Ultimate Norway – Arctic Expedition under the Northern Lights

Backed by snowy mountains, lively Tromsø is the perfect place from which to set out on an adventure. It was the base for many historic Arctic expeditions, including those of Roald Amundsen, and its situation 250 miles north of the Polar Circle has led to it being called the ‘Gateway to the Arctic’. Just like the legendary explorers, now it is your turn to set a course for the Arctic.

If you arrive early in Tromsø, we recommend exploring the city before joining your cruise.  There’s plenty to see, such as the Polar Museum, where you’ll learn about the city’s exploration heritage. And make sure to visit the striking Arctic Cathedral – with its huge stained-glass window.

Approaching the scenic Lyngen Alps via the Lyngenfjord! For the next seven days we’ll be exploring four distinct regions, each with its own outstanding features and unique beauty. The first such region we’re likely to visit is Lyngen.

The scenic Lyngen area is a landscape of jagged, snowy mountains, and a magnet for winter activities. Lyngenfjord is over a hundred miles long, and we’ll spend our time here going on nature landings, hiking, snowshoeing, kayaking and, if conditions allow, spotting whales from our small expedition boats or the ship’s deck.

Later, it’s time for a real treat. Inspired by Norway’s friluftsliv, or deep love for the great outdoors, we’ll gather on the beach and enjoy the warmth of a bonfire on our Day to Dusk – Flames and Flavors experience. With hot drinks in hand and Norwegian treats cooked by our onboard chefs, you’ll really feel at one with nature. If we’re lucky, perhaps the Northern Lights will put on a display for us.

Senja is Norway’s second-largest island, and it’s sometimes called Norway-in-miniature. With its rugged mountains, sandy beaches, dark forests, and idyllic fishing villages, you can see how it earned this name. Free-roaming reindeer wander around the island, so keep an eye out for them.

We plan to visit the historic settlement of Tranoya for a unique experience with some warm Scandinavian hospitality. Learn about ancient Viking culture and modern life in the remote villages of Arctic Norway during the winter months.

In December and January, we’ll sometimes be sailing in the dark and at dusk during the day – but this will only enhance our experience, with glittering snowscapes illuminated by the low sun and the starlight.

Experience dramatic panoramas! As we sail toward the Lofoten Islands, the Expedition Team will seek out the best place for a nature landing, perhaps at one of the many fine beaches which are likely covered in pristine snow in the sheltered fjords. We may head out in our small expedition boats to explore between remote islands or get out the kayaks.

Approaching the dramatically steep mountains of Lofoten by ship is an experience that’s unforgettable. You’ll be in awe of the landscapes as we sail through this region of windswept islands, sheltered bays, and some of the most beautiful fjords in the world. Look out for Sea Eagles as you admire the exceptional beauty of this stretch of coastline.

In winter, the Lofoten Islands transform into a snow-covered wonderland. Narrow fjords, hidden beaches between towering mountains, and picturesque fishing villages are all ideal to visit with a small ship like MS Spitsbergen.

While you admire the natural splendor of Lofoten, you’ll also learn about the importance of Lofoten Fisken, the local fisheries, by meeting with the local communities.

One such community is Svolvær. You can get a taste of this Arctic town when our ship stays late into the night here. Join an excursion or explore the boulevard. It’s a small town, but it’s the biggest you’ll find in these islands, and there are a few cozy restaurants and bars here if you fancy trying a Lofoten snack or brew.

To top it off, you’ll also get to enjoy your second special experience, a Nordic Sauna and Polar Plunge. Embrace a revitalizing Norwegian tradition as you relax in the warmth of a sauna before taking a thrilling polar plunge.

As we head towards Vesterålen, your Captain and Expedition Leader will chart the day’s route based on conditions and opportunities, ensuring we make the most of what the region has to offer.

If conditions allow, we’ll venture into Trollfjord, where narrow waters are framed by sheer-sided cliffs. Or we’ll cruise between rugged peaks through the Raftsundet Strait. Whatever route we take, you’ll be immersed in striking scenery. And as we navigate dramatic fjords, the mountains rise so close to the ship you’ll feel like you could reach out and touch them.

It’s here that we have our special Into the Night – Dinner at the Museum experience at Hurtigrutemuseet, the Hurtigruten Museum. You’ll enjoy an exclusive opening of this heritage setting and dine amid historical artefacts in the old dining room of the ship, MS Finnmarken.

We’ll stay sheltered in the deep fjords as we make our way back toward Tromsø – at each turn, there will be a new island or mountain. Along the way we have plenty of time to scout out landing sites in our small expedition boats, and to go on nature walks and take part in other activities.

The scenery continues to be stunning as we pass through these inner waters, with the winter sun illuminating the landscapes and mountains or enjoy the magic of the polar night.  We also pass through areas where we’re likely to see whales. While on board, enjoy the Arctic scenery from the ship, warm up in the sauna or join the Expedition Team to listen to talks and attend discovery sessions in the Science Center.

Another opportunity to explore Tromsø! Your expedition cruise ends back in Tromsø. If you didn’t have an opportunity to explore this beautiful town before the cruise, make sure you do now. There’s so much to see and do here.

We hope your time in Arctic Norway has been as rewarding as it has been memorable. After days spent in the stillness of the season, surrounded by dramatic landscapes and soft winter light, you’ll return home with a deeper sense of where you’ve been and memories of a lifetime.