Itinerary

Welcome to Helsinki, where our adventure begins. Depending on when you arrive, there may be time to do a bit of exploration if you feel like it. Your tour manager will be at the hotel to meet and greet you.   Helsinki is a vibrant and charming city blending modern design with a rich history. Its picturesque waterfront, lively squares, and unique architecture create a welcoming atmosphere. Perfect for a stroll, you can enjoy a scenic walk and experience the city's lively spirit, all within a few hours.  In the evening there will be a welcome dinner at the hotel, giving you the perfect chance to get to know your fellow travelers. 

We kick off our adventure through Finland by getting to know its charming capital city a little better.   After breakfast you’ll meet with an English-speaking local guide for a sightseeing tour. Learn about local culture, history, and traditions as you pass landmarks such as Helsinki City Hall, Market Square, Senate Square with its Cathedral, and the Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church, entrance included). Weather permitting, we’ll also visit the Sibelius monument, an unusual sculpture commemorating the life of the composer Jean Sibelius.  The tour concludes at the hotel, leaving the afternoon free for further exploration. Why not take the opportunity to try some local dishes, such as silakat (small Baltic herrings) or mustikkapiirakka (blueberry pie).  

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, then take a private transfer to Helsinki Railway Station for your train to Kemi. The scenic journey takes you  from Finland’s capital into the Arctic’s wilderness, offering incredible vistas of forests, lakes, and rugged landscapes – with the last section travelling beside the Baltic Sea.  We’ll arrive in Kemi around 3:30pm. Lunch is at your own expense, with food available on the train. Afterward, transfer privately to your accommodation, where you'll spend the night in a unique Glass Villa at the Experience 365 winter resort. Here, you’ll witness beautiful scenery all around, and with glass ceilings you’ll be able to look up directly into the heavens from your bed!  

This morning we’ll travel to the Ajos pier located on Bothnian Bay, where the sea freezes over during winter. It’s time to board Sampo, a real-life Icebreaker (conditions permitting) for an incredible adventure. It’s a thrilling experience as the icebreaker ploughs powerfully through the frozen sea. If you’re brave enough, take a refreshing dip in the icy waters while wearing a full-body waterproof survival suit.   After this adventure, you’ll be free to take lunch at your own arrangement in Kemi. A private coach will then collect us and transfer us to our next destination, Levi, via the Santa Claus Village at Rovaniemi.   At Levi, we’ll enjoy two magical nights in private glass igloo accommodation, offering again the chance to marvel at the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed. Located on the outskirts of the resort of Levi, the hotel is far from light pollution, making it an ideal spot for Northern Lights spotting.  Please note: For Sep 25, Oct 9, Oct 23, Nov 6, 2026 and Mar 26, Apr 9 2027 departures, the Icebreaker ship will not be sailing due to expected sea conditions. Instead, you’ll be given a tour of the ship and will still be able to do the Arctic dip in a survival suit.

Today's activities vary depending on the season or travel dates. From Dec 18, 2026, to Mar 26, 2027, the Northern Lights Village Husky safari and Aurora hunting are mainly done by sleigh. From Sep 25 to Nov 11, 2026, these activities are done by wagon or bus. Also, the Levi Igloo stays at Levin Iglut are available only for two departures on Sep 25, 2026, and Apr 9, while all other stays are at Levi in the Northern Lights Village. From Sep 25 to Nov 11, 2026, you’ll visit a Husky farm and enjoy a 20–30 minute wagon ride (weather permitting, up to 4 people). Afterwards, relax in a traditional kota with treats like biscuits and warm berry juice while listening to stories from the musher. If temperatures exceed 7°C, the activity may be limited to the farm visit only. Before departure, enjoy dinner at the hotel followed by an evening Aurora hunt by snowmobile sleigh, weather permitting. Sit in a sleigh pulled by a snowmobile and venture into the forest for Northern Lights photography and storytelling by the fire. Warm drinks and thermal clothing are provided. Note: The Levin Iglut snowmobile sleigh is not heated but includes overalls and blankets. For all other Sep to Nov departures, enjoy a 3-hour evening Aurora hunting experience in the peaceful northern wilderness, weather permitting. Travel by bus toward areas like Jerisjärvi or Ounasjoki, where the chances of seeing the Northern Lights are higher. Stop along the way for photos before reaching the serene shores of Lake Äkäslompolo. Note: Northern Lights visibility is dependent on weather conditions. For departures on Dec 18, 2026; Jan 1, 15, 29; Feb 12, 26; Mar 12, 26; and Apr 9, 2027, you’ll enjoy a 1-hour, 3-mile (5 km) Husky Safari through Levi’s snowy forests, with two guests per sleigh, weather permitting. Afterward, there’s free time for optional activities like Reindeer or Snowmobile safaris, weather permitting. In the evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel followed by a 3-hour Auroras hunt by heated sleigh, guided by a snowmobile, weather permitting. Away from light pollution, look out for Northern Lights, enjoy treats (e.g. hot drinks, cookies, marshmallows) and tales by the fire. Then, return for dinner.

