Itinerary

Welcome to Finland. Your journey begins in Helsinki, a city of neoclassical elegance and Nordic design set on a beautiful Baltic peninsula. After arriving and checking into your 5-star hotel, your day is at leisure to begin exploring at your own pace. Stroll down the grand Esplanadi boulevard to the lively Market Square, take in the striking Helsinki Cathedral at Senate Square, or simply find a waterfront café and watch the harbour come to life. This evening, meet your tour manager and fellow travellers over a welcome dinner – a chance to hear about the remarkable journey that lies ahead through Finnish Lapland and south along the Norwegian coast.

After breakfast, meet your local guide for a three-hour sightseeing tour of Finland’s elegant capital. Often called the “Daughter of the Baltic Sea” or the “White City of the North”, Helsinki is known for its harmonious blend of neoclassical architecture, modern design and coastal beauty. During the tour, you’ll gain a deeper insight into Finland’s history, culture and traditions.

Pass Helsinki City Hall and the lively Market Square before arriving at Senate Square, home to the striking Helsinki Cathedral. A highlight of the morning is a visit to the remarkable Temppeliaukio Church, also known as the Rock Church, carved directly into solid granite. Entrance is included. Weather and time permitting, you will also see the iconic Sibelius Monument. The tour concludes at the hotel at around 13:00, and the afternoon is at leisure to explore further at your own pace.

It’s time to say goodbye to Helsinki and head north into the wilderness. Transfer by private coach to Helsinki railway station in good time for your northbound train journey. We depart mid-morning, leaving the elegant streets of the Finnish capital behind as we travel north through open countryside, forests and frozen lakes. Lunch can be purchased on board the train. Arrive in Kemi in the afternoon, where a private coach transfer will take you to your accommodation on the Arctic coast at Experience 365. Here, you’ll stay in an amazing seafront glass villa with glass walls and ceilings, meaning you might be able to catch the aurora even as you lie in bed.

Having checked into your beachside glass villa the previous evening, you’ll awake to sweeping views of the Bothnian Bay coastline. What you do today will depend on the time of year you are travelling.

October – December departures and April 2028

07/10/27, 21/10/27, 04/11/27, 18/11/27 , 02/12/27 and 4/4/2028*

On autumn and early winter departures, enjoy a private guided visit to the historic Icebreaker Sampo. Built in 1960, the vessel once assisted merchant ships and carried out rescue missions in harsh Arctic conditions before being transformed into one of Finland’s most iconic winter attractions. Following the guided tour, experience sea floating in the icy waters of the Bothnian Bay while wearing a full-body survival dry suit designed to keep you warm and buoyant.**

January – March departures

11/01/28, 08/02/28, 07/03/28

In true winter and early spring, we’ll embark on a three-hour Arktis Icebreaker cruise, weather permitting. Watch as the powerful vessel ploughs through thick sea ice, creating a dramatic spectacle.

You’ll also have the rare opportunity to float in the icy sea wearing a waterproof survival suit; an unforgettable experience!**

After this adventure, lunch is by your own arrangement and then we’ll travel by private coach to Levi and the Northern Lights Village. This is a small and charming ski resort situated far from town, making it perfect for viewing the night skies. Dinner will be at the hotel.

* The icebreaker is not open on Sundays - instead there will be a replacement programme on this day.

** Please note: The minimum height for sea floating is 120cm.

Today is a day you’ve probably been anticipating for a while, and it’s dedicated to the region’s most enthusiastic residents – the huskies. October – November departures 07/10/27, 21/10/27 and 18/11/27

In autumn and early winter, visit a local husky farm for a wagon ride through the forest. A professional musher guides the eager dogs on a 4km journey lasting approximately 20 to 30 minutes, with up to four guests seated per wagon.

After the ride, gather inside a traditional kota hut to enjoy warm berry juice while listening to stories about life with huskies in the Arctic.

Please note: The wagon ride is weather dependent. On warmer days above approximately 7°C, the dogs cannot run and the experience becomes a farm visit only.

