Hurtigruten
Norway - The Classic Voyage North
Classic Voyage North
Bergen • Kirkenes • Oslo8 days 7 nights / Full board on ship
The Classic Voyage North is very popular among travellers who may not have time for the full round voyage but wish to enjoy watching the gradual transitions from the populated, lush southern regions of the coastline to the more sparse landscapes north of the Arctic Circle.
Day 1
The cultural city of Bergen, the gateway to the fjords, is where our amazing journey begins with an evening departure. Settle into the gentle rhythm of life on board as the ship glides along the unspoilt coast. Relax and enjoy the stunning scenery. Sample the delicious cuisine for which Norway is renowned in the comfortable but informal dining room or make new friends in the bar. Share experiences with fellow passengers from the world over as well as meeting local people travelling between ports, or simply wonder at the views from the panorama lounge as we look forward to the next port of call.
Day 2
A perfect start to our second day is an early arrival at the enchanting Art Nouveau town of Ålesund, which is situated across several islands at the entrance to Geirangerfjord. On departures between 15 April and 14 September the ship will sail into the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site of Geirangerfjord, where tumbling waterfalls, rugged cliffs and majestic mountains are mirrored in the deep still water. Here we have the opportunity to join excursions ashore and weave through hairpin bends to overlook one of the world’s longest fjords.
Day 3
Continuing north, the medieval city of Trondheim is today’s highlight. Standing proud against the natural backdrop, its colourful history is reflected in handsome civic architecture. Excursions include the medieval Nidaros Cathedral or the enthralling Ringve Music Museum. While we sleep the ship plies its trade along the coast and enters the land of the Midnight Sun.
Day 4
In the early hours we experience the thrill of crossing the Arctic Circle as the voyage continues to the modern town of Bodø, from where we can join a Sea Eagle Safari and witness the world’s strongest maelstrom or whirling stream at Saltstraumen. The glorious Lofoten Islands are where the day draws to a close with a stop at the capital, Svolvær. The intriguing Magic Ice gallery of ‘art below zero’ is on the quayside and the stylish little town is just a few minutes away.
Day 5
A relaxing morning at sea precedes our arrival in Tromsø - the capital of the Arctic - where the Midnight Sun is visible from the end of May until the last week in July. The simple interior of the Arctic Cathedral gives prominence to a triangular stained-glass window filling an entire wall. The Polar Museum and the Polaria centre explore Arctic life over the centuries and are complemented by modern shops and cafés just minutes from our cabins.
Day 6
After an early call at Hammerfest we arrive in Honningsvåg, the largest fishing village in Finnmark and doorway to the wonders of the spectacular North Cape, mainland Europe’s northernmost point at 71º north.
Day 7
The vistas become more dramatic as the ship approaches the finale of the northbound voyage here in the far reaches of Europe. Benefiting from the warm currents of the Gulf Stream, this region is rich in sea life, and the coast is largely ice free in winter allowing ships access to most harbours. Soon we reach Kirkenes, from where the emotive border with Russia a few kilometres away or the Sami communities of Northern Finland may be visited. Here the ship bids farewell to passengers travelling northbound only, and welcomes those joining for the southbound voyage. Transfer to airport for flight to Oslo. One night is included at a centrally located hotel in Oslo.
Day 8
Depending on flight times, there may be free time to explore Norway's bustling capital city.
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