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Complete Norway | Fjords and Midnight Sun – 16 Day Expedition

Complete Norway | Fjords and Midnight Sun – 16 Day Expedition

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Description

Learn more about what you will experience on the Classic Roundtrip Voyage. The day-by-day programme will give you a few ideas about what you can see and do on your coastal voyage, 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 expedition with Hurtigruten is unique.

Trip Name
Complete Norway | Fjords and Midnight Sun - 16 Day Expedition
Days
16
Overview
Since 1893, the Hurtigruten ships have been a hallmark of the Norwegian coast. Today, our ships sail to the Arctic and Antarctica, and many destinations in between. On each ship you will find modern facilities carefully blended with true character. MS Fridtjof Nansen MS Fridtjof Nansen is the latest addition to Hurtigruten’s fleet of custom built ships – and the next generation expedition ship. She will explore some of the most spectacular corners of the globe. Featuring Hurtigruten's revolutionary battery hybrid powered propulsion system, MS Fridtjof Nansen will be a near identical twin to her sister ship MS Roald Amundsen. Combining state of the art technology and premium on board experience with Hurtigruten’s 125 years of experience and unparalleled destinations, the two Norwegian built ships introduces the next generation of adventure travel. MS Fram The original Fram was the most famous explorer ship of its time, and the achievements of her expeditions are unparalleled. MS Fram brings on the heritage of the original Fram, using the most advanced technology to make her exceptionally well suited for expedition voyages in Polar Regions. MS Kong Harald Norway's reigning monarch, a seasoned sailor, lends his name to this remarkable vessel. MS Kong Harald was refurbished in 2016 and now features a modern, Arctic-inspired interior. On board are three different restaurants, the Multe bakery and ice cream bar, a sauna and fitness room. Out on deck you can enjoy the view from one of our two hot tubs. There is a comfortable bar at the front of the ship where you can enjoy a nice traditional drink. The vessel also has a large compass area were you find the reception, the Expedition Team, conference room and shop. The top deck of the boat features a sun deck, observation saloon and panorama lounge, all of which provide splendid views of spectacular coastal scenery. MS Maud MS Maud is designed to take you on an expedition of the Norwegian coast in maximum comfort, equipped for a sustainable and memorable expedition. MS Maud, the current MS Trollfjord, is named after one of the most famous polar vessels of all time, Roald Amundsens “Maud” from 1917. The original “Maud” got her name from the first Queen of modern-day Norway. She also had her namesake in Hurtigruten’s 1925 flagship DS Dronning Maud (“DS Queen Maud”). Today´s MS Maud is an ice class 1C ship equipped with advanced technology that makes her exceptionally well-suited for expedition cruises in Norway. MS Nordkapp MS Nordkapp is named after the northernmost point on mainland Europe: North Cape (71ºN) - one of the geographical highpoints you can visit on a Hurtigruten voyage. MS Nordkapp was refurbished in 2016 and now features a modern, Arctic-inspired interior. On board are three different restaurants, a Multe bakery and ice cream bar, a sauna and fitness room. Out on deck you can enjoy the view from one of our two hot tubs. We also have a cosy bar at the front of the ship where you can enjoy a nice traditional drink. The ship additionally has a large compass area with reception, a tour guide, conference room and shop. MS Nordkapp was christened by Norway´s Queen Sonja in 1996 and her maiden voyage was to the Shetland Islands. The ship started sailing the Norwegian coast in April 1996. She has also sailed in Antarctica. Since 2007, the vessel has been part of Hurtigruten´s fleet of ships dedicated to sailing the Norwegian coastline. MS Nordlys Both the name and the interior design of this modern expedition ship are inspired by the spectacular Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). The art, décor and colours employed aboard this ship are all inspired by the northern lights. The delicate aesthetic creates a distinct and unique on-board ambience. Passengers are invited to relax after a long day experiencing Hurtigruten´s various excursions and activities in comfy reclining chairs in the one of the ship’s lounges. In May 2019 MS Nordlys was refurbished. All cabins got a makeover, while new cabin grades were added. The upgrade saw a number of new features being added to the ship. MS Nordstjernen MS Nordstjernen is named after the North Star or Stella Polaris, famous for helping seafarers find their way back home and the Vikings to navigate the north. The ship was built for the Coastal Voyage fleet in 1956 and extensively modernised in 2000 for exclusive Arctic sailing. Today she takes explorers on adventures in the waters around Spitsbergen. Despite modernisation, she still retains the aura of an old Atlantic ship, restored to her former splendour with new brass, classic wooden interiors