Northern Lights Cruise Explorer

During the next two days at sea, passengers are encouraged to take full advantage of the onboard amenities designed for their relaxation and enjoyment. They can unwind in the hot tubs, sauna, and fully equipped gym, which provide ample opportunities for rejuvenation. The exquisite restaurants offer culinary delights crafted from seasonal produce, satisfying their taste buds with every bite. Passengers have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a wealth of knowledge as the esteemed Expedition Team begins their series of captivating lectures at the Science Center. Each team member is an expert in their respective field, offering fascinating insights into the places, history, and nature they may encounter during their Norwegian coast adventure. 

In the morning, the cruise will enter Nordfjord, passing by Hornelen, which is Europe's highest sea cliff. Passengers are advised to keep an eye out for it if their cruise is passing during daylight. The cruise will then continue towards Jostedalsbreen, which is Europe's largest glacier. As the ship cruises past charming inlets, passengers will have the opportunity to spot old fishing communities that date back to pre-Viking times. One of these communities is Loen, where the ship will land if the conditions are favorable. In the presence of the majestic glacier, there are countless discoveries to be made. After a brief boat ride to the floating jetty, passengers can take the Loen Skylift to the summit of Mount Hoven, where they can enjoy breathtaking views. 

Passengers can relax in the ship's Explorer Lounge or enjoy the breathtaking scenery from the deck as the cruise sails through Helgeland county, which is renowned for its Seven Sisters mountain range, before crossing the Arctic Circle. Meanwhile, the Expedition Team continues its informative lecture series onboard. Passengers have the opportunity to seek advice from the Expedition Photographer, who can provide helpful tips on capturing the most stunning Northern Lights images. During the journey, passengers will experience the enchanting Polar Night above the Arctic Circle. Rather than complete darkness, the skies transform into a captivating cobalt blue, casting an ethereal glow over the fjords and mountains. 

Today, passengers have the opportunity to explore the renowned Lofoten Islands. The archipelago, with its steep mountains, stunning beaches, and charming fishing villages, offers a truly unique experience. One of the must-visit destinations in the Lofoten Islands is Reine, characterized by its iconic red fishing huts, known as rorbuer. Set against a backdrop of majestic granite peaks, Reine exudes an idyllic charm that has made it one of Norway's most-photographed places. Passengers will understand why this location holds such appeal. In the event that weather conditions are not ideal, there are numerous equally memorable ports to explore in the area, including Svolvær.

Dubbed 'The Northern Lights City,' Alta becomes the pivotal point of the expedition, positioned as one of the world's northernmost towns. The town exudes charm as one strolls through its snow-covered streets adorned with enchanting Christmas lights. Situated at 70º north of the Arctic Circle, Alta finds itself directly beneath the Auroral Oval, a region renowned for its consistent Northern Lights activity. If the weather conditions align favorably, passengers may be treated to a captivating display of the Aurora Borealis. Visiting Alta's Northern Lights Cathedral offers an opportunity to delve deeper into the phenomenon. The cathedral's remarkable architecture, inspired by the Aurora, captivates visitors. 

Today, passengers will embark on a voyage to Tromsø, known as the capital of the Arctic. The day will be filled with opportunities to explore and uncover the city's captivating history, rich culture, and distinctive architecture. Among Tromsø's remarkable landmarks, the Arctic Cathedral stands out, particularly when illuminated during the nighttime. Its striking presence is sure to leave a lasting impression. To delve deeper into Tromsø's explorer history, a visit to the Polar Museum is highly recommended. The museum offers valuable insights into the fabled expeditions of the past. Passengers can also immerse themselves in the local atmosphere by joining friendly locals in the numerous pubs scattered throughout the town. 

Located 150 miles inside the Arctic Circle and encompassed by three majestic fjords, Narvik boasts a truly remarkable and picturesque environment. Originally established as a year-round port to facilitate the transportation of Swedish iron mines, Narvik held significant strategic importance during World War II, becoming a target for Germany. Presently, visitors have the opportunity to explore local galleries, shops, and restaurants that specialize in offering delectable dishes featuring local seafood and reindeer meat. If weather conditions permit, passengers can embark on an exhilarating cable car ride to the summit of Mount Narvik, where they will be greeted by breathtaking panoramic views. 

The plan for the next two days is intentionally flexible, following a true expedition style. Passengers will have the opportunity to venture off the conventional paths and explore whichever destinations capture their interest. The Expedition Team, leveraging their extensive knowledge of the area, will make informed decisions on activities and landings, ensuring an exhilarating and naturally captivating experience. Numerous islands and fjords await discovery in this region, and the cruise will sail closer to some of them to provide an up-close view. Using our expedition boats, passengers will have the chance to disembark and immerse themselves in the stunning surroundings, while keeping an eye out for the local wildlife.

Bergen, known for its picturesque beauty, offers an excellent opportunity for exploration on foot. Having once been the capital of Norway, the city has preserved its local character, heritage, and charm, which visitors will witness firsthand. Passengers will embark on an enjoyable funicular ride to reach the summit of Mount Fløyen. From there, they can indulge in the stunning panoramic views of the city, framed by seven mountains and the mesmerising sea. Upon returning to the center of Bergen, a leisurely stroll through the historic Bryggen district awaits. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its distinctive wooden wharves. 

Visitors are sure to appreciate the cosy atmosphere of Egersund, a town renowned for its vibrant character. As they approach the harbour, the sight of brightly coloured, wooden houses greets them, providing a welcome departure from the typical white-painted dwellings found in many other Norwegian towns. The area around Egersund has been inhabited since the Stone Age, with several ruins of ancient settlements dating back to the early migrations around 400-600 BCE. Ancient runes carved into nearby rocks further attest to the town's rich history. Egersund also boasts one of Norway's best natural harbours, having once held the distinction of being the largest in the country in terms of annual fish landed. 

Passengers are encouraged to make the most of their final full day on board MS Maud. They have the option to indulge in the soothing hot tub, engage in a workout session at the gym, explore the Science Center, or simply unwind in the inviting ambiance of the Explorer Lounge & Bar while editing the photos captured during their journey. Joining the Expedition Team, passengers will have the opportunity to revisit the remarkable highlights of their unforgettable expedition cruise to the Norwegian fjords. They can reflect upon the multitude of wonderful experiences encountered, such as the awe-inspiring moments of witnessing the Northern Lights or being mesmerized by the breathtaking scenery of the Lofoten Islands.