Astronomy Cruise

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Departures November 2019 - December 2020

See the magical northern lights
Guidance by an experienced astronomer who holds lectures
Experience the beautiful Norwegian coastline
Exclusive visit to the planetarium in Tromsø

Available Promotions on This Itinerary:

Northern Lights Promise

If the Northern Lights do not appear on your Roundtrip coastal Norway cruise, we will give you another 6 or 7-day Classic Voyage FREE OF CHARGE. The promise is applicable on select voyages between October 1 and March 31.
See full offer details

Itinerary

Get unique insight and knowledge about the Arctic sky and the greatest light show on Earth, the Aurora Borealis, on this popular voyage along the mesmerizing Norwegian Coast. This limited voyage is accompanied by special lecturers - experts on astronomy and expeditions to see the Northern Lights.

Day 1 Bergen
Day 2 Ålesund
Day 3 Trondheim
Day 4 Arctic Circle and Lofoten Islands
Day 5 Stokmarknes
Day 6 Honningsvåg
Day 7 Kirkenes
Day 8 Hammerfest and Tromsø
Day 9 Vesterålen and Lofoten Islands
Day 10 Arctic Circle, Seven Sisters
Day 11 Trondheim and Kristiansund
Day 12 Bergen

Day 1

Bergen

The Hunt Begins

A large passenger jet flying through a window

The adventure begins in Bergen, the cultural gateway to the fjords. Enjoy the relaxed ambiance and take the opportunity to meet your fellow astronomers.

A store in a brick building with Bryggen in the background

The famous Bryggen in Bergen.

Sailing to Molde and the Romsdal Alps.

Photo: Tim Couttreel / Guest Photo

A large body of water with a city in the background

A view over the beautiful Art Noveau architecture in Ålesund.

Day 2

Ålesund

A Day for Masterpieces

A view over the beautiful Art Noveau architecture in Ålesund.

An early arrival at the Art Noveau town of Ålesund gives you an opportunity to go ashore and explore this pretty town.

Optional Excursions

A Taste of Norway

Discover a beautiful fjord, narrow valleys, an ancient settlement, a historic hotel, and a tiny village – join us for an unforgettable journey through amazing Norwegian nature.
Mountain Hike in the Hjørundfjord

The Hjørundfjord is one of the most distinctive and magnificent fjords in all of Norway. Experience one of the wildest and most beautiful mountain regions in western Norway from above on this mountain hike.
Geiranger with Trollstigen Pass

Experience the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord, a ferry ride across the beautiful Norddalsfjord, and an exciting drive with 11 hairpin turns on the famous Trollstigen (The Troll's ladder) Pass – all on one excursion.
Hjørundfjorden, Geiranger and Ålesund

Explore the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord, see some of Norway’s most dramatic landscapes and enjoy a visit to the Art Nouveau city of Ålesund.
Hike with a Visit to a Shieling

Join a pleasant hike up from the fjord through lovely meadows to a summer grazing site at Haukås, where we learn about farming in the past and taste local delicacies.
Kayaking in Ålesund

Join us on a guided kayaking tour through the elegant city of Ålesund and hear colorful local stories, including why it is built in the Art Nouveau style.
Atlanterhavsparken Aquarium and Mount Aksla

See what life is like under the sea and then get a bird's-eye view of the Art Nouveau city of Ålesund.
Art Nouveau Walk

Join us on a guided walking tour through Ålesund and discover both the overt and hidden charms of this lovely Norwegian coastal city.
Art Nouveau Walk

Dating back to the Viking Age, today Ålesund is best known for its modern Art Nouveau architecture. Join a walking tour to discover both the overt and hidden charms of this lovely Norwegian coastal city.

Day 3

Trondheim

The Royal City of Trondheim

A small boat in a large body of water with buildings in the background

Photo: Maggie Strutt / Guest Photo

Continuing north you head for the medieval city of Trondheim, whose colourful history is reflected in its handsome civic architecture.