and all her original art. Out on deck you come extra close to the untouched nature of the Polar Arctic and with roofs over a lot of the deck space you can enjoy being outside, even in rough weather. MS Nordstjernen is equipped with a dining room and bar, a café, a panorama lounge and a library. Inside you’ll find cosy interior and exterior cabins, the majority of which have upper and lower berths. All rooms and deck surfaces exhibit that old, beautiful wood. MS Nordnorge MS Nordnorge is aptly named for northern Norway, most of which lies above the Arctic Circle. MS Nordnorge was refurbished in 2016 and now features a modern, Arctic-inspired interior. On board are three different restaurants, the Multe bakery and ice cream bar, a sauna and fitness room. Out on deck you can enjoy the view from one of our two hot tubs. We have a comfortable bar at the front of the ship where you can enjoy a nice traditional drink. The vessel also has a large compass area where you find the reception, a tour guide, conference room and shop.  MS Polarlys Polarlys is Norwegian for `polar light´, and refers to the natural Arctic phenomenon we pursue in winter. MS Polarlys was refurbished in 2016 and now features a modern, Arctic-inspired interior. On board are three different restaurants, the Multe bakery and ice cream bar, a sauna and fitness room. Out on deck you can enjoy the view from one of our two hot tubs. We have a comfortable bar at the front of the ship where you can enjoy a nice traditional drink. The vessel also has a large compass area where you find the reception, the expedition team, conference room and shop. MS Roald Amundsen In 2019, Hurtigruten added a brand new ship to its fleet: the MS Roald Amundsen. The state of the art vessel features new and environmentally sustainable hybrid technology that will reduce fuel consumption and show the world that hybrid propulsion on large ships is possible. MS Roald Amundsen is the first of two hybrid ships Hurtigruten will add to its fleet over the next few years. Emissions are cut by sailing with electrical propulsion. Innovative sustainable technology reduces fuel consumption and CO2-emissions on the ships by 20 percent. Named after the first man to cross Antarctica and reach the South Pole, MS Roald Amundsen leads the way towards an even more sustainable way of travelling. The ship is specially constructed for voyages in polar waters. It serves as a comfortable basecamp at sea – bringing adventurers from all over the world to the most spectacular destinations in the most sustainable way. MS Richard With MS Richard With proudly carries the name of Hurtigruten's founder. It is aptly designed and built in classic maritime style. When Captain Richard With established the Norwegian Coastal Express in 1893, he made an enormous impact on life along the Norwegian coastline. The MS Richard With lives up to that legacy. Relax in the ship´s panorama lounges and take in the unforgettable views of remarkable coastal scenery, much of it the same as when the first Hurtigruten boats sailed by more than a century ago. Beautiful art throughout the ship´s interior adds contemporary elegance to the vessel´s maritime ambience. MS Spitsbergen Our new ship, MS Spitsbergen will take you on a voyage beyond the ordinary. MS Spitsbergen is named after the crown jewel of Arctic Norway – the Svalbard archipelago and its biggest island, Spitsbergen. Hurtigruten has a long history of travelling to Spitsbergen, beginning in 1896 with the `Sports Route´. MS Spitsbergen cruises along the Norwegian coast from September to May, and becomes part of our global Explorer sailings during the rest of the year. After complete reconstruction, MS Spitsbergen joined the Hurtigruten fleet in 2016. The ship features high technical standards as well as comfortable, modern public areas and cabins. The vessel´s fresh Scandinavian design reflects a colour palette derived from the sea. She is modern and environmentally progressive, and we plan further improvements that will reduce emissions and fuel consumption even more. The new ship’s maneuverability and optimal size make her quite suitable for exploring polar waters. MS Trollfjord The ship is named after the spectacular Trollfjord in Lofoten. Inside she provides spectacular comfort, modern facilities and interior design that makes extensive use of Norwegian wood and stone. The art exhibited aboard ship includes original paintings that were once on board the old Hurtigruten ship, MS Harald Jarl. MS Trollfjord´s sun deck and hot tub are on deck 9. The ship´s spacious, two-storey panorama lounge is above the bow. Its wall-to-wall windows bathe the lounge in natural light and provide extraordinary views.  MS Vesterålen MS Vesterålen is named after the first Hurtigruten ship that sailed along Norway´s rugged coastline in 1893. She is one of our smaller boats and has an intimate on-board atmosphere. MS Vesterålen provides passengers an authentic heritage experience. In its exciting programme you will learn more about the ship´s maritime operations, logistics and hotel operations. You will get an opportunity to get closer to the Hurtigruten operation and to learn more about the operation along the Norwegian coast. 

