The Svalbard Line 2027

Embark your ship and settle into your stateroom. Bergen is home to the Hanseatic League’s only kontor (trading enclave) still in existence. Bryggen wharf, a row of timbered Hanseatic warehouses along a quaint quay, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Narrow wooden walkways are flanked by parallel rows of small, vibrantly painted buildings overlooking the picturesque Vågen Harbor. This is perhaps the most charming district of Bergen and a delight to explore, from its tight-knit community of workshops where artisans sell their wares to its cafés where freshly prepared smørbrød, or open-faced sandwiches, are on the menu.

A small town in Norway’s fjord country, Åndalsnes is a gateway to the rugged wilderness of the Romsdalfjord. Known as the 'village between the mountains and the fjords', it typifies Norway's striking natural beauty with its setting on a promontory lined by alps and set at the mouth of the Rauma River. The town itself is tucked under the lofty mountain peaks, backed by lush, green scenery. Nearby is the impressive Trollveggen, or 'Troll Wall', which at 6,000 feet is Europe's highest vertical cliff face and is often topped by cloud. The precipice is said to be the ultimate trial for rock climbers, who regularly flock here to accept the challenge. Åndalsnes is also the terminus of the famous Rauma Railway which runs 70 miles alongside the emerald-green Rauma river and through some of Norway’s most spectacular scenery to Dombås (2160 feet above sea level) where it then connects to the main Oslo to Trondheim line.

Træna: Norway's Ancient Island Frontier on the Arctic Circle
Træna is a remote and unique archipelago located far out at sea in Nordland county, within the Helgeland region of Norway. It lies closer to the open Atlantic, with the Arctic Circle tracing a line directly through its islands.Key features of this distinct destination include:Geography and Community

• Location: Situated approximately 30 nautical miles from the mainland, Træna consists of hundreds (around 500) of islands, islets, and skerries, facing the open sea with Iceland as its next neighbor to the west.

• Main Center: Husøya (or Husøy) is the administrative center and the most populated island, where most of the town's facilities are located.

• Community: Despite its remote location, Træna is known as a small, tight-knit, and thriving community with a creative and unexpected "urban feel." The local culture is alive, expressed through artistic elements like street art, crafts, and sculptures integrated into the landscape.

Deep History and Economy

• Ancient History: Træna is one of Norway's oldest fishing villages, with archaeological discoveries (notably Stone Age bone hooks found in the Kirkhelleren cave) indicating that the islands have been continuously inhabited and sustained by fishing for over 8,000 years.

• Economic Base: Fishing remains the economic mainstay of the island municipality, which is part of the deep, cold waters rich with various species of fish.

Unique Attractions and Experiences

• Træna Festival: The island is perhaps best known for the Træna Festival, a large and internationally recognized music festival held every year in July on the islands of Husøy and Sanna. It temporarily transforms the tranquil community by hosting thousands of visitors.

• Sanna Island: Accessible by local boat, this "fairytale island" is home to the majestic mountain Trænstaven, a key landmark for sailors, and the cathedral-like cave Kirkhelleren.

• Cultural Sites:

  • Norwegian Coastal Museum (Norveg): Though not on Træna itself, the nearby museum is a center for coastal culture, detailing 10,000 years of the region's fishing history.

  • Træna Museum: Housed on Husøya, this museum covers the archipelago's history since the Stone Age.

  • Other: Visitors can find the modern Petter Dass Chapel and even relax in a wood-fired sauna built into one of Træna's oldest boathouses.

Lofoten Islands are considered to be in “another world” and for good reason. The archipelago with its jagged coastline is a majestic setting of high alpine summits, sandy beaches, green prairies and spectacular fjords. Many of the fjords are UNESCO listed, so whichever you manage to see will be a treat. Reine is a picture-perfect village surrounded by blue waters, lush greenery and speckled colour from the fishermen’s cottages. Enjoy hiking, whale-watching and birdwatching from this idyllic setting.

With its centre located on the island of Tromsø, the municipality of Tromsø is more than five times the size of Norway’s capital, Oslo, and is the world’s northernmost university city. Lying 200 miles inside the Arctic Circle, it is known as the 'Gateway to the Arctic' because it was used as a starting point for hunters looking for Arctic foxes, polar bears and seals. In the 19th century it was a base for explorers on Arctic expeditions – a history that is remembered in the city’s Polar Museum, which you can visit on an excursion. Also commemorated in the area is the history of Norway’s indigenous people, the Sami. Visitors can learn about the traditions, heritage and modern preservation of the Sami culture at the Tromsø Museum. Nowadays, Tromsø is a charming mix of old and new, with wooden buildings sitting alongside contemporary architecture such as the impressive glacier-like Arctic Cathedral, which features one of the largest stained glass windows in Europe. Looking down on the city is Mount Storsteinen, and a cable car runs to the top, giving wonderful views over the surrounding countryside of forested peaks and reindeer pastures.

