Oslo – Tromsø

Visit Tromsø and the Arctic Circle | 2024

Price from

$2,846

Full board

Departure date

April 17, 2024

Duration

7 days

Ship

Solo Traveler Offer - Select Departures
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Visit Tromsø and the Arctic Circle | 2024

Price from

$2,846

Voyage overview

Join us as we make history by sailing from Oslo for the first time ever, on an autumn, winter, or spring trip you’ll never forget. See the stunning beauty of the Norwegian coast from the southernmost point in Lindesnes all the way to Tromsø, above the Arctic Circle.

  • Sail the Norwegian coast, one of the world’s longest coastlines, all the way from capital city Oslo in the south to Tromsø, above the Arctic Circle

  • Come aboard exceptionally designed MS Trollfjord, freshly refurbished in 2023 with the finest materials and ship craftsmanship  

  • Learn about local communities all along the coast, across a range of latitudes, and join a range of exciting optional seasonal excursions

  • Choose to sail in fall, winter, or spring and experience warmer climate in the south to snow-covered mountains and maybe even the Northern Lights in the Arctic

Itinerary

The day-by-day program will give you some ideas about what you can see during your voyage, but bear in mind that this itinerary is just an indication. After all, this is a sailing where the elements rule and weather conditions might vary.

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Day 1

Welcome aboard!

Oslo

Welcome aboard!

Oslo

Welcome to Norway! Your ship, MS Trollfjord, will be waiting at the pier to depart by early evening. Once we’ve welcomed you aboard and you’ve settled into your cabin or suite, you’ll meet your Coastal Experience Team. You’ll get to know each member of the team well as they give lectures and organize onboard activities for you throughout your voyage.  

Meet your fellow guests in the ship’s two-storey panorama lounge and mark the moment we make history by sailing from Oslo for the first time. Watch as the capital’s twinkling lights fade into the distance and admire the scenery and various points of interests seen along Oslofjord.

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Day 2

The city of lighthouses

Kristiansand

The city of lighthouses

Kristiansand

Located on the southern tip of the country, Kristiansand is Norway’s fifth-largest city. We aim to be at port from morning to late afternoon, giving you plenty of time to explore.

As you walk around Kristiansand, you might notice that the city is built on a uniform grid plan, with several straight roads running from the harbor all the way through the city. These roads are lined with architecture from different eras – evidence of the extensive rebuilding the city underwent after major fires in the 18th and 19th centuries and an attack during World War II.

Kristiansand is on a mission to become the most sustainable port in Europe. Find out more about this admirable goal on an optional excursion that includes a visit to Odderøya Island. Here, you can see beautiful views of the ocean and city and visit 18th-century military barracks that have been transformed into creative artist studios running several sustainable initiatives.

Kristiansand’s 20th-century military past is the focus of an optional excursion to Batterie Vara. Originally built as a German fort in World War II, it features the world’s second-largest cannon ever mounted on land.

Another optional excursion takes you to the working Lindesnes Lighthouse, which marks Norway’s southernmost point. See the beacon that has been guiding seafarers to safety on dark nights since the early 20th century and learn about the long history of the site, which goes all the way back to 1656.

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Day 3

Viking history

Haugesund, The Hardangerfjord

Viking history

Haugesund, The Hardangerfjord

As we sail past the southern tip of Norway, we’ll begin heading north along the west coast. Just past Stavanger, we’ll reach Haugesund, the ‘Home of the Viking Kings’.  

The nickname is inspired by sites such as St. Olav’s Church, built in 1250 by King Håkon Hå. There’s also Haraldshaugen, a national monument reputed to be the first king’s burial site. Why not step back in time to the Viking Age at Nordvegen Visiting Centre which features exhibitions presented by a fictional Harald Fairhair himself. 

After a short stay in Haugesund, you’ll rejoin the ship for some scenic cruising in Hardangerfjord. At 179 kilometres in length, it is the second longest fjord in the country, and fifth longest in the world. 

The stunning waterway is one of Norway’s finest. See mountain scenery everywhere you look, with the white peaks that tower over the fjord being reflected in the shimmering water below.  

The region is famous for its apple products, from jams and juice to its award-winning cider, which one food writer described as ‘Nordic Champagne’.

