- Admire the rugged Arctic landscapes of Northern Norway
- Chances of experiencing the Northern Lights in winter or the Midnight Sun in summer
- Explore the beautiful city of Tromsø, known as the capital of the Arctic
Itinerary
From Lofoten, your ship sails through the night to bring you to the city of Tromsø by afternoon the next day. Experience this ‘Paris of the North’ whether wandering around or on optional excursions. The next day offers a trip to the North Cape before we make our way to Kirkenes, near the Russian border.
DAY 1 : Svolvær
At the heart of Lofoten
Welcome to Norway and what is arguably its most scenic archipelago. You’ll board your ship in the late evening, giving you plenty of time to explore Svolvær if you arrive here earlier in the day.
This enchanting town is nestled in a picturesque location between the mountains and the sea, overlooked by Svolværgeita, or Svolvær Goat Mountain, with its two characteristic ‘horns’.
No wonder then that Svolvær is a place of inspiration for artists and photographers who feature their work in art galleries and the North Norwegian Art Centre.
Natural Phenomenon
From late May through mid-July, the Arctic sun stays above the horizon, a phenomenon known as the Midnight Sun. This 24-hour daylight means outdoor activities, such as kayaking and hiking, can be done whatever time of day or night.
In contrast, come winter, Lofoten’s position above the Arctic Circle and directly beneath the auroral zone make it ideal for viewing the spectacular Northern Lights.
DAY 2 : Stokmarknes - Skjervøy
Capital of the Arctic
We dock into Harstad just after 7am. You can go for a peaceful early morning stroll around town.
The ship will then continue to Finnsnes which connects the beautiful island of Senja via the impressive Gisund Bridge.
Keep on the lookout for a variety of seabirds with several colonies nearby, including puffins. Whales can also be spotted in the waters here, especially during the winter season.
Gateway to the Arctic
We then sail to the historic Arctic exploration capital of Tromsø where you’ll have four hours to explore the city or join an optional excursion.
You’ll find Polaria, the world’s northernmost aquarium, o the waterfront. Take your pick from the many shops and restaurants in the city centre, including Mack Brewery and favourite local watering hole Ølhallen pub. There are also trendy cafés plying delicious cinnamon buns and where baristas create innovative coffee art. Across the fjord from where the ship docks, you should be able to see the iconic Arctic Cathedral with its beautiful stained-glass mosaic.
Leaving Tromsø in the early evening, we head north for the trading post of Skjervøy, founded in 1622. On our way, we’ll pass the Lyngen Alps which rise majestically from the sea.
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The Arctic Capital TromsøTour the city’s best spots from the Arctic Cathedral to the world’s northernmost aquarium, including taking the cable car up for mountaintop views over Tromsø.
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Dog Sledding (Tromsø)Join us on a mini polar expedition across the snowy Arctic landscape just a half-hour drive from Tromsø on the island of Kvaløya.
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Scenery & HuskiesGet close to huskies and their pups during this visit to the Tromsø Wilderness Centre. Go on a guided nature walk and learn about the sport of dog sled racing.
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Polar History WalkGo on this guided walk through the city of Tromsø and learn about the Arctic capital’s fascinating history. Visit the Polar Museum and taste local beer at Tromsø’s oldest pub.
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Kayaking in TromsøReady for a little adventure? Join us as we head out to the nearby island of Håkøya for a sea kayak expedition along the Tromsø-area coastline.
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Cross-Country SkiingWith fluffy, soft snow each winter, it’s no surprise that skiing is a popular pastime in Norway. Enjoy an introductory skiing lesson, before going for a gentle cross-country skiing trip.
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Snowshoeing In TromsøMake your way across the snow on a pair of snowshoes, exploring Tromsøya Island in a unique way. End the visit with a toboggan ride and a relaxing break by the bonfire.
