Adventure and mystery await on this 12-day small ship cruise aboard the MS Polarlys. Begin in the Norwegian city of Bergen and sail through Norway's picturesque fjords as you make your way north to the Arctic Circle and beyond. Greet the locals as you stop in small port villages and marvel at the beauty of this mountainous region. Learn more about what you will experience on the Classic Roundtrip Voyage. The day-by-day program will give you a few ideas about what you can see and do on your coastal voyage, but bear in mind that this itinerary is just an indication of what you can experience. After all, this is a sailing where the elements rule and weather conditions might vary, which is why every expedition with Hurtigruten is unique.
Highlights
Visit Alesund, renowned for its unique Art Nouveau architecture
Enjoy the views from Gamle Bybrua in Trondheim
Explore the charming fishing villages of the Lofoten Islands
Cross the Arctic Circle and participate in an on-deck ceremony
Take an excursion to the North Cape, 1,000 feet above the Atlantic Ocean
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
Begin your expedition in Bergen, a charming port city which is surrounded by seven mountains. Founded in 1070, this vibrant city has retained a great deal of local character and history. As the ship begins its northbound journey, enjoy the myriad views of islands, small fishing communities, and fjords.
Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Nordfjord as you have breakfast. Sail past the West Cape and enter open sea for one of the few times during this voyage. Navigate through skerries and islands before reaching Ålesund. This city is renowned for its unique concentration of Art Nouveau architecture. From the top of Mount Aksla, enjoy an amazing panorama of the area. In the summer months, set course for the spectacular UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord, passing sheer 2,600-foot cliffs and impressive waterfalls en route. In the fall, explore Hjørundfjord, situated amidst the majestic Sunnmore Alps. Its seclusion and unspoiled natural landscape are what give this fjord its special character.
Arrive in Trondheim and discover the city's secrets by strolling through its charming streets or sitting by the peaceful harbor. Be sure to enjoy the views from Gamle Bybrua (the Old Town Bridge), which dates back to 1861, and the restored wooden buildings of the Bakkland district. Nidaros Cathedral, built between 1070 and 1300, is Norway’s largest Gothic edifice. In the afternoon, set a northwest course and pass the distinct Kjeungskjær lighthouse and numerous charming islets and rocky outcrops. Pass through the narrow Stoksund, and arrive in Rørvik.
Cross the Arctic Circle between Nesna and Ørnes, marked by a globe on a small islet. Passengers sailing in Arctic waters for the first time can participate in the Arctic Circle ceremony on deck. After a break at Bodø, enjoy the sight of the 3,280-foot-high Lofoten Wall as it appears on the horizon. The charms of the Lofoten Islands are revealed in all the small, picturesque fishing villages with their bohemian atmosphere. Tucked in between majestic granite cliffs and white sandy beaches, these islands are pristine and beautiful. Stroll between stockfish racks and 'rorbuer', traditional fisherman's huts. Between Stamsund and Svolvær, take part in an optional excursion and step back in history at the authentic Lofotr Viking Feast.
During the night, the ship navigates the narrow Raftsund Strait. After a stop in Harstad, continue to Tromsø for a prolonged stay. Many epic Arctic expeditions used Tromsø as a starting point. With the presence of the Norwegian Polar Institute, the city has cemented its position as the Polar Capital of Norway. 'Ishavskatedralen,' the Arctic Cathedral, is the city’s most famous landmark with its progressive design and extraordinary stained glass window. The world’s northernmost university and large numbers of tourists have created a vibrant cultural scene and the numerous restaurants and cafes are always teeming with life.
After a brief stop in Hammerfest and Havøysund, arrive in Honningsvåg, the gateway to the spectacular North Cape. Standing atop the 1,000-foot North Cape Plateau, on an optional excursion, gives you a sublime feeling of being at the end of the world. The area is also known for its bird life. Approach Kjøllefjord in the evening, and pass the rock formation Finnkirka, an ancient sacrificial site of the area’s indigenous Sámi people.
