The Svalbard Line – North

• Enjoy a walking tour of this quaint town, with a visit to the world’s only Train Chapel 

• Ride to 2,320ft (708 metres) above sea level in Norway’s first gondola built on sustainable principles 

• Soak up the breathtaking panoramic views across the majestic peaks of the Romsdal Mountains 

• Explore the top of the mountain on a guided walk and visit the mountaintop restaurant 

• Languages: English and Norwegian  

• Wheelchair accessible: Yes, but note that the accessible route is slightly shorter on the mountain. 

Our tour starts as soon as you step on to the pier, where we’ll meet our local guide and begin our journey through the town’s key landmarks. One of the highlights is the remarkable Train Chapel, a decommissioned state railway carriage that was converted into a small chapel in 2003. This is the first of its kind Norway, if not the world.  

After our walking tour, we’ll head to the Romsdal Gondola – Norway's longest and most sustainable cable car. It takes only 5 minutes for the gondola to cover the 5,510ft (1,679 metres) from fjord to the peaks of the Romsdal Mountains, but it’ll feel like we’re journeying into another world. The views along the way and from the top are spectacular.  

On the mountaintop, at 2,320ft (708 metres) above sea level, we’ll scan the 360-degree views to see the unforgettable outline of Romsdalshorn (one of Norway’s most famous peaks), the pinnacle of Vengetindene, Åndalsnes town centre, and the surrounding lush valleys. It’s obvious why Åndalsnes is Norway’s mountaineering capital!  

Then, we’ll explore the mountaintop on a 30-minute/1,640-ft (500-metre) guided walk and find out how the tough climate shapes the day-to-day lives of those who live here.  

Before we catch the gondola back down, it’s time for a locally brewed coffee and sweet treat at Eggen Restaurant, on the mountain next to the Romsdalen Gondola station.  

Combine with the Trollstigen bustour for more spectacular views. 

• Drive the world-famous series of 11 hairpin bends, known as the Trollstigen Road (Path of the Trolls)

• Admire soaring mountain peaks, unspoilt valleys and some of Norway’s most iconic sights

• Pause at viewpoints to photograph Europe’s highest vertical mountain wall, impressive mountains and a beautiful waterfall

The village of Åndalsnes, Norway’s mountaineering capital, is our starting point. This area is home to one of Europe’s most beautiful train journeys and one of the world’s most scenic hikes, according to Lonely Planet, so prepare yourself for some spectacular scenery. 

We’ll follow the Rauma River, surrounded by soaring mountains including the 5,000ft (1,500m) Mount Romsdalshorn on one side and 5,100ft (1,550m) Trolltindane on the other. Our first photostop takes in the towering Troll Wall. 

Next, we cross the Sogge Bridge to the Isterdal Valley, lined by mountains bearing names such as The King, The Queen and The Bishop, and approach the famous hairpin bends that climb to the top of the Trollstigen Road.   

We’ll stop to photograph Stigfossen Waterfall then drive up to Trollstigen. Take in the magnificent scenery from the comfort of your coach or join an optional walk to another viewpoint. We’ll slowly trace the Trollstigen bends before returning to our ship.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Get a unique perspective on the serene and beautiful nature of Åndalsnes

• Relax and be close to nature as we drift along the river, powered only by our paddles

• Feel dwarfed by the surrounding mountains

• The small group size enhances the tranquil and exclusive feel of this tour

• Wear swimming clothes, and bring a towel and a change of clothes

• Wetsuits and life jackets are provided

Our adventures on the water carry us through the Istradalen valley. Most visitors to this breathtaking part of Norway drive the world-renowned hairpin bends of Trollstigen, also known as The Troll’s Road.  

But we’ll experience the beauty from a completely different perspective.  

Paddle along the emerald-green waters of the calm Istra River at the foot of Trollstigen. We’ll be in complete awe of the peaks that rise steeply all around us. Powered purely by our own paddles, we’ll float along the river with lush nature all around. There’s good reason why some call this river Norway’s answer to the Amazon!

