#cruiseday Now is the time to book your cruise to see the Northern Lights off the Norwegian coast during the winter of 2021-22. The classic 12-day voyage from Bergen, returning to Bergen takes you northwards along the Norwegian coast. The price includes return flights from the UK and starts from £1399 per person.
Begin your journey in Bergen – the cultural gateway to the fjords, especially explore the historic UNESCO-listed Bryggen district with colourful wharfs dating back to the 14th century. Then as the ship heads to the north, see the breath-taking beauty of the Nordfjord. The next town en route is Alesund – a town renowned for its beautiful art nouveau architecture. Molde is known as the city of roses, and also has a wonderful view to 222 mountain peaks.
On day 3 you reach Trondheim, Norway’s third largest city and the old capital. You can take a kayak trip along the river Nid all year round for a unique view of the city. On day 4, you cross the Arctic Circle – near Ornes, you’ll find Svartisen, Norway’s second largest glacier. The journey continues through to Bodo – where you can join an adventure in the wild. Head out in a RIB, to witness the world’s most powerful tidal current and maybe observe sea eagles.
Later the same day, as you sail through the Arctic, you’ll see the 1000m high Lofoten Wall. Tucked between majestic granite cliffs and white sandy beaches, Lofoten is an experience that is out of the ordinary. The charms of the Lofoten Islands are revealed in the small, picturesque fishing villages with their bohemian ambience. Take a stroll between stockfish racks and ‘rorbuer’, the traditional fisherman’s huts. At Stamsund, you can join a journey to the Lofotr Viking Museum with a meal in the banquet hall. Although you’re on a cruise, not every experience is onboard. Between Stamsund and Svolvaer, you can visit a herb and cheese farm or a craft brewery.
However, once you’ve crossed the Arctic Circle, the important thing during the winter months is to look for the Northern Lights. As you sail pass Trollfjord however, with freshly made fishcakes on deck – you might see trolls up in the steep mountains, so watch carefully! The ship continues on to Tromso – the capital of the Arctic. You can complete your stay with a thrilling husky dog sled ride. Enjoy stunning views of the ocean and mountains as well as hopefully the Northern Lights. The further north the ship travels, the more chance you have of seeing the Lights.
Day 6 sees you on top of the world at the Northern Cape, an optional excursion will see you only a couple of thousand kilometres from the geographic North Pole. Sailing further north still, you’ll enter the heartland of the Sami people, the area’s ancient reindeer herders. Join an unforgettable snowmobile trip to one of Europe’s most extreme natural areas.
Dramatic vistas surround you as you approach Kirkenes, just a few miles from the Russian border. Depending on the weather and time of year, you can drive over a frozen fjord and take a dog sledge ride.
Now begins the journey southwards, there’s still lots to see. The ship sails overnight as well as during the day – so some places that you sailed past in the dark will now be visible during the daytime. You might go ice-bathing in the Arctic Ocean at Vardo or learn about the shorebirds along the coastline. Enjoy a magical midnight concert at the Arctic Cathedral in Tromso.
As you cross southwards out of the Arctic Circle, have a spoonful of cod liver oil – a special tradition. Then sail past the Seven Sisters Mountain Range – these were troll princess sisters who sneaked out one night and then were pursued by other trolls. However, as dawn comes, then they all turned to stone, forming the mountains.
Finally, back in Bergen, why not extend your stay with a few days in the city before or after your cruise.
Whether you choose to cruise to see the Northern Lights in the winter or the Midnight Sun in the summer – this trip is popular and something for everyone’s bucket list.
How to enquire about or book your next holiday:
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olein@diamondtravel.ltd.uk
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