Astronomy Voyage on Original

• Visit the small but charming village of Urke in the Sunnmøre Alps.

• Travel through Norangsdalen, one of Norway’s narrowest valleys.

• See sights such as Lyngstølvatnet Lake and the historic Hotel Union Øye.

• Disembarking/embarking Port: Urke

• Available from: Apr 1– May 31 & Sep 1 - Nov 1

• Transportation: Boat/Bus

• Meals during the excursion: Snacks

• Clothes/footwear: Comfortable shoes and warm clothing

• Art Nouveau Walk (Ålesund)

Sailing into The Hjørundfjord, you’ll leave the ship on a small boat (RIB) to travel to the shore. You’ll disembark at the village of Urke, nestled among the scenic Sunnmøre Alps.

From here, a bus brings you through Norangsdalen, one of Norway’s narrowest valleys. Along the way, we’ll see Lyngstølvatnet Lake, which was created when a natural landslide dammed part of the nearby Norang River and flooded the area. On days when the weather is calm, you can still see the ruins of a submerged farmstead from the surface of the water.

We also pass though the village of Øye to see the distinctive Hotel Union Øye. Some of history’s most famous kings, queens, writers, composers, and explorers have all stayed here.

Then, we’ll stop at a small shieling, where you’ll enjoy some snacks and take in the magnificent landscape. The tour ends back in Urke after browsing the goods of the local grocer.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Take in unforgettable views of the nearby villages and the surrounding area.

• Hike in the magnificent scenery of the Sunnmøre Alps.

• Discover an abandoned but well-preserved bear cave.

• Visit the local grocery store.

• Disembarking port: Landing is by tender boat, and getting on and off the boat requires a certain degree of mobility.

• Embarking port: Urke

• Direction: Northbound

• Available From: 1 Apr – 31 May & 1 Sep - 1 Nov 

• Meals on the trip: Coffee and snacks

• Clothes/Footwear: Hiking shoes, warm and windproof clothing

• We recommend bringing a backpack with a water bottle, extra clothing, a camera, and sunglasses

• The guide will bring the necessary safety equipment

• Participants should be in good general health

• Art Nouveau Walk (Ålesund)

Join us on a spectacular mountain hike in the idyllic Hjørundfjord region. We begin by taking an old farm road, followed by a steep climb up the rugged pathway toward the top. Then, we ascend a stone stairway for the last 1,640 feet. A stunning view will greet you at the summit.

Continue the trail up the hill to see the village of Sæbø and explore an abandoned bear cave.

Before descending, we’ll take a coffee break in the Leknes Valley, overlooking Urke. Here, we’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the fjord arm and mountains. Taking the same road back, we’ll stop off at the local grocer to browse authentic Norwegian goods.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Explore the city of Trondheim and learn more about its culture and history.

• Visit beautiful Nidaros Cathedral, Norway’s national shrine.

• Enjoy a guided tour and receive a book about the cathedral.

• Admire the view of the city from Utsikten viewpoint.

• Disembarking/embarking port: Trondheim

• Available period: September 3 – April 2, except December 24

• Transportation: Bus

• Clothes: Comfortable shoes and warm clothing

• On Sundays and public holidays, the tour takes place outside the cathedral and in the museum due to the church service

Welcome to the original capital of Norway! Founded as early as 997, Trondheim has been marked by multiple eras. As you explore the city, you can spot colorful old wharves and a 19th-century wooden bridge with distinctive red archways in the Bakklandet district. Our guide will tell you more about the city’s history as the bus takes us through Trondheim’s streets and neighborhoods. We’ll make a short stop at the viewpoint at Utsikten to admire the city from above.

No trip to Trondheim would be complete without a visit to the impressive Nidaros Cathedral. Built over the burial place of St. Olav, the patron saint of Norway, construction of this enormous building began back in 1070. After a guided tour around the cathedral, you’ll likely understand why many describe it as the most beautiful religious building in Norway. You’ll receive your own copy of a book about the cathedral to take home as a souvenir.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Enjoy a guided walk around Trondheim, Norway’s former capital.

• Pass sights such as Stiftsgården and the statue of Viking King Olaf Tryggvason.

• Admire the famous Nidaros Cathedral from the outside and inside.

• See the old city bridge Gamle Bybro, the entrance to the trendy Bakklandet district.

