)

  $399 (US Dollar)

  Jan 1 - April 30, Dec 15 - 31, 2 ¼ hours
  Code: 6D

  This is an unforgettable snowmobile trip to one of Europe's most extreme and exciting natural areas. During this shore excursion you will travel from the old trading post and fishing village of Kjøllefjord over the mountains to Mehamn. Along the way, the guides will introduce you to the Sámi people, their geographic and climatic conditions, what life is like on the Finnmark coast, and how the local population utilize nature in both the summer and winter months. Some of Norway's best instructors will ensure that proper training is given before you hop onto your own snowmobile for this once in a lifetime trip through fascinating scenery. Experience the snow-clad valleys, the fresh winter air and perhaps the mesmerising Northern Lights in the clear, starry sky. Back in Mehamn, the world's northernmost mainland town, located on the often wild and stormy Finnmark coast, you rejoin the Hurtigruten ship to continue our cruise.

  PRACTICAL INFORMATION
  Transportation: Bus, snowmobile
  Dress: Warm clothing, sturdy shoes. Special clothing is provided.
  Note: Everyone wanting to drive a snowmobile must have their driving licence with them. Subject to weather/snow conditions.
  Level: 3

• Click to Show

  Shore Excursion or Activity: Snowmobile Safari (Kirkenes)

  $220 (US Dollar)

  Jan 1 - May 5, Dec 15 - 31, 2 ½ hours
  Code: 7C

  On a frozen fjord you will drive snowmobiles, two people per vehicle, across the beautiful landscape in the height of the Arctic winter. During the trip your guides will tell talk about the history of the Sámi people, the extreme Arctic climate, and the unique wildlife that inhabit the area. After the journey you can enjoy a hot drink and sample some dried reindeer meat in a well-heated lavvo. Warm clothing will be provided, and you will receive thorough instructions on snowmobiling safety before your experience begins.

  PRACTICAL INFORMATION
  Transportation: Bus, snowmobile
  Food Included: Coffee and dried reindeer snack
  Dress: Comfortable shoes, warm clothing. Thermal suits and helmets are provided
  Note: Bring your driver's license. Children under the age of 15 can only be passengers. Subject to weather and snow conditions.
  Level: 3

• Click to Show

  Shore Excursion or Activity: Sverresborg Trondelag Folk Museum (Trondheim)

  $56 (US Dollar)

  May 1 - Sept 30, 2 hours
  Code: 3C

  Sverresborg Trondelag Folk Museum is one of Norway's largest open-air museums. This shore excursion includes a visit to the museum and a walk around the ruins of the medieval castle, Sion, which was built by King Sverre in 1182-83. This is where you will find Norway's northernmost stave church, with the new visitors centre featuring a modern heritage exhibition that presents life in the region around the 1900s. It is here where you begin a journey through history at Haltdalen stave church, built back in 1170 when Norway was a Catholic country. Haltdalen is a plain but immensely beautiful church featuring a single lit candle sitting on the elegant stone altar. You'll learn about the history of the church and get an insight into the experience medieval worshippers would have had when visiting. The trip continues past the ruins of the medieval castle, with its panoramic views across Trondheim's Fjord and onto a working farm. You'll experience the daily life of farm workers, exploring the barn, pantry, boiler house and smithy, and visiting the farmer's parlor. Continue onto the Old Town, which features buildings that used to stand in the very center of Trondheim. Finally, enter the visitors centre, and the 'Life Pictures' exhibition, which illustrates life in the region over the last 150 years based on the four phases of life: childhood, adolescence, adulthood and old age. The museum shop is also well worth a visit.

  PRACTICAL INFORMATION
  Transportation: Bus
  Food Included: Tasting of local cake specialties
  Dress: Comfortable shoes, Warm clothing
  Note: This excursion includes some steep hills and walking between attractions. The excursion is available on both north and southbound sailings. There is no guide on the bus.
  Level: 2

• Click to Show

  Shore Excursion or Activity: The Arctic Capital (Tromsø)

  $72 (US Dollar)

  Year-round*, 2 ½ hours, $72 per person
  Code: 5A

  Tromso is located beside the mighty Arctic Ocean, surrounded by towering mountains. Not only is it the largest town north of the Arctic Circle, it also has a unique history that includes hunting in the Arctic Ocean for walrus and polar bears, the transporting of logs from Russian rivers, the Pomor trade, coal mining and sealing. The battle to survive in the hard but naturally resource-rich far north provided hard-earned experiences that, more recently, have turned Tromso into a research and education center. During your shore excursion here you will visit the interpretive centre Polaria, with its Arctic aquarium, seal pool, educational displays and a panorama cinema. Watch the movie 'Svalbard - Arctic Wilderness', which will take you on a fantastic journey through Svalbard's spectacular scenery. After the movie, go on an Arctic 'expedition', experiencing a close-up look at natural phenomenons such as the Northern Lights, tundra, and blizzards. The tour also includes a stop at the famous Arctic Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece and town landmark. Built in 1965, the design of the church was inspired by the beliefs and natural surroundings evident throughout northern Norway, and features a fantastic glass mosaic that's rich in both colors and symbols.

