Discover the North Cape, take in the spectacular Northern Lights and learn about Norwegian history, culture and nature at the same time, with our Northern Lights and Fjords Expedition. Our 15-day Fjords expedition runs from March 2021 to March 2022. Why not celebrate Christmas or New Year on board and embark on a journey of discovery around Norway’s original coastal route?
Norway’s Northern Lights Cruise From The UK
Discover the North Cape, take in the spectacular Northern Lights and learn about Norwegian history, culture and nature at the same time, with our Northern Lights and Fjords Expedition. Our 15-day Fjords expedition runs from March 2021 to March 2022. Why not celebrate Christmas or New Year on board and embark on a journey of discovery around Norway’s original coastal route?
Join us for a special winter expedition cruise under the Northern Lights and prepare to be amazed at the natural wonders that make up this rugged coastline. Your journey of discovery starts in Dover before taking in the historic city of Bergen. You’ll then meander through breathtakingly beautiful fjords and natural valleys en-route to the North Cape, one of the northernmost points on the European continent.
Day 1: Day 1 - Dover
Passing the White Cliffs of Dover, the expedition sets its course north, crossing the North Sea, towards the coast of Norway’s magical, snow-covered landscape and our hunt for the Northern Lights.
Creating a dazzling light show, this natural phenomenon is the result of disturbances caused by solar wind. Epic by any standard, your chances of experiencing the Northern Lights improve the farther north we go. In the meantime, relax, find your sea legs and make the most of your time at sea as you get to know your ship, MS Maud.
Day 2: Day 2 - At Sea
Enjoy another relaxing day at sea as we continue north to the Norwegian coastline. Our expedition team will be on hand to share their knowledge about the places and the natural wonders that you are about to encounter.
Day 3: Day 3 - Bergen
As your third day unfolds, and we enter the scenic straits and fjords, you’ll get your first glimpse of this truly amazing coast.
After lunch, we arrive in Bergen. Founded in 1070 AD, Bergen is steeped in history and still retains a great deal of its charm and character. With its colourful wharfs and cobblestone alleyways there’s plenty to see and do.
Enjoy dinner back onboard the ship, then kick back, relax and take in the spectacular landscape as we sail north from Bergen along the Viking route of Hjeltefjord.
Day 4: Day 4 - Molde
At midday we reach Molde, an attractive coastal town with an amazing view of no less than 222 mountain peaks across the fjord. While you’re there, we recommend that you visit the City’s scenic viewpoint, Varden and take in not just the wonderful vistas but also the snowy peaks of the Romsdal Alps.
The Atlantic Road is one of Norway’s most visited tourist destinations. Included in today’s activity is a scenic bus trip that takes in the Atlantic Road. Spanning eight bridges over picturesque landscapes and across the open sea, the tour ends in Kristiansund, where you’ll re-join the ship. It’s certainly a trip not to be missed!
Day 5: Day 5 - Brønnøysund
Brønnøysund marks the halfway point in this amazing experience. A pretty, yet vibrant little town located on a narrow peninsula surrounded by islands and sea, Brønnøysund is home to 5000 people. It is also the home of the famous mountain with a hole in the middle – Torghatten. We stop here for half a day so there’ll be plenty of time to familiarise yourself with the history that this beautiful region has to offer.
As we leave Brønnøysund, we sail along the coast of Helgeland and past the famous Seven Sisters mountain range. The stuff of true legend, the story goes that seven beautiful troll sisters got caught out at sunrise and turned to stone creating the seven beautiful peaks known as the Seven Sisters mountain range.
Day 6: Day 6 - Lofoten
A formidable wall of mountains looming on the horizon will be the first thing that you see as we approach The Lofoten Islands. Famous for their distinctive dramatic peaks, sheltered bays, untouched beaches and excellent fishing, the snow-capped Islands really are truly inviting.
After an exciting day of exploring, we set sail for Trollfjord, a surreal setting with vertical mountains that literally jut out of the sea. Only 2km long and 100m wide, this dramatic landscape is surrounded by majestic mountains and has been the inspiration of many troll legends and fairy tales.
Day 7: Day 7 - Tromsø
Brimming with fascinating history, culture and bold architecture, Tromsø is the perfect winter wonderland destination. Included as part of this exciting excursion is a ride on the Fjellheisen cable car, where you’ll be able to take in breath-taking views of the city, mountains, fjords and hopefully the Aurora.
When you’re back on terra firma, why not visit The Arctic Cathedral? A landmark in Tromsø, it is visible from the Tromsø Sound and features a huge stained-glass window. Then, if you fancy chilling out after all that activity, you can meet the local townspeople for a chat and a beer at Mack Bryggeri, the world’s northernmost brewery.
