White Winter Expedition: Bergen - North Cape - Bergen (Otto Sverdrup)

Description

Experience an early spring Norwegian Arctic expedition to lovely Honningsvåg and the legendary North Cape. Enjoy exciting winter activities under snow-clad peaks and skies that shift from brilliant blue to all colours of the rainbow. As we sail south to Bergen, enjoy the melting snow, powerful waterfalls, and the season’s first wildflowers on this unforgettable journey.

Trip Name

White Winter Expedition: Bergen - North Cape - Bergen (Otto Sverdrup)

Days

Overview

Vessel Type: Expedition Length: 138.5 m Built / Refurbished: 2002 / 2020 MS Otto Sverdrup is designed for exciting, sustainable expedition cruises along the Norwegian coastline MS Otto Sverdrup (formerly MS Finnmarken) is named after a great Norwegian polar hero. Sverdrup was the first person to ski across Greenland, was a key member of polar expeditions and was the captain of the legendary Arctic ship “Fram”. He also served as a Hurtigruten captain between expeditions. The re-designed MS Otto Sverdrup is an ice class 1C ship. It's equipped with advanced maritime technology that makes her exceptionally well suited for expedition cruises in Norway. Comfort, Learning and Wellness Natural Scandinavian materials like granite, oak, birch and wool have been used in the ship´s renovation to create a relaxed and stylish atmosphere that adds to the premium onboard experience. This ship also offers a chance to indulge yourself in our new Wellness area, complete with gym, lounge, treatment rooms and sauna, and guests can enjoy the outdoor pool and hot tubs on deck 7. For taking in the magnificent scenery, Observation decks are located on deck 8, and in the aft of decks 5 and 6. Low impact exploration MS Otto Sverdrup is an advanced, more sustainable vessel. She is equipped with a battery pack, that will support the ship’s engines, and drastically cut emissions. The ship also has the ability to access shore power when docked, cutting shoreside emissions. And the vessel’s engines are upgraded to low-emission motors, complying with all known and upcoming regulations. Facilities on board MS Otto Sverdrup Cabins and public areas Norway´s stunning scenery is reflected in the ship´s interior design. Comfortable cabins and suites feature natural Scandinavian materials, such as granite, oak, birch and wool. Our stylish and welcoming public areas create great places to watch the world´s most beautiful coastline pass by. Science Center The hub of on-board learning is our Science Centre, an edutainment venue where guests and crew meet to create a deeper understanding of the areas we explore. Located on deck 4, this area is packed with state-of-the-art technology and interactive tools. Restaurants Our three on-board restaurants feature menus inspired by Norwegian traditions, as well as international cuisine. Whether enjoying your meal at Aune – the main diningroom; Fredheim – the informal international meeting place; or the specialty restaurant Lindstrøm, you can expect honest and delicious cuisine that reflects our destinations. Wellness and Relaxation After a day of exploring, guests can relax and rejuvenate in the hot tubs, exercise in the gym, enjoy the scenery in the elegant Explorer Lounge, surf the wi-fi network, or browse in the on-board shop. Expedition Team Your onboard Expedition Team will host interesting lectures, presentations and activities in the Science Center, on deck and on shore. These experts have a single mission: to enhance your experience by engaging you and interpreting the nature, wildlife, and culture you encounter during the voyage. They will offer the chance to join in hikes and other exciting activities during the journey. We provide all the basic gear needed for each excursion.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Day 1 Bergen The Gateway to the Fjords

Your winter expedition cruise starts in Bergen - a beautiful city surrounded by seven mountains. The ideal way to explore this cultural gateway to the fjords is by foot. Bergen was founded in 1070 AD, and retains much of its character, charm and history. Stroll in the historic UNESCO-listed Bryggen district with colourful wharfs dating back to the 14th century.Take the funicular to the top of Mount Fløyen to soak in the sweeping views of the city, fjords, islands and distant North Sea. Back in town, spend some time in one of many cafés and restaurants, or visit the famous fish market.After embarkation, sit down to a tasty dinner buffet featuring fresh coastal produce. We sail north along the Hjeltefjord, the same route the Vikings once plied.Spend the rest of the evening getting to know the Expedition Team and fellow passengers, relaxing in the lounge, or soaking in the hot tub on deck.