Today's Kilpisjärvi activity varies by season. The Reindeer farm visits run from Sep 25 to Nov 11 2026, while Snowmobile safaris operate from Dec 18 2026 to Mar 26 2027. For September, October, and November 2026 departures (Sep 25, Oct 10 & 23, and Nov 6), the border is inaccessible, so you'll visit a Sámi reindeer farm instead. Enjoy meeting and feeding the reindeer, listening to cultural stories, and sampling traditional snacks like berry juice and biscuits in a cozy log cabin. On most departure dates, you'll travel to Kilpisjärvi along the Sweden–Finland border for a 3-hour "Border of Three Countries" tour by snowmobile or sleigh, weather permitting. Journey over frozen lakes and snowy forests to Koltavuoma and visit Norway, Finland, and Sweden in a single trip. The tour includes a guide, thermal gear, photos, warm drinks, and pastries.

Today is the last day of our land trip before we board our ship. The 4.5-hour drive from Kilpisjärvi to Tromsø is a breathtaking journey through the Arctic wilderness, offering some of Norway’s most stunning scenery. Our route winds through snow-covered landscapes, passing frozen lakes and rugged tundra before reaching the majestic Lyngen Alps. These towering peaks, often blanketed in snow, create a dramatic backdrop.   Driving via the Lyngen Alps is subject to weather and road conditions, but if conditions allow the scenic coastal roads, fjords, and charming villages along the way offer perfect photo opportunities. If the weather and road conditions don't allow, we’ll drive directly to Tromsø. As we approach Tromsø, the landscape transitions from remote wilderness to a vibrant city surrounded by mountains and the icy sea.   Before you get settled into your cabin on board, give yourself plenty of time to explore Tromsø. This small city 218 miles (350 km) north of the Arctic Circle has everything from trendy restaurants and cafés to boutique shops selling local crafts and produce.   Head to the Polaria center, an aquarium home to a variety of Arctic marine species, including seals. Across the water from Polaria, you’ll find the Arctic Cathedral, standing out in the cityscape due to its striking design and impressive stained-glass windows.  In the evening, board the waiting ship and continue your journey on sea as we head north.  Note: Your tour manager departs in Tromsø.

Arriving early in the morning, you’ll have a full day in Honningsvåg. This far north, winters can be long and snowfall is high.   Ice fishing is a beloved winter tradition in the far north, and you might be able to try this on one of our optional excursions. Also, get a taste of the local delicacy, king crab, which is caught in the waters around Honningsvåg and served year-round.  But the highlight of any trip to Honningsvåg is a visit to the North Cape, which looks out over the Barents Sea. This is one of the northernmost points of mainland Europe, and if there's snow on the ground, you may even be able to arrive there by snowmobile. This trip is offered as an optional excursion.  Having reached the northernmost point of our voyage, we’ll turn around and begin going south as we sail away in the evening. 