• Disembarking/embarking port: Trondheim

• Available: January 1–December 31, except December 24

• Clothes: Hiking shoes, warm and windproof clothing

• No tours inside Nidaros Cathedral

• See the cathedral from the outside and enter the Archbishop’s Palace on Sundays and public holidays due to the church service

• The walk is approximately 3 miles

Join us on a guided walk through Trondheim and learn all about this historical city. We’ll begin at the harbor, which was developed during the second half of the 19th century. Then, we will walk up to Stiftsgården, the royal residence in Trondheim. Continuing on to the market square, you won’t miss the towering statue of the city’s founder, Viking King Olaf Tryggvason.

From here, we’ll walk to Nidaros Cathedral, where you can step inside Norway’s national shrine. It’s also the world’s northernmost cathedral. Get your camera ready as we pass the old city bridge, Gamle Bybro, with its red, pointed archways. The bridge is known to the locals as ‘The Portal of Happiness’, a nickname coined in a popular waltz by 20th-century Norwegian singer and composer Kristian Oskar Hoddøø. Enjoy the view of the colorful wharves along the river Nid before we make our way back to the pier.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Get close to Arctic nature and see beautiful sights.

• Learn about the culture, history, and geology of the Norwegian coast.

• Be guided and informed by knowledgeable local guides

• See Viking graves and discover more about Viking history.

• Disembarking/embarking port: Bodø

• Available: January 2–December 30, except December 24–26 and Easter

• Transportation: Bus

• Clothes: Hiking shoes, warm and windproof clothing

• Walking sticks and spikes are provided upon request

• The walk is approximately 2 miles long

• Meet the Vikings (winter)

• Meet the Vikings (summer)

• Highlights of Lofoten

• Lofotpils Brewery

• Farm Visit in Lofoten

Join us for a guided walk along the Norwegian coast and gain a deeper appreciation for the country’s dependence on the ocean. Experienced guides will take you on pathways along the shore and across sandy beaches, pointing out interesting views or wildlife species along the way. Perhaps you’ll spot an eagle flying over the sea, or even an Arctic fox foraging for food.

Many Viking graves have been discovered over the years along this coastline. They typically appear as grassy knolls, hiding history and Nordic heritage. Our guides will take you to see one of them. As you walk together, they’ll share their knowledge of Bodø’s history and of the geology of the coast.

A devotion to nature and being in harmony with it is deeply ingrained in Norwegian culture. This is encapsulated by the word ‘friluftsliv’, a Norwegian expression roughly translated as ‘outdoor life’. As you listen to the waves and feel the fresh air on your skin, you’ll no doubt gain a greater understanding of this word.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Enjoy a thrilling RIB ride to visit Saltstraumen.

• See the world’s most powerful tidal current up close.

• Have a chance to see sea eagles and other wildlife.

• Learn more about the history and geology of the area.

• Disembarking/embarking port: Bodø

• Available: April 1–November 3

• Duration: 2 hours

• Transportation: RIB (inflatable boats)

• Clothes: Comfortable shoes, warm and windproof clothing. Special clothing is provided

• Not suitable for people with back problems

• Minimum age limit: 6 years old when accompanied by an adult

• The strength of the Saltstraumen current depends on the tide and cannot be guaranteed.

• Clothing is provided for sizes XS to XXL. If your size is outside this range, please talk to the onboard Expedition Team before booking your excursion.

• Meet the Vikings (summer)

• Highlights of Lofoten

• Lofotpils Brewery

• Farm Visit in Lofoten

The Saltstraumen maelstroms have inspired local artists and writers for centuries, and for good reason. Saltstraumen is a strait with the world’s most powerful tidal current. Four times a day, more than 14 trillion cubic feet of seawater forces its way through the strait, which is only 500 feet wide and 100 feet deep. When the current is at its strongest, whirlpools up to 33 feet wide can appear.

Journey with us on a RIB safari to see this natural wonder and find your own inspiration. You’ll sit safely and comfortably in a sturdy rubber boat, operated by a highly experienced and knowledgeable Captain.

