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Peregrine Travel Centre

Astronomy Voyage | Bergen – Kirkenes – Bergen

Astronomy Voyage | Bergen – Kirkenes – Bergen

From AUD $4,290

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Description

Head beyond the Arctic Circle under the dark skies of winter during peak aurora season. Enjoy lectures from our guest astronomer, visit Tromsø’s planetarium, and witness the Northern Lights illuminating fjords, mountains and fishing villages along our original Coastal Express route. 

Trip Name
Astronomy Voyage | Bergen – Kirkenes – Bergen
Days
12
Overview
Vessel Type: Expedition Ship Length: 121.8 m Passenger Capacity: 577 Built/Refurbished: 1993/2016/2023 MS Kong Harald is a tribute to Norway’s reigning monarch and his lifelong love of the sea. Named after King Harald V, a three-time Olympic sailor, this hybrid-powered ship offers both tradition and innovation. Refitted with advanced green technology in 2023, it now features battery packs and efficient engines that reduce emissions by up to 25%, alongside modern Arctic-inspired interiors that reflect Norway’s natural elegance. Life aboard is warm and inviting, embracing the Norwegian spirit of koselig. You’ll find three restaurants, a bakery and ice cream bar, panoramic lounges, two outdoor hot tubs, a fitness room, sauna, and the Explorer Bar for relaxing with a view. The Expedition Team offers fascinating insights and guided excursions along the Norwegian coast. With its cosy cabins, eco-conscious upgrades, and maritime charm, MS Kong Harald blends sustainability, comfort, and cultural discovery.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 - All Aboard!
Your astronomy adventure begins in Bergen, the cultural gateway to the fjords and the second-largest city in Norway. If you’ve time before your ship departs, visit the UNESCO-listed wharfs of the colourful Bryggen district with its artisan shops and cobblestone streets. Just across the street is the famous Fish Market which serves delicious seafood or venture to the Fløibanen funicular which whisks you up Mount Fløyen for breath-taking views of the city. Make yourself at home onboard the ship and enjoy the relaxed ambience, taking the opportunity to meet your fellow guests and astronomers.
Day 2 - Day 2 - A day for masterpieces
Arrive at the Art Nouveau town of Ålesund, renowned for its stunning and picturesque architecture. Take time to explore the city and its rich Norse history or visit Atlanterhavsparken, one of the largest saltwater aquariums in Northern Europe. You can also make your way up to small Mount Aksla for a panorama of the town and its picturesque position surrounded by islands.In the afternoon, we reach the port of Molde and the amazing view of 222 mountain peaks across the fjord, called the ‘Molde Panorama’.
Day 3 - Day 3 - The Royal City of Trondheim
As we journey north, we reach the medieval city of Trondheim, a vibrant mix of historic civic architecture and a bustling student population.  Nidaros Cathedral is considered one of the most sacred buildings in all of Norway and rightly nicknamed ‘Norway’s Notre Dame’. Whilst here, take the time to visit the Archbishop’s Palace to view Norway’s crown jewels.Not far from Nidaros Cathedral is Gamle Bybro, a charming wooden bridge that sits over River Nid and marks the entrance to the old Hanseatic district of Bakklandet. This neighbourhood features colourful wooden wharves that stand on stilts and host some of the city’s most trendy eateries, making Bakklandet a key destination for all foodies.
Day 4 - Day 4 - Welcome to the Arctic!
In the early hours of the morning, the ship crosses the Arctic Circle and enters the Arctic. Join us out on deck to mark the moment with a traditional ceremony that will be sure to wake you up fully! Above the Arctic Circle, your chances of spotting the majestic Northern Lights increase.As we call into the northern city of Bodø, gaze up at the snow-capped Børvass peaks before experiencing the fabulous street art this city has to offer. From here, we continue across the Vestfjord and towards the Lofoten archipelago which greets you with the stunning sight of the 1,000 metre-high Lofoten Wall.
Day 5 - Day 5 - Expand your Northern Lights knowledge
Welcome to the historic Arctic exploration capital of Tromsø, a hive of culture, history and Northern Lights knowledge.Today you will visit the Science Museum of Northern Norway, learning more about the Northern Lights through a range of exhibits and installations. As part of this trip, you’ll stop at The Planetarium and its full-dome ceiling offering 360-degree views and high-quality digital projectors showing daily films about 'Experiencing the Aurora' and the constellations. Our expert astronomers will be joining you on the trip so make sure to ask them lots of questions!