At 70 degrees north, this town is far above the Arctic Circle. The area is known for particularly good Northern Lights visibility, so keep your camera ready. On an optional excursion, you can find out more about day-to-day life in Alta, see prehistoric rock art and visit the Northern Lights Cathedral, which has an exhibition showing how Alta became the epicenter for ground-breaking research of the aurora borealis between the 19th and 20th centuries. Increased snowfall in the winter allows for some truly authentic Arctic excursions, like dogsledding. You can try this on wheels if you’re here when there’s no snow on the ground! The snow and climate of Alta also create the perfect conditions to build and maintain the Igloo Hotel. Located on the banks of river Alta, this is the world’s northernmost ice hotel. Alternatively, join your Expedition Team on a hike to Mount Komsa. The views are mesmerizing.

Narvik sits on a peninsula where three beautiful fjords meet. It was originally developed as a year-round, ice-free port for the nearby iron ore mines. Nowadays, it’s known for its World War II heritage and as a gateway to active pursuits such as skiing, dog sledding, and hiking.  Get to know Narvik's past at the Narvik War Museum complete with engaging exhibits that bring to life the town’s strategic importance during World War II. For an impressive panorama of Narvik, the best thing to do is ride the cable car up to Narvikfjellet. At the top, you’ll be treated to astounding views of the town and the three surrounding fjords. 

After Narvik, we head south along the enchanting Norwegian coast. You’ll be in awe of windswept islands, sheltered bays, and some of the most beautiful fjords in the world. It’s also inhabited by a wide range of wildlife, such as majestic Sea Eagles. When we started sailing north of the Trøndelag region in 1893, much was still unknown about the coastline. But, over the years, we’ve become experts in these waters. Today, we are among the few with the maritime knowledge and skill to take you through the many skerries, islets and hidden fjords that characterise this stretch of coast.

After docking in the town center in the morning, you have the chance to explore Åndalsnes, a picturesque coastal town located along Isfjord at the end of the Romsdalsfjord. The literal highlights of Åndalsnes are the mountains that tower over the town. They are the reason the town has become Norway’s go-to destination for hikers, climbers, skiers, and more. The Troll Wall, a 3,280-mile vertical cliff along the Romsdalen valley also attracts adrenaline seekers the world over. To take in the sights go on a relaxing ride on the Romsdal Gondola, which takes you to the top of Nesaksla Mountain, 2,322 feet above sea level. There, enjoy a 360-degree view of the mighty Romsdalshorn, Åndalsnes town center below, and the Rauma river. 

Surrounded by seven mountains and the sea, the old capital of Bergen is one of Norway’s most picturesque and historic cities, as well as being its second largest. Stroll through the UNESCO-listed Bryggen district and discover its colourful wooden wharfs dating back to the 14th century. Bergen’s famous fish market is worth a visit, too. It promises to be a feast for the senses with the sights, sounds, and smells of bountiful, fresh seafood which can be cooked there and then for you. One of the best-known attractions in Bergen is the Fløibanen funicular, which brings you to the top of Mount Fløyen. The summit has a wonderful view over the city, the nearby fjord, and the other surrounding peaks.

We spend the last afternoon of your voyage in Kristiansand, Norway’s fifth largest city, sitting along the southern tip of the country, Kristiansand is on a mission to become the most sustainable port in Europe. Find out more about this admirable quest on an optional excursion that includes a visit to Odderøya Island. Or delve into Kristiansand’s 20th-century military past on an optional excursion to Batterie Vara. Originally built as a German fort in World War II, it features the world’s second largest cannon ever to be mounted on land. Back on the boat, we’ll end our voyage on a high note with an end-of-trip farewell dinner. Take this opportunity to trade photo highlights and experiences with your fellow travellers one last time.

Today, we arrive in Oslo, Norway's laid-back capital. During the journey, you’ll have seen majestic mountains, landscapes and fjords, and maybe gazed up in awe at the Northern Lights a few times. We hope you have had an amazing experience, and that you've made a few friends along the way.   If you have any extra time before heading home, Oslo is a beautiful city perfect for a quick visit. In just a few hours you can explore the surreal Vigeland Park, visit the impressive Opera House, and stroll along the waterfront. Don't miss the historic Akershus Fortress or the vibrant Aker Brygge area for great food and views. It's the perfect place to sit and reflect on your adventure.