Optional Excursions

Nidaros Cathedral & Ringve Museum

Encounter the majesty of Trondheim's medieval Nidaros Cathedral, Norway's only church built in the Gothic architectural style. Then explore the Norway's musical history at the Ringve Museum.
Trondheim with Nidaros Cathedral

Explore Norway’s first capital, Trondheim, founded in 997 by Viking King Olav Tryggvason, who brought Christianity to Norway and gave Trondheim its original name: Nidaros.
Trondheim City Walk

Join a walking tour through the medieval city of Trondehim, which has become a major modern academic and technology research center.
Cycling in Trondheim

Join us for a leisurely paced bicycle tour through one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in Norway – Trondheim.
The Northernmost Tramride in the World

Experience Trondheim in the vintage carriage of the northernmost tram in the world! Enjoy a spectacular view of the city’s colorful houses, before we take you to new highs at the ski jumping hill of Granåsen. The excursion ends in the city center of Trondheim with a photo stop at the marvelous Nidaros Cathedral.
Kayaking On The River Nid

Discover a completely new perspective of Trondheim on an urban kayak expedition along the River Nid that winds it way through the historic city.

Photo: Maggie Strutt / Guest Photo

A close up of a rock mountain with Lofoten in the background

Visit the spectacular Lofoten Islands.

Photo: Kochneva Tetyana

A large body of water with a mountain in the background

As you cross the Arctic Circle, the hunt for the Northern Lights begins.

Day 4

Arctic Circle and Lofoten Islands

Welcome to the Arctic!

Visit the spectacular Lofoten Islands.

Photo: Kochneva Tetyana

Crossing the Arctic Circle you continue to the modern town of Bodø. After crossing the Vestfjord you are amidst the glorious Lofoten Islands and their capital, Svolvær.

Optional Excursions

Svartisen Glacier

Experience an up-close and personal visit to Svartisen, Norway’s second-largest glacier and the southernmost glacier in mainland Europe.
Arctic Coastal Walk

Join us for a guided walk along the coast in Bodø and learn why devotion to nature is integrated in the Norwegian culture.
RIB Safari to Saltstraumen

The giant maelstroms of Saltstraumen have captured the imagination of artists and authors for generations. Join a RIB (rigid inflatable boat) safari to witness these wondrous forces of nature.
Experience Bodø and Saltstraumen

Join us for a coach tour of the second-largest city in Northern Norway, Bodø, and then see the world's largest tidal current, the legendary Saltstraumen.
Meet the Vikings

Travel back more than 1,000 years in time and experience how the Vikings lived at Lofotr Viking Museum in Borg, Lofoten, where the largest Viking building ever found has been replicated.
Meet the Vikings – Summer

Join us on an authentic journey through Lofoten's ancient past at the Lofotr Viking Museum in Borg.
Highlights of Lofoten

The Highlights of Lofoten excursion takes you to the Lofoten archipelago's many picturesque fishing villages and towns, surrounded by spectacular backdrops of sea and mountains.
Lofotpils Brewery

Meet local Svolvær brewmaster at Lofotpils Bryggeri (brewery), established in a fish-landing depot dating back to the 1930s along the waterfront in Svolvær.
Farm Visit in Lofoten

Experience life on a diverse working farm, Aalan Farm, in Lauvdalen, Lofoten, renowned for its herbs and organic cheeses.

Day 5

Stokmarknes

Expand your Northern Lights knowledge

A person riding on the back of a boat in a body of water

Go kayaking in Tromsø.

Photo: David Gonzalez

A relaxing morning on board precedes your arrival in Tromsø, the Capital of Arctic Norway. Here a visit to the Northern Lights Planetarium is included especially for this tour.

Optional Excursions

The Arctic Capital Tromsø

Join us for a comprehensive sightseeing tour of Tromsø, the northernmost city in the world with a population over 50,000.
Dog Sledding

Join a mini-polar expedition across the snowy Arctic landscape just a half-hour drive from Tromsø on the island of Kvaløya.
Scenery and Huskies

Experience North Norway's nature at its best on this excursion to the Tromsø Wilderness Center on Kvaløya Island.
Polar History Walk

Experience the same polar frontier environment as the famous Arctic explorers on this historic polar walk through Tromsø.
Kayaking

Ready for a little adventure? Join us as we kayak to the nearby island of Håkøya along the Tromsø area's coastline.
Cross-Country Skiing

Experience the thrill of gliding along in the snow on skis. This tour is a fantastic introduction to cross-country skiing for beginners.
Snowshoeing in Tromsø

Some coin this snowshoeing excursion in Tromsø 'childhood revisited' because it is so carefree and liberating.

Go kayaking in Tromsø.