Day 2 - Day 2 Ålesund - Half day Art Nouveau City

Today we dock in Ålesund, renowned for its Art Nouveau architecture. A devastating fire in 1904 burned most of the town down and it was rebuilt in the fashionable style of the time, Art Nouveau.Feel like an invigorating hike? Climb the 412 steps to the top of Mount Aksla. Along the way, see two statues, one of Kaiser Wilhelm, and the other of the Viking Gange-Rolv, or Rollo, who is reputedly the forefather of William the Conqueror. At the summit, take in great views of Ålesund’s charming city centre and surrounding islands stretching into the Norwegian Sea.Today’s included activity is visiting the Norwegian Aquarium. Built directly into the rocky coastline, the aquarium is another of Ålesund’s architectural wonders. Observe native fish species, octopus, seals and penguins.You can also join other interesting optional excursions.

Day 3 - Day 3 Brønnøysund - Half day Home of the Famed Torghatten

Brønnøysund is a pretty little town of 5,000 that marks the halfway point along Norway’s long coastline and is known for the dramatic Torghatten – a mountain with a huge natural tunnel in its centre.You can join local guides here on an included walk around town, visiting the fishing boat docks and the beautiful parish church from the 19th century. Brønnøysund is also known as the gateway to Vega Islands – a treasured UNESCO-listed archipelago. Join an optional excursion here to explore how generations of fishermen and farmers have maintained a sustainable way of life for centuries based on tradition of eider duck farming.As we leave Brønnøysund, we will sail up along the coast of Helgeland – passing the Seven Sisters mountain range. Legend has it that seven beautiful troll sisters were caught out at sunrise and turned to stone, thus creating the seven beautiful peaks.In the evening, we sail past the small islet of Vikingen, through which the Arctic Circle passes.

Day 4 - Day 4 Reine and Svolvær - Full day Magical Lofoten Archipelago

Lofoten´s dramatic snowy peaks, hidden coves and pristine beaches are world famous. It is also is known for excellent fishing and picturesque villages.You will never forget your first approach to Lofoten, seeing the massive wall of mountains rising out of the sea.We dock at idyllic Reine in the morning. Red and white fishermen’s huts dot the shoreline and surrounding snow-capped peaks shoot out of the sea here. It’s no wonder Reine is one of Norway’s most frequently photographed landscapes.Care to discover the region’s history and culture? Join us on an included excursion to the time-honoured fishing village of Å to visit the Norwegian Fishing Village Museum and Lofoten Stockfish Museum. You can also join other optional excursions in Lofoten.After a lovely morning in Reine, we sail along the Lofoten wall to Svolvær, where age-old seagoing traditions are preserved. The surrounding islands, steep mountains, beautiful beaches and sheltered bays offer many exciting winter activity opportunities like snowshoeing, skiing and even surfing (at Unstad). Solvær’s shops, galleries, cafés and restaurants provide a number of in-town activities.After departing Lofoten, we sail to incredibly beautiful and narrow Trollfjord, where mountain walls rise right out of the sea. In winter, it’s not possible to sail into the fjord, so we will marvel at this unique natural wonder from its entrance.

Day 5 - Day 5 Tromsø - Full day Arctic Winter Adventures

If you’re looking for a winter wonderland with plenty of adventure, Tromsø is the perfect destination.Tromsø’s many winter activities include dog-sledging, skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling. You can also explore the city’s fascinating history, culture and bold architecture. The Arctic Cathedral is a definite highlight, featuring an enormous stained-glass mosaic and late-night Northern Lights concerts until the end of March.Your included activity in Tromsø is a ride in the sky on the Fjellheisen Cable Car, taking in breathtaking views across the city, mountains and fjords, and possibly, the Northern Lights.You also can join in other optional excursions like nature hikes with our Expedition Team, fjord boat trips and scenic bus rides.

Day 6 - Day 6 Honningsvåg - Full day Edge of the World

Today we dock at the small fishing town of Honningsvåg - the gateway to spectacular North Cape. This is also where the ship turns around and heads back south.You start your day with a scenic bus ride from Honningsvåg, passing small bays and tiny villages, and crossing a mountain plateau before arriving at North Cape. At 71°10’21´N, North Cape is just 2,100 km away from the Geographic North Pole.Stand at the edge of the 300 m high cliff gaze across the Barents Sea. Only the Svalbard Islands separate you from the North Pole. The views here surpass the horizon and feel like the end of the world. It’s a great place to take stunning photos. Enjoy an informative short film and exhibits at the North Cape Hall.Back at Honningsvåg, you take a stroll past charming houses, stop into nice shops and see a church that was the only building left standing at the end of World War II.