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Electric Cruising in TromsøCruise Tromsø’s coast in a silent, electric boat. Explore the depths with an underwater drone and sample Arctic food as you listen to local guides.
DAY 3 : Øksfjord - Berlevåg
Norway’s Northern Frontier
The ship reaches the town of Hammerfest on the island of Kvaløya early in the morning. In summer, the island has herds of reindeer migrating here in their thousands.
You’ll know we’ve reached Havøysund when you see the wind turbines of the landmark Havøyglaven wind farm which produces enough electricity to power 6,000 local homes.
At the top of Europe
We arrive at Honningsvåg mid-morning, portal to the North Cape where a globe monument marks the top of continental Europe. The optional excursion up to the dramatic promontory is very popular, so you’ll want to book early.
Sámi heartlands
Near the entrance of Kjøllefjord village, look out for the striking, building-like rock formation Finnkirka, an ancient sacrificial site once used by the indigenous Sámi. You can join an optional excursion to meet local Sámi, learn about their life reindeer herding, and listen to joik folk songs.
Continuing north
We reach our northernmost port of call, Mehamn, in the evening. If visiting in the months of February and March, you might spot tons of cod drying on outdoor wooden racks called hjell, mainly destined for export.
The ship then sets off for Berlevåg. On the way, we pass the tall Slettnes Lighthouse, the northernmost mainland lighthouse on Earth.
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The North CapeCross the 71st parallel and visit North Cape, the northernmost point on the European continent, marked by the photogenic globe monument.
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Birdwatching SafariJoin us on this excursion to see one of Norway´s largest and most impressive bird cliffs in the Gjesværstappan islands.
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Sámi CultureMeet an indigenous Sámi family in their traditional lavvo tent to learn more from them about their way of life and their remarkable culture.
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Snowmobile Trip In The ArcticDrive your own snowmobile through a beautiful winter landscape from one port to the next, hopefully under the Northern Lights.
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Sami AutumnHear tales about the Sámi Shaman, discover Sámi culinary traditions, and learn about the restorative powers of local medicinal herbs.
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The North Cape ExclusiveThis private tour of the North Cape with your own guide is an exclusive experience reserved for our Platinum fare guests.
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Fishing Village VisitJoin us on a tour to visit two colourful fishing villages and discover Christmas, whatever the time of year, at the very top of Norway.
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RIB Expedition at 71 Degrees NorthJoin a thrilling boat ride to North Cape and see the rugged coastline of Troms and Finnmark county from water level.
DAY 4 : Båtsfjord – Kirkenes
Where Norway Meets Russia
We call at Båtsfjord and Vardø in the night, before docking at Vadsø early in the morning.
Looking to the skies
The area around Vadsø is one of the most scenic and popular birdwatching spots in the Arctic, lying directly under the migration path of birds flying from east to west. Watch for hooded crows and sea eagles.
Next door neighbours
Kirkenes is just a few miles from the Russian border and has many influences from Norway’s neighbour; from road signs in both Norwegian and Russian, a monthly Russian market, or the WWII Russian Monument.
This is where your Norwegian coastal cruise ends and you’ll have travelled further east than St. Petersburg and Istanbul.
As we arrive in Kirkenes around 9am, you might have some time to explore this fascinating town by yourself, ahead of your onward journey. Go to the border crossing at Storskog, call in at the Varanger Museum, or why not book our Post-Programme at the Kirkenes Snow Hotel, staying either in a cosy Snow Suite or a wooden Gamme Cabin.
What's included
Included in your voyage
- Cruise with Hurtigruten in an unspecified cabin
Your cabin will be allocated when you check in
Not included in your voyage
- Flights & transfers
- Travel insurance
- Optional excursions
- Luggage handling
Notes
- Prices are per person based on two people travelling together sharing a twin cabin
- Not all cabin categories are available for all departures
- Single cabin pricing available on request
- Hurtigruten has a flexible pricing system and all prices are capacity controlled and subject to availability.