During the boat ride, there’s a good chance of spotting sea eagles, as well as other birds and wildlife. You might also notice how some of the exposed rock faces show distinctive patterns. This is the result of the rock being folded under immense pressure, known as Caledonian folding, a process that dates back over 250 million years.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Enjoy a guided bus tour around Tromsø and learn more about its history

• Ride the cable car up a nearby mountain for spectacular views of Tromsø

• Admire the architecture and stained-glass window of the Arctic Cathedral

• Visit the Full Steam coastal museum and learn more about Norway’s maritime heritage 

• Disembarking/embarking port: Tromsø

• Available period: January 2–December 30, except May 17 and December 24–26

• Transportation: Bus

• Clothes: Comfortable shoes, warm and windproof clothing

Due to the renovation and rebuilding of Fjellheisen (the cable car in Tromsø), Fjellheisen is not suitable for wheelchair users and guests with reduced mobility at all. There is a long flight of stairs at the top of Fjellheisen and no passenger lift available at the moment.

The base for many Arctic expeditions of old, Tromsø is rich in both culture and history. As part of this excursion, you’ll get to see some of the main attractions of  the third-largest city north of the Arctic Circle.  

Your tour begins with a ride up Tromsø’s famous cable car to the top of Mount Storsteinen (420m or 1.377ft above sea level). Get your bearings as you take in the spectacular views across the city and the fjords, mountains, and islands that surround it. Explore the plateau or have a snack while you admire the view from Fjellstua restaurant.  

Next, we make our way to the magnificent Arctic Cathedral. Dominated by glass mosaic windows, the structure was inspired by Arctic nature and today stands as an icon of the Tromsø skyline.  

Our final stop is Full Steam, the world’s northernmost coastal museum, where you can take a deep dive into the region’s maritime heritage. You’ll learn more about the history, culture, and traditions of the Sea Sami, and their deep connection to the ocean and Arctic environment. You can also admire unique maritime artefacts and read stories of the sailors who braved the treacherous northern waters. Before you leave, be sure to stop by the Northern Lights exhibition to marvel at the aurora through the lens of renowned Norwegian photographers.  

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Enjoy an exhilarating self-drive ride on a sled pulled by huskies led by skilled mushers.

• Admire winter landscapes, including forests, fjords, and snow-covered mountains.

• Keep an eye out for the appearance of the magical Northern Lights.

• Enjoy a hot drink and homemade cake served in a traditional Sámi gamme.

• Disembarking/embarking port: Tromsø

• Available period: December 1–May 4, except December 24

• Transportation: Bus and dog sled

• Meals: Coffee or tea and cake

• Clothes: Dress according to the season and in layers so you can adjust your clothing to the weather conditions. The weather in Breivikeidet is colder than Tromsø due to our inland location. Wool socks, wool thermal base layers, and winter pants / jackets are required along with warm winter boots.

• There is no guide on the bus

• Minimum age limit: 4 years old when accompanied by an adult

Driving your own team of huskies is an out of the ordinary experience and a must-do for anyone visiting Northern Norway. Even if outdoor winter adventures are not your thing, this tour offers you a chance to check this traditional experience off your list and take lots of photos.  

The tour departs from Tromsø harbor where you will be picked up for a scenic 50-minute transfer to our camp in Breivikeidet, with our guide explaining you a little about the city and the area. Upon arrival at our camp, situated in a picturesque valley close to the sea, you will be welcomed by our friendly staff who will guide you through the safety instructions, and show you the basics of driving the sled. 

In this tour you will get the chance to drive your own dog sled for about a kilometer where our guide stops the tour to take photos of you being a dog musher before you switch places with your passenger. Once done with photos, you will take the return trip back to camp. 

After your dog sledding ride, you’ll get the chance to strengthen your bond with your husky sled team, giving and receiving all the cuddles you can handle. Afterwards, you are invited inside where you can learn a lot more about the dogs from our knowledgeable guides over some hot drinks and cake. 

Once you wave one last goodbye to the huskies, you’ll be driven back to the city with an experience of a lifetime behind you and spectacular photos to show for it! 

Important Information 

• Above a certain group size, we’ll split the group in half, and the first half will first take part in the dogsledding, while the second half will have hot drinks and coffee, and then the two groups switch activities. 

• Cancellation due to weather: Kindly, be advised that the tours are conducted on wheeled wagons in case there is a lack of snow.  

• 1.86 miles total dog sledding: 10-12 min driving, 3 min stop, 10-12 min as passenger 

• See the stunning scenery of Finnmark.

