Embark on an 11-day journey aboard Le Champlain for an unforgettable winter expedition in Norway, starting from Tromso. Delve into snow-capped peaks, breathtaking scenery, and ancient customs. Immerse yourself in the Sami heritage in Narvik, then voyage southward to behold the ethereal landscapes of the Lofoten archipelago and the enchanting Trollfjorden. Discover Hammerfest, the northernmost town globally, and admire the rugged coastline of Bear Island before arriving at Honningsvag, home to Europe's northernmost point, the North Cape. Witness the captivating Northern Lights amidst the polar night in Alta. Conclude your expedition in Tromso, concluding your exploration of the Norwegian Arctic.
Highlights
Immerse in the rich Sami heritage in Narvik
Explore landscapes of the Lofoten archipelago and Trollfjorden
Discover Hammerfest, the northernmost town globally
Visit Honningsvag, home to Europe's northernmost point, the North Cape
Experience the captivating Northern Lights amidst the polar night in Alta
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
Explore Tromso, situated north of the Arctic Circle in Troms County, Norway. Often dubbed the "Paris of the North" by locals, Tromso boasts a wealth of neoclassical architectural treasures. Among them stands the Arctic Cathedral, a significant landmark whose architectural elegance mirrors the silhouette of the surrounding mountains.
Explore Narvik, situated beyond the Arctic Circle and nestled amidst imposing mountains descending into the Ofotfjord. It is on the brink of earning the "sustainable destination" designation, a national recognition awarded to destinations dedicated to long-term sustainable tourism practices. Marvel at its breathtaking landscapes. From Narvik, embark on the Ofoten Line towards Sweden. This historic railway once connected the mineral-rich mines of Kiruna in Sweden to the ice-free port of Narvik. Encounter extraordinary experiences, including interactions with the Sami people—traditional reindeer herders preserving ancestral customs while embracing contemporary life.
Excursions:
Ofoten Railway & Sweden: Experience a 1-hour train journey to Sweden on the historic Ofoten Railway, offering stunning views of frozen lakes and snow-capped mountains. Explore battle locations from World War II and enjoy a snack in Björkliden before returning.
Journey to Polar Park: Travel to Polar Park, the northernmost wildlife park globally, encountering Arctic mammals like wolves, lynxes, and reindeer. Walk along a 2½-mile-long path to observe the animals in their enclosures and enjoy a light lunch before returning to the ship.
Way beyond the Arctic Circle, the Lofoten Islands are truly considered to be in “another world." A jewel of nature in its most pristine state, this archipelago with its jagged coastline offers you majestic settings of high alpine summits, sandy beaches, green prairies, and fjords of deep blue, where countless bird colonies make their nests. Whether you visit Å or Nusjford, listed by UNESCO, enjoy authentic and memorable moments.
Excursions:
Vestvagoy & Lofotr Museum: Visit the Lofotr Museum in Borg to explore a Viking chieftain’s farmstead and the largest Viking building ever discovered. Enjoy a photo stop at Flakstad church on Flakstad Island before returning to Reine.
Charm of Lofoten: Discover the maritime history and architecture of the Lofoten Islands with visits to the Å open-air museum, Flakstad Bay's 18th-century red church, and the Fishery Museum and Smithy in Sund.
Aurora Borealis Hunt: Venture out at night to witness the elusive aurora borealis over Reine. Expert guides will lead you to viewpoints in Leknes to maximize your chances of seeing the northern lights, weather permitting.
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness center. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
Hammerfest, located on the north-western coast of the island of Kvaloya, beyond the 70th parallel, is often considered the northernmost town in the world. Conserved in an immaculate natural setting, this charming fishing port enjoys a rich history, as is evidenced by various vestiges dating back to the Stone Age, the Napoleonic Wars, or the Second World War. During your port of call, you can have the opportunity to discover the Struve Geodetic Arc, a chain of triangulations stretching across Europe from Hammerfest to the Black Sea and the first technical and scientific object to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Excursions:
1. Panoramic Hammerfest & Polar Bear Club: Explore Hammerfest, the world's northernmost town, on a panoramic tour. Visit the unique Polar Bear Club and discover the town's highlights, including Mount Salen and the Museum of Reconstruction.