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Day 4

A picturesque town

Ålesund

A picturesque town

Ålesund

After a hearty breakfast on the ship, we’ll dock mid-morning at a town that spreads out across a string of islands. With almost an entire day to explore, you’ll have plenty of time to see all that Ålesund has to offer. 

As we approach the shore, you might first notice the distinctive style of architecture. Every detail of the buildings, from the bright colours to the rounded spires, were all inspired by the Art Nouveau style, which was popular in the early 1900s. Almost the entire town received a makeover in the style when it was rebuilt after a major fire in 1904.  

As you leave the waterfront, you’ll find yourself in a fairy-tale town, wandering narrow streets lined with unique houses. If your camera’s memory card isn’t already full after this, you can get impressive photos of the archipelago from the nearby Mount Aksla viewpoint. The 418 steps leading there might look intimidating, but the views are well worth the effort. 

You can also visit the Atlantic Sea Park, Norway’s first marine science centre. This is one of Northern Europe’s largest saltwater aquariums, providing a home to seals, otters, and crabs, as well as many other kinds of marine life. You can even see Humboldt Penguins here, a species otherwise absent north of the equator. 

Optional activities may include a fjord tour of either Geirangerfjord or Hjørundfjord. If weather allows, kayaking may even be an option. Imagine gliding across the surface of the fjord, skimming your hand over the pristine water as marine life swims in the depths below you.

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Day 5

Distinctive Nordic nature

Brønnøysund – coastal charm right in the middle of Norway

Distinctive Nordic nature

Brønnøysund – coastal charm right in the middle of Norway

Surrounded by islands and water, Brønnøysund sits on a narrow peninsula that juts out of the mainland. Around 5,000 people live in this small town, many in colourful houses against a backdrop of gentle slopes and dramatic mountain peaks. 

Enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the harbour and take a walk along Havnegata. Drop into one of the pubs for a snack, or treat yourself to a meal in a local restaurant. Wander the visitors’ marina, or visit an 1870 Neo-Gothic stone church. For some extra excitement, you may be able to go kayaking, or island-hopping on a RIB safari. 

As we sail, look out for the Vega archipelago, a cluster of some 6,500 islands, skerries, and islets. There’s a UNESCO World Heritage Centre on the island of Gardsøy which showcases how highly prized eider down is harvested from the local eider ducks by providing little huts for them to build their nests in. 

On an island south of Brønnøysund, you’ll find Torghatten mountain, recognisable by a natural tunnel that runs through the centre. According to local lore, the hole is the result of a troll who fired an arrow at a young woman who had rejected his advances. As the Troll King threw his hat to protect her, the sun began to rise, turning the hat to stone with a hole in the middle from the arrow. 

On an optional excursion, you can take an hour’s walk up to the hole in the mountain. Peer through the tunnel and enjoy the view of the islands around. 

We’ll continue sailing north in the afternoon, leaving the Helgeland coast behind us as we cross the Arctic Circle around midnight.

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Day 6

Lofoten islands and our historic birthplace

Svolvær – at the heart of Lofoten, Stokmarknes – the birthplace of Hurtigruten

Lofoten islands and our historic birthplace

Svolvær – at the heart of Lofoten, Stokmarknes – the birthplace of Hurtigruten

Today, we explore Lofoten, a striking group of islands that rise out of the Norwegian Sea. As soon as you see the towering peaks around you with fishing villages clinging to their sides, you’ll understand why this island chain is so often praised as one of Norway’s most stunning locations.  

We’ll dock in the town of Svolvær mid-morning. Located on the island of Austvågøya in the heart of Lofoten, Svolvær is the biggest town of the archipelago, humming with shops, restaurants, galleries, and cafés to enjoy. You can also admire views of the Svolvær Goat, a nearby mountain named for resembling a goat and its horns.  

A variety of optional excursions are available from Svolvær, including winter fishing, paddling along the coastline in a kayak, or embarking on a bus tour to learn more about Lofoten’s history.

We can’t visit the area without spending some time in Stokmarknes. This historic town is part of Vesterålen, an archipelago just northeast of Lofoten. Of all the places we visit, this one is particularly special to us. It was here that the Original Coastal Express was founded in 1893 by shipping pioneer Richard With.  