Searching in 1553 for a northeast passage to India, British navigator Richard Chancellor came upon a crag 307 yards above the Barents Sea. He named the jut of rock North Cape, or Nordkapp. Today Europe's northernmost point is a rite-of-passage journey for nearly all Scandinavians and many others. Most cruise passengers visit Nordkapp from Honningsvåg, a fishing village on Magerøya Island. The journey from Honningsvåg to Nordkapp covers about 35 km (22 miles) across a landscape characterized by rocky tundra and grazing reindeer, which are rounded up each spring by Sami herdsmen in boats. The herdsmen herd the reindeer across a mile-wide channel from their winter home on the mainland. Honningvåg's northerly location makes for long, dark winter nights and perpetually sun-filled summer days. The village serves as the gateway to Arctic exploration and the beautiful Nordkapp Plateau, a destination that calls to all visitors of this region. Most of those who journey to Nordkapp (North Cape), the northernmost tip of Europe, are in it for a taste of this unique, otherworldly, rugged yet delicate landscape. You'll see an incredible treeless tundra, with crumbling mountains and sparse dwarf plants. The subarctic environment is very vulnerable, so don't disturb the plants. Walk only on marked trails and don't remove stones, leave car marks, or make campfires. Because the roads are closed in winter, the only access is from the tiny fishing village of Skarsvåg via Sno-Cat, a thump-and-bump ride that's as unforgettable as the desolate view.

Today is a day spent far from land as we cross the Barents Sea heading towards the remote wilderness of Svalbard. It really does feel like we're leaving civilization far behind as we sail towards the top of the world. There will be a lecture about Svalbard, and the theme of the day is Arctic desert. Out on deck, our talented chefs will prepare another special tasting for you to enjoy - and listen out for any points of interest from the Expedition Team.

It's a day for you to relax and enjoy the ship's facilities, and also to look ahead and learn about our next destination. At some point today we will sail past the lonely and rugged island of Bjornøya - 'Bear Island' - although no bears live there today. Why not get a cup of tea or coffee and seat yourself somewhere comfortable and read up about the nature and history of the Arctic frontier. In the afternoon there will be a briefing about the special rules that we all must follow to protect the delicate local ecology when we reach Ny-Ålesund.

Remember, there's plenty to do on board, so maybe now's the ideal time to take that sauna, work up a sweat in the fitness room, or browse the library. You might want to sort through all the photos you've taken so far, and if there are any you're particularly proud of, don't forget to share with your fellow guests using the Cameralla app so we can all see them!

Longyearbyen is the biggest settlement in Svalbard. Seat of the Norwegian administration, it also has the best services and infrastructure in the archipelago. Located deep in the Adventfjord, a sidearm of the Isfjorden (Icefjord), Longyearbyen’s airport can be used all-year round, but its harbor is blocked by ice in winter. Most shops, hotels, restaurants and a hospital are within easy walking distance of the port. One of the most prominent buildings in town is the UNIS center, where several Norwegian universities have joined forces to operate and offer the northernmost higher education to both Norwegian and international students. Adjacent to UNIS, and well worth a visit, is the Svalbard Museum, covering the natural history and exploitation of Svalbard. Remnants of the former mining activity can be seen all around Longyearbyen and even in town.

Ny-Ålesund: The World's Northernmost Research Settlement
Ny-Ålesund is the world's northernmost functional civilian settlement, located at 79 degrees north on the island of Spitsbergen in the Svalbard archipelago, Norway. Situated on the southern shore of Kongsfjorden (King's Fjord), it is a remote community with a dramatic history and a crucial modern purpose.Current Function: International Research CenterToday, Ny-Ålesund operates primarily as an international center for Arctic and climate change research.

• Scientific Hub: It hosts permanent research stations for 19 institutions from 11 countries, focusing on atmospheric physics, biology, glaciology, and oceanography.

• Population: The permanent, year-round population is small (around 30–40 people), but it swells with up to 114 scientists during the summer months.

• Ownership: The town is owned and operated by the Norwegian state-owned company Kings Bay, providing all necessary facilities and infrastructure for the global scientific community.

History and Explorer HeritageThe settlement has a storied past, transitioning from industry to exploration and finally to science:

• Mining Town (1916–1962): Ny-Ålesund was originally founded as a coal mining community by Kings Bay Kull Comp. Mining operations were eventually deemed too dangerous and closed down after a series of fatal accidents, including a major disaster in 1962.

• North Pole Expeditions: It served as the starting point for famous attempts to reach the North Pole. Most notably, Roald Amundsen launched his successful 1926 expedition aboard the airship Norge from here, a historic journey that marked the first undisputed flight over the North Pole. The original mooring mast where the airship was tethered is still visible.

Visitor Information and Unique RulesThough primarily a research station, Ny-Ålesund is a port of call for various expedition cruises. Visitors should be aware of a few unique rules:

• Radio Silence: To prevent interference with the Norwegian Mapping Authority’s delicate geodetic station (which measures the Earth's movements), there is a zone of radio silence within a 20km radius of the settlement. Visitors must turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on all electronic devices, including phones, drones, and cameras.

• Protected Heritage: The town has Svalbard’s largest collection of protected cultural heritage sites, including many remnants of the old mining community.