2. History of Hammerfest: Learn about Hammerfest's history on a tour that visits the Museum of Reconstruction. Discover the town's resilience after World War II and explore exhibitions showcasing pre-war life, refugee experiences, and post-war reconstruction efforts. Enjoy scenic views of Salen before returning to the pier.
Halfway between Norway and Spitsbergen, sail not far from the coastlines of Bjornoya and the southernmost island of Svalbard. From your ship, observe this isolated piece of land discovered in 1596 by the Dutch navigator Willem Barents, then look for the Northwest Passage. Following a tough fight between a polar bear and the members of the expedition, he dubbed the place Bear Island. Regularly covered by a thick layer of fog, Bjornoya shelters a meteorological station built in 1923, which is still in operation. Declared a nature reserve in 2002, the island is above all home to an enormous colony of sea birds: skuas, guillemots, puffins, tridactyl gulls, petrels, gulls, and little auks all coexist here.
If you feel like you have arrived at the end of the world in Honningsvag, it is because this is the case. Halfway between Oslo and the North Pole, it competes with Hammerfest for the status of “the northernmost town in Continental Europe." Colorful houses light up this charming and typically Norwegian fishing port nestled in the hollows of the region’s mountainous terrain. Travelers come to stay in the village to go to the North Cape. At the end of the road, you can see the globe, which indicates that you are at the very end of Europe. At this point, only the Svalbard archipelago separates you from the North Pole. There is a sea as far as the eye can see. The Northern Lights, the view of the immense cliff plunging into the sea, the thousands of puffins, gannets, and cormorants that spin around you—everything here is grandiose.
Excursions:
1. Scenic Nordkapp: Experience Europe's northernmost shores with stunning vistas at Nordkapp. Meet your coach at the berth for a one-hour transfer to Magerøya Island. Upon arrival, explore the towering cliffs and visit North Cape Hall for a glimpse into the region's history. Participants must wear winter clothes and flat shoes.
2. Kamoyvaer Fishing Village: Discover the rich fishing heritage of the region at Magerøya Island's scenic fishing village. Visit the "Gallery East of the Sun" to see island-inspired art and handicrafts. Enjoy coffee in a lavvo at the tiny village of Sarnes. Participants must wear winter clothes and flat shoes.
Beyond the Arctic Circle, Alta, in the far north of Norway, is the biggest city in Finnmark County. Alta will reveal itself to you at the end of the eponymous fjord, Altafjorden. The region offers a mix of forest, mountainous, and coastal landscapes. It is on the verge of obtaining the “sustainable destination” label, a national label awarded to destinations that are committed to a sustainable approach to tourism for the long term. Alta invites you to experience unique moments, whether meeting the Sami people—reindeer herders who have ancestral traditions and yet embrace modernity—or during walks, snowshoe hikes, or dog sledding, depending on the season.
Excursions:
1. Sami Camp Discovery: Journey to Máze, a Sami village near Alta, for a cultural experience. Ride a reindeer-pulled sled along a frozen river and enjoy traditional specialties in a lavvu while learning about Sami traditions. Participants must wear winter clothes.
2. Aurora Borealis Hunt: Meet expert Trygve onboard for a briefing on the northern lights phenomenon and photography tips. Board a local coach to the observation spot, where you'll await the aurora borealis. Warm facilities are available nearby. Wear warm, waterproof clothes.
In the north of the Arctic Circle, discover Tromso, a secluded town located in the county of Troms. Norwegians call it the “Paris of the North." Discover its extensive neoclassical architectural heritage. A stunning example is the Arctic Cathedral, a major monument whose stylistic purity echoes the outline of the mountains surrounding the town.