Day 8: Day 8 - Tromsø
After a good night’s rest, get ready to enjoy another fun-pack day of discovery in Tromsø. Dubbed the ‘Capital of the Arctic’, Tromsø is often described as the ‘Paris’ of the north. It really is something out of the ordinary and offers something for everyone. The starting point for several Arctic expeditions and the first port of call when hunters and explorers returned to civilisation, Tromsø gained a reputation as a tough frontier.
The day’s included activity is a visit to the Arctic experience centre, Polaria. One of only two places in Europe where you can see bearded seals at close range, you will come to understand how life in the sea and on land are inextricably linked.
Day 9: Day 9 - Honningsvåg
The North Cape and our furthest point north on this Winter Expedition cruise. Rising 307 meters above the Arctic Ocean the majestic North Cape is one of the northern most points on the European continent. The heartland of the Sámi people and home to millions of birds during the nesting season, it is truly spectacular.
Start the day by taking a scenic bus ride from the town of Honningsvåg. We pass small bays and tiny villages, then cross a mountain plateau before arriving at the spectacular North Cape. At only 2000km away from the North Pole, you’d be forgiven for feeling that you’re at the end of the world as you stand on top of the 307m high plateau. Back in Honningsvåg, you can choose to stroll about the town, past charming houses, nice shops and a church that was the only structure left standing at the end of World War II.
Day 10: Day 10 - Finnsnes
The day’s activity includes a trip to Senja, known locally as the ‘fairytale island’, due to its spectacular nature. With just under 8000 inhabitants, it’s Norway’s second largest island.
Famous for its diverse landscapes, it is surrounded by majestic mountains interspersed with isolated coves and sandy beaches. An island of two parts, South Senja, distinguished by rocky coastline and pine forests, is home to Ånderdalen National Park. The eastern side, on the other hand has a much gentler landscape with rolling hills and birch forests.
Day 11: Day 11 - At Sea
Enjoy the serenity and let the peacefulness of the sea envelop you as you spend time out on deck looking out for the aurora. Our on-board photography expert will be on hand to help you to capture the very essence of the aurora.
The Expedition Team will also be nearby, as we head towards Ålesund, ready to share their extensive knowledge and experience of Norwegian geography, culture and history.
Day 12: Day 12 - Ålesund
Devastated by a fire in 1904, a large part of Ålesund was burnt to the ground. The entire town was rebuilt in the then fashionable art nouveau style.
The included activity whilst you’re in Ålesund is a trip to the Norwegian Aquarium. Built into the rocky coastline, this architectural wonder houses a wide and exciting range of sea life including seals, penguins and octopus.
Day 13: Day 13 - Stavanger
Stavanger is our last stop before we reach Dover. Its cosmopolitan nature reflected in the food, pubs and bars make it popular with visitors and many nationalities are drawn to the area. But Stavanger has something for everyone, so if you’re looking for something different, there are plenty of sandy beaches and historic places to visit.
As Europe’s oil and energy capital, the included activity is a visit to the excellent Norwegian Petroleum Museum, where you can learn more about Norway’s most important industry through modern interactive exhibits.
Day 14: Day 14 - At Sea
Prepare yourself, as we cross the North Sea, for your final day at sea. Kick back and relax in the ships lounge or, if you prefer, take one last soak in the hot tub as you reflect on your recent adventure.
Day 15: Day 15 - Dover
The white cliffs of Dover coming into view signify the end of your exploration for now but we’re sure that you’ll be taking a lifetime of memories with you. And of course, we look forward to welcoming you onboard for another exciting trip soon.
The Hurtigruten line was originally launched to transport people and goods along the coast of Norway. It was particularly prevalent in winter when infrastructure was still in its infancy and land travel was generally more difficult. Even though there are now alternative means of transport, the Hurtigruten line still runs, calling at 34 ports along the Norwegian coastline.
When going on an expedition voyage departing from Dover, you will be travelling on board MS Maud, the name chosen after the famous polar vessel used by Roald Admundsen in 1917. MS Maud refurbishment will be completed in time for the first voyages in March 2021. As part of the refurbishment, the ship has become even more sustainable by working on biodiesel, which reduces CO2 emissions by 80%. The ship offers comfort and style alongside its expedition cruises.
But Hurtigruten really does come into its own with its on-board Expedition team. Passionate and experienced about all things ‘Norwegian’, the team host lectures, presentation programmes and activities on a regular basis.
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