  PRACTICAL INFORMATION
  Transportation: Bus
  Dress: Comfortable footwear
  *Note: Not available on the Dec 24th or 25th
  Level: 1

• Click to Show

  Shore Excursion or Activity: The North Cape (Honningsvåg)

  $138 (US Dollar)

  Year-round, 3 ½ hours
  Code: 6A

  Enjoy the magnificent sub-Arctic landscape as this shore excursion takes you across the 71st parallel on your journey towards the North Cape, the northernmost point in continental Europe. In summer, you might come across herds of grazing reindeer and a small camp belonging to the Sámi people, indigenous to this part of the world. The North Cape plateau itself rises over 1,000 ft almost vertically from the ice cold Arctic Ocean. Stand and wonder at the view, but don't forget to get some photographic evidence of this amazing place. After all, you may never get any further north! The tour includes a visit to the North Cape Hall, a modern interpretive centre where you can see Ivo Caprino's impressive panoramic film about Finnmark and the North Cape, buy souvenirs, send postcards and relax while enjoying a bite to eat.

  PRACTICAL INFORMATION
  Transportation: Bus
  Dress: Comfortable shoes, warm, wind proof clothing
  Level: 1

• Click to Show

  Shore Excursion or Activity: The Russian Border (Kirkenes)

  $60 (US Dollar)

  Year-round, Approx. 2 hours
  Code: 7A

  The only town in Norway where East meets West, Kirkenes represents the turning point of your Hurtigruten cruise. You start with a short tour of the town, before the bus takes you deep into the surprisingly fertile landscape. Here you will awe at the expanse of green hills, dotted with scrubs, birch and pine trees that manage to survive despite the harsh Arctic climate. The region has experienced an exciting and at times hugely dramatic history, so this also promises to be an educational morning. Next you will stop at Storskog - the border station between Norway and Russia. Though you will not cross the border itself, you are permitted to take pictures and are normally able to purchase Russian souvenirs. From here you travel the small mining community of Bjornevatn, before heading towards Pasvikdalen, which boasts an imposing landscape filled with rolling green hills and robust trees, an area known to have Norway's largest population of brown bears. Back in Kirkenes you will stop at the impressive Prestfjellet Mountain, which overlooks both the town and your awaiting Hurtigruten ship.

  PRACTICAL INFORMATION
  Transportation: Bus
  Dress: Comfortable shoes and warm clothing.
  Level: 1

• Click to Show

  Shore Excursion or Activity: Trondheim with Nidaros Cathedral (Trondheim)

  $62 (US Dollar)

  Year-round, 2 hours
  Code: 11A

  Norway's original capital, Trondheim was founded as early as 997 by the Viking King Olav Tryggvason, who gave the town the name Nidaros. Trondheim is a large city by Norwegian standards, though it has still managed to preserve many of the charm and intimacy of a small town. It is also a town full of contrasts, with monastery ruins, impressive wooden buildings, colorful wharfs and a beautiful red-painted city bridge dating back to 1861. Trondheim is home to a world famous research and educational community, modern sports facilities, a lively night life and countless more besides. You will hear all about the city's many features as the bus takes you on a voyage of discovery through the Trondheim's streets and boroughs, including a short stop at "Utsikten" ("The View") to admire the city from up high. As no sightseeing trip to Trondheim is complete without visiting one of its premier cultural treasures, your shore excursion will include a tour ofthe impressive Nidaros Cathedral. Built over the burial place of St. Olav, the patron saint of Norway, the construction of this enormous building, with its countless details and decorations, began as early as 1070. Thanks to a compelling guided tour around the Gothic-style cathedral, you will soon understand why many describe it as the most beautiful church in Norway.

  PRACTICAL INFORMATION
  Transportation: Bus
  Dress: Comfortable shoes
  Note: Photography is not allowed inside Nidaros Cathedral. The excursion is available on both north and southbound sailings
  Level: 1

Top▲Vessel Information

Nordlys

Small Cruise Ship (Boutique) | 482 Passengers | Operated by Hurtigruten,

It's only natural that art, decor, and colors inspired by the Northern Lights ("Nordlys") should characterize this ship. The woodwork, brass fittings, and textiles help make the public areas comfortable and elegant. Throughout the ship you'll find works by artists with roots in coastal Norway.

View the complete vessel profile

Top▲Members' Comments

The most recent comment appears at the bottom of this list.

Click here to add your comments