Day 6 - Day 6 - The Northern Lights and the North Cape
As we reach Honningsvåg, at the top of the European mainland, be sure to visit the globe monument at the North Cape. This is a popular excursion, so make sure you book early!From Honningsvåg, look out for the striking rock formation called Finnkirka near the entrance to Kjøllefjord village. The building-like pillars were once an ancient sacrificial site for the indigenous nomadic Sámi people who still inhabit and herd reindeer in the region today. As we continue north towards Kirkenes, we sail past Slettnes Lighthouse, the northernmost lighthouse in continental Europe.
Day 7 - Day 7 - To the top and back again
By breakfast, we will have reached the top of Norway and the town of Kirkenes, situated just a few kilometres from the border. It is at this point of our coastal voyage that we turn and return south. The ports we visited at night are now seen during the day for a full Norwegian coastal experience.
Day 8 - Day 8 - The extreme north
Once the northernmost town in the world, (before Longyearbyern, Svalbard) Hammerfest is a key destination for Astronomy lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Be sure to trek up Mount Salen, for views over the town and picturesque landscapes. You can also take a moment to see the UNESCO-listed Meridian Column which commemorates the first-ever measurement of the globe.As we sail, keep your eyes open for the Northern Lights, but you might also spot pods of Orcas and Humpback Whales migrating to these waters to feed on herring.
Day 9 - Day 9 - Welcome to Lofoten
Passing through the legendary Lofoten and Vesterålen archipelagos, the ship negotiates an intricate network of inlets and isles through one of the most beautiful stretches of the Norwegian coast. From here, the coastal landscape changes from rolling hills to soaring mountains.Along this stretch of coastline is where The Hurtigruten Coastal Express story began, in the coastal town of Stokmarknes in 1893. Don’t miss the Hurtigrutemuseet in Stokmarknes, a museum dedicated to The Coastal Express housed in the full-sized and fully restored ship MS Finnmarken from 1952.
Day 10 - Day 10 - A date with the Seven Sisters
Leave behind the magic of the Arctic Circle and head towards the ports of Bodø and Ørnes. Marvel at the Seven Sisters mountain range where local legend has it seven beautiful troll princesses, fleeing from an unwanted suitor, got caught out as the sun rose, turning them into the seven beautiful mountains you see today.The landscapes will continue to amaze you! Don’t miss views of the Torghatten Mountain, with its distinctive hole right through the centre. There is a local legend as to why and how this mountain came to have such a hole. Make sure you ask your Expedition Team about it!
Day 11 - Day 11 - The old cities and the sea
An early morning arrival in Trondheim will give you time to further explore the city and discover any sites you might have missed on the northbound section of the journey. Some insider advice: treat yourself to a barista-brewed coffee and Nordic patisserie in one of the many cafés in the Bakklandet district before walking up to Kristiansten Fort for great views over the city.In the afternoon, we dock at Kristiansund, a quaint harbour town spread over three islands. Meander along the cobbled streets of the old town and be sure to sample the local delicacy of klippfisk, salted cod that’s dried on the surrounding cliffs.
Day 12 - Day 12 - The final chapter of your fairytale voyage
A few nautical miles are left between you and Bergen today as your Astronomy Voyage draws to a close. Before we say our goodbyes, we voyage across the mouth of Sognefjord, the longest and widest fjord in the whole of Norway.As we arrive in Bergen, it’s time to say goodbye to the Captain, crew and astronomers who have accompanied you on this unique voyage along Norway’s spectacular coastline. However, if you aren’t ready to leave Norway just yet, there are plenty of extension options that will make your trip that extra bit more special.
Day 13 - Please Note:
The day-by-day programme will give you a few ideas about what you can see and do on your coastal voyage in Norway, but bear in mind that this itinerary is just an indication of what you can experience. After all, this is a sailing where the elements rule and weather conditions might vary, which is why every voyage is unique.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