• Visit the northernmost point on the continent, the North Cape.

• Take a photo at the globe sculpture and watch a film about the area.

• Learn more about the history of Finnmark and the North Cape.

• Disembarking/embarking port: Honningsvåg

• Available: January 1–December 31

• Transportation: Bus

• Clothes: Comfortable shoes, warm and windproof clothing

• Sámi Culture

• Snowmobile trip in the Arctic

We’ll travel by bus above the 71st parallel to North Cape, which rises 1,000 feet from the ocean at the top of Europe.

Gaze in awe at this starkly beautiful scenery as you stand at continental Europe’s northernmost point. Cast your eyes over the sea toward the North Pole.

In summer, you might spot herds of grazing reindeer along the nearby clifftop plateaus. In winter, the unspoiled white plains and snow-capped mountains reflect in the soft Arctic light.

Of course we will stop for the obligatory photo (or selfie) with the iconic globe sculpture commemorating North Cape’s significance.

At the visitor center at North Cape Hall, you can watch an impressive 180° panoramic film about the region through the four seasons, learn more about the area’s long history through exhibitions in the underground tunnel, and pop into the world's northernmost chapel. Visit the small museum and a gift shop.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Visit the small fishing village of Gjesvær, which dates back to the Viking era.

• Enjoy views of Gjesværstappan, a group of steep, grass-covered islands.

• Visit these outlying islands by boat to see one of Norway’s largest bird cliffs.

• Spot seabirds such as puffins, kittiwakes, cormorants, razorbills, and skuas.

• Disembarking/embarking port: Honningsvåg

• Available: April 6–September 5, but this may change due to bird migration patterns

• Transportation: Bus and boat

• Clothes: Comfortable shoes, warm and windproof clothing

• The tour is not suitable for persons with limited mobility

• Minimum age limit: 5 years old when accompanied by an adult

• We recommend you bring a pair of binoculars with you

• Sámi Culture

• Snowmobile trip in the Arctic

Take a short boat trip from the historic Viking-era fishing village of Gjesvær and explore the nearby islands of Gjesværstappan. The confluence of warm and cold ocean currents creates nutrient-rich waters, while the steep cliffs of the islands make great bird-nesting sites. This is a paradise for thousands of birds and for birdwatchers. Don’t forget to bring your camera and binoculars!

From the boat, we can observe the Finnmark region’s largest flock of puffins and a large number of kittiwakes. During nesting season, this area is teeming with life, as mighty sea eagles hover above in search of prey. Meanwhile, guillemots, razorbills, cormorants, Arctic Skuas, Northern Fulmars, Brünnich’s Guillemots, and the large Northern Gannet fill the air with a cacophony of shrieks and screeches. In fall, you can also catch a glimpse of Europe’s smallest seabird, the British Storm-petrel.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Learn more about the area’s unique intercultural history and heritage.

• Tour the World War II bomb shelter at Andersgrotta and watch a short documentary.

• Stop at the Prestfjellet Mountain viewpoint overlooking Kirkenes and the coast.

• Visit the only border station between Norway and Russia, located at Storskog.

• Disembarking/embarking port: Kirkenes

• Available period: January 1–December 31

• Transportation: Bus

• Clothes: Comfortable shoes and warm clothing

• This excursion runs in the morning. Therefore, guests disembarking in Kirkenes will need to be booked on the evening flight out of town, or staying overnight, in order to be able to participate.

Join us as we venture by bus from Kirkenes to the nearby Norwegian-Russian border at Storskog. Along the way, you’ll learn about the eventful history shared by both countries.

Flanked by the scenery of the Siberian Taiga, a vast forest that extends across Eastern Europe for thousands of square miles, our bus will travel across the calm Pasvik River and through the beautiful Pasvik Valley. Rich with flora and fauna, the Pasvik Valley is home to Norway’s largest brown bear population.

We’ll stop at Storskog, one of the most guarded crossings in Europe. Although we’re not permitted to cross over the boundary, we are allowed take pictures.

From here, we’ll travel to Andersgrotta, the largest World War II bomb shelter in Kirkenes. There, we’ll watch a short, fascinating film about locals’ experiences during this tumultuous period.