Itinerary



Day 1 - DAY 1 : Oslo - Arrive In Oslo
Arrive in Oslo and spend the day exploring the historical and beautiful Norwegian capital.Its compact size makes it ideal to discover and experience the best, the city has to offer. For the cultural loves, the Bydgdøy peninsula is home to several museums like the outdoor museum, Folkemuseet and the Viking ship museum. Downtown Oslo, is bustling with trendy restaurants, bars, cafes and green open spaces such as the Vigeland Sculpture Park and Ekeberg Park.At the heart of the city is the Royal Palace, home to the Norwegian Royal family since work began in 1814.
Day 2 - DAY 2 : Flåm - Oslo - Myrdal - Flåm
After breakfast, make your own way to Oslo Central Railway Station to commence your ‘Norway in a Nutshell’ adventure by boarding the train to Myrdal. Enjoy one of the world's most scenic rail journeys as you travel from Oslo through farmland, past lush green forests and majestic peaks.At Myrdal join the famous Flåm Railway - a marvel of railway engineering, descending more than 900 metres to the town of Flåm. Take time to explore at your the town and even a visit to the local brewery or the Flåm railway museum.
Day 3 - DAY 3 : Voss - Flåm - Gudvangen - Voss
After breakfast, board the ferry from Flåm to Gudvangen, enjoying the spectacular views as you pass through the narrow Nærøyfjord. Known for extensive mountain peaks, deep valleys, fast-flowing rivers and thunderous waterfalls, the journey along the valley from Gudvangen to Voss is as beautiful as it sounds. For those wanting a view to remember, take the Voss Gondola to the summit of Mount Hanguren (820 metres above sea level). The panoramic views of the valley and surrounding areas are more than worth the journey. 
Day 4 - DAY 4 : Bergen - Voss - Bergen
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and spend the morning exploring Voss, before taking the train for the last bit of your journey to Bergen.  Once you arrive in Bergen, take the afternoon to explore this colourful gateway to the fjords. Bergen was founded in 1070 AD, and retains a great deal of its character, charm and history. Visit the UNESCO-listed Bryggen district with colourful wharfs dating back to the 14th century.You may enjoy a stroll in the cobblestone alleyways, a bite at an outdoor café or restaurant, a trip on the Fløibanen funicular or a visit to the famous fish market. 
Day 5 - DAY 5 : Bergen - Gateway to the Fjords
Following breakfast and another chance to explore this picturesque city, join the ship at the port to begin your voyage towards the Arctic circle and the Midnight Sun.After we depart, enjoy a tasty dinner buffet made from fresh coastal produce. We sail north from Bergen along the Viking route of Hjeltefjord. Spend the rest of the evening relaxing as you admire the spectacular landscapes from the deck or in our panorama lounge. Seven of our ships along the Norwegian Coast have Hurtigruten Guides. You are welcome to join them on hikes during many of our port stays or enjoy onboard lectures and activities. 
Day 6 - DAY 6 : Florø - Molde - Architectural and Natural Masterpieces
Enjoy the early morning in the breathtaking Nordfjord, followed by a delicious breakfast. We then sail past West Cape for our approach to Ålesund.Art Nouveau cityÅlesund is renowned for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture and famed Atlanterhavsparken aquarium. Our tour to the aquarium includes a visit to see resident penguins before we continue to nearby Mount Aksla for an amazing view. Into the fjordsIn the summer, we set our course for the spectacular UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord, passing sheer, 800 metre-high cliffs and dramatic waterfalls. The fjord’s pristine natural landscape of steep rock walls, lush green meadows, lonely mountain farms and tiny villages is unforgettable.Mountains and rosesMolde is known as the ‘City of Roses’ because of its lovely municipal gardens. This attractive coastal town has an amazing view of 222 mountain peaks across the fjord, called ‘the Molde Panorama’.
Day 7 - DAY 7 : Kristiansund - Rørvik - History and Charm
Charming Trondheim is home to great history and a rich cultural life.Magical, medieval and modernFounded by Viking king Olav Tryggvason in 997, Trondheim today is a unique mix of the ancient and modern. Join our optional excursion to the soaring Nidaros Cathedral, Norway’s only gothic cathedral and the burial place of St. Olav (Tryggvason). Marvel at the cathedral’s exquisite works of art, architectural details and medieval statues.In summer, we continue to Ringve Museum of Musical History, where Norwegian music´s past is brought to life in a grand manor with a fantastic view.Excursions for every tasteExplore Trondheim by kayak on the River Nid or experience the city by bicycle, for something truly unique, be sure to ride the world’s only bicycle lift, near the quaint Bakklandet neighbourhood. You can also join the Hurtigruten Guides for a hike to discover more of the area.In the afternoon, the ship sails northwest, passing the Kjeungskjær lighthouse, islets and rocky reefs and onwards towards charming Rørvik.