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Marvel at some of Norway’s most spectacular scenery from the comfort of your seat 

• Get up close with iconic Norwegian landmarks such as Trollveggen and Kyllingbrua 

• Learn more about the history of this region 

• Languages: English, German, and Norwegian. 

• Wheelchair accessible? No, as there are some steps on to the train.  

Voted “Europe's most scenic train journey” by Lonely Planet, the Rauma Railway is renowned for its magnificent views of vertical mountain walls and emerald-green rivers.

The route winds past some true Norwegian icons, including the mighty Trollveggen, Europe’s highest perpendicular mountain wall, and Kyllingbrua, the country's most-photographed railway bridge. With such an incredible setting, it’s easy to see why movies like Mission: Impossible and Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince have been filmed here. And don’t worry about blurry photos – the train slows down as you pass these landmarks, making it easy for you to capture that million-dollar shot.  

Along the way, you’ll hear tales of ancient trolls, rockfalls, and waterfalls, as well as and the dramatic story of how the railway rescued the entire 50-ton Norwegian gold reserve in April 1940. 

The group will be split in two: one half will take the train, and the other will enjoy a guided bus tour along a similar route. We’ll reconvene at Bjorli, a beautiful mountain village, where you’ll have the opportunity to explore and stretch your legs before the return leg to Åndalsnes. Those who arrived by bus will return by train, and those who arrived by train will return by bus.  

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Immerse yourself in coastal life with this alternating hot-and-cold activity as you go between sea and sauna

• Soak up the steam in a wood-fired sauna in Træna’s oldest building, a boathouse that stands on the shore

• Learn about the boathouse’s history from your guide and receive a unique – and useful – souvenir of the boathouse 

• Finish your out-of-the-ordinary heritage experience with warm fish cake and locally brewed beer, coffee, or other beverage

• The sauna is a mixed-sex facility

• Please bring swimwear and a pair of swim shoes if you have some

• Towels are provided

• Toilets available by the sauna

This is a heritage experience like no other. In 2016, Træna’s oldest building – a boathouse with weather-beaten walls was converted into a sauna and meeting place. The building encapsulates Norwegian history, nature, culture, and the charms of coastal life.  

From the outside, the rickety boathouse still looks like it has stood for many, many years. Inside is an open meeting room for up to 50 people with a panoramic window, and a wood-fired sauna big enough to hold 10 people.  

The boathouse stands on the shore, so it’s easy to go from sauna to sea and back again for an invigorating, hot-cold experience that will leave you tingling!  

You’ll hear all about the boathouse’s long history from your guide, who will also join you in the sea if you choose to take an Arctic dip. 

Afterwards, you’ll receive a towel with a photo of the boathouse printed on it, a warm fish cake and a locally brewed beer, a coffee, or other beverage.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Explore the islands of Husøya and Selvær, and sail close to Sandøy and Holmen

• See some of Norway’s most beautiful beaches and get to know the people and ways of an island community

• Spot migratory birds and perhaps even a Sea Eagle

• Learn about the unique production of eider down and seaweed on Selvær

From Husøya, you’ll sail to Sanna, where people going on a hike disembark – we'll pick them up again later.  

On your way to Selvær, you’ll pass Sandøy and Holmen, two of Træna’s smallest and most secluded island communities, known for their beautiful beaches and old harbours. Feast your eyes while your guide fills you in on the fascinating details about your surroundings. 