Arrive in Kirkenes in the morning. The Russian border is close by, and you may find it intriguing that the road signs are written in both Norwegian and Russian. Spending time in Kirkenes gives you an opportunity to take part in some of the adventurous activities offered in this Arctic environment. As the ship starts its voyage south, enjoy a delicious lunch followed by views of Arctic wilderness from deck or the panorama lounge. The ports previously visited by night on the northbound journey are now seen by day. In the afternoon, dock in Vardø, Norway's easternmost port. Continue along the Varanger Peninsula to Båtsfjord before reaching Berlevåg in the evening.
Reach Honningsvåg early in the morning and begin your day with an excursion to the North Cape. Enjoy breakfast 1,000 feet above the churning Atlantic Ocean. Hammerfest, where signs of settlement dates back to the Stone Age, still plays an important role as a fishing settlement. Visit the Meridian Column, erected in 1854 to commemorate the first precise measurement of the globe - an achievement so important it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Arrive in Tromsø, where you may choose to book a seat at the Midnight Concert at the Arctic Cathedral.
Pass through the Risøyrenna, a channel constructed as an inside route between Harstad and Sortland. Continue through the narrow Raftsund, where the captain may choose to take a detour into the spectacular Trollfjord, where steep cliffs hug the ship's sides. Continue to Svolvær, the main settlement on the Lofoten Islands. In addition to beautiful nature, Lofoten is known for cod fishing. The season starts in January and lasts through April. Leave the Lofoten Islands during the evening and set course for the mainland.
The Helgeland coast, which offers hundreds of islets, fertile farmlands, and steep mountains is worth getting up early to experience. Legends and myths are numerous along this part of the coast. Celebrate the second crossing of the Arctic Circle out on deck.
Explore the city of Trondheim. Pass the islands of Munkholmen and Hitra before crossing the open sea to Molde, also known as the city of roses due to its lush Gulf Stream location. The town of Kristiansund is regarded as Norway's 'cured cod capital' and has long been the main export port for this popular salted dry fish.
Day 12: Bergen | Disembark
1 Breakfast
Make the most of your final impressions of Norway as you say goodbye. Enjoy the last few nautical miles of fascinating scenery ahead of you, such as the picturesque Nordfjord below the enormous Jostedal Glacier. Navigate the estuary of the mighty Sognefjord and get the best views of the archipelago en route.
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.
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
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Polar Inside Upper deck - (K3)
8 - 9 m2, These superior inside cabins for up to three people on the upper deck are newly refurbished and have bathrooms with shower/WC. The cabins have TV and separate beds, one of which converts into a sofa. The third bed is an upper berth.
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Polar Inside Lower deck - (I1)
8 - 11 m2, These comfortable, standard inside cabins for one person on the lower deck have bathrooms with shower/WC, and separate beds, one of which converts into a sofa.
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Polar Inside Lower deck - (I2)
8 - 11 m2, These comfortable, standard inside cabins for up to two people on the lower deck have bathrooms with shower/WC, and separate beds, one of which converts into a sofa.
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Polar Outside Middle deck - (O2)
8 - 11 m2, These comfortable, outside cabins for up to two people on the middle/lower decks have a bathroom with shower/WC, and single beds (or bunk beds), one of which converts into a sofa.
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Polar Outside Middle deck - (O3)
8 - 11 m2, These comfortable, outside cabins for up to three people on the middle/upper decks have bathrooms with shower/WC, and bunk beds, one of which converts into a sofa.
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Polar outside Middle deck - (N3)
10 - 12 m2, These standards outside cabins for up to three people on the middle decks have bunk beds and separate beds, one of which converts into a sofa, and bathrooms with shower/WC.
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Polar Outside Middle deck - (N2)
10 - 12 m2, These standard outside cabins for up to two people on the middle decks have separate beds, one of which converts into a sofa, and bathrooms with shower/WC.
