Welcome to Norway and what is arguably its most scenic archipelago. You’ll board your ship in the evening, giving you plenty of time to explore Svolvær if you arrive here earlier in the day.

This enchanting town is nestled in a picturesque location between the mountains and the sea, overlooked by Svolværgeita, or Svolvær Goat Mountain, with its two characteristic ‘horns’.

No wonder then that Svolvær is a place of inspiration for artists and photographers who feature their work in art galleries and the North Norwegian Art Centre.

From Svolvær, the ship then sails for Stamsund, eventually passing the giant granite cliffs of the Lofoten Wall, a colossal mountain range of closely packed peaks.

Natural Phenomenon

From late May through mid-July, the Arctic sun stays above the horizon, a phenomenon known as the Midnight Sun. This 24-hour daylight means outdoor activities, such as kayaking and hiking, can be done whatever time of day or night.

In contrast, come winter, Lofoten’s position above the Arctic Circle and directly beneath the auroral zone make it ideal for viewing the spectacular Northern Lights.

We’ll spend the morning in Trondheim, then sail past beautiful island scenery and some of Norway’s smallest communities before exploring Kristiansund and Molde.

Capital of the Viking Age

Stroll around Trondheim in the early morning as the city wakes. Then visit the sacred Nidaros Cathedral, the resting place of St. Olav. Then walk to the Gamle Bybro bridge for a photo opportunity over the Nid River.

Perhaps treat yourself to quality coffee and a Nordic patisserie in one of the Bakklandet district’s many chic cafés. Then walk up to Kristiansten Fort for sweeping views of Norway’s third-largest city.

Dealing in dried cod

We dock at Kristiansund’s harbor in the late afternoon. The town is spread over three islands and known for being Norway’s ‘Bacalao Capital’ (called klippfisk in Norwegian) for the salted cod that’s dried out on the surrounding cliffs.

Take a walk around the cobblestone streets of the old town and tour the lively port. You can also head up to the old watchtower at Varden viewpoint for lovely panoramic views.

Peaks and petals

The second-to-last port of the day is Molde, where you can spot the tops of the Romsdal Alps. Flowers should be in bloom in this ‘City of Roses’ between mid-June and late August.