Selvær, Træna’s second-biggest island, has a cosy community feel and a wealth of birdlife. Around 50 people live on Selvær and local people still collect and clean the down of the eider ducks for prized eider down. In spring, divers hand-harvest seaweed. Your guide will regale you with tales of local life while you drink coffee or tea and taste a local speciality before you return via Sanna to Husøya, where you can further explore on foot.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Follow the cultural trail to chapels, cafés, museums on the island of Husøya

• See artwork, hear music, and taste local foods as you explore on foot

• Take in spectacular views across the islands and reefs of Træna

• Choose to explore more by yourself on one of the island’s many paths, or take an Arctic dip

From the quay, your guide will walk you to the Water Tower for jaw-dropping views across Træna and the coast of Helgeland. Look out for scenes that give glimpses of everyday life here, from dry fish hanging under roof ridges to the faces of fishermen sat outside a shop. 

Next, admire paintings inside the Peter Dass chapel, a memorial to all who fought and disappeared at sea. Nearby, international artist Anawana Haloba’s sculpture references Træna’s almost 9,000 years of history and is accompanied by a specially composed soundtrack. 

After a coffee, snack, and some storytelling at the Aloha café, take the opportunity to pick up souvenirs in Malins Krambu before you continue to the Helgeland Museum, museum garden, church and tourist information centre. Your tour ends with classic fish cake and beer at Havfolkets Hus, a pub restaurant next to the pier and loved by locals.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Soak up the iconic views of this magical archipelago  

• Learn about the islands’ fishing heritage at the historic village of Å 

• Stroll along the unspoilt sands of Ramberg beach 

• Enjoy a delicious local lunch  

• Languages: English, French, and German 

• Lunch is included 

• Wheelchair accessible: Yes, but with limited access to some viewpoints 

Our journey starts from Reine, one of Lofoten’s most famous settlements, located on the island of Moskenes. Driving out of town, we pass by the dramatic Reinebringen which, at 448 metres high, is one of the archipelago’s highest peaks. Soak up the sensational vista here over the fjord, which has been recognised as one of the world's top 10 most beautiful views. 

Heading north, we’ll follow the road on the inner coast, driving in between breathtaking mountains on one side and the sea on the other. See picturesque scenes of charming fishing villages clinging to the edge of mountains that rise out of the sea. This is Lofoten.  

Our first stop is Å, one of Norway’s best-preserved fishing villages, situated at the western tip of the archipelago. Learn more about its maritime past with a visit to the fishing village museum, where you can see traditional wooden boats, stroll around the old bakery, or take a look inside the home of a fisherman’s family. 

From here, we head along the outer coast for a quick photo stop at the charming Flakstad Church, the second-oldest church in Lofoten, before reaching the beach at Ramberg. On a sunny day, this 1.3km-long arc of pristine white sand will make you question whether you are actually 200 km north of the Arctic Circle. We’ll pause here for a delicious local lunch, before journeying back to Reine. 

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Try a new adventure sport as you learn to kayak in a Norwegian fjord 

• Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Lofoten archipelago  

• Learn about the area’s nature, history, and culture from an expert local guide 

• Included: A sprayskirt, life vest, storm jacket, and real fisherman’s gloves will be provided. Ask the guide for a waterproof pocket to hold your smartphone. 

• Languages: English and German

• Wheelchair accessible: No 

• Maximum weight: Double kayaks can carry up to 240 kg. 

• Dress for the weather in warm and comfortable clothes. We recommend wool or thermal underwear, a thick sweater, and a wind jacket. Also remember a hat, water bottle, and sun cream if necessary.  

Reine is often lauded as one of Norway’s prettiest fishing villages, and on this beginner-friendly kayaking tour you can experience its beauty first hand. Taking to Reinefjord’s sheltered waters, you’ll paddle round small islets, spot lines of bright-red rorbu (stilted fisherman’s cabins), and take in the unmistakable scent of skrei as it dries on racks along the shore. 

As you navigate the calm, crystal-clear waters, your experienced and knowledgeable guide will regale you with local stories about the area’s history, culture, and nature. Keep an eye out for schools of fish in the fjord below and seabirds in the sky above. If the tide is favourable, you might even get the chance to try some edible seaweed, known as the “truffle of the sea”. 