Before boarding our ship back in Kirkenes, we’ll ascend Prestfjellet Mountain for a wonderful view of the town and surrounding landscape.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Journey from Kirkenes by riverboat up the Pasvik River.

• Marvel at beautiful scenery and learn about the area’s wildlife.

• Visit the Norwegian-Russian border and hear about its history.

• Enjoy hot drinks and cloudberries with cream.

• Embarking/disembarking port: Kirkenes

• Available from: June 1 - September 10

• Transportation: Riverboat

• Meals: Coffee or tea, cloudberries with cream

• Clothes: Life vests are provided. Wear strong and comfortable shoes, warm and windproof clothing

• This excursion runs in the morning. Therefore, guests disembarking in Kirkenes will need to be booked on the evening flight out of town, or staying overnight, in order to be able to participate.

Join us for a guided riverboat tour of the Pasvik River, which serves as the natural boundary between Russia and Norway, two countries steeped in history and culture.

On the river, you’ll learn hear about the history of the Sámi, an Indigenous people renowned for their nomadic reindeer herding. Listen to the stories of Russia’s first martyrs, St. Boris and St. Gleb, and also of St. Trifon from the Pechenga Monastery, the northernmost monastery in the world.

At the border, you’ll go ashore and learn a more about Norway’s relationship with its neighbor. Then, we’ll settle down for a warm drink and a traditional Norwegian favorite: cloudberries and cream.

Leisurely traveling back on the water, our guide will speak about the teeming animal and plant life that thrives in the area. Reindeer, fish, and bears make this one of the most diverse wilderness areas in Norway.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Enjoy a scenic bus tour of one of the world’s northernmost towns.

• Learn about the historic events of World War II that impacted Hammerfest history at the Museum of Reconstruction.

• See the UNESCO-listed Meridian Column.

• Enjoy breathtaking views from Mount Salen.

• Disembarking/embarking port: Hammerfest

• Available period: June 8 – April 8 (excluding December 24–25 and December 31–January 1)

• Transportation: Bus

• Clothes/Footwear: Comfortable shoes, warm and windproof clothing

• Note: City guide and map provided

• Snowmobile Trip in the Polar Night

Enjoy a guided exploration of one of the world’s northernmost towns and learn about the historical events that have shaped it. Once we arrive in Hammerfest, the bus will take us to the Museum of Reconstruction for Finnmark and Northern Troms. There, you’ll learn about the massive efforts that were made to rebuild the region of Northern Norway after World War II.

Then, we’ll head over to the Meridian Column, Hammerfest’s UNESCO World Heritage site. This monument marks the northernmost measuring point of the Struve Geodetic Arc, a chain of survey triangulations that established the exact size and shape of the Earth.

Our last stop on the tour is Mount Salen. On the way up the mountain, you’ll learn more about Hammerfest’s unique history from your knowledgeable guide. From the top, you’ll enjoy wonderful views of the town below.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Experienced instructors will teach you how to operate your own snowmobile.

• Drive your snowmobile through over the mountains at night.

• Hear your guides tell stories about life in Finnmark County.

• Gaze in awe at the magical Northern Lights should they appear during your ride.

• Disembarking port: Mehamn

• Embarking Port: Kjøllefjord

• Available period: December 15–April 30, except December 25 and January 1

• Transportation: Bus and snowmobile

• Meals: Warm drink

• Clothes: Comfortable shoes, warm and windproof clothing. Thermal clothing is provided

• Subject to weather and snow conditions

• Minimum age limit: 6 years old when accompanied by an adult

• Valid driver's license required

• Breakfast at the North Cape

• The Northernmost Town in the World

Join us on an unforgettable snowmobile trip in one of Europe’s most pristine natural areas. For a safe and enjoyable ride, pay close attention to your expert instructors as they give you snowmobile training before you begin.

You’ll travel from Mehamn, the world’s northernmost mainland town, over the mountains and halfway to the old trading post and fishing village of Kjøllefjord. A short bus ride will take you down to the port, where you’ll rejoin the ship.

Along the way, your guides will tell you about the local lifestyle and customs. You’ll also learn about the geographic and climatic conditions of the area and find out more about the Indigenous Sámi people.

