Stokmarknes – the birthplace of Hurtigruten

Best of Vesterålen Winter - History, Arts & Culture Tour

Excursion

Price from £176

Difficulty level

Level 1: Suitable for everyone.

Booking code

HRI-SKN6A,HRI-SKN8A

Duration

3 hours

Notes

Read the practical information below

The pointed and steep mountains in Vesterålen
  • Be immersed in the incredible landscape of the Vesterålen archipelago with its towering mountains and deep fjords

  • Experience and learn about the authentic culture and history of the region

  • Enjoy a live concert at the Royal Neptun Hall and see a remarkable octagonal church

Join us on a journey into Norway’s coastal culture and heritage as we take a bus tour around the iconic Vesterålen archipelago.  

Your journey begins in Stokmarknes, the birthplace of Hurtigruten. From there, we travel around the southernmost island of Vesterålen towards Melbu. En route, you can watch fishermen as they work and be awed by the fantastic looming mountains of Lofoten.  

Arriving in the picturesque town of Melbu, you'll explore this fishing hub and learn about its amazing history. You'll then have the opportunity to experience the fantastic acoustics of the Royal Neptun Hall (a giant, disused fish oil tank) as we relax and listen to a live concert.   

Continuing back towards Stokmarknes, we'll visit one of Norway's five striking octagonal churches in Hadselkirka. Finally, you can enjoy a visit to the fascinating Hurtigruten Museum, before heading back on board the ship.

Note: This text describes the excursion on voyages departing from Bergen. On voyages departing from Oslo, you arrive in Stokmarknes at 5 p.m. when it’s dark out, making it harder to fully appreciate the beautiful landscapes in the Vesterålen archipelago or Lofoten. Other than this, the excursion can be experienced as described.

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