Excursions:
1. Arctic Cathedral Private Concert: Experience an intimate concert at Tromsø's Arctic Cathedral. Enjoy classical music in the cathedral's stunning interior. Minimal walking involved. Wear comfortable shoes.
2. Tromso, Arctic Capital: Explore Tromsø on a city tour. Visit the Science Centre of Northern Norway for an Aurora film, then the Polar Museum to learn about Arctic expeditions. See the Arctic Cathedral before returning to the pier. Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers.
Day 11: Tromso | Disembark
1 Breakfast
After breakfast aboard the ship, disembark at Tromso.
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.
$11,2802-3 travelers
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
Deluxe Stateroom
Area: 19 m². 4m² private balcony with French window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower.
Prestige Stateroom Deck 4
Area: 19 m². 4m² private balcony with sliding bay window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower.
Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
Area: 19 m². 4m² private balcony with sliding bay window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower.
Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
Area: 19 m². 4m² private balcony with sliding bay window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower.
Deluxe Suite
Area: 27 m². 6m² private balcony with sliding bay window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower. Up to 3 passengers per cabin.
Prestige Suite Deck 5
Area: 38 m². 8m² private balcony with sliding bay window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower.
Prestige Suite Deck 6
Area: 38 m². 8m² private balcony with sliding bay window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower.
Privilege Suite
Area: 32 m². 8m² private balcony with sliding bay window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower. Up to 4 passengers per cabin.
Grand Deluxe Suite
Area: 45 m². 30m² private balcony with sliding bay windows. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower + bathtub.
Owner's Suite
Area: 45 m². 30m² private balcony with hot tub and sliding bay windows. King-size or twin beds and shower + bathtub.
Notes
Please Note:
Fares are based on double occupancy and are capacity controlled. Rates may increase at any time as the ship sells out and subject to change without notice.
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
10 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, 10 Dinners
10 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Port Fees
Unlimited Wifi
Onboard Entertainment
Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and Gala Dinner
Gratuities to Onboard Crew
“Open Bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands...list available upon request)
24h Room Service (special selection)
English-Speaking Lecturer
Highly experienced and bilingual (French-English) expedition staff
Park Entry Fees into Protected Areas
Water sports activities (except scuba diving) using the ship’s equipment, when permitted by local authorities and confirmed by ship Master according to safety and sea conditions onsite.
Excluded
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Visa Fees
Optional Excursions - Ponant allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately six to two months prior to the cruise* departure. Please note that this is subject to change. Please contact us for more details.
Any ground services before and/or after the cruise other than the ones mentioned
Luggage Handling
Laundry Services, Hair Salon, and à La Carte Spa Treatments
Pre or post cruise programs, overland programs or shore excursions
Beverages other than the ones mentioned in inclusions
CDP recommends that every Traveler has full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses
Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
Meyer Smolen
TrustScore 4.8 | 340 reviews
TrustScore 4.8 of 5
Based on 340 reviews on
1 hour ago
Mary Curry is the BEST! I have worked with her for multiple family trips for over 10 years, and she is responsive, works within your preferences and budget, has great suggestions and has personal travel experience at many of the locations. We prefer active family vacations and Adventure Life and Mary Curry make sure that is what we get!
Heather Spanbauer
13 hours ago
Bhutan with stopover in Bangkok. All of our trips with Adventure Life have featured guides and drivers of top professional calibre, a great way to travel. This itinerary was no exception.
Steve Metzler
2 days ago
Very prompt responses. Erin found us the trip we were looking for and gave us good advice.
Nancy Brown-Koeller
4 days ago
The travel planner was very knowledgeable about the countries I will be visiting and was very helpful in booking my trip. It was a great experience in dealing with them - very personable and promptly address any of my concerns.
Customer
5 days ago
This will be the third trip I have arranged with Adventure Life and I find their customer service and helpfulness to be excellent. Sandra has been very knowledgeable in describing the details of the planned trip as well as the signing up process for the trip. I have and will continue to recommend Adventure Life as the best tour vendor I have had the pleasure to work with. Thank you for your continued excellence.