Discover the snow-clad valleys and relish the fresh winter air—perhaps under the mesmerizing Northern Lights, should they appear in the skies above. If you travel with us in springtime, you might still see the glorious Northern Lights, and maybe even the soft glow of the sun toward the end of your ride, along with a milder climate.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Enjoy a sightseeing tour of the town of Harstad

• Visit the medieval church and the historical centre of Trondenes

• Take in the view of fjords, steep mountains, and idyllic agricultural landscapes

• Enjoy a piece of freshly baked waffle, lefse and a cup of coffee as you cross the fjord.

• Disembarking port: Harstad

• Embarking port: Sortland

• Available: January 2–December 31, except December 25

• Transportation: Bus/ferry

• Meals: Coffee or tea and cakes

• Clothes: Comfortable shoes, warm and windproof clothing

• Lofoten Islands

• Sea Eagle Safari

• Lofoten by Horse

• RIB Adventure in Lofoten

• Discover a Fishing Village

We’ll begin our excursion with a short sightseeing tour of the streets of Harstad. This is the third largest community in Northern Norway with a history connected to herring fishing, the military, and in more recent times, offshore oil.

On a clear day, you can spot the Trondenes Peninsula to the north of town. Here, you’ll visit a white 13th-century medieval stone church, the northernmost of its kind in the world. We’ll drop in at the Trondenes Historical Center, which displays objects discovered in the region throughout history, from the early Stone Age through the Viking era and the Middle Ages, to the present day. The museum also has a reconstructed farmstead dating from around 1200 with a granary, forge and stave church.

From Trondenes, the bus will take us for a scenic drive across Hinnøya Island to meet our ferry at the Gullesfjord. On board, wrap your hands around a hot drink and enjoy freshly made waffles and lefse along with fantastic views. The tour then continues along the Sigerfjord by bus to Sortland, where you will rejoin your ship.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Admire the stunning scenery of the Lofoten Islands.

• Visit the picturesque fishing village of Henningsvær.

• Enjoy looking around local boutiques and galleries

• Learn more about the nature and history of Lofoten.

• Disembarking port: Svolvær

• Embarking port: Stamsund

• Available: April 9–August 31

• Duration: 3 hours, 30 min 

• Transportation: Bus

• Clothes: Comfortable shoes and warm clothing

• A Taste of Vesterålen

• Sea Eagle Safari

The Lofoten Islands are known for excellent fishing, extreme nature, and small fishing villages. During the guided trip from Svolvær to Stamsund, see sheltered bays, white-sand beaches, and green farmland. The scenery, the special light, and the fishing have attracted artists from both Norway and abroad for centuries. We stop in Henningsvær, a charming fishing village with 500 inhabitants. In the 18th century, it was the most important fishing village in Lofoten. Fishing is still important here today, but the beautiful harbor is also full of charming local arts and crafts shops.

Henningsvær became protected in 2022 and is one of Norway’s most historically important fishing villages.

In Henningsvær, we will visit Galleri Lofoten, which exhibits one of Norway’s largest collections of paintings from Northern Norway dating back to the turn of the last century, a period by many called the golden age of Northern Norwegian painting.

After the visit in Henningsvær, the bus takes you to Stamsund, where the ship awaits.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Enjoy views of the beautiful UNESCO-listed Vega Archipelago by boat.

• Visit the Vega World Heritage Center, which charts the islands’ history.

• Learn about the traditional industry of eider duck down harvesting.

• Savor a complimentary hot drink and local snack in the café.

• Disembarking port: Sandnessjøen

• Embarking port: Brønnøysund

• Available: June 10 - September 9

• Transportation: Boat

• Meals: Local fruit drink, coffee, tea and local snack

• Clothes: Comfortable shoes, warm and windproof clothing

Discover this hidden gem on a tour of the UNESCO-listed islands of Vega, which sit south of the Arctic Circle. Venture from Sandnessjøen by boat, through the cluster of islands, islets, and reefs, while our guide explains the fascinating culture of this coastal landscape and its people.

We’ll land at Gardsøy and visit the Vega World Heritage Center, which highlights this 1,500-year-old tradition that is unique to the area. The islanders act as bird guardians for the migrating eider ducks that nest here. They build tiny ‘houses’ for the animals. After the hatchlings have moved out, they collect the highly prized eider down.

At the heritage center, you’ll journey from Stone Age settlements to modern-day fish farming through exhibits and a short film. Admire gorgeous views from the café while enjoying a hot drink and local snack.

