Weihnachten in Norwegen – Expedition unter dem magischen Nordlicht

Reiseverlauf

Reiseverlauf abhängig von Wetter- und Eislage. Beschriebene Naturerlebnisse/Tiersichtungen sind mögliche Ereignisse auf den Expeditionen und nicht garantiert.

• Tag 1 - Depart from Tromsø

  Depart from Tromsø

  Discover the gateway to the Arctic 

  Backed by snowy mountains, lively Tromsø is the perfect place from which to set out on an adventure. It was the base for many a historic Arctic expedition, including those of Roald Amundsen, and its situation 250 miles north of the Polar Circle has led to it being called the ‘Gateway to the Arctic’.

  If you arrive early in Tromsø we recommend exploring the city before joining your cruise.  There’s plenty to see, such as the Polar Museum, where you’ll learn about the city’s exploration heritage. And make sure to visit the striking Arctic Cathedral – with its huge stained-glass window. For those who’d like a little extra adventure, why not take a look at our Pre-Programme.

• Tag 2 - Exploring Lyngen Fjord and Alps

  Exploring Lyngen Fjord and Alps

  Approaching the scenic Lyngen Alps via the Lyngenfjord 

  For the next seven days we’ll be exploring four distinct regions, each with its own outstanding features and unique beauty. The first such region we’re likely to visit is Lyngen.

  The scenic Lyngen area is a landscape of jagged, snowy mountains, and a magnet for winter activities. Lyngenfjord is over a hundred miles long, and we’ll spend our time here going on nature landings, hiking, snowshoeing, kayaking and, if conditions allow, spotting whales from our small expedition boats or the ship’s deck.

  Later, it’s time for a real treat. Inspired by Norway’s friluftsliv, or deep love for the great outdoors, we’ll gather on the beach and enjoy the warmth of a bonfire on our Day to Dusk – Flames and Flavours experience. With hot drinks in hand and Norwegian treats cooked by our onboard chefs, you’ll really feel at one with nature. If we’re lucky, perhaps the Northern Lights will put on a display for us.

• Tag 3 - Senja

  Senja

  Discover Norway in miniature 

  Senja is Norway’s second-largest island, and it’s sometimes called Norway-in-miniature. With its rugged mountains, sandy beaches, dark forests and idyllic fishing villages, you can see how it earned this name. Free-roaming reindeer wander around the island, so keep an eye out for them.

  We plan to visit the historic settlement of Tranoya for a unique experience with some warm Scandinavian hospitality. Learn about ancient Viking culture and modern life in the remote villages of Arctic Norway during the winter months.

  In December and January, we’ll sometimes be sailing in the dark and at dusk during the day – but this will only enhance our experience, with glittering snowscapes illuminated by the low sun and the starlight.

• Tag 4 - Vesterålen

  Vesterålen

  Enjoy an exclusive adventure

  Vesterålen awaits us with its beautiful snow-covered landscapes, ideal for expedition activities such as snowshoe hiking, small boat cruising and kayaking. We plan to spend two days in this region.

  It’s here that we have our special Into the Night – Dinner at the Museum experience at Hurtigrutemuseet, the Hurtigruten Museum. You’ll enjoy an exclusive opening of this heritage setting and dine amid historical artefacts in the old dining room of the ship, MS Finnmarken.

• Tag 5 - Lofoten

  Lofoten

  Get to know Lofoten in more detail 

  Sailing from Vesterålen to Svolvær, your Captain and Expedition Leader will chart the day’s route based on conditions and opportunities, ensuring we make the most of what the region has to offer.

  If conditions allow, we’ll venture into Trollfjord, where narrow waters are framed by sheer-sided cliffs, Or we’ll cruise between rugged peaks through the Raftsundet Strait. Whatever route we take, you’ll be immersed in striking scenery. And as we navigate dramatic fjords, the mountains rise so close to the ship you’ll feel like you could reach out and touch them.

  In winter, the Lofoten Islands transform into a snow-covered wonderland. Narrow fjords, hidden beached between towering mountains and picturesque fishing communities are all ideal to visit with a small ship like MS Spitsbergen.

  One such community is Svolvær. As Christmas nears, the streets and homes are decorated with beautiful lights – wander around and simply soak up the festive atmosphere.

  To top it off, you’ll also get to enjoy your second special experience, a Nordic Sauna and Polar Plunge. Embrace a revitalising Norwegian tradition as you relax in the warmth of a sauna before taking a thrilling polar plunge.

• Tag 7 - Christmas in Lofoten

  Christmas in Lofoten

  A Jul to remember

   In Norway, Christmas Eve is the first day of Christmas – or Jul, as the Norwegians say. We’ll enjoy a lovely day as we sail around the Lofoten Islands, seeking out landings to get closer to nature – perhaps it will be a beach covered in snow! We may head out in our small expedition boats to explore between remote islands or even get out the kayaks.

  Later, on board, you’ll feel the Christmas spirit all around you. Decorations, Christmas singing, storytelling, hot chocolate and gløgg - could there be a better place to be at this special time of year? In the evening you’ll enjoy a special Norwegian-themed dinner – or julebord – and afterwards the celebrations will continue.

• Tag 8 - Towards Tromsø

  Towards Tromsø

  Enjoy Christmas Day in serene Norwegian beauty 

  Today is Christmas Day, and we’ll continue to enjoy the uniquely festive onboard atmosphere, but with added adventure. We’ll stay sheltered in the deep fjords as we make our way back towards Tromsø – at each turn there will be a new island or mountain. Along the way we have plenty of time to scout out landing sites in our small expedition boats, and to go on nature walks and take part in other activities.

  The scenery continues to be stunning as we pass through these inner waters, with the magical winter light playing softly on the sea and mountains.  We also pass through areas where we’re likely to see whales. While on board, enjoy the Arctic scenery from the ship, warm up in the sauna or join the Expedition Team to listen to talks and attend discovery sessions in the Science Centre.

• Tag 10 - Return to Tromsø

  Return to Tromsø

  Another opportunity to explore Tromsø

  Your Christmas expedition cruise ends back in Tromsø. If you didn’t have an opportunity to explore this beautiful town before the cruise, make sure you do now. There’s so much to see and do here.