The remainder of the day is at leisure. Optional reindeer or snowmobile safaris may be available, depending on the conditions. Dinner is served at the hotel restaurant.

December – April departures 02/12/27, 1/01/28, 11/01/28, 08/02/28, 07/03/28 and 04/04/28

In true winter until early spring, we’ll set out on a traditional 5km husky sleigh safari through Levi’s snow-filled forests. Each two-person sled is driven by one guest, offering a hands-on Arctic experience as your team glides across frozen trails.

The dogs run eagerly, the sled skims over snow, and the forest stretches silent and white around you – it’s an unforgettable way to experience Lapland’s winter landscape.

The remainder of the day is free to relax or join optional Arctic activities such as reindeer or snowmobile safaris, weather permitting. Dinner is served at the hotel restaurant. *** All departures

Come evening, the focus turns from the forest floor to the sky above, as we head out in search of the Northern Lights on an Aurora Hunting safari in the wilderness (3 hrs, weather permitting). We first head north on a round trip, passing by either Jerisjärvi or Ounasjoki, wherever the Northern Lights are more likely to appear that night. The Aurora Expedition travels in comfort by bus, stopping along the way to take photographs as you continue to the shore of Lake Äkäslompolo. Experience the magic of the Northern Lights in a serene and unforgettable setting. If the evening is completely calm, you might even hear the whispers of the Aurora. *The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and their visibility is subject to weather conditions.

After breakfast, head north by private coach from Kemi, following the Swedish-Finnish border through remote Arctic landscapes to Muonio and onward to Kilpisjärvi. We’ll be staying at Santa’s Hotel – a beautiful complex of serviced apartments just a short walk from Lake Kilpisjärvi. With panoramic windows wherever you look, you’ll feel truly embedded in nature during your stay here. Once you’ve checked in, enjoy dinner in the hotel restaurant before heading out on an evening Northern Lights adventure with the tour manager.

Today’s adventure will depend on the time of year you are travelling.

October and November departures On 07/10/27, 21/10/27, 04/11/27 and 18/11/27

During autumn and early winter we’ll visit a traditional Sámi reindeer farm in Kilpisjärvi. The Tornensis family, among the region’s oldest reindeer herding families, welcome you to learn about their centuries-old way of life.

Meet the reindeer in their corral, including young animals in training and experienced sled reindeer. Feed them their favourite lichen and capture memorable photos before gathering inside a cosy log cabin. Around the open fire, enjoy homemade biscuits and warm berry juice while listening to stories about Sámi culture and Arctic life. The experience also includes a tasting of grilled reindeer meat.

December to April departures 02/12/27, 11/01/28, 08/02/28, 07/03/28 and 04/04/28

From true winter onwards, we instead set out on the popular Border of Three Countries ‘safari’. Travel by snowmobile or sleigh across a frozen lake and through snowy birch forest to Koltavuoma, where the distinctive yellow border cairn marks the meeting point of Finland, Sweden and Norway. Covering approximately 30km in around three hours, this guided adventure allows you to stand in three countries within moments. Thermal clothing, guiding, photos and a warm drink with pastry are included.

The afternoon is at leisure to explore the surrounding Arctic landscape. In the evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel before heading out with the tour manager in search of the Northern Lights, weather permitting.

This morning, bid farewell to Finnish Lapland as you depart Kilpisjärvi by private coach and cross into Norway. The journey west unfolds in dramatic fashion, weaving through the striking Lyngen Alps with fjord crossings on local ferries. This is one of Norway’s most scenic routes along the shores of Lyngenfjord, where mountains plunge directly into the sea. Arriving in Tromsø, known as the Arctic Capital, you’ll have a little time to soak up the city’s frontier vibe before stepping aboard your ship. After check-in, settle into your cabin and get to know the ship – your comfortable home for the days ahead. Also meet your Expedition Team, who will be your guides henceforth on the journey. As evening falls, perhaps enjoy dinner in one of the onboard restaurants while the lights of Tromsø shimmer across the harbour. Or, as the ship remains in port overnight, you could opt instead to sample the city’s vibrant dining scene. The choice is yours.