We’ll sail back along the idyllic Helgeland coast and end our journey in Brønnøysund.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Enjoy a short journey around the beautiful town of Brønnøysund.

• Take an informative tour at the Norwegian Aquaculture Center.

• Feed salmon and learn about their live cycle from experienced guides.

• Taste a fresh morsel of local, world-famous Norwegian salmon.

• Embarking/disembarking port: Brønnøysund

• Available: January 1–December 31

• Transportation: Bus

• Meals: A taste of salmon

• Clothes: Comfortable shoes and warm clothing

After a bus tour around the pretty town of Brønnøysund, we’ll admire impressive views as we cross the magnificent bridge to the Norwegian Aquaculture Center in Toft.

Our guides there will tell the story of Norway’s vibrant salmon fishing culture. Meet the salmon that grow here and see how they live. Then, take part in feeding these amazing, beautiful creatures. You’ll also hear about the different kinds of technology that help the salmon from egg to fish. There’s even an opportunity to try an underwater camera to see the fish up close.

The cool and clear waters of the Norwegian coast offer prime conditions for sustainable and responsible aquaculture. That is why Norway is one of the world’s major fish and seafood exporters, with around 37 million people around the globe enjoying the country’s produce. Sample it for yourself, as we end the tour with a taste of this internationally loved salmon.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Take a relaxing guided bus tour around Trondheim.

• See the city from above at the picturesque Utsikten viewpoint.

• Admire the Gothic-style architecture of Nidaros Cathedral on a guided tour.

• Receive a complimentary book about Nidaros Cathedral as a souvenir.

• Embarking/disembarking port: Trondheim

• Available: January 2 - December 31, except December 25

• Transportation: Bus

• Clothes: Comfortable shoes and warm clothing

• The Atlantic Road

• Bergtatt

Founded as early as 997 A.D., this age-old Viking capital is full of culture and history. It has also established itself as a leader in innovation and Norway’s knowledge center.

A bus tour of Trondheim will bring us past the beautiful red city bridge and old wooden wharf buildings of the Bakklandet neighborhood, which have stood in the former capital along the Nid River since the 18th century.

Then, we’ll enjoy the magnificent panoramic views of the bustling city from the Utsikten viewpoint, which overlooks nearby Kristiansten Fortress, with views of Munkholmen island in the fjord.

The next stop is Nidaros Cathedral, Norway’s national shrine. Built over the tomb of St. Olav in 1070 A.D., it boasts stunning architecture and ornate Gothic-style decoration, carved masterfully into the stone. After a fascinating guided tour of the cathedral, pick up a complimentary book about ‘Norway’s Notre Dame’ to take home as a souvenir.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.

• Tour the attractive fishing towns of Kristiansund and Molde.

• Ride along the world-renowned Atlantic Road in Romsdal County.

• Discover the impressive 17th-century Kvernes Stave Church.

• Enjoy a traditional local dish of bacalao at a charming restaurant.

• Disembarking port: Kristiansund

• Embarking port: Molde

• Available: April 11–September 10, except May 17

• Transportation: Bus

• Meals: Bacalao, bread, caramel pudding, coffee or tea

• Clothes: Comfortable shoes and warm clothing

• Trondheim with Nidaros Cathedral

What has been called ‘the world’s best road trip’ starts with a short tour of picturesque Kristiansund before continuing to Averøy, an island that sits at the entry of ‘The Road in the Ocean,’ the Atlantic Road. This route is one of Norway’s most visited attractions and won the title of ‘Engineering Feat of the Century’ in 2005.

Over 5 miles, this highway zigzags along the dramatic coastline over bridges that connect the succession of small islands and islets that decorate the stunning landscape.

At the unique Kvernes Stave Church, take a peek at the attractive Baroque interior and admire the magnificent views of the fjord.

We’ll stop at a cozy tavern to tuck into a Norwegian specialty, Bacalao. Made from the region's famous klippfisk (salted and dried cod), this hearty stew is influenced by Mediterranean recipes and is a result of extensive trading with southern Europe in the 19th century.

Our scenic ride ends with a brief tour around Molde, called the ‘City of Roses’, before rejoining our ship.

Excursion is subject to a minimum number of participants.