Photo: David Gonzalez

A large mountain in the background with Mafate in the background

Join an excursion to the magnificent North Cape.

Photo: Kateryna Moskalenko

Day 6

Honningsvåg

The Northern Lights and the North Cape

Join an excursion to the magnificent North Cape.

Photo: Kateryna Moskalenko

Following an early call at Hammerfest you arrive in Honningsvåg, the portal to the wonders of the spectacular North Cape (optional excursion).

Optional Excursions

The North Cape

Encounter magnificent landscapes as we cross the 71st parallel on a journey to North Cape, one of the northernmost points on the European continent.
Birdwatching Safari

Fascinated by multitudes of birds? Come along on this excursion to see one of Norway's largest and most impressive bird cliffs, near the North Cape.
Sami Culture

Encounter the Sámi people of far-northern Europe and learn about their remarkable culture.
Fishing Village Visit

Join us on a fascinating tour of two small fishing villages and discover Christmas year round at the very top of Norway.
Snowmobile Trip in the Arctic

Join us on an unforgettable snowmobile trip through one of Europe’s most exciting and extreme natural Arctic regions.
Sámi Autumn

Learn about the mystical cultural practices and natural medicines of the indigenous Sámi people living in Europe's northernmost region.
RIB Expedition on 71 degrees North

Journey to the North Cape like a true explorer - approach by RIB boat and hike up the mountainside to the famous plateau.

Day 7

Kirkenes

To the top and back again

A group of people riding on the back of a crab

King crabs in Kirkenes.

Photo: Ørjan Bertelsen

The vistas and sea life become more dramatic as you approach Kirkenes, just a few kilometres from the Russian border, and you can join one of our exciting excursions here. As you return south the northbound ports visited by night are now seen by day.

Optional Excursions

The Russian Border

East meets West at the far-northern Norwegian town of Kirkenes, a few short miles from the Russian border, and the turning point of your Hurtigruten voyage.
Riverboat to the Russian Border

Explore the river that divides Norway and Russia, two distinctly different, yet strangely similar, countries.
Snowmobile Safari

If you like the idea of racing a snowmobile across a vast snowy expanse and meeting people who live in this extreme region, then this excursion is for you.
Kirkenes Snow Hotel

Visit the coolest hotel in the world! Join a guided tour of the beautifully decorated snow suites, and grab a drink at Norway’s largest ice bar. Also, remember to greet the reindeers and huskies that live close to the hotel.
ATV/Quad Safari to the Russian Border

Discover Kirkenes and its surrounding nature, historical sights, and the Russian border on this motorized ATV (all terrain vehicle) quad bike adventure.
Husky Tour

Experience a thrilling dog-sledding adventure across the frozen Arctic wilderness.
King Crab Experience

Join our expert fishermen who will help you to deliver your catch directly to your dinner table. Learn the history, anatomy and then how to prepare and cook this monster of the deep.

King crabs in Kirkenes.

Photo: Ørjan Bertelsen

A couple of people that are on a grassy hill

Photo: Ørjan Bertelsen

From October to March, chances of seeing the Northern Lights above the Arctic Circle are high.

Day 8

Hammerfest and Tromsø

The Extreme North

Photo: Ørjan Bertelsen

Hammerfest, the world's most northerly town is your first major stop, before continuing to Tromsø.

Optional Excursions

The Northernmost Town in the World

Join a bus tour to explore Hammerfest and learn about the events that have shaped this unique town at the top of Europe.
Snowmobile Trip into the Polar Night

Join an unforgettable snowmobile journey into the polar night, and across one of Europe’s most extreme and exciting natural environments.
Breakfast at North Cape

Enjoy a delicious breakfast and more on this scenic coach tour from the town of Honningsvåg to North Cape, one of the northernmost points on the European continent.
Mountain Hike in Hammerfest

Join a walking tour that follows a path through Hammerfest's past and up to the top of nearby Mount Salen for magnificent views of the Arctic Ocean and surrounding islands.
Into the Ice – Stories of a Polar Hero

Go on a 'mini-expedition' and discover one of the greatest figures in polar history during this excursion from Hammerfest to nearby Mount Salen.
Midnight Concert in the Arctic Cathedral

There is perhaps no more beautiful way to experience Tromsø than by attending a midnight concert at the city's iconic Arctic Cathedral.
Arctic Midnight Adventure in Tromsø

Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Tromsø’s famous sights from the seaside.

