Board the Noorderlicht in Harstad, Norway for an incredible 8-day cruise in search of whales and the northern lights. Reknowned for its beauty, Norway's northern coastlines are rugged and dynamic. Cruise into the western fjords of Troms, around the island of Senja, and back to Harstad. The voyage offers ample opportunities to admire whales feeding on schools of herring and the Aurora borealis from the remote bays where the ship overnights.
Highlights
Watch as whales, gulls, and eagles take part in a herring feeding frenzy
Marvel at the beautiful colors of the northern lights
Enjoy shore-based walking along the beautiful beaches of Sommarøy
Snowshoe in the snow-covered forests above Finnsnes
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
Arrive at the airport of Evenes and take a scheduled bus to the port of Harstad (Vesterålen). Take time to wander around Harstad and then embark on the Noorderlicht.
Sail north towards Senja. Depending on the weather conditions west of Senja and information about whales, the ship either goes clockwise or counter clockwise around the islands. Most of the short day is spent sailing. Just before sunset arrive at Gryllefjord, where you might see the first humpback and killer whales. Spend the night at Gryllefjord, a small village in a beautiful fjord. In the twilight, there is an option to take a short walk deeper into the fjord.
Spend the next days searching for whales along the west coast of Senja and in the fjords to the north like Vengsøyfjorden, Ersfjorden, and Kattfjorden. Observe the feeding behaviors of killer and humpback whales who often work together to get to the schools of herring which are plentiful this time of year. Gulls and white-tailed eagles are also attracted to the herring, resulting in a feeding frenzy. In the evenings, spend the nights in scenic vilages on Sommarøy and enjoy shore-based walks on the island's lovely beaches.
In the morning there is time to look for whales, but around lunchtime the ship sails south. Sailing along the eastern side of Senja through Gisundet, admire the narrow sound between Senja and mainland Norway, thought to be one of the most beautiful waterways in the region. Spend the night in Finnsnes, a quaint town on mainland Norway.
This morning, walk through the snow-covered forest above Finnsnes before continuing on to Harstad. The Noorderlicht carries snowshoes for all so walking is relatively easy. Sail back to Harstad, arriving in the evening, and prepare for disembarkation the following morning.
Day 8: Disembark in Harstad
1 Breakfast
From Harstad passengers can again take the scheduled bus to Evenes where scheduled flights go to Oslo and beyond.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$2,200
Select a Date
Twin Non Private
The ‘Noorderlicht’ provides accommodation for 20 travellers in comfortable twin cabins.
All cabins have upper and lower berths, a cupboard and wash basin with hot and cold water. Shared shower (4) and toilet (5) facilities are conveniently located.
Notes
- Rates are quoted in U.S. dollars and represent costs per person, double occupancy.
- Cabins are available for single occupancy at 1.7 times the double occupancy rate.
- Due to the extreme nature of itinerary destinations, travel insurance is mandatory for all cruises aboard the Noorderlicht - including medical, accident and repatriation/evacuation insurance.
Initial deposit is 20%, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 90 days prior to departure by bank transfer, check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
Kate was great to work with in the planning stage. She was prompt, helpful, and efficient. Our tour guide, Edwin, was knowledgeable and passionate. We were very happy to have traveled with Adventure Life, it made the trip easy and a true pleasure. We could concentrate on enjoying the experience rather than the details of travel.
Lisa Bridge
TrustScore 4.8 | 169 reviews
TrustScore 4.8 of 5
Based on 169 reviews on
32 minutes ago
Friendly and professional interactions. Answered my questions and followed up on initial contact.
Tim Elliott
1 day ago
Adventure Life has been an extraordinary travel resource for us over the years and today was no exception. Our River Cruise booking was handled by Jess (who has been our personal trip planner for several years) the same day as our inquiry. Suggestions were given for cabin choice and pre-trip options (that were not shown on the cruise line's website) like airport transfers and prepaid gratuities. Trip insurance recommendations followed and we were assigned a travel co-ordinator till the end of the tour. All we have to do is show up! Great service from friendly folks.
APtravelwell
2 days ago
My representative Kevin was very responsive generally and in crafting our itinerary to our specific priorities.
Rocco Labella
2 days ago
Although there was a lot of paper work, I received help and guidance when I needed it.
Donna Kirby
3 days ago
Our travel was flawless! The rider pickup (airport, hotel, ship) was seamless. Jane's recommendation for Emerald Cruise Sakara was everything I wanted but the experience was soooo much more. Adventure Life took care of each and every detail and this was the easiest of all my travels.
