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Summer in the Islands & Fjords of Norway – A Voyage from Aberdeen to the Norwegian Coast

Summer in the Islands & Fjords of Norway – A Voyage from Aberdeen to the Norwegian Coast

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Description

By any measure, Norway ranks among Europe’s most beautiful and awe-inspiring countries. Its unspoilt landscape and pristine wilderness promise to delight those with a love for the natural world, and its beautiful coastline offers the traveller scenery on an epic scale. Join us for a no-fly cruise as we explore the western shores of this remarkable country, where dramatic fjords, bustling coastal towns, thriving fishing communities, and seemingly endless beaches combine to create an unforgettable journey.
Our roundtrip voyage sails from the port of Aberdeen on the east coast of Scotland, and after a day at sea, we catch our first glimpse of Norway. Here our days will be spent on guided excursions with local guides, on walks with our naturalists, and on the deck of the MS Hebridean Sky as we cruise amongst the fjords. This itinerary uniquely combines the wonders of the natural world with the historical and cultural highlights of the area and we will visit Alesund, where we will marvel at the Art Nouveau architecture; spend time exploring Hardangerfjord with its magnificent Langfoss waterfall; visit the charming small island of Smola; and witness the prolific birdlife at Runde, home to more than 240 species of birds. A highlight for many will be our scenic journey aboard the Rauma Railway, passing towering peaks, cascading waterfalls and iconic landmarks.
There is no better way to explore this endlessly fascinating region than aboard the 118-passenger MS Hebridean Sky and joining you on board will be an expert team who have been selected for their enthusiasm, professionalism and knowledge of the natural world. With our small ship we are able to access some of the more remote harbours that are simply not accessible to the larger cruise ships and ferries, allowing us to get up close to see nature at its rawest, cruise rugged coastlines, witness vibrant colours and admire the prolific birdlife of this wonderful region.

Trip Name
Summer in the Islands & Fjords of Norway - A Voyage from Aberdeen to the Norwegian Coast
Days
13
Overview
Vessel Type: Expedition Length: 90.6 metres Passenger Capacity: 118 Built / Refurbished: 1992 / 2016 The MS Hebridean Sky is a beautifully appointed small ship, designed to offer an atmosphere of refined elegance and intimate comfort. With just 59 spacious suites, many featuring private balconies, she provides all guests with an outside view and a sense of relaxed luxury. Suites are finished in warm wood panelling and brass, with thoughtful details such as rainfall showers, dressing gowns, Noble Isle toiletries and flexible bed configurations. The public areas are equally welcoming, from the bright dining room and convivial Club bar to the well-stocked library and panoramic observation deck. A clinic with doctor, hairdressing facilities, a lift serving all decks and complimentary Wi-Fi ensure that every journey is made in comfort and ease. Life on board the MS Hebridean Sky is calm, sociable, and tailored to those who value discovery and relaxation over large-scale entertainment. Dining is a highlight, with talented chefs crafting exquisite à la carte menus often enhanced by fresh local produce, complemented by fine wines included with meals. Guests may enjoy al fresco meals on the Lido Deck, afternoon tea, or informal evenings with music in the lounge. Enrichment comes through fascinating lectures, daily briefings, and the company of like-minded travellers, while the warm and attentive service creates the feel of a private yacht or country house hotel. With her understated elegance, exceptional service, and focus on exploration, the Hebridean Sky offers a truly memorable and distinguished cruising experience.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 Aberdeen, Scotland.
Embark the MS Hebridean Sky this afternoon. Transfers will be provided from Aberdeen Airport and Railway Station at a fixed time. Sail this evening.
Day 2 - Day 2 At Sea.
Spend a relaxing day at sea as we cross to Norway.
Day 3 - Day 3 Runde & Alesund, Norway.
Arrive in Norway this morning as we cruise by the bird cliffs at Runde, one of the largest nesting cliffs in the country and home to half a million birds. More than 240 different species have been observed here including puffins, gannets, razorbills and northern fulmar. Continue to Alesund, one of the most beautiful towns in Norway. It is a great place to spend an afternoon as we explore the streets with their Art Nouveau buildings. Those feeling active can take a walk up Mount Aksla taking the 418 steps for magnificent views of the town, islands and Sunnmore Alps.
Day 4 - Day 4 Andalsnes.
Sail this morning through Romsdalsfjord to Andalsnes, a small village idyllically located in the Romsdal Valley at the mouth of the River Rauma. Here we embark the Rauma Railway for what is regarded as one of Europe’s most scenic train journeys combining spectacular fjords, mighty mountains, dramatic waterfalls and beautiful views. During our return journey between Andalsnes and Bjorli we pass Trollveggen, Europe’s highest vertical rock face, the 380 metre high Verma waterfall and 15th century Kors Church before crossing the iconic Kylling Bridge. After lunch on board, enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore further at your own pace. Maybe take a stroll in the village or alternatively take the Romsdalen Gondola which climbs 708 metres to the top of the Nesaksla Mountain and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and fjords.
Day 5 - Day 5 Smola Island.
Today we enjoy the benefits of our small ship as we visit the archipelago of over 5,000 islands and islets off the Norwegian coast. We hope to anchor off the island of Smola and use our Zodiacs to visit the beautiful former fishing village of Brattvær. Once a thriving fishing community, with a population of around 300, the last inhabitant left in 2012. On a guided walk we can visit the well preserved buildings, including homes, the school and the prayer house for a glimpse into the past. Alternatively visit the charming fishing village of Veiholmen which has a population of around 300 inhabitants and is located at the northernmost tip of Smola Island. Here we will meet members of the lively community and visit the town museum. These islands also have the densest population of white-tailed eagles in the world which we hope to spot whilst ashore. Sail this evening to Kristiansund where we moor overnight.
Day 6 - Day 6 Kristiansund.
Spend the day in Kristiansund, a colourful town spread over four islands where we have a choice of excursions. You may want to experience the Atlantic Ocean Road, a unique stretch of road that takes you right to the ocean’s edge, winding across an archipelago of small islands and islets. Enjoy the views as we continue to the Kvernes Stave Church, beautifully perched above the Kvernes Fjord. Dating back to 1630, it is Norway’s only stave church built after the Middle Ages, making it truly one of a kind. Step inside to see the ornate Baroque pulpit, and 15th century altarpiece. Alternatively, join the local ferry to the enchanting island of Grip. Located 14 kilometres off the coast of Kristiansund, this tiny, beautiful island was a thriving fishing village as far back as Medieval times. Today, it is a peaceful summer paradise, with quaint, narrow streets, colourful houses and the world’s northernmost stave church. On a guided walk, we discover the rich history of this small island and gain an insight into the lives of those who braved the elements to live and work here in the past. The remainder of the day is free to explore the town from our central berth before we sail in the late afternoon.
Day 7 - Day 7 Loen, Nordfjord.
Today we leave the charming village of Loen and take a drive to the Kjenndalen valley where we board a small boat to experience the lovely Loen Lake, passing through tall mountains covered by protruding glacier arms. We finally end up at the Kjenndalsbre Fjellstove where we enjoy a short break with homemade Norwegian waffles. We continue our visit to the Kjenndalsbreen glacier viewpoint, an arm of the mighty Jostedal Glacier, the largest in mainland Europe. After lunch on board enjoy some free time in Loen, maybe take a trip on the cable car which rises 1100 metres and offers wonderful views over the fjord below. Sail in the early evening to enjoy the scenery of Nordfjord.
Day 8 - Day 8 Dalsfjord & Bygstad.
Dalsfjord lies at the heart of Western Norway with its starkly contrasting fjord scenery, halfway between Bergen and Alesund. This little-known fjord arm has a gentler landscape where powerful and diverse watercourses have left their impression on the scenery and settlements. Today’s tour will take us through this beautiful environment and over to Sunnfjord with its magnificent waterfalls and mountains. We will visit Sunnfjord Museum, which provides an insight into how life was in local settlements in the mid 1800s, before taking a scenic drive to the region known as ‘the waterfall country’. Here we will stop at the Huldefossen and Likholefossen waterfalls before returning via the Hestadfjord where we find the 19th century Hestad Church located in idyllic surroundings.
Day 9 - Day 9 Vikoyri.
Overnight we will have sailed to the small village of Vikoyri located in Sognefjord. A local walk will include the richly decorated Hopperstad Stave Church which was built in 1130 and is the oldest stave church in existence. We also see the 12th century Hove stone church and the nearby Moahaugane burial mounds which originate from 200-400 AD. Try the local cheese delicacy of “gamal ost”. The recipe originated from the Vikings and it is still in production at the dairy in Vikoyri. Return to the ship via picturesque homes and boathouses. We sail in the early afternoon for a scenic cruise in the fjords.
Day 10 - Day 10 Rosendal.
Sail this morning into Hardangerfjord, the third largest fjord in the world. We will anchor and use our Zodiacs to land at Rosendal from where we drive along the fjord towards the small part of the Hardangerfjord called Maurangerfjord, experiencing the idyllic scenery and farms along the way and viewing the magnificent Langfoss waterfall. When we arrive at the small village of Sunndal we will walk to Bondhus Lake which is surrounded by a fascinating landscape of fjords and mountains. After lunch on board there will be some free time to explore the town, maybe visit the 12th century Kvinnherad Church, Stone Park or see the gardens at Barony Rosendal.
Day 11 - Day 11 Lysefjord & Stavanger.
Awake today in picturesque Lysefjord which measures 23 miles end to end. Spend the morning cruising past Preikestolen (Priest Rock) and Kjerag Mountain which both tower above the fjord. Afterwards we sail to Stavanger and have the chance to stroll in the small harbour with its multi-coloured traditional wooden buildings. Old Stavanger is a cluster of 173 small white wooden houses built in the 19th century which house craft shops, galleries and museums. We sail late tonight for anyone wishing to enjoy a final evening ashore in Norway.
Day 12 - Day 12 At Sea.
Enjoy a relaxing day at sea as we return to Scotland.
Day 13 - Day 13 Aberdeen, Scotland.
Disembark after breakfast. Transfers will be provided to Aberdeen Airport and Railway Station at a fixed time.
Day 14 - Please note:
Iineraries are subject to change. 

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type

Inclusions

    • Cruise Norway’s spectacular fjords – Sail through Hardangerfjord, Nordfjord, Sognefjord and Lysefjord, with dramatic mountains, glaciers and waterfalls including Langfoss and Kjenndalsbreen.
    • Discover Norway’s wildlife and remote islands – Explore Runde’s renowned bird cliffs, visit the Smøla archipelago and search for puffins, gannets and white-tailed eagles among Norway’s rugged coastal landscapes.
    • Experience scenic rail journeys and Norwegian heritage – Travel aboard the spectacular Rauma Railway, explore Art Nouveau Ålesund and historic fishing communities, and visit traditional stave churches and charming coastal towns.

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