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Polar Outside Lower deck - (L2)
8 - 12 m2, These comfortable, outside cabins for up to two people on the lower deck have bathrooms with shower/WC, and bunk beds, one of which converts into a sofa. The cabins have portholes, some with limited or no view.
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Polar Outside Upper deck - (J3)
8 - 12 m2, These comfortable, outside cabins for up to three people on the upper or middle decks have bathrooms with shower/WC, and bunk beds, one of which converts into a sofa. The third bed is an upper berth. The cabins have limited or no view.
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Polar Outside Upper deck - (J2D)
8 - 12 m2, These comfortable outside cabins for up to two people on the upper or middle decks have bathrooms with shower/WC and double beds. The cabins have limited or no view.
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Arctic Superior Upper deck - (U2D)
10 - 12 m2, These comfortable, newly refurbished cabins for up to two people on the upper deck have double beds.
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Arctic Superior Upper deck - (P2D)
10 - 13 m2, These comfortable, newly refurbished cabins for up to two people on the upper deck have double beds.
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Expedition Suite Upper deck - (M4)
28 - 30 m2, These elegant suites on the upper deck have one or two rooms and a seating area. The suites also have a TV, Wi-Fi, and a great view.
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Expedition Suite - Mini Suite Upper deck (Q2)
16 - 19 m2, These comfortable suites for up to two people on the upper deck have double beds, and most have sofa groups as well. The suites also have a TV, Wi-Fi, and a great view.
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Expedition Suite - Mini Suite Upper Decks (Q4)
16 - 19 m2, These comfortable suites for up to four people on the upper deck have double beds, and most have sofa groups as well. The suites also have a TV, Wi-Fi, and a great view.
Notes
Special features:
Expedition Team
Refurbished in 2016
Three restaurants
Multe bakery and ice cream bar
Explorer bar lounge
Wi-Fi
Sauna
Fitness room
Lift
Conference room
Car deck
Hot tub
Car space on board
Please note the following dimensions for vehicles:
Max Length: 650 cm/ 21.3 ft
Max Width: 245 cm/ 7.8 ft
Max Height: 225 cm/ 7.3 ft
Max Weight: 5000 kg/ 11,023 lbs Campervans, minivans and trailers cannot be accepted.
Initial deposit is 25%, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 70 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
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.
KC Chan
TrustScore 4.8 | 251 reviews
TrustScore 4.8 of 5
Based on 251 reviews on
9 hours ago
Excellent travel advice and service
This is my second experience working with Adventure Life. I’m sold. Jess Heuermann is an experienced traveler and provides a lot of useful information when planning a trip. These are the questions I like to ask at the outset - What’s it like to go here, there, what would you suggest, what do people report, can we add any additional side trips? Jess took the time to answer my questions and seek additional information to share with me. Petchie Colina is outstanding in helping with travel logistics and final preparations. Adventure Life has excellent guides and offers private guides and small group adventures. We enjoyed the opportunity to talk with the guides and drivers to learn more about their countries, cultures and histories. A highlight was having the guides pick local restaurants where we could share meals together. Highly recommend.
Claire Cordon
1 day ago
Our six-day tour in Iceland went smoothly with one exception. We had asked for two rooms each night. Somehow we were booked with one room with three beds. It could not be fixed at the first hotel in Reykjavik because the hotel was fully booked. Once informed of the problem, however, Adventure Life rebooked for two rooms for the remainder of the trip. As an 85-year-old traveler, I appreciated that one could participate at different physical levels at many of the stops. Iceland is a great place to visit but on the expensive side.
Mary Warren
2 days ago
Jess was very easy going and answered all our questions. It’s not easy dealing with 6 people at once but she did an outstanding job!
Diane Foster
4 days ago
Kassandra and the Adventure Life team have been incredible! Kassandra was very knowledgeable and attentive to our asks while making sure we kept within our budget. This was our first experience with a travel agent and we were blown away by the booking/initial exploration service. We will use Adventure Life again.