06-10-202617-10-2026AUD $5,378Polar Inside
06-10-202617-10-2026AUD $6,899Polar Outside
06-10-202617-10-2026AUD $7,660Arctic Superior
03-11-202614-11-2026AUD $4,713Polar Inside
03-11-202614-11-2026AUD $5,398Polar Outside
03-11-202614-11-2026AUD $5,750Arctic Superior
05-11-202616-11-2026AUD $4,713Polar Inside
05-11-202616-11-2026AUD $6,007Polar Outside
05-11-202616-11-2026AUD $7,302Arctic Superior
02-01-202713-01-2027AUD $5,398Polar Outside
02-01-202713-01-2027AUD $6,655Arctic Superior
02-01-202713-01-2027AUD $4,713Polar Inside
26-01-202706-02-2027AUD $4,979Polar Inside
26-01-202706-02-2027AUD $5,712Polar Outside
26-01-202706-02-2027AUD $7,057Arctic Superior
28-02-202711-03-2027AUD $4,290Polar Inside
28-02-202711-03-2027AUD $6,654Polar Outside
28-02-202711-03-2027AUD $7,383Arctic Superior
28-03-202708-04-2027AUD $5,378Polar Inside
28-03-202708-04-2027AUD $6,183Polar Outside
28-03-202708-04-2027AUD $7,660Arctic Superior
30-03-202710-04-2027AUD $5,378Polar Inside
30-03-202710-04-2027AUD $6,183Polar Outside
30-03-202710-04-2027AUD $7,660Arctic Superior
25-09-202706-10-2027AUD $6,143Polar Inside
25-09-202706-10-2027AUD $7,699Polar Outside
25-09-202706-10-2027AUD $7,950Polar Outside
25-09-202706-10-2027AUD $7,950Polar Outside
25-09-202706-10-2027AUD $8,553Arctic Superior
25-09-202706-10-2027AUD $9,306Arctic Superior
23-10-202703-11-2027AUD $5,530Polar Inside
23-10-202703-11-2027AUD $6,368Polar Outside
23-10-202703-11-2027AUD $6,368Polar Outside
23-10-202703-11-2027AUD $6,897Polar Outside
23-10-202703-11-2027AUD $6,897Polar Outside
23-10-202703-11-2027AUD $7,117Polar Outside
23-10-202703-11-2027AUD $7,646Arctic Superior
23-10-202703-11-2027AUD $8,307Arctic Superior
26-10-202706-11-2027AUD $5,530Polar Inside
26-10-202706-11-2027AUD $6,059Polar Outside
26-10-202706-11-2027AUD $6,897Polar Outside
26-10-202706-11-2027AUD $7,117Polar Outside
26-10-202706-11-2027AUD $7,117Polar Outside
26-10-202706-11-2027AUD $7,646Arctic Superior
26-10-202706-11-2027AUD $8,307Arctic Superior
22-11-202703-12-2027AUD $4,916Polar Outside
22-11-202703-12-2027AUD $5,153Polar Outside
22-11-202703-12-2027AUD $5,153Polar Outside
22-11-202703-12-2027AUD $5,559Polar Outside
22-11-202703-12-2027AUD $5,728Polar Outside
22-11-202703-12-2027AUD $6,135Arctic Superior
23-11-202704-12-2027AUD $4,509Polar Inside
23-11-202704-12-2027AUD $5,153Polar Outside
23-11-202704-12-2027AUD $5,559Polar Outside
23-11-202704-12-2027AUD $5,728Polar Outside
23-11-202704-12-2027AUD $5,728Polar Outside
23-11-202704-12-2027AUD $6,135Arctic Superior
23-11-202704-12-2027AUD $6,643Arctic Superior
17-01-202828-01-2028AUD $5,632Polar Inside
17-01-202828-01-2028AUD $7,030Polar Outside
17-01-202828-01-2028AUD $7,256Polar Outside
17-01-202828-01-2028AUD $7,256Polar Outside
17-01-202828-01-2028AUD $7,797Arctic Superior
17-01-202828-01-2028AUD $8,473Arctic Superior
19-01-202830-01-2028AUD $5,632Polar Inside
19-01-202830-01-2028AUD $6,489Polar Outside
19-01-202830-01-2028AUD $6,489Polar Outside
19-01-202830-01-2028AUD $7,030Polar Outside
19-01-202830-01-2028AUD $7,030Polar Outside
19-01-202830-01-2028AUD $7,256Polar Outside
19-01-202830-01-2028AUD $7,797Arctic Superior
19-01-202830-01-2028AUD $8,473Arctic Superior
18-02-202829-02-2028AUD $5,803Polar Inside
18-02-202829-02-2028AUD $6,364Polar Outside
18-02-202829-02-2028AUD $6,692Polar Outside
18-02-202829-02-2028AUD $6,692Polar Outside
18-02-202829-02-2028AUD $7,253Polar Outside
18-02-202829-02-2028AUD $7,487Polar Outside
18-02-202829-02-2028AUD $8,049Arctic Superior
18-02-202829-02-2028AUD $15,630Expedition Suite
17-03-202828-03-2028AUD $5,973Polar Inside
17-03-202828-03-2028AUD $6,555Polar Outside
17-03-202828-03-2028AUD $7,476Polar Outside
17-03-202828-03-2028AUD $7,719Polar Outside
17-03-202828-03-2028AUD $7,719Polar Outside
17-03-202828-03-2028AUD $8,301Arctic Superior
17-03-202828-03-2028AUD $9,028Arctic Superior

Inclusions

    • Discover more about the magical Northern Lights, the Arctic sky and the solar system with our onboard lectures from renowned astronomers; Ian Ridpath, John Mason, Sadie Jones and Tom Kerss.
    • Enjoy an exclusive visit to the Northern Lights Planetarium in Tromsø with our astronomy experts.
    • Voyage along Norway's coast under the dancing skies of the Northern Lights, visiting 34 ports, more than 100 fjords and 1,000 mountains.
    • Northern Lights Promise – see the Northern Lights or we’ll give you a FREE 6 or 7-day cruise for the next Northern Lights Season – T&Cs apply

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