Day 9

Vesterålen and Lofoten Islands

Welcome to Lofoten

The northern lights over Hamnøy, Lofoten

Photo: Stian Klo

Passing through the legendary Lofoten Islands the ship negotiates an intricate network of inlets and isles. This is one of the most beautiful stretches of the Norwegian coast for many it is the most stunning part of your journey south.

Optional Excursions

A Taste of Vesterålen

A Taste of Vesterålen is one of the classics in our extensive Hurtigruten excursion program. Come along and experience its history, beautiful scenery, and many breathtaking sights.
Lofoten Islands

Join us on a comfortable coach excursion through one of the most extraordinary landscapes on Earth.
Sea Eagle Safari

Join us on an excursion into Norway’s spectacular Trollfjord and experience close encounters with magnificent sea eagles.
Lofoten by Horse

Imagine horseback riding along a remote beach and terrain once inhabited by Vikings. Join us for this excursion along the shoreline of Gimsøy on the open Norwegian Sea.
RIB Adventure in Lofoten

Join us on this exciting sea excursion in open RIBs (rigid inflatable boats) on the waters of the fantastic Lofoten archipelago.
Discover a Fishing Village

Join us on a guided walking tour to the quaint old fishing village of Svinøya adjacent to the Lofoten town of Svolvær.

The northern lights over Hamnøy, Lofoten

Photo: Stian Klo

A group of people standing in front of a body of water

The narrow Raftsundet.

Photo: Nina Helland

A small boat in a body of water with a mountain in the background

Vega islands near Sandnessjøen.

Day 10

Arctic Circle, Seven Sisters

A date with the Seven Sisters

Vega islands near Sandnessjøen.

Cross the Arctic Circle and sail past the famed peaks of the Seven Sisters as you enter a world of legends and folklore.

Optional Excursions

UNESCO Vega Archipelago

Take a step back in time and see how the Norwegian islanders here developed a symbiotic relationship with the local eider duck population to cultivate a sustainable livelihood.
Visit the Salmon

Fascinated by fish? Join us on a visit to the Norwegian Aquaculture Center near Brønnøysund for an informative tour and taste of fresh salmon.

Day 11

Trondheim and Kristiansund

The old cities and the sea

Colorful houses along the Trondheim's Nid river.

Photo: Jan Menge / Guest Photo

An early morning arrival in Trondheim, where you have time to explore the city.

Optional Excursions

Trondheim with Nidaros Cathedral

Join us on a coach tour of this holy medieval city that has become a major modern academic and technological research center.
The Atlantic Road

Ride along on what The Guardian ranked as the world´s best road trip, and was awarded the “Engineering Feat of the Century” prize in 2005.
Bergtatt - Magnificent Marble Mine

Enjoy a guided bus tour to Bergtatt, and visit a working marble and limestone mine on the bank of an illuminated subterranean lake deep inside a mountain

Colorful houses along the Trondheim's Nid river.

Photo: Jan Menge / Guest Photo

Day 12

Bergen

The final chapter of the fairytale

A few nautical miles are left between you and Bergen today as your Astronomy Voyage draws to a close.

The day-by-day programme will give you a few ideas about what you can see and do on your coastal voyage in Norway, but bear in mind that this itinerary is just an indication of what you can experience. After all, this is a sailing where the elements rule and weather conditions might vary, which is why every voyage with Hurtigruten is unique.

Check prices and availability Request a quote

What's Included

Price Includes:

12-day Bergen - Bergen roundtrip cruise in the cabin grade of your choice on a full-board basis
English-speaking Tour Leader on board
Tour Manager and lectures from a renowned astronomer
Exclusive excursion to the Planetarium in Tromsø

Not Included:

International flights and transfers - you can book these with Hurtigruten during the booking process
Optional excursions
Luggage handling
Travel insurance

Prices may change at any time before departure date, the applicable price will be quoted at the time of booking.

Please Note:

All prices are shown in USD ($) per person based on two people traveling together sharing an inside cabin, double occupancy
Suites are available on request

Ships

MS Finnmarken

Year built	2002
Year of refurbishment	2020
Shipyard	Kværner Kleven (N)
Passenger capacity	919
Beds	540
Car capacity	0
Gross tonnage	15,690
Length	138.5 m / 454 ft
Beam	21.5 m / 71 ft
Speed	18 knots

On board MS Finnmarken you find Hurtigruten´s relaxed style combined with a bit of luxury.

