Board the Noorderlicht for an incredible 8-day cruise in search of whales and the northern lights. Norway has a spectacular coastline, its fjords and mountains are renowned for their beauty. In the far north, 350 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle sits the island of Kvaløya, the whale island. In early winter, schools of herring from the Barents Sea come together here in the fjords to winter, attracting large numbers of whales. In winter the amount of daylight is limited but during the dark hours there are great opportunities to see the northern lights. This amazing phenomena can only be seen when it is dark and the sky is clear, with not much light pollution around. The voyage offers ample opportunities to admire the Aurora Borealis from the remote bays where the ship overnights.
Highlights
Hike to the top of small hills for panoramic views of fjords
Observe orca and humpback whales as they feed on herring in the fjords
Admire colorful Aurora Borealis from quiet bays where the ship overnights
Sail under canvas near rugged coastlines and through the narrow fjords
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
The voyage starts in the town of Tromsø, also called 'the Paris of the North' because of its nice atmosphere. Here the 100-year-old two mast schooner Noorderlicht waits in the harbor. In the evening there is time to explore the town.
Early in the morning depart from Tromsø and sail towards the northeast, into Langsundet. In this magnificent fjord land at the small village of Hansnes from where you can hike up a trail to the 306 meters high hill, Storheia, to admire the view across the fjord. Spend the night in Dyrsfjorden at the northern tip of the island Ringvassøya.
Spend the next three days in Vengsøyfjorden and Kaldfjorden, the area where many whales have been seen in recent years. Besides orcas and humpback whales there are also good chances to see white-tailed eagles, as they also want their share in the herring frenzy. This eagle is one of the largest birds of Europe and a resident in northern Norway. In the afternoon, when the daylight is over, take short hikes in the area and hope for some clear sky in order to see the ‘Tricky Lady, as the Aurora Borealis is sometimes called.
Continue the circumnavigation of Kvaløya and sail to the small island of Sommarøy. The island offers good hiking possibilities and great opportunities to see the Northern Lights. Spend the daytime of the last expedition day on this lovely island exploring the coastline with its small bays and white beaches and maybe even climb to the top of the 211-meter-high Mount Hillesøya. From here there are excellent panoramic views of the rugged coastline.
In the afternoon, sail back to Tromsø and complete the circumnavigation of Kvaløya. Spend the last night on board in Tromsø, then disembark the vessel in the morning after breakfast.
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.
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
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
7 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Program of lectures by noted naturalists and leadership by experienced expedition staff.
All Miscellaneous Service Taxes and Port Charges Throughout the Program
All shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by Zodiac.
Free use of rubber boots and snowshoes.
All meals throughout the voyage aboard the ship including snacks, coffee and tea.
Comprehensive pre-departure material.
Excluded
Gratuities
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Additional excursions during free time
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Passport and Applicable Visa Expenses
Government arrival and departure taxes
Pre- and Post Land Arrangements
Meals ashore
Baggage, cancellation and personal insurance (which is strongly recommended).
Excess baggage charges and all items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar, beverage charges and telecommunication charges.
Medical travel insurance — including emergency medical attention and evacuation coverage — is required, with a minimum of EUR/USD 50,000 per person for Arctic trips, EUR/USD 100,000 per person for Antarctica and the sub-Antarctic islands, and EUR/USD 300,000 per person for the Ross Sea. A comprehensive travel insurance policy should typically meet these requirements.
We are so glad that we chose Adventure Life. The service is top-notch. Everything is well taken care of and we just have to print the documents and go. Franny even gave us timely updates on possible airport strike.
