In Search of 'The Lights' in Eight Nights

Not only is Newcastle one of Britain’s greatest and most vibrant cities, it is also a fantastic starting point for a Fred. Olsen cruise. With its excellent road and rail connections to the rest of northern England, Scotland and beyond, and its large, comfortable passenger lounge, the Port of Tyne is the perfect place to set sail on your relaxing holiday. 

The Port of Tyne is the departure port for an extensive range of exciting Fred. Olsen cruises departing in 2018 and 2019, each featuring itineraries packed with incredible destinations and memorable experiences. From the spectacular wonders of Arctic Norway, Iceland and the breathtaking Norwegian fjords to the culture-rich cities of Andalusia, the Baltic or Scandinavia, you can get closer to some of the greatest places on earth when you cruise from Newcastle on board Fred. Olsen's smaller, friendlier ships. 

So, whether you fancy a cruise packed with sunshine, scenic sights or city delights you're sure to find that you have plenty of choice. The hardest part is trying to decide which cruises to book! See below to view and find out more about Fred. Olsen cruises from Newcastle. 

The charming town of Bodø is the northernmost point on the stunning Kystriksveien Coastal Route and home to the world's strongest maelstrom, Saltstraumen. The port represents the northern terminus of Norway's railway system, and is ideal for year round bird spotting as it boasts the world’s densest population of sea eagles. [ReadMoreMob]

The curious experience of the midnight sun from the summit of Mount Ronvikfjellet is a sight to behold, while strolling along Bodø’s chalk-white beach, or enjoying some shopping in the bustling town centre, are popular pastimes.

The majestic stained-glass windows and delicate tapestries within Bodø Cathedral make for a particularly worthwhile trip. Bodø’s historic past can be uncovered by visiting one of the town’s museums, and the Aviation Museum offers a glimpse into Norway’s aviation history. Exhibits include famous aircraft such as the Supermarine Spitfire, Tiger Moth and F-86 Sabre.

The island city of Tromsø is one of northern Norway’s true delights. Rich with neo-classical architecture, the city known as the ‘Gateway to the Arctic’, contains the largest number of wooden houses in Northern Norway, and its old world charm makes it a real joy to explore.

A major cultural hub above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is famed as a viewing point for the colourful Northern Lights that often light up the night sky. The city’s most recognisable landmark is the must-visit Arctic Cathedral. Built in 1965, the cathedral’s distinctive iceberg-shaped design was inspired by the landscapes of Northern Norway and features a beautiful glass mosaic.

The many museums and galleries in the city include the Perspektivet Museum – set in a neo-classical building built in 1838 that has exhibits from Tromsø’s past, plus the Art Museum of Northern Norway and the Mack Brewery. Tromsø is also home to Polaria, an Arctic aquarium