Setting off from the River Thames 

Start your magical winter cruise to Norway from the mouth of the mighty Thames.

If you have time, explore the U.K.’s vibrant capital before heading to Tilbury port to embark 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. When the ship sets sail, your Christmas and New Year’s adventure to the Arctic is officially underway! 

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.

Norway bound - God Jul to all!

Spend two comfortable days at sea and spend a Christmas like no other.

Make your Christmas truly memorable as we sail to Norway over the next two days. Relax in the sauna, soak in a hot tub, or listen to insightful lectures from the Expedition Team. They’ll share their extensive knowledge on the places, Christmas traditions, history, and natural phenomena you are likely to experience.

On Christmas Day, we’ll sit down to a meal inspired by the Christmas dinner that Norwegian explorer Fridtjof Nansen ate on his expedition to the North Pole in 1893. Wash it down with a generous glass (or more) of local akevitt (snaps) and beer. This is one Christmas you’ll remember for years to come!

From the fjord to the mountaintop

Soak up stunning mountain views in the charming village of Loen.

Today marks the start of Romjulen, a quieter period between Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Many Norwegians head to the slopes to go skiing or sledding. Admire the scenic winter landscapes as we sail into Norway’s sixth-longest fjord, Nordfjord.

Thanks to the smaller size of our ship, you’ll be closer to the Norway’s famous scenery and small communities. One such place is Loen, a tiny fishing village dating back to pre-Viking times. At the very heart of the Nordfjord, in the shadow of the mighty Jostedalsbreen (the Jostedal Glacier), Loen is the perfect place to explore this gorgeous area.

Cruising the coastal inner route towards the Arctic

Enjoy a restful day at sea and cross the Arctic Circle as we sail north

Relax in the ship’s Explorer Lounge or take in the scenery from the deck as we sail through Helgeland County, home to the Seven Sisters mountain range.

The Expedition Team will continue its onboard lecture series, and there may be a photography workshop with pro tips on how to best capture the Northern Lights.

It’s the Polar Night above the Arctic Circle, but it won't be complete darkness. You’ll get to experience the very romantic ‘blue hour’. This is an extended twilight where the winter sun glows just below the horizon, it bathes Norway’s fjords and mountains in a dreamy cobalt-blue light.

Idyllic island life

Explore Reine, one of the most photographed villages in all of Norway.

Welcome to the picture-perfect fishing village of Reine, tucked into the Lofoten Islands. You will immediately recognize the snow-covered fishing huts, or rorbuer, that dot the shoreline.

After exploring pretty Reine, you’ll visit Å. It’s one of the best-preserved traditional fishing villages in Norway and features delightful cultural attractions, including the Norwegian Fishing Village Museum.

Later, we’ll return to Reine, where you may have an opportunity to do some hiking with the Expedition Team, or even try some winter kayaking. These views will make both options tempting.

Gateway to the Arctic

Discover the rich history and culture of Tromsø, the so-called capital of the Arctic.

Scan for humpback whales on deck or in the Explorer Lounge as we sail to Tromsø, capital of the Arctic. The city is especially gorgeous around Christmas, all spruced up with lights and decorations. Spend your day discovering its fascinating history, culture, and bold architecture.

One of the most striking landmarks in Tromsø is the Arctic Cathedral, especially when it’s lit up at night. Check out the Polar Museum to learn about Tromsø’s fabled explorer history and join the friendly locals in the town’s many pubs, including the world’s northernmost brewery.

Sailing into a new year

Set amid mountains and fjords, Narvik is the ideal place to welcome in 2024.

This town is spectacularly situated on a peninsula surrounded by three fjords and majestic mountains. Browse the town’s galleries, museums and restaurants, which specialize in locally sourced produce.

We will then sail toward calm waters, where we’ll enjoy our special New Year’s Eve feast. Expect caviar and king crab, along with beef, salmon, or nut roast Wellington. Round it off with an aquavit sorbet, which will kick off the New Year’s Eve celebrations throughout the ship during the rest of the evening.

As the party reaches its climax and the clock counts down to midnight, you might be treated to fireworks. Not a bad way to see in 2024!

On expedition

Expect the unexpected over the next two days, as we go on a New Year’s expedition.

Over the next two days we’ll go off the beaten track, heading wherever we see fit. The Expedition Team will choose the activities and any landings we make. They will use their in-depth knowledge of the area to bring you to the most exhilarating and scenic locations.

There are many islands and fjords to discover in this region, and we’ll get a closer look at some of them. Our small boats (RIBs) will take us ashore, giving you the chance to see local wildlife. Weather conditions will also play a part in deciding where to explore, so all we can say is this: Expect the unexpected!

The City of Seven Mountains

Packed with culture and surrounded by beauty, Bergen’s charms are irresistible

Welcome to Bergen, one of Norway’s most picturesque cities, which is perfect for exploring on foot. You’ll see that its local character, heritage, and charm is still thriving.

Your included activity is a funicular ride to the top of Mount Fløyen. Bask in stunning views of city and its surroundings, including seven mountains and the sea.

Once back in the Bergen city center, check out the historic Bryggen district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with distinctive wooden wharves. Across from Bryggen is Bergen’s famous fish market, which is full of sights, sounds, and scents to savor.

Christmas cheer

Bask in the magical atmosphere of this well-preserved town.

Go back in time as you stroll around Egersund, admiring the rustic wooden houses and narrow streets. At this time of year, they are normally dressed up in festive decorations, fairy lights, and a Christmas tree in the town square.

Peruse the beautifully decorated shops of the pedestrian town center. Check out the local chocolate and ice cream factory. There are windows inside where you can observe the tasty treats being prepared. There is plenty of gourmet chocolate to indulge in, along with a wide range of ice cream flavors. We highly recommend the pepperkake-is (gingerbread ice cream).

Heading home

Think back on the best moments of your expedition cruise

Make the most of your day at sea aboard MS Maud. Soak in the hot tub, work out in the gym, relax in the Explorer Lounge, or sit back and edit photos from your trip.

Likely, you’ll spend your day reflecting on all of your wonderful experiences. The sensation of standing in awe under the Northern Lights or the spectacular scenery of the Lofoten Islands aren’t easy to forget.

Don’t miss the Expedition Team as they review the highlights of your memorable expedition cruise to the fjords of Norway. Their enthusiasm might tempt you to return, so try a different season next time.

Refreshed and ready for the new year

End your expedition cruise in Tilbury, the gateway to London. 

Today you’ll say farewell to Ms Maud, taking with you memories of Norway in winter during Christmas time - wonderful fjords, fascinating towns and cities, and – hopefully – the Northern Lights.  

Before beginning your onward journey, why not visit some of London’s iconic sites, and absorb the atmosphere of this vibrant and cultural city. The city’s world-renowned restaurants rub shoulders with myriad markets, so take some time to discover this foodie’s paradise. Why not explore historic landmarks such as St Paul’s Cathedral and the Houses of Parliament, or experience culture at London’s many world-famous museums and galleries. A perfect way to end your festive voyage. 

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