• Attractions: Key sites include the small Ny-Ålesund Town and Mine Museum and the world's northernmost post office.

• Nature Protection: Visitors are asked to strictly remain on designated roads and wooden pathways to protect the fragile Arctic tundra and wildlife.

Unfortunately, it’s time for us to say farewell to Svalbard and to Spitsbergen and sail south back to mainland Norway.

On board the ship, use the day to relax. If skies are clear, enjoy some summer sun out on deck and keep on the lookout for whales, dolphins, and porpoises.

For some fascinating insights into local history and wildlife, catch a lecture delivered by the Expedition Team.

Enjoy the sumptuous food and drinks on board, courtesy of our Norway’s Coastal Kitchen concept that features the finest, most flavorsome, local Norwegian produce.

You can also curl up with a good book in the lounge or chat with new-found friends in the bar while reminiscing together about your favorite experiences of the voyage so far.

After a day at sea, we arrive back to mainland Norway.

Our first stop of the day is Tromsø, to drop off any cargo from Svalbard and pick up cargo bound for ports to the south, before we continue south to Senja. The island is one of the country’s largest, and northern Norway’s fast-rising star destination, as you’d expect for a place ranked among CNN’s top ten most beautiful islands in the world.

Often proudly described by locals as a ‘mini Norway’, Senja has a concentration of diverse landscapes that mirror different parts of the Norwegian coast, from the sandy beaches, turquoise waters and lofty mountains of its northern coast to the rocky coastline and pine forests of southern Senja and Ånderdalen National Park. You'll find rolling hills and birch forests to the east.

Disembark in the charming fishing village of Torsken and explore by bus, e-bike, on foot, or take to the fjords on a wildlife safari on one of the optional excursions.

Svolvær is widely regarded as the Capital of Lofoten and is the administrative center of Vågan Municipality in Nordland county, Norway. It is one of the most famous and picturesque towns in the Lofoten archipelago, celebrated for its dramatic natural surroundings and vibrant cultural life.

Key features and activities include:

• Location and Landscape: Svolvær is situated on the island of Austvågøya and is surrounded by a breathtaking landscape of steep mountains, including the iconic Svolværgeita (The Svolvær Goat) peak, and numerous small islands, which are typical of the Lofoten Wall.

• Maritime Hub: The town is a major port of call for coastal voyages, a feature confirmed by its inclusion in various cruise line schedules. It is a central base for exploring the surrounding islands and fjords.

• Fishing and Culture: Svolvær has a deep connection to Norway's fishing heritage. You can explore the town's in-depth fishing history, including the importance of the dried fish industry, and visit local art galleries and cultural sites.

• Tourist Center: The Destination Lofoten AS official Tourist Board is based in Svolvær, making it the ideal base for visitors interested in the region's activities, such as sailing along the Lofoten Wall.

From the Lofoten Islands, we head south across the open sea and the Arctic Circle. Soak up the ocean views from the deck or simply soak in the hot tub. You’ll catch sight of the beautiful Norwegian coast again about an hour before we arrive in Bessaker, a small village in Trøndelag county.

We’ll spend the afternoon at Bessaker. Home to just 200 residents, it’s known for its excellent fishing opportunities and the surrounding waters boast plenty of skrei, coalfish and pollock. The annual fishing festival, held on the third weekend of July since 1979, attracts thousands of visitors.

 Explore Bessaker and its impressive natural surroundings at your own pace – you can expect live music, a warm welcome in the museum and tasty coffee and cake in the local pub and cafe to be waiting for you – or opt to join a hike, go on a bus tour to a local organic farm, sail on a nostalgic cutter fishing boat, or enjoy a guided e-bike tour.

The coastal town of Ålesund is the commercial capital of the Møre og Romsdal district. But more important, it is noted for its characteristic Jugendstil (Art Nouveau) buildings, which some claim make Ålesund one of the most beautiful towns in Norway. This Art Nouveau style emerged when the town was completely rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1904 destroyed nearly 800 buildings and left 10,000 residents homeless. It is said that the fire started by a tipped oil lamp. Rebuilding was carried out with the help of many young, foreign architects who added their own flourishes to the architectural blend of German Jugendstil and Viking roots. Today, narrow streets are crammed with buildings topped with turrets, spires and gables that bear decorations of dragonheads and curlicues. As one of the few remaining Art Nouveau towns in the world, in 1998 Ålesund was awarded the coveted Houens National Memorial Prize for the preservation of its unique architecture.

Embark your ship and settle into your stateroom. Bergen is home to the Hanseatic League’s only kontor (trading enclave) still in existence. Bryggen wharf, a row of timbered Hanseatic warehouses along a quaint quay, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Narrow wooden walkways are flanked by parallel rows of small, vibrantly painted buildings overlooking the picturesque Vågen Harbor. This is perhaps the most charming district of Bergen and a delight to explore, from its tight-knit community of workshops where artisans sell their wares to its cafés where freshly prepared smørbrød, or open-faced sandwiches, are on the menu.