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Get to know this cosmopolitan Arctic city through three of Tromsø’s key sights

• Ride the cable car up Mount Storsteinen for spectacular views across city and sea

• See the Arctic Cathedral, a daring architectural masterpiece and city landmark

• Visit Polaria and learn all about life in the Arctic, from wildlife to polar research

Due to the renovation and rebuilding of Fjellheisen (the cable car in Tromsø), Fjellheisen is not suitable for wheelchair users and guests with reduced mobility at all. There is a long flight of stairs at the top of Fjellheisen and no passenger lift available at the moment.

Over the centuries, Tromsø has been the starting point for numerous polar expeditions, served as Norway’s seat of government, and been a destination for timber transport from Russian rivers. No wonder it’s become a vibrant hub for culture, research, and education.

Your tour begins with a ride up Tromsø’s famous cable car to the top of Mount Storsteinen (1,377 ft above sea level). Get your bearings as you take in the spectacular views across the city and the fjords, mountains, and islands that surround it. Explore the plateau or have a snack while you admire the view from Fjellstua restaurant.

After, we stop at the Arctic Cathedral. Dominated by glass mosaic windows, its structure was inspired by Arctic nature.

Next is Polaria where you can watch Arctic Bearded and Harbour Seals swimming around the underwater tunnel, glimpse life in the Arctic Sea in the aquariums, and experience Arctic phenomena in the panoramic cinema. We finish our tour with some sightseeing around the island on our way back to the pier.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Learn all about Tromsø’s polar past as you tour the most important parts of the compact city centre

• See the old pier, monuments to famous explorers and hunters, the oldest street, Roald Amundsen’s house, and Tromsø’s oldest pub

• Learn all about life in the Arctic, from wildlife to polar research, at Polaria

• Visit the Polar Museum to find out all about Tromsø’s role as the ‘Gateway to the Arctic’

• Inklusive: Das Bier in der Ølhallen

This walking tour focuses on the vital – and exciting – part Tromsø has played in polar expeditions since the city was founded in 1795. 

We start our tour at the Polar Museum, in an 1830s warehouse on the seafront. It’s filled with compelling stories about famous trappers and the renowned Arctic expeditions of Norwegian explorers Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen.  

Next, we stroll through the historic city centre, taking in the old pier, Tromsø’s oldest house, its oldest street, and Roald Amundsen’s house. 

Then we visit Polaria where you can watch Arctic Bearded and Harbour Seals swimming, glimpse life in the Arctic Sea in the aquariums, and experience Arctic phenomena in the panoramic cinema.  

On our way back to the pier, we stop at polar explorer Helmer Hansen’s monument, and Ølhallen, Tromsø’s oldest pub.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Let your electric bike do the hard work as you cruise around Tromsø 

• Pedal to the city’s best beach at Butka 

• Soak up the incredible landscapes, from a tranquil lake to a botanic garden

• Languages: English and Norwegian. 

• Clothing: A helmet and hi-vis vest will be provided. Wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing for all weather conditions.  

• Wheelchair accessible: No.

Explore Tromsø like a local on this guided small-group cycling tour around the city, going off the beaten track, discovering local secrets, and enjoying the magnificent scenery along the way.  

Get ready to visit sites that showcase the essence of Tromsø. From the impressive MS Polstjerna, a perfectly preserved seal-hunting vessel, to Bukta, the city's most beautiful sandy beach, each stop promises a unique experience.   

Nature lovers will enjoy the visit to the birdwatching paradise of Prestvannet Lake, and learn more about unique plants at the Tromsø Arctic-Alpine Botanical Garden. The ride finishes back in downtown Tromsø, before we return to the ship.

• Enjoy a completely immersive experience back in time

• See traditional Viking buildings recreated using ancient techniques

• Listen to authentic storytelling from the homestead’s master builder

• Included: A drink and cake 

Time travel and experience an authentic Viking world at Tønsviking Medieval homestead. Your guide will meet you at the pier and take you to Tonsvik – where adventure awaits.  

