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 UK’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!

The Dutch Coast

See the sweeping sands of Scheveningen

Today we’ll stop at Scheveningen, a fishing port and coastal district in the Dutch city of The Hague.

Well known for its long stretch of beach, this bustling resort is the perfect spot for a seaside stroll in the fresh briny air, or you could take part in a beach clean-up. If you’d like to explore a bit further, Scheveningen’s compact centre is easily accessible on foot from the ship.

In the nearby centre of The Hague, you’ll find the renowned Mauritshuis museum, where you can admire the works of famous Dutch painters such as Rembrandt and Vermeer. In the afternoon, your adventure at sea continues towards the enchanting coast of Norway.

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!

Beautiful Bergen

The City of Seven Mountains is full of history and charm

Welcome to Bergen, one of Norway’s most picturesque cities that’s perfect for exploring on foot. It was once Norway's capital and you’ll see that the city has retained a great deal of its local character, heritage and charm.   

You’ll take a funicular ride to the top of Mount Fløyen. At the summit, breathe in the stunning views over the city, surrounded by seven mountains and the sea.  

Once back in the centre of Bergen, stroll around the historic Bryggen district, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its distinctive wooden wharves.

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 out on deck as we sail through Helgeland county, home to the Seven Sisters mountain range.

The Expedition Team continues its onboard lecture series and there may be a photography workshop, giving you top tips on how to capture the best Northern Lights images.

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, bathing Norway’s fjords and mountains in a dreamy cobalt-blue light.

Idyllic Lofoten

Majestic peaks, sheltered bays and pristine beaches

Today we explore the famed Lofoten Islands. With steep mountains, beautiful beaches and pretty fishing villages, the archipelago is unlike anything you’ve seen.   

Svolvær is the largest town in Lofoten with about 4,800 residents, many of whom work as fishermen. There are shops and art galleries to browse along the seafront promenade and rows of rorbuer to admire.   

You might spot wooden racks called hjell dotted around the shores of the town too. Locally caught cod is dried on these racks and later turned into tørrfisk, or stockfish in English, and prized as a local delicacy. Fishing is clearly an important way of life in Lofoten and the lectures on board may focus on how cod effectively helped to build Norway into a country.

Gateway to the Arctic

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

Scan for humpback whales out on deck or in the Explorer Lounge as we sail to Tromsø, capital of the Arctic. The city is especially pretty around Christmas, adorned with lights and decorations. You’ll spend your day discovering its fascinating history, culture and bold architecture.

The Arctic Cathedral is one of the most striking landmarks in Tromsø, especially when 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.

Historic Narvik

Discover one of the world's most northerly towns  

Sitting 150 miles inside the Arctic Circle and surrounded by three fjords, Narvik enjoys a spectacular setting.   

Developed as an all-year port for the Swedish iron mines, Narvik was a strategic target for Germany during World War II. Today, you can browse the local galleries, shops, and restaurants specialising in local seafood and reindeer meat.  

If conditions allow, ride the cable car to the top of Mount Narvik for breathtaking views. Or go hiking, snowshoeing or kayaking on the fjord.

On expedition

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

Over the next two days we’ll go off the beaten track, heading wherever takes our fancy. Activities and any landings will be chosen by the Expedition Team. They’ll draw on 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 expedition boats 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 expect the unexpected!

Views from Mount Hoven

Enjoy the glacial beauty of Nordfjord 

In the morning, we’ll enter Nordfjord. We’ll pass Hornelen, Europe's highest sea cliff – look out for it if your cruise is passing in daylight – and head towards Jostedalsbreen, Europe's largest glacier. 

As we cruise past picturesque inlets, you'll spy old fishing communities dating back to pre-Viking times. One of these is Loen, where we'll land if conditions are right. In the shadow of the mighty glacier, there's much to discover. 

After a short boat ride to the floating jetty, you may take the Loen Skylift to enjoy spectacular views from the summit of Mount Hoven.

Old and new

Explore lively Stavanger

Today, we’ll explore the picturesque city of Stavanger – Norway’s fourth largest city. 

With an international ambience and a lively cultural scene, Stavanger is a cosmopolitan city set in stunning surroundings. Discover the architectural relics of Old Stavanger, including a magnificent 12th century cathedral. You can also visit the Norwegian Petroleum Museum, pop into a local boutique or simply enjoy a beer on the waterfront.    

Looking towards the harbour is the statue of the former mayor and well-known author Alexander Kielland. The pedestrian street leads you to the Valberg Tower, situated on a small hill and overlooking the central part of the city and harbour.

Heading home

Recall the best moments of your expedition cruise

Make the most of your day on board MS Maud. You may want to soak in the hot tub, work out in the gym, relax in the Explorer Lounge or sit back and edit the photographs from your trip.

Likely, you’ll spend your day reflecting on all the wonderful experiences you’ve had. Like the sensation of standing in awe under the Northern Lights or the spectacular scenery of the Lofoten Islands.

Don’t miss the Expedition Team as they review the highlights of our memorable expedition cruise to the fjords of Norway. Their enthusiasm might tempt you to return, but perhaps in 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 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!