Itinerary

The adventure begins in Bergen, the cultural gateway to the fjords. Enjoy the relaxed ambiance and take the opportunity to meet your fellow astronomers. Get unique insight and knowledge about the Arctic sky and the greatest lightshow on Earth, the Aurora Borealis, on this popular voyage along the mesmerising Norwegian Coast. This limited voyage is accompanied by special lecturers - experts on astronomy and expeditions to see the Northern Lights.

An early arrival at the Art Nouveau town of Ålesund gives you an opportunity to go ashore and explore this pretty town. Through the series of lectures and a guided tour of the night sky from the deck of the ship, your lecturer will bring the world of stars, planets and meteors closer whilst also exploring the numerous myths and legends linked to the constellations in our skies. Here are some examples of what you can expect:  Fantastic Lights - an introduction to the Northern Lights  Exploring the Solar System - Travel through the solar system from Mercury to Neptune and view the planets up close as seen by space probes  Stories of the stars - Relive the Greek mythology of the constellations and learn about stellar discoveries by modern astronomers  Comets, ghostly wanderers in space - Find out where comets come from, what they are made of and their role in the development of life on Earth  From the international space station to the surface of Mars The splendour of total solar eclipses Exploring the Arctic night sky  Our violent sun and space weather

Continuing north you head for the medieval city of Trondheim, whose colourful history is reflected in its handsome civic architecture.

Crossing the Arctic Circle you continue to the modern town of Bodø. After crossing the Vestfjord you are amidst the glorious Lofoten Islands and their capital, Svolvær.

A relaxing morning on board precedes your arrival in Tromsø, the Capital of Arctic Norway. Here a visit to the Northern Lights Planetarium is included especially for this tour.  Visit to the Science Centre and Tromsø Planetarium: You will spend time at the Science of Northern Norway visiting their exhibits and installations on the Northern Lights. The Planetarium, part of the Science Centre, is the northernmost planetarium in the world and the largest in Norway. It has a full dome ceiling offering 360 degree views, with room for 100 visitors, and high quality digital projectors showing daily films about 'Experiencing the Aurora' and the constellations.

Following an early call at Hammerfest you arrive in Honningsvåg, the portal to the wonders of the spectacular North Cape (optional excursion).

The vistas and sea life become more dramatic as you approach Kirkenes, just a few kilometres from the Russian border, and you can join one of our exciting excursions here. As you return south the northbound ports visited by night are now seen by day.

Hammerfest, the world's most northerly town is your first major stop, before continuing to Tromsø.

Passing through the legendary Lofoten Islands the ship negotiates an intricate network of inlets and isles. This is one of the most beautiful stretches of the Norwegian coast for many it is the most stunning part of your journey south.

Cross the Arctic Circle and sail past the famed peaks of the Seven Sisters as you enter a world of legends and folklore.

An early morning arrival in Trondheim, where you have time to explore the city.

A few nautical miles are left between you and Bergen today as your Astronomy Voyage draws to a close.