Once you arrive, you’ll embark on a peaceful and enchanting kilometre hike through woodland and through time, towards your historic destination. Your journey takes you to a clearing, where you’ll find a courtyard and five traditional Viking buildings constructed using centuries-old craftsmanship. Feeling like you’ve been transported back to ancient times, the homestead’s master builder will greet you to recount tales of his mammoth building project and life in the Viking era. Then join us in the Viking Hall as we sit at the traditional long table and enjoy some refreshments.

This fascinating recreation is a celebration of Northern history, tradition and culture, and is not to be missed.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Be guided from the pier to the brewery by the founder of the northernmost brewery, Ludwig Mack 

• Enjoy a 30-minute theatrical introduction to Tromsø and its unrivalled polar heritage as you walk through the city centre

• Tour the brewery, visit the microbrewery, and sample a genuine Arctic beer

• If you like, you can end your tour at Ølhallen, Norway’s oldest pub

Get ready for an unusual start to your tour of Mack Bryggeri, long known as the world’s northernmost brewery. Actors will meet you from the pier and lead you on a 30-minute theatrical stroll through the south of Tromsø’s city centre to the brewery.  

Founded in 1877, Mack is still family owned and produces a range of Arctic beers – it’s one of Norway’s largest brewers – so who better to guide you through the city’s streets and heritage than the brewery’s founder, Ludwig Mack. 

 The actors will bid you farewell at the brewery where you’ll tour the old venue (Mack’s main brewery moved to bigger premises in 2012), learn all about Mack’s history and the brewing process, then visit the microbrewery and sample the crafts beers they still brew right there. 

After the brewery tour, you can choose to continue your brewery education at Mack’s brewpub Ølhallen. It’s Tromsø’s oldest pub and has 72 Norwegian beers on tap.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• See the stunning scenery of Finnmark

• Visit the northernmost point on the continent, the North Cape

• Take a photo at the globe sculpture and watch a film about the area

• Learn more about the history of Finnmark and the North Cape

• Embarking/disembarking port: Honningsvåg

• Available: 1 Jan - 31 Dec

• Transportation: Bus

• Meals: N/A

• Clothes: Comfortable shoes, warm and windproof clothing

We’ll travel by bus above the 71st parallel to North Cape that rises 307 metres from the ocean, right at the top of Europe.  

Gaze in awe at the stark yet beautiful scenery as you stand at continental Europe’s most northerly point, casting your eyes over the sea towards the North Pole.  

In summer, you might spot herds of grazing reindeer along the nearby clifftop plateaus. In wintertime, the unspoilt white plains and snow-capped mountains will reflect the soft Arctic light.  

Don’t forget the obligatory photo or that all-important selfie with the iconic globe sculpture that commemorates North Cape’s significance. 

Making a stop at the visitor centre at North Cape Hall, we’ll get to watch an impressive 180° panoramic film about the region through four seasons, learn more about the area’s long history through exhibitions in the underground tunnel, and pop into the world's northernmost chapel. There’s even a small museum and a souvenir shop.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Stand at the edge of the cliffs and marvel at the ocean views from North Cape

• Learn about and sample delicious King Crab from the Barents Sea in Sarnes

The tour starts and ends in Honningsvåg, gateway to North Cape. You’ll venture by bus to 71 degrees north, admiring the subarctic landscape as you go. If you’re lucky, you might see grazing reindeer who often pasture here in summer.

Standing on the edge of the North Cape, you can marvel at the stunning ocean views and take photos by the iconic globe monument. While you’re there, why not visit North Cape Hall and see a movie showcasing the region throughout the seasons or pick up a souvenir at the shop.