Day 8 - DAY 8 : Brønnøysund - Svolvær - Welcome to the Arctic!
Today we cross the Arctic Circle and the land of the midnight sun. We mark the occasion with a truly memorable traditional ceremony on deck. Forces of natureØrnes is the site of Norway’s second-largest glacier, Svartisen.We then sail along the beautiful coast of Helgeland to Bodø, where you can experience Saltstraumen, the world’s most powerful maelstrom, by small boat.Majestic Lofoten and VikingsThat afternoon, the 1,000 metre-high Lofoten Wall looms on the horizon, ushering us towards majestic granite cliffs and white sandy beaches. Following this, we journey towards Stamsund and the home of the Vikings. Join an excursion to visit the Lofotr Viking Museum, where you are welcomed into the chieftain’s house for a real Viking feast.Going organicBetween Stamsund and Svolvær, you can experience life on an organic herb and cheese farm, or visit the Lofoten’s only craft brewery, in Svolvær.
Day 9 - DAY 9 : Stokmarknes - Skjervøy - In the Footsteps of Polar Heroes
We briefly dock at Risøyhamn, Harstad and Finnsnes in the morning, before continuing to the Arctic exploration capital of Tromsø for a prolonged stay. Here, you can taste beer from the world’s northernmost brewery.Today it is a modern city with many activities on offer, from an aquarium and several quality museums to the world’s northernmost botanical garden. The city is also a popular place to experience the unique phenomenon of the Midnight Sun. All year, you can join the Hurtigruten Guides for hikes and discover more of the Tromsø area.Get close to marine wildlifeWant to experience serenity on the sea? Join us for a kayaking excursion in summer along Tromsø’s coastline - a great way to get close to marine wildlife.
Day 10 - DAY 10 : Øksfjord - Berlevåg - Top of the World - North Cape
Experience the North CapeAfter a brief stop in Hammerfest, we arrive in Havøysund the world’s northernmost fishing village. One of the most popular excursions is a visit to the North Cape, one of the northernmost points on the European continent marked by the photogenic globe monument.For those who like to wake up early, enjoy a lavish breakfast buffet in the North Cape Hall while looking out over the Barents Sea, before experiencing the four seasons of the North Cape through a panoramic film.Sailing northThe ship continues north into the heartland of the Sámi people. Visit Kjøllefjord, where you can learn about the Sámi way of life and hear traditional joiking (song).
Day 11 - DAY 11 : Båtsfjord - Berlevåg - Russian Border and Turning Point
We arrive early into Vadsø before docking in Kirkenes - the ship’s turning point for the return journey.Streets with Russian namesThe Russian border is a just few kilometres from Kirkenes and you’ll notice local road signs in both Norwegian and Russian. There are many ways to experience the Russian influence on the local area with many different excursions and activities. For those who like a bit of adrenaline, take to four wheels and ATV/Quad-biking towards the Russian border, whilst those who enjoy a more relaxed way of travelling there are bus and hiking tours available. Southbound and downAs the ship starts its voyage south, remember that you’ve seen only half of what Norway’s coastline offers. The ports we visited by night going north are now seen by day.
Day 12 - DAY 12 : Mehamn - Tromsø - Unmatched Scenery
North Cape breakfastWe again dock at Honningsvåg, where you can join an excursion that includes eating breakfast at North Cape. The ship continues to Hammerfest, where you can see the UNESCO-listed Meridian Column. You can also join a mini-mountain expedition and learn about local polar hero Adolf Lindstrøm.We continue south to Øksfjord with a brief stop at the old trading post of Skjervøy.Midnight adventuresWe then dock at Tromsø, just in time to enjoy a concert at the Arctic Cathedral under the Midnight Sun or explore the city by boat for a unique view of the sights and landmarks. You may want to drop by Ølhallen, a classic pub for a friendly beer.
Day 13 - DAY 13 : Tromsø - Stamsund - Lofoten, Where Nature Amazes