Day 7 - Day 7 Alta - Half day Adventure in Aurora City

This is a perfect outdoor adventure destination, combining a wide range of winter activities with a personal, non-touristy vibe. You may join several optional excursions, like visiting a Sami family and an ice hotel or going dog-sledging.Alta started out as a small Sami settlement some 500 years ago and is now the largest city in this part of Norway.Did you know that Alta is the epicentre for groundbreaking research on the Northern Lights? This amazing phenomenon has amazed and frightened people for thousands of years. Alta lies directly under the Northern Lights oval and stable weather creates good viewing conditions. The Aurora is frequently seen here during winter. Norwegian scientist Kristian Birkeland even built an observatory near Alta, which led to his discovery of what causes the natural phenomenon.Hurtigruten invites you to learn about this mystical light show during today’s included activity - an interactive exhibition revealing the truth about the Aurora Borealis at the Northern Lights Cathedral.Alta is also a big dog-sledging town. Many of the dog-sledge teams competing in the annual Finnmark Race are located here, and some of those kennels can be visited.

Day 8 - Day 8 Narvik - Half day Snow-covered Wilderness and History

Exciting winter activity options in Narvik include a cable car to a mountain summit for breathtaking views and good alpine and cross-country skiing! Another option is spending the day at the world’s northernmost wildlife park, which is home to bears, foxes, lynx, wolves, moose, muskox and other Arctic animals.Flanked by islands to the west and surrounded by mountains in every other direction, Narvik is as rich in nature as it is in history.A fierce naval battle was fought here in 1940. Today we invite you to learn about it at the Narvik War Museum – a modern facility with architectonic and interactive experiences. You can also take a trip on the Ofoten Railway.

Day 9 - Day 9 Sandnessjøen - Half day The Seven Sisters in White

As we approach Sandnessjøen, you get a marvellous view of the snow-covered Seven Sisters mountain range. These peaks might be Sandnessjøen's main claim to fame, but the town is also rich in Viking history.Today we invite you to learn more about the Vikings with a visit to Sandnes, the ancient homestead of one of Northern Norway’s most powerful chieftains. Hear fascinating stories about the Viking Age and leaders like Sigrid of Sandnes, one of the very few women ever mentioned in the Viking Sagas.You can also join an optional excursion to learn more about the Norwegian poet and priest Petter Dass, with visits to a modern museum and charming medieval church at Alstahaug.

Day 10 - Day 10 Kristiansund and Molde From Bacalao to Roses

Kristiansund’s location on four sea islands in the Norwegian Sea features incredible winter landscapes. Today’s included activity is a scenic bus ride south along the renowned Atlantic Road, one of Norway’s National Scenic Routes and most-visited tourist destinations. The 8.2 km long highway spans a total of eight bridges and is surrounded by picturesque countryside in white and vistas to the open sea. The excursion ends in Molde, where you rejoin the ship.Molde is known as the ‘City of Roses’ after the city’s many rose gardens, which may well be covered in snow. Molde’s scenic viewpoint, Varden, is worth a visit with glorious views across the city, local fjords and archipelagos and the snowy peaks of the Romsdal Alps in the distance.

Day 11 - Day 11 Fjærland - Half day Glaciers and Stunning Scenery

This morning, we sail into Norway’s longest fjord, scenic Sognefjorden. We cruise deep into the fjord to the little village of Fjærland, an idyllic hamlet of just 300 inhabitants - a delightful place for a stroll.Nearby Jostedalsbreen Glacier is the largest glacier on the European continent. Get close to two of the glacial limbs - Bøyabreen and Supphellebreen and learn about how they shaped the mountains and beautiful fjords of Norway at the Norwegian Glacier Museum. In Fjærland, you will also find Norwegian Book Town with several picturesque second-hand book shops housed in unlikely places. Book Town opened in 1996 as the eighth in the world and the first in Scandinavia.

Day 12 - Day 12 Bergen Final Chapter of the Fairy Tale

In the early morning, we arrive back in Bergen. When you disembark, take with you the memories of a unique Norway winter expedition cruise filled with unforgettable experiences and encounters with wildlife, stunning nature and local people.Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end, but we hope to see you on board for new adventures in the very near future.

Day 13 - Please Note:

Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

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Inclusions

Explore Norway’s famed coast during its most beautiful winter season
Enjoy exciting winter activities in the far north
Visit fascinating coastal cities and snow-dusted remote villages
Benefit from cruising with the true Norway experts