April 9, 2023

Start your cruise to Norway’s famous fjords from the White Cliffs of Dover.

If you have time, walk alongside Dover’s iconic white cliffs before embarking your comfortable expedition ship, MS Maud.

Once you board, pick up your complimentary expedition jacket and settle into your cabin before attending a mandatory safety drill. Head out on deck and gaze at the fishing boats and seagulls as we bid a fond farewell to Dover.

Later in the evening, we’ll call on the port of Harwich, which is one of the most important ports on the Essex coast. To celebrate the start of our journey, you’ll enjoy a local sea shanty performance before crossing the North Sea.

April 10, 2023 - April 11, 2023

Settle into the rhythm of life at sea, expedition style

As we sail to Norway, you will have plenty of time to relax and enjoy the ship. Work up a sweat in the gym, spot wildlife on the Observation Deck, soak in a hot tub, or indulge yourself in one of our three restaurants.

The Expedition Team will prepare you for the adventure ahead by giving lectures on topics ranging from geology to photography.

We also support several Citizen Science projects, which we encourage you to join. Not only will you be helping the scientific community, you’ll also be gaining a better understanding of the world around you.

April 12, 2023

Welcome to Flåm, the quintessential Norwegian village.

Surrounded by steep mountainsides and cascading waterfalls, Flåm couldn’t be more scenic. Experience the natural beauty surrounding you on nature walks, biking, or kayaking.

You’ll want to go up to the Stegastein viewing platform. An architectural masterpiece jutting out from the mountainside, you’ll be standing over 2,000 ft above the Aurlandsfjord.

Flåm’s iconic railway is a masterpiece of engineering and one of the steepest railways in the world. You’ll feel the pull of nostalgia as you’re whisked through breathtaking mountain scenery on an hour-long optional excursion.

April 13, 2023

Discover Skjolden, the tiny village at the end of the world’s longest fjord.

Sailing deep into Sognefjord, we’ll pass idyllic villages dotted along fertile plains. One of these is Skjolden, home to around 200 residents and our intended base for today.

Enjoy a trip to nearby Urnes Stave Church, an outstanding example of traditional Scandinavian wooden architecture. It’s the oldest stave church in Norway and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll also have the chance to join optional excursions, including hiking or kayaking.

In the evening, we may take a scenic cruise of Nærøyfjorden, which has UNESCO status and is said to be among the most scenic landscapes in the world.

April 14, 2023

Explore Geirangerfjord - the crown jewel of Norway’s fjords

With fewer visitors and milder weather, spring is arguably the best season to see Geirangerfjord, often referred to as the ‘Crown Jewel’ of Norwegian fjords. Cruising these emerald-green waters, you’ll discover a fairytale landscape brimming with spectacular waterfalls, including the famed Bridal Veil and the Seven Sisters.

Small boats (RIBs) will take you ashore to explore the fjord and its many small communities, if conditions allow. We’ve picked some fantastic optional activities for you to enjoy. This includes the chance to kayak along the fjord (conditions permitting).

April 15, 2023

Soak up stunning mountain views in the charming village of Loen.

Sailing to the idyllic village of Loen, feast your eyes upon dazzling glaciers, fertile valleys, and beautiful sandy beaches. Situated at the base of Nordfjord and Mount Hoven, Loen comes with views fit for a postcard and a variety of ways to explore.

Take advantage of Loen’s Skylift cable car and climb to the top of Mount Hoven. You can enjoy spectacular views of the mountains, valleys, and the fjord.

Weather permitting, we offer optional excursions such as guided hikes along alpine trails in optional excursions. The impressive Briksdalsbreen Glacier and the nearby Kleivafossen waterfall are also popular attractions.

April 16, 2023

Hardangerfjord in spring is a paradise, featuring mountains, glaciers, and apple orchards.

Welcome to Hardangerfjord, the fifth-longest fjord in the world. Enjoy a mild climate in spring, where the hillsides are lined with the prettiest apple orchards in Norway, blanketed in white blossoms.

We plan to explore the villages of Sunndal or Rosendal, depending on the weather conditions. From Sunndal, you can explore the area on a scenic hike or by kayak with the Expedition Team as optional excursions.

In the quaint village of Rosendal, the biggest attraction is the 16th-century Baronial manor, famous for its beautiful rose garden and landscaped grounds.

April 17, 2023

Prepare to see some of the most striking rock formations in the world

Preikestolen, also known as Pulpit Rock, is probably the most famous tourist attraction in Norway. Hopefully we’ll be treated to a fine view of this incredible rock formation from below as we approach Preikestolen.

If weather conditions allow, we recommend taking the optional excursion to the Preikestolen viewpoint. This five-hour guided hike takes you nearly 2,000 feet above Lysefjord.

If you decide to hang out on the ship, head out to the deck to bask in the magnificent scenery, and admire the majestic mountains towering above you.

April 18, 2023

Think back on the best moments of your expedition cruise

Today is a day at sea. Make the most of your day at sea aboard MS Maud. Soak in the hot tub, work out in the gym, or relax in the Explorer Lounge, or edit photos from your trip.

Don’t miss the Expedition Team as they review the highlights of your memorable expedition cruise to the fjords of Norway. As we cross the North Sea, keep an eye out for the seabirds and dolphins that like to follow the ship.

April 19, 2023

End your expedition cruise in Dover, the gateway to England.

Today you’ll say farewell to MS Maud, but will keep unforgettable memories of the magnificent fjords along Norway’s west coast. Before you head out of the area, Dover itself has a number of attractions you won’t want to miss.

No trip here is complete without walking alongside or atop the iconic White Cliffs that have become a symbol for England. Consider visiting Dover Castle, said to be the largest castle in England and home to a Roman lighthouse.

Whatever’s next for you, we wish you a safe onward journey and look forward to seeing you on your next adventure!