Our last stop is the village of Sarnes where you’ll learn about and get to try a local delicacy: king crab. The meal will be served the traditional way: with soft bread, mayonnaise, and a slice of lemon.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Stand at continental Europe’s most northerly point 

• Enjoy a boat ride to see one of Norway’s biggest bird cliffs 

• Spot seabirds such as puffins, kittiwakes, cormorants, gannets, and shags 

• Please note: depending on weather and daylight conditions, the order of activities may change on the day.

• Languages: English and German 

• Wheelchair accessible? No

From Honningsvåg, we’ll travel by bus above the 71st parallel to the North Cape. Rising 307 metres above the ocean, this is the northernmost point in continental Europe. If you’re lucky, you might spot herds of reindeer along the nearby clifftop plateaus, who graze here in the summer months. 

While here, be sure to pay a visit to the North Cape Hall, where you can watch an impressive 180° panoramic film about the region through four seasons, learn more about the area’s long history through exhibitions in the underground tunnel, and pop into the world's northernmost chapel. There’s even a small museum and a souvenir shop.   

The tour continues to the historic Viking fishing village of Gjesvær, home to just 100 inhabitants. Here, we’ll board a boat to explore the nearby islands of Gjesværstappan, a renowned paradise for birdwatchers. The confluence of warm and cold ocean currents here creates nutrient-rich waters, while the steep cliffs of the islands make great nesting sites.   

From the boat, we can observe the Finnmark region’s largest flock of puffins, together with large numbers of kittiwakes. During the nesting season, the skies here teem with life as mighty sea eagles hover above in search of prey, while guillemots, razorbills, cormorants, Arctic skuas, and northern fulmars fill the air with a cacophony of shrieks and screeches.

• Experience the ultimate winter adventure as you drive a quad bike to or from North Cape

• Visit northern Norway’s iconic North Cape in a unique and unforgettable way on this small-group tour

• Learn about life in the Arctic, enjoy some of the best views around the island, and get a sense of what it’s like to be a true northerner

• Helmets, suits, gloves, and boots are provided

• Total driving distance is approximately 65km

• All drivers are required to present a valid driving license before the start of the tour

• Each vehicle carries two guests, and there is an additional charge for single drivers

Take in the stunning views as you drive an exciting quad bike on your way to or from the northernmost point on the European mainland, North Cape.

Once everyone is suited up and your guide has given a short safety briefing on how to drive a quad bike, you’ll take off on this scenic tour of Magerøya Island. We’ll make several stops so you can take incredible photos.

Once we reach North Cape, you’ll walk (or drive) up to North Cape globe monument for the traditional picture at northern Norway’s most famous landmark. Then, it’s time to visit North Cape Hall.

Your guide can offer you a short tour around the facilities or you can take time to discover the place on your own.

After our visit, whoever was the passenger on the ride to North Cape will swap with the driver for the ride back to Honningsvåg, with a few more photo opportunities along the way.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Travel by RIB with fishermen to their king crab cages in the Barents Sea 

• Learn about the history, anatomy, and importance of this fascinating creature 

• Enjoy a sumptuous king crab buffet in a rustic fjord-side boathouse 

• Languages: English, Norwegian, and German 

• Wheelchair accessible: No 

• Not suitable for people who are pregnant or have back problems

Get to know one of Northern Norway’s most important exports on this exciting RIB adventure. Arriving at the experience centre in Honningsvåg, you’ll be kitted out with a flotation suit and life jacket before boarding one of the RIB boats. As we zoom across the water towards Sarnes, we’ll stop at several crab pots to check the day’s catch, taking it with us to enjoy at our scenic picnic spot.  

The crab will be cooked the traditional way: boiled in seawater, and served with soft bread, mayonnaise, and a slice of lemon. As the chef prepares our lunch, our guide will tell us more about the history of this impressive crustacean, and how it came to live in the waters of the northern Norwegian coastline.  

Before heading back to Honningsvåg, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee by the bonfire in a modern Sami lavvo (tent).  

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.