Setting sail

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

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

Once on board, you’ll pick up your complimentary expedition jacket, settle into your cabin, and attend 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.

Northbound to the fjords of Norway

Settle into the rhythm of life at sea – expedition style

As we sail to Norway, you’ll have plenty of time to relax and enjoy the ship. You can work up a sweat in the gym, spot wildlife out 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 that you can join in. Not only will you be helping the scientific community, you’ll also be getting a better understanding of the world around you.

Spectacular fjord landscape

Welcome to Flåm, the quintessential Norwegian village

Surrounded by steep mountainsides and cascading waterfalls, Flåm couldn’t possess a more scenic backdrop. Experience the natural beauty around you on nature walks, or by 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.

Idyllic fjord villages and a stave church

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 do a scenic cruise of Nærøyfjorden, which has designated UNESCO status and is said to be among the most scenically outstanding landscapes in the world.

Seven wonderful waterfalls

Explore Geirangerfjord - the jewel in the crown of Norway’s fjords

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

Tender boats 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. Among them – if conditions are favourable – is the chance to kayak along the fjord.

The view from the top

Soak up stunning mountain views in Loen, the tiny village that has it all

Sailing to the idyllic village of Loen, you’ll gaze upon dazzling glaciers, fertile valleys and beautiful sandy beaches. Situated at the base of Nordfjord and Mount Hoven, Loen comes with postcard-ready views and a variety of ways to explore.

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

If the weather allows, you can join guided hikes along alpine trails in optional excursions. The impressive Briksdalsbreen Glacier and the nearby Kleivafossen waterfall are also popular attractions.

Your first fjord in spring bloom

Mountains, glaciers and apple orchards, Hardangerfjord in spring is a paradise

Welcome to Hardangerfjord, the fifth-longest fjord in the world. The climate here is mild, and in spring, the hillsides are blanketed in the white blossom of some of the prettiest apple orchards in Norway.

We’ll explore either of the villages of Sunndal or Rosendal, depending on local conditions. From Sunndal, you can explore the area on a scenic hike or go kayaking with the Expedition Team as optional excursions.

A small, charming village, Rosendal’s biggest attraction is the 16th century Barony, a manor famous for its beautiful rose garden and landscaped grounds.

On a high at Pulpit Rock

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

Preikestolen, also known as Pulpit Rock, is perhaps the most famous tourist attraction in Norway and the popular subject of many social media posts. As we approach Preikestolen, we hope to be treated to a fine view of this incredible rock formation from below.

If weather conditions allow, you’ll have an optional excursion to do the five-hour guided hike to the Preikestolen viewpoint 1,982 ft above Lysefjord.

If you remain on the ship, you can spend time out on deck admiring the magnificent scenery and looking up at the majestic mountains towering around you.

Rest, relax and reflect

Recall the best moments of your expedition cruise

Today is a day at sea. Make the most of your day on board MS Maud. You may want to soak in a hot tub, work out in the gym, relax in the Explorer Lounge or edit the photographs from your trip.

Don’t miss the Expedition Team as they review the highlights of our memorable expedition cruise to the fjords of Norway. As we cross the North Sea, you may spot the seabirds and dolphins that like to follow the ship.

Un-fjord-gettable memories

End your expedition cruise in Dover, the gateway to England

Today you’ll say farewell to Ms Maud, taking with you unforgettable memories of the magnificent fjords along Norway’s west coast. But before you rush off, Dover has several 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. You might also like to visit Dover Castle, tipped to be the largest in England and home to a rare Roman lighthouse.

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