After breakfast, spend a leisurely morning exploring Tromsø. You might choose to visit Polaria to learn about Arctic wildlife, or simply enjoy a stroll across the bridge for sweeping views of the mountains and sea. This would be a great time to look at our range of winter excursions, such as a snowshoeing, cross country skiing and dog sledding, and book them with the Expedition Team.

By afternoon, it’s time to gather on deck as the ship prepares to sail. The ropes are cast off and we begin our coastal voyage, leaving behind the snow-clad peaks that frame Tromsø’s harbour. Watch as the city fades into the distance and the open water beckons. Ahead lies the storied Norwegian coast, a living landscape of mountains, fjords and fishing towns that connects the Arctic with the world beyond.

Today we arrive in Honningsvåg, gateway to the legendary North Cape – a landmark long regarded as the northernmost point of mainland Europe. The town itself is small and welcoming, perched among rugged hills and icy bays where fishing boats come and go with the tide. From here, an optional excursion takes you across the windswept plateau of Magerøya Island to the North Cape itself. Standing by the 300m cliffs that fall sharply into the Arctic Ocean, you’ll feel the vast scale of the landscape – sea, sky and tundra stretching endlessly around you.

Back in Honningsvåg, take time to explore the town’s colourful harbour and wooden houses painted in bright Arctic hues. Visit the North Cape Museum to learn about the history of life in the far north, or simply enjoy a coffee while watching fishing vessels come and go. Here, in one of the world’s northernmost towns, you’ll find a remarkable blend of endurance, hospitality and quiet beauty.

Today we arrive in Alta, a town framed by forested hills, frozen rivers, and an immense Arctic sky. Known as the City of the Northern Lights, Alta has long drawn explorers, scientists and travellers fascinated by the mysteries of the far north. Yet its history reaches much further back; this was once a gathering place for early northern peoples, and the UNESCO-listed rock carvings along the riverbanks still tell their stories with scenes of hunting, reindeer herding and life on the water carved into the stone thousands of years ago.

Modern Alta balances that heritage with warmth and innovation. You might visit the striking Northern Lights Cathedral, whose spiral form mirrors the aurora, or explore the Alta Museum to learn about the region’s ancient cultures and Arctic environment. Those seeking something truly special can opt to stay overnight in the Igloo Hotel, rebuilt each year from snow and ice. Alternatively, spend your time wandering the town’s cafés, visiting local craft shops, or simply admiring the calm beauty of the frozen river valley.

Aften an overnight in Alta – either on board or in the Igloo Hotel – you have another chance to experience Alta’s beautiful landscapes, with several optional excursions on offer. Glide behind a team of huskies through pine forests, try snowshoeing across frozen terrain, or join a guided trip inland toward the tundra of Finnmark. For a gentler pace, visit the Alta Museum or enjoy a walk along the riverbank.

By evening, the ship turns south once more, leaving the quiet harbour of Alta behind. From deck, you can watch the lights of the town fade as we sail into open water. Inside, it’s time to unwind – perhaps enjoy dinner or talk over the day’s experiences with fellow guests. The course now follows Norway’s coast toward the fjords and islands further south, with the calm rhythm of the ship marking the steady pace of travel through the Arctic night.

We begin the day in Stokmarknes, birthplace of Hurtigruten and home to the fascinating Hurtigruten Museum – a heartfelt tribute to the generations who have lived and worked along this coast sailing the same route we founded in 1893 and still follow today.

From here, we continue through the narrow Raftsundet channel, one of Norway’s most dramatic and powerful stretches of water. Cliffs rise almost vertically from the sea, waterfalls trace silver lines down the rock, and every turn reveals another vista – new peaks, hidden coves and the play of light that defines the north.

