The North Cape Line - South

Welcome to Tromso! Before you settle into your cabin on MS Trollfjord, take time to explore the city more than 200 miles north of the Arctic Circle. Visit the Polar Museum to learn about Tromsø’s Arctic hunting and trade history, explore Polaria and its Arctic marine species, or see the Arctic Cathedral and its stained-glass window. In the evening, begin your voyage from Tromso and sail around the northernmost point of mainland Europe.

Arrive in Honningsvag early in the morning and spend the day exploring this far-northern destination. Experience the winter scenery on a snowshoe hike with your Expedition Team, or choose an optional excursion such as ice fishing. Taste local king crab, caught in the waters around Honningsvåg and served year-round. You can also visit the North Cape, which looks out over the Barents Sea, on an optional excursion. In winter, you can choose to reach the North Cape by snowmobile. In the evening, sail south from Honningsvåg as your voyage turns toward Oslo.

At 70 degrees north, this town is far above the Arctic Circle. The area is known for particularly good Northern Lights visibility, so keep your camera ready. On an optional excursion, you can find out more about day-to-day life in Alta, see prehistoric rock art and visit the Northern Lights Cathedral, which has an exhibition showing how Alta became the epicenter for ground-breaking research of the aurora borealis between the 19th and 20th centuries. Increased snowfall in the winter allows for some truly authentic Arctic excursions, like dogsledding. You can try this on wheels if you’re here when there’s no snow on the ground! The snow and climate of Alta also create the perfect conditions to build and maintain the Igloo Hotel. Located on the banks of the Alta, this is the world’s northernmost ice hotel. Alternatively, join your Expedition Team on a hike to Mount Komsa. The views are mesmerizing.

Narvik sits on a peninsula where three beautiful fjords meet. It was originally developed as a year-round, ice-free port for the nearby iron ore mines. Nowadays, it’s known for its World War II heritage and as a gateway to active pursuits such as skiing, dog sledding, and hiking.  Get to know Narvik's past at the Narvik War Museum, complete with engaging exhibits that bring to life the town’s strategic importance during World War II. For an impressive panorama of Narvik, the best thing to do is ride the cable car up to Narvikfjellet. At the top, you’ll be treated to astounding views of the town and the three surrounding fjords. 

After Narvik, you head south along the enchanting Norwegian coast. You’ll be in awe of windswept islands, sheltered bays, and some of the most beautiful fjords in the world. It’s also inhabited by a wide range of wildlife, such as majestic Sea Eagles. When you started sailing north of the Trondelag region in 1893, much was still unknown about the coastline. But, over the years, the team became experts in these waters. Today, you are among the few with the maritime knowledge and skill to take you through the many skerries, islets and hidden fjords that characterize this stretch of coast.

After docking in the town center in the morning, you have the chance to explore Åndalsnes, a picturesque coastal town located along Isfjord at the end of the Romsdalsfjord. The literal highlights of Åndalsnes are the mountains that tower over the town. They are the reason the town has become Norway’s go-to destination for hikers, climbers, skiers, and more. The Troll Wall, a 3,280-mile vertical cliff along the Romsdalen valley also attracts adrenaline seekers the world over. To take in the sights go on a relaxing ride on the Romsdal Gondola, which takes you to the top of Nesaksla Mountain, 2,322 feet above sea level. There, enjoy a 360-degree view of the mighty Romsdalshorn, Åndalsnes town center below, and the Rauma river. 

Surrounded by seven mountains and the sea, the old capital of Bergen is one of Norway’s most picturesque and historic cities, as well as being its second largest. Stroll through the UNESCO-listed Bryggen district and discover its colorful wooden wharfs dating back to the 14th century. Bergen’s famous fish market is worth a visit, too. It promises to be a feast for the senses with the sights, sounds, and smells of bountiful, fresh seafood which can be cooked there and then for you. One of the best-known attractions in Bergen is the Fløibanen funicular, which brings you to the top of Mount Fløyen. The summit has a wonderful view over the city, the nearby fjord, and the other surrounding peaks.

You spend the last afternoon of your voyage in Kristiansand, Norway’s fifth largest city, sitting along the southern tip of the country. Kristiansand is on a mission to become the most sustainable port in Europe. Find out more about this admirable quest on an optional excursion that includes a visit to Odderøya Island. Or delve into Kristiansand’s 20th-century military past on an optional excursion to Batterie Vara. Originally built as a German fort in World War II, it features the world’s second largest cannon ever to be mounted on land. Back on the boat, you end your voyage on a high note with an end-of-trip farewell dinner. Take this opportunity to trade photo highlights and experiences with your fellow travellers one last time.

You’ve sailed on The North Cape Line, getting to know Norway’s coastal cities and villages all the way to the top of the European continent. During the journey, you’ll have experienced Norway’s varied climate, seen majestic mountains and fjords, and maybe gazed up in awe at the Northern Lights once or several times. The team hopes you’ll cherish each of the memories you’ve made on The North Cape Line. Come sail again soon, on another iconic voyage of this spectacular home: the Norwegian coast.