Classic Voyage: Bergen Roundtrip

Start your adventure with a one-night stay in captivating Bergen. On Norway's southwestern coast, Bergen offers a perfect blend of historical heritage and natural beauty. Wander the colourful wooden buildings of the UNESCO-listed Bryggen Wharf, steeped in medieval history, before setting sail the next morning. 

Accommodation at 4* Hotel Oleana

The voyage begins in Bergen, the second largest city in Norway and gateway to the fjords. Before boarding, passengers can relax in the comfortable guest lounge at the terminal. Once aboard, indulge in the first of many delicious meals made from fresh coastal produce as the ship departs Bergen and sails the old Viking route along Hjeltefjorden.

Arrive at your first stop: Ålesund. This port town is renowned for its Art Nouveau architecture and Atlanterhavsparken (Atlantic Sea Park), one of Northern Europe's largest saltwater aquariums. Spend the day exploring this picturesque town before heading into the fjords. Your course is set for the spectacular UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord, a majestic mish-mash of snow-topped peaks, thundering waterfalls and lush hillsides.

This enchanting portion of the voyage offers us the opportunity to immerse yourself in Norway's Trøndelag region, with its picturesque landscapes of crumpled hills, fields adorned with charming farmsteads, and idyllic coastal settlements nestled along the shoreline. You'll visit the city of Trondheim, a captivating blend of magic, medieval charm, and modern vibrance, founded by Viking king Olav Tryggvason in 997. 

Early in the morning, we embark on a captivating Arctic journey as we cross the Arctic Circle, commencing your remarkable tour of Norway's Arctic region. This significant moment is celebrated with a traditional ceremony that is guaranteed to invigorate your senses and awaken your spirit. At 10am, our journey brings us to Ørnes, a charming destination located near Svartisen, Norway's second-largest glacier. 

The ship arrives in Harstad shortly after 7am, allowing passengers an early morning walk through the town. Continuing your journey, the ship sets sail towards Finnsnes, gateway to the enchanting island of Senja, connected by the Gisund Bridge. While navigating these waters, keep a keen eye out for the diverse array of seabird colonies, including puffins.

Our next stop is Hammerfest, situated on the picturesque island of Kvaløya. During the summer months, the island is home to herds of migrating reindeer, presenting a remarkable natural spectacle. The unmistakable sight of the turbines at the iconic Havøysund wind farm signifies your arrival into this tiny fishing village. 

After dark, we stop off at Båtsfjord and Vardø, allowing for a brief visit to these fascinating towns. Early the next morning, you'll reach your final destination: the town of Vadsø. This far northeastern gem is part of the Varanger peninsula, where Arctic sky meets Arctic sea. It's a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts, positioned directly along the migration route of birds traversing from east to west. 

Throughout the night, make stops at Mehamn and Kjøllefjord. First thing, arrive into Honningsvåg and Havøysund. These early morning visits provide the perfect opportunity to explore and immerse yourself in the unique charms of these destinations before the day unfolds. During the early afternoon, you will have the opportunity to explore Hammerfest, a historic town that was once the northernmost settlement in the world. 

Today's itinerary takes you on an exploration of the captivating archipelagos of Lofoten and Vesterålen, real highlights on our scenic route through Norway. Prepare to be enchanted by the undulating landscapes and picturesque villages that await in these extraordinary island chains. Continuing your voyage, you'll arrive at Risøyhamn. From there, you'll proceed to Sortland, where the landscape undergoes a gradual transformation, unfolding from gentle hills to majestic mountains reaching heights of up to 1,000m. 

In the early hours of the morning, the ship makes a stop at Bodø, followed by a call at Ørnes at 7am. After breakfast, you'll embark on an exciting crossing over the Arctic Circle. Next, we briefly pause at Nesna before continuing your voyage to Sandnessjøen, gateway to the glacier-backed Helgeland Coast. 

After a leisurely morning in Trondheim, your voyage resumes. Discover Kristiansund and Molde, captivating coastal towns complete with distinctive cultures, mountain-flanked landscapes, and effortlessly warm hospitality.

Our Norwegian coastal cruise, for now, will soon come to a close. Throughout the previous night, we made stops at Ålesund and Torvik, adding to your memorable journey.