Later, we arrive in Svolvær, the lively heart of the Lofoten Islands. Fishing boats line the quays beneath sharp mountain peaks, galleries display works inspired by Arctic light, and cafés offer warmth and conversation. You might explore the town’s waterfront, visit nearby Henningsvær, or simply take in the view of red and yellow cabins against the dark slopes.

Today we sail along Norway’s storied inner coastal route, a network of narrow channels and protected sounds that has guided mariners for more than a thousand years. These waters are sheltered from the open sea, winding between islands and headlands where small fishing villages and family farms still cling to the shore. Solitary lighthouses mark the entrances to fjords, and on clear days you may spot distant peaks still capped with snow.

From the deck, you can follow the slow rhythm of the coastline as the ship moves steadily south. Every turn reveals a new view; a waterfall tumbling down from the high mountains, a cluster of boathouses reflected in calm water, or a seabird gliding close to the waves. Inside, you might attend a short talk from the Expedition Team or simply enjoy the scenery from the lounge. This is a day for unhurried travel and quiet appreciation, a chance to experience the beauty and continuity of Norway’s living coast.

Rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1904, Ålesund emerged as Norway’s Art Nouveau masterpiece – a city of graceful spires, pastel façades and curved towers that catch the light of the surrounding sea. Its distinctive architecture, inspired by European styles of the time, gives the town a sense of charm and refinement found nowhere else on the Norwegian coast. The natural setting is equally striking: Ålesund stretches across a series of islands, with the jagged Sunnmøre Alps rising in the distance.

Spend the day exploring the town’s canals and narrow streets lined with cafés and boutiques or visit the Jugendstilsenteret Museum to learn how Ålesund’s architecture was born from resilience and renewal. For a wider view, climb the 418 steps to the top of Mount Aksla for a panorama of the town, fjords and mountains beyond. Ålesund’s harmony of design, history and landscape makes it one of the true gems of the Norwegian coast.

Encircled by seven mountains and facing the open sea, Bergen is Norway’s maritime heart: lively, historic and steeped in seafaring tradition. Once a key Hanseatic trading port, the city still carries echoes of its past in the colourful wooden façades of Bryggen Wharf, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Strolling through its narrow passages you can almost sense the bustle of merchants and sailors who once filled these docks with stories from across the world.

Down by the harbour, the fish market offers a taste of local life with stalls piled high with freshly caught seafood and regional specialties. For a wider view, take the funicular up Mount Fløyen, where the city and its islands unfold beneath you in a sweep of water and rooftops. Bergen is a place where history and everyday life meet easily: cobbled lanes, cosy cafés and the sound of gulls overhead. Take your time and get to know this charming city on your own terms; this is, after all, our last stop in Norway before we head to Denmark.

As we leave Norway’s rugged coastline astern, the open waters of the North Sea stretch ahead toward Denmark. The sense of distance grows with every passing hour, offering time to reflect on the fjords, mountains and coastal towns that have shaped your journey. This is a day for slowing down, to watch the horizon, feel the steady movement of the ship and let the memories of the voyage settle in.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast or join one final talk with your Expedition Team. From the deck, seabirds glide effortlessly on the wind as we pass through the Skagerrak and Kattegat straits, waters that have long linked Norway, Sweden and Denmark through trade and travel. As daylight fades, perhaps raise a glass to the journey behind you, a passage across cultures, coastlines and the ever-changing moods of the northern seas.

In the early morning light, the spires of Copenhagen rise from the sea as we approach the final destination of our journey from the Arctic. As we glide into harbour, you can probably already sense the different vibe that Denmark offers when compared to its northern neighbour. After you disembark, perhaps take a stroll beside the harbour canal of Nyhavn or visit a nearby café for a traditional smørrebrød (Danish open sandwich) lunch. There’s so much to see and do in ‘wonderful’ Copenhagen that it really is worth spending some extra time here, if possible.

Sadly, your journey all the way from Helsinki, through the forests of Lapland and down the Norwegian coast has come to an end. You've seen some of the most beautiful sights this region has to offer, likely making a few new friends along the way, and we hope to see you again on your next adventure!