Norwegian Coastal Voyage

Have your cameras ready today as we visit five fantastic ports. This morning, we cross over the Arctic Circle and celebrate with a special ceremony where the winner of the Arctic Circle Competition is announced. After lunch, we call on Bodø in Nordland County, where you can enjoy some free time to explore. Later this afternoon, we may see the majestic Lofoten wall which stretches from Moskenes in the south to the Raftsund in the north.

In Tromsø, our guide takes us to the Arctic Cathedral, a beautiful and modern church inspired by the local Norwegian faith and nature. Tromsø is affectionately known as the Arctic capital. Surrounded by majestic mountains, scenic fjords and picturesque islands, Tromsø’s many attractions offer history, daring architecture, wildlife, science, culture and impressive vistas.

Included Private Excursion – Tromsø, the Arctic Cathedral and Cable Car

We venture off to explore this fascinating university city affectionately called ‘The Paris of the North.’ Visit the Arctic Cathedral with its magnificent stained-glass window, and a visit to the Polar Museum which preserves and conveys stories related to the history of Tromsø and the Arctic.

Today, we sail the Barents Sea and travel through the Finnmark region, sailing past many small fishing villages both old and active.

Included Private Excursion – North Cape

We go ashore on the island of Magerøya and Journey to visit the North Cape. Here, you have time to explore the North Cape Pavilion and view the 125° panorama film. We continue out into the wilds of northern Norway for a photo stop and the opportunity to purchase some souvenirs. We then rejoin our ship in Honningsvåg.

Our ship arrives in Kirkenes today. Here we are further north than any part of mainland Canada or the northern tip of Siberia! Enjoy your free time to explore this remote northern community. We depart Kirkenes to begin our southbound voyage.

Hammerfest is the northernmost town in the world and offers many attractions. Enjoy a morning of leisure where you may choose to visit the Museum of Reconstruction, see the monuments in the town square, or simply wander through the shops. This is also home to the Royal and Ancient Polar Bear Society, ‘Isbjørnklubben.’

This single day is a testament to why the round-trip voyage on the Havila Castor cannot be missed. The Lofoten Islands are a feast for the eyes with their countless mountains, colourful green valleys, bright houses and endless rippling waters.

Included Private Excursion – Vesterålen to Sortland with Herring Oil Tank Concert

In Risøyhamn, we depart on our sightseeing tour of Vesterålen. Arriving in Melbu, enjoy a concert in an old herring oil tank at the Neptun Herring Oil Factory.

Included Private Excursion – Lofoten and the Lofoten Aquarium

In Svolvær, our overland Journey continues through the stunning wall of mountains that is Lofoten. This is an evening to remember and includes a visit to the Lofoten Aquarium.

Today is a day for relaxing as we cross back over six ports of call and take in the spellbinding scenery. We pass the Arctic Circle again and around lunchtime, we call on Sandnessjøen to enjoy an early afternoon stroll. The Helgeland coast has hundreds of islets, fertile farmland and steep granite walls. Do not miss the majestic chain of peaks named the ’Seven Sisters’, as well as the characteristic Torghatten, the famous mountain with a hole through it. After dinner we call on the pretty town of Rørvik.

Enjoy free time in Trondheim early today. This afternoon we call on Kristiansund, an ancient town situated on three islands. The people here have lived around this harbour for at least eight thousand years.

Included Private Excursion – Kristiansund and ‘The Atlantic Road’

We drive the world famous ‘Atlantic Road’. Known as one of the most scenic drives in the world, zig zagging over bridges that burst out into the sea. This road was chosen as ‘Norway’s Construction of the Century’ and links many small towns between Kristiansund and Molde. We return to the ship in Molde, well known for its unspoiled views of the Alps of Romsdalen.

We disembark the Havila Castor and transfer to our hotel, located amidst the historical buildings of Bryggen. The rest of the day is yours to discover this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dinner this evening is on your own for you to explore the many restaurants in the area.

Today you are free to explore the beautiful city of Bergen at your leisure. An important seaport and Norway’s capital through the early Middle Ages, today Bergen is the 2nd largest city in Norway and is known for its annual International Festival, KODE art museums, and stunning views. This evening enjoy our farewell dinner.

We bid Norway ’avskjed’, and make our way to the airport for our flights home. Enjoy our private car to your home.