MS Trollfjord

Year built	2002
Shipyard	Fosen Mek. Verk. (N)
Passenger capacity	822
Beds	576
Car capacity	35
Gross tonnage	16,140
Length	135.75 m/ 445 ft
Beam	21.5 m/ 70.5 ft
Speed	18 knots

This ship is named after spectacular Trollfjord in the Lofoten Islands, and provides exquisite indoor comfort, modern facilities and interior design that makes extensive use of Norwegian wood and stone.

MS Midnatsol

Year built	2003
Shipyard	Fosen Mek. Verk. (N)
Passenger capacity	970 (500 in Antarctica)
Beds	632
Car capacity	32
Gross tonnage	16151
Length	135.75 m / 445 ft
Beam	21.5 m / 70.5 ft
Speed	18 knots

The MS Midnatsol (Midnight Sun) is dedicated to the wonders of Arctic summer.

Optional Excursions

Find your favourite excursions and make your trip to Norway even more memorable. We recommend booking excursions in advance, but you can also book on board if there's still availability.

Please note that excursions vary by season and are subject to change.

A house with a mountain in the background

2F A Taste Of Norway

Norway

Duration

2 hours, 15 minutes

Price per person

From $ 173

Booking Code

HR-HJF2F

Norway Astronomy Voyage (Bergen - Kirkenes - Bergen)

Norway Astronomy Voyage (Bergen - Kirkenes - Bergen)

Available Promotions on This Itinerary:

Northern Lights Promise

Itinerary

What's Included

Price Includes:

Not Included:

Please Note:

Ships

MS Finnmarken

MS Trollfjord

MS Midnatsol

Optional Excursions

2F A Taste Of Norway

2G Mountain Hike In The Hjørundfjord

2B Geiranger With Trollstigen Pass

2J Hjørundfjorden, Geiranger and Ålesund

2H Hike With A Visit To A Shieling

2K Kayaking in Ålesund (2019/20)

2D Atlanterhavsparken Aquarium And Mount Aksla

2C Art Nouveau Walk

2E Art Nouveau Walk

3A Nidaros Cathedral & Ringve Museum

3B Trondheim With Nidaros Cathedral

3D Trondheim City Walk

3H Cycling In Trondheim

3I The Northernmost tramride in the world

3G Kayaking On The River Nid

4A Svartisen Glacier

4B Arctic Coastal Walk

4D Rib Safari To Saltstraumen

4C Experience Bodø And Saltstraumen

4E Meet The Vikings

4F Meet The Vikings Summer

4G Highlights Of Lofoten

4H Lofotpils Brewery

4I Farm Visit In Lofoten

5A The Arctic Capital Tromsø

5B Dogsledding

5C Scenery & Huskies

5D Polar History Walk

5G Kayaking

5M Cross-Country Skiing

5N Snowshoeing In Tromsø

6A The North Cape

6B Birdwatching Safari

6C Sami Culture

6H Fishing Village Visit

6D Snowmobile Trip In The Arctic

6E Sami Autumn

6J RIB Expedition on 71 degrees North

7A The Russian Border

7B Riverboat To Russian Border

7C Snowmobile Safari

Kirkenes - Kirkenes Snow Hotel

7E Atv/Quad-Safari To The Russian Border

7F Husky Sled Adventure

7H King Crab Expedition

8B The Northernmost Town In The World

8F Snowmobile Trip Into The Polar Night

8A Breakfast At North Cape

8G Mountain Hike In Hammerfest

8H Into The Ice Stories Of A Polar Hero

8C Midnight Concert In The Arctic Cathedral

8I - Arctic Midnight Adventure (2019/20)

9A A Taste Of Vesterålen

9B Lofoten Islands

9C Sea Eagle Safari

9D Lofoten By Horse

9E Rib-Adventure In Lofoten

9F Discover a fishing village

10B Unesco Vega Archipelago

10C Visit The Salmon

11A Trondheim With Nidaros Cathedral

11C The Atlantic Road

11E Bergtatt- Magnificent Marble Mine

Extend Your Cruise

Bergen - Hiking Mount Fløien

Bergen - Island Seafood Dinner & Boat Trip