We arrive in Harstad, where you can join the excursion, A taste of Vesterålen.Amazing sceneryThe island groups of Lofoten and Vesterålen offer some of the most stunning natural scenery of the entire voyage. Lofoten is renowned for its steep mountains, sandy beaches, wild nature and picturesque fishing villages.Hurtigruten’s birthplaceWe make a short stop at Risøyhamn, population 200, to deliver passengers, groceries and mail, and then continue to Stokmarknes, where Hurtigruten was founded more than 125 years ago.Go ashore and visit the Hurtigruten Museum. Continuing south, we slip through a passage into the narrow Raftsund, past peaks rising 1,000 metres from the sea.Spectacular TrollfjordWe now reach spectacular Trollfjord, only 2 km long, 100 m wide and surrounded by majestic mountains. If possible, we sail inside, where the dramatic landscape inspires images of fairy tales and trolls. Just north, you can opt to see sea eagles up close by boat.Heart of LofotenAt Svolvær, you can select several excursion options. We then proceed to Stamsund along the massive Lofoten wall.
Day 14 - DAY 14 : Bodø - Rørvik - Across the Arctic Circle
Celebrate crossing the Arctic Circle with a `taste´ of Arctic tradition – a fun ceremony highlighted by a spoonful of cod liver oil.Mountain with a holeAs we sail along the Helgeland coast, you’ll see the strange mountain Torghatten, famous for its distinctive hole in the centre. The opening is 160 m long, 35 m high and 20 m wide, and was created during the ice age. If the weather allows, join a hike with your guides up the mountain.Myths and legendsWe also sail past the Seven Sisters mountain range – with peaks up to 1,100 m high. The story goes that seven beautiful troll sisters got caught out at sunrise and turned to stone, thus the seven beautiful peaks.UNESCO heritageWe next make a short stop at UNESCO Nesna, before moving on to Sandnessjøen. From there we voyage towards Brønnøysund a pretty little town that offers a charming high street and marina. You can join an excursion to the Norwegian Aquaculture Centre for an interesting tour and a taste of fresh salmon.
Day 15 - DAY 15 : Trondheim - Ålesund - Rich History and Living Culture
Spend the morning in Trondheim, then sail past beautiful island scenery and some of Norway’s smallest communities before exploring Kristiansund and Molde.Capital of the Viking AgeStroll around Trondheim in the early morning as the city wakes. Visit the sacred Nidaros Cathedral, resting place of St. Olav. Then, walk to Gamle Bybro bridge for a photo opportunity over Nid River.Treat yourself to quality coffee and a Nordic patisserie in one of the Bakklandet district’s many chic cafés then walk up to Kristiansten Fort for great views of Norway’s third largest city.Dealing in dried codWe dock at Kristiansund’s harbour in the late afternoon. The town is spread over three islands and known for being Norway’s “Bacalao Capital” for the salted cod that’s dried on the surrounding cliffs, called klippfisk in Norwegian.Take a walk around the cobblestone streets of the old town and tour the lively port. You can also head up to the old watchtower at Varden viewpoint for a lovely panorama.Peaks and petalsThe penultimate port of the day is Molde where you can spot the tops of the Romsdal Alps. Nicknamed “The City of Roses”, flowers should be in bloom between mid-June and late August.
Day 16 - DAY 16 : Ålesund - Bergen - A Fjord Farewell
During the night, the ship calls at Ålesund, Torvik and Måløy, as our voyage draws to a close. But before we dock in Bergen, there is some fascinating scenery ahead of us.Glaciers and lush farmlandWe sail through picturesque Nordfjord beneath Jostedal Glacier. This rugged coastal region features farms with fruit orchards and glacial fingers that stretch towards glistening lakes. In the morning, we call at Florø.Back to BergenWe navigate the mouth of the mighty Sognefjord and enjoy superb views of the island-studded coastline before you disembark in Bergen.We hope you will take home memories of stunning nature, wildlife and fascinating culture, and we hope to see you on board again in the near future!Enjoy even more of NorwayTo see more of Norway, we highly recommend our excursion Bergen City Sightseeing (only sold on board) or join one of our Post-programmes to experience more Norwegian cuisine, culture and scenery. 
Day 17 - Please Note:
The day-by-day programme will give you a few ideas about what you can see and do on your voyage, 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 with Hurtigruten is unique.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type

Inclusions

    • Discover our entire original coastal route with 34 ports of call, sailing past more than 100 fjords and 1,000 mountains
    • Start off in Oslo and travel along the famous Norway in a Nutshell route to Bergen via Flam and Voss.
    • Includes a ride on one of the world's most scenic railway trips, The Flam Railway
    • Cross the Arctic Circle and bask in summer’s Midnight Sun
    • Wide choice of optional excursions and onboard Hurtigruten Guides who lead included activities and interpret the cultural and natural treasures on your voyage

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