The Coastal Express soon became a lifeline for Norway’s remote coastal communities, and fittingly, our legacy has been immortalised in the place where it all began. Standing on the waterfront, you’ll find our 1956 ship MS Finnmarken, encased in a glass building like a ship in a bottle.  

This is Hurtigrutemuseet, the museum that chronicles our history as Norway’s leading expedition cruise line from start to now. On a guided tour, you can explore the retired vessel and experience the atmosphere of a past era.

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Day 7

The capital of the Arctic 

Tromsø – gateway to the Arctic

The capital of the Arctic 

Tromsø – gateway to the Arctic

Today, you’ll arrive at the Arctic Capital itself, sitting around 217 miles north of the Arctic Circle.  

You’ve sailed on The North Cape Express, exploring just a few of Norway’s coastal cities and villages. During the journey, you’ll have experienced Norway’s varied climate, seen majestic mountains and fjords, and maybe gazed up in awe at the Northern Lights once or even a few times.  

We hope you’ll cherish each of the memories of The North Cape Express that you’ll take home with you. Come sail with us again soon on another iconic voyage of our spectacular home: the Norwegian coast.

Tromsø is sorrounded by beautiful mountains

Day 8

A voyage to remember

Tromsø – gateway to the Arctic

A voyage to remember

Tromsø – gateway to the Arctic

Checking out of your hotel in Tromsø after breakfast marks the end of your travels with us. 

You’ve sailed on The North Cape Express, exploring just some of Norway’s coastal cities and villages. During the journey, you’ll have experienced Norway’s varied climate, seen majestic mountains and fjords, and maybe gazed up in awe at the Northern Lights once or several times.  

We hope you’ll cherish each of the memories of The North Cape Express that you’ll take home with you. Come sail with us again soon on another iconic voyage of our spectacular home: the Norwegian coast.

Norway’s Capital and the Arctic Circle

About your trip

What's included

Cabin guests

Enjoy an impressive range of included benefits when you choose from our selection of comfortable accommodation options: Polar Inside, Polar Outside and Arctic Superior cabins.

Cabin on the ship

  • Accommodation in a comfortable cabin with ensuite bathroom 

  • Choice of preferred cabin type  

Take a look at the cabins on MS Trollfjord

Food and drink on board 

  • All-inclusive dining at Flora and Árran

  • Unlimited selected drinks at Flora, Árran, and the Panorama bar, served during restaurant and bar opening hours 

  • Unlimited mineral water, tea, and coffee  

  • Afternoon snack in the Panorama bar 

  • Culinary demonstrations and food tastings 

Read more about your food and drink experience 

Life on board

  • Multi-lingual Coastal Experience Team  

  • Daily themed lectures, photography guidance, arts and crafts  

  • Access to fitness room, sauna, and Jacuzzis 

  • Movie nights, music entertainment, and library access 

  • Selection of equipment for outdoor activities  

Learn more about life on board MS Trollfjord

Suite guests 

For the premium onboard affair, quartered in beautifully appointed luxury accommodations, the Expedition Suite experience is the choice for you. 

Suite on the ship

  • Accommodation in a stylish, spacious suite with ensuite bathroom 

  • Choice of preferred cabin type 

  • Unlimited minibar 

  • Daily turn-down service 

Take a look at the cabins on MS Trollfjord

Food and drink on board 

  • All-inclusive dining at Flora and Árran and fine-dining à la carte at Røst

  • Unlimited selected drinks at Flora, Arran, Røst and the Panorama bar, served during restaurant and bar opening hours 

  • Unlimited mineral water, tea, and coffee  

  • Choice of restaurant dining times 

  • Exclusive Røst Afternoon Tea with sparkling wine 

  • Exclusive dinner with the ship’s senior officers 

Read more about your food and drink experience 

Life on board

  • Fast track priority check-in including exclusive Espolin Johnson lounge access 

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi 

  • Multi-lingual Coastal Experience Team  

  • Access to fitness room, sauna, and Jacuzzis 

  • Daily themed lectures, photography guidance, arts and crafts activities 

  • Movie nights, music entertainment and library access 

  • Culinary demonstrations and food tastings 

  • Selection of equipment for outdoor activities

Learn more about life on board MS Trollfjord

Know before you go

Optional Excursions

Explore your destination even further with our wide range of exciting excursions. The excursion program presented is an indication of some of the excursions that may be available during your voyage.