Norwegian Seaside Voyage
Day 01: Upon reaching Oslo, Norway’s capital, you’ll receive a warm welcome at the airport and then be escorted to your conveniently situated hotel in the heart of the Sentrum district.
Day 02: Embark on a morning tour to explore the iconic attractions of Oslo, followed by free time in the afternoon. You might opt to stroll through Vigeland Sculpture Park or visit the Munch Museum to appreciate the art of Edward Munch.
Day 03: Following breakfast, you’ll be taken to the airport for your journey to Kirkenes, a quaint town in northern Norway. Upon landing, you’ll have free time to relax or possibly embark on a king crab safari on a local vessel. Dinner will be served at your hotel in the evening.
Day 04: Today, embark on a journey to Norway’s enchanting Snowhotel, a marvel of ice and snow architecture, adorned with intricate sculptures and designs by international artists. Post a delightful local lunch, board your Hurtigruten ship, and cozy up in your cabin as you set off towards Vardo, housing the globe’s most northerly fortress, Vardohus, established in 1737 and still active militarily. Sail along the picturesque northern coast, stopping at the quaint town of Batsfjord, then proceed to Berlevag, a prominent fishing hub. Explore the breathtaking landscapes, including Mount Tanahorn and the guiding light of Kjolnes Lighthouse over the Barents Sea.
Day 05: Pause in Mehamn and the charming fishing hamlet of Kjollefjord, then early morning, make your way to Honningsvag to leave your ship for an exclusive experience. From there, journey through an underwater tunnel linking Honningsvag to the mainland, followed by a scenic drive along the stunning Porsanger fjord towards the coast and the picturesque town of Hammerfest, the most northerly town globally with over 10,000 people. Options include exploring the UNESCO-recognized Meridian Column, shopping for keepsakes at the Polar Bear Society, or enjoying panoramic views from Mount Salen. Afterward, reboard your ship to explore more of Norway’s breathtaking coast, heading south to Oksfjord, the captivating island of Skjervoy with its alpine mountains and stunning vistas, and then to Tromso. Here, amidst some of Norway’s highest peaks, the Lyngen Alps, you’ll arrive in vibrant Tromso right before midnight, where the summer’s endless daylight invites an exploratory walk around the city.
Day 06: Arrive early at Harstad on Hinnoya Island, your entry point to the Lofoten and Vesteralen archipelagos. Explore Harstad’s highlights, such as the ancient Trondenes Church, the world’s northernmost medieval church. Visit a museum showcasing history from the Stone Age to modern times. Enjoy a picturesque drive across Hinnoya to catch a ferry from Gullesfjord, where you can indulge in warm beverages, waffles, and lefse while admiring stunning views. Witness the landscape’s dramatic change to towering mountains on your way to Sortland, where you’ll rejoin your ship. In the evening, arrive at Svolvaer with an option to explore a fishing village in Lofoten. Continue to Stamsund, passing the majestic Lofoten Wall’s granite cliffs.
Day 07: In the early morning hours, visit Bodo and Ornes before the ship crosses the Arctic Circle after breakfast. Make a brief stop at the former trading post of Nesna before reaching Sandnessjoen, the entrance to the stunning Helgeland Coast. Marvel at the majestic Seven Sisters peaks, part of the Holyoke Range, with peaks reaching up to 1,100 meters. Arrive in Bronnoysund by mid-afternoon, and disembark to explore the lively marina along Havnegata. Discover the Neo-Gothic Bronnoy Church dating back to 1870 at the town center. Conclude the day with a visit to the charming fishing port of Rorvik in the enchanting Vikna archipelago.
Day 08: Embark on a bus tour exploring Trondheim, an ancient city steeped in history and culture, doubling as a prominent Norwegian academic hub. Explore Nidaros Cathedral, a national shrine erected in 1070 over the tomb of Saint Olav, the king of Norway from 1015 to 1028. Cruise through scenic islands, passing Norway’s quaint communities, and arrive at Kristiansund, renowned as the ‘Bacalao Capital.’ Wander the cobblestone streets, visit the Varden viewpoint for breathtaking views, and conclude the journey in Molde, gazing at the peaks of the Romsdal Alps. Cap off the day with a delightful Captain’s Farewell Dinner.
Day 09: This morning, seize the chance to witness the breathtaking Nordfjord landscape beneath the colossal Jostedal Glacier, the largest in mainland Europe. Arriving at Floro, relish picturesque views of the harbor and marina. Departing Floro, admire the charming Stabben Lighthouse and take in stunning scenes as your ship crosses Sognefjord, Norway’s longest and widest fjord. Finally, reach Bergen, renowned as ‘the city between seven mountains’ and the birthplace of Norway’s notable writers, artists, and thinkers. Disembark and savor your free afternoon at leisure.
Day 10: After enjoying breakfast this morning, regrettably, it’s time to conclude your journey. Head to the airport for your homeward-bound flight.