Norway’s Fjords and Arctic Svalbard

16 Days

Overview

Sail Norway’s beautiful fjord-carved coast from colorful Bergen past the North Cape to remote Trømso, gateway to the Arctic. Glide into dramatic narrow straits and survey secluded inlets and coves by kayak and Zodiac. Experience the seabird spectacle of Bear Island, cross the Barents Sea, and spend five days exploring the icy wilderness of the Svalbard archipelago in the midnight sun above the Arctic Circle—where polar bears prowl and walruses lumber. A choice of activities allows you to tailor your days as you see fit and experience an extraordinary adventure in Norway’s coastal wonderland.

Arrive in Bergen, the gateway to the Norwegian fjords, and transfer to your centrally located hotel. This afternoon, explore the city at your own pace, experiencing Bryggens Wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage site or a funicular ride up to Mt. Fløyen overlooking the surrounding fjords. Check in with the hospitality desk this afternoon before embarking the ship.

Arrive at the spectacular glacial mountain landscape of Nordfjord, a haven for adventurers and photographers. Travel up the Loen Valley by coach amidst picture-book beauty, surrounded by a turquoise lake and craggy peaks. Consider hiking a trail through the valley carved by the Briksdal Glacier. Alternatively, take a scenic boat ride across Kjenndal Lake to the catch a glimpse of this retreating glacier and the striking geography of the region. Capture these scenic peaks and valleys from the railing as you sail back out of the fjord in the afternoon.

Spend three days exploring the central Norway coast, revered by travelers worldwide for its mountainous islands and steep-walled fjords. Your Expedition Leader and Captain will consult with local Norwegian pilots on landing spots offering optimal adventure options. Zodiac under vertical rock faces, paddle serenely in a deep fjord surrounded by cascading waterfalls or venture ashore for hikes with your naturalist staff. Visit local island communities protecting their cultural and natural heritage and go for walks with resident guides that have grown up surrounded by the ocean and these remote coastal islands.

The Lofoten archipelago boasts an enchanting landscape of picturesque villages ringed by jagged granite peaks. Enjoy village walks and island explorations as you venture through an area known for its dramatic landscapes and its cod fishing traditions throughout the centuries. A bit later, admire one of Norway’s most dramatic fjords from the deck as the ship navigates through Trollfjorden.

The nimble ship enters Tysfjorden, where mile after mile of near-vertical walls ascend above you and a scant few villages manage to cling to the rocky shores. Enjoy a Zodiac cruise or kayak within this magical place alive with birch forests and tumbling waterfalls. Explore a hiking trail through Hellemobotn Valley that reaches almost to the Swedish border.

Arrive in Tromsø, known as the “gateway to the Arctic” for numerous Arctic expeditions that originated from here. Explore this charming coastal city and its surrounding area: choose a visit to a local husky farm—known for its beautiful setting, friendly dogs and world-caliber dog musher—or choose to stay in town and visit the waterfront museums, which offer a range of local food tastings and historical insights into the variable aspects of this dynamic region.

Sitting at the confluence of the Norwegian and Barents Seas, Bear Island is ironically known as a birdwatcher’s paradise. The island also houses one remote meteorological station. With conditions permitting, enjoy a Zodiac cruise around the southernmost member of the Svalbard archipelago and revel at the bird cliffs, home to countless thousands of fulmars, kittiwakes and guillemots.

Explore in true expedition style, letting nature dictate your day-to-day movements within an immense Arctic wonderland. The fully stabilized, ice-class expedition ship probes deep into the ice where the polar bears forage, walrus sun themselves and the Svalbard reindeer roam. Join spotters on the bridge as you scan the floes and islands for these iconic creatures, along with bearded and ringed seals; Arctic fox; and beluga, fin and minke whales. There’s no greater thrill than a sighting that brings everyone rushing to the bow or Bridge for a close-up view. Sail deep into protected bays and fjords where even a novice kayaker can comfortably paddle surrounded by sparkling bergs and dramatic mountains. Video from the Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) allows you to peer into the mysterious world that exists 1,000 feet below the surface during Recaps with your multi-talented field staff.

Disembark in Longyearbyen for one more taste of civilization in this northern frontier. Join the recommended group flight to Oslo; transfers to the nearby hotel and luggage assistance will be provided. Upon arrival, enjoy dinner with fellow guests and overnight at the Radisson Blu Airport Hotel.

The following morning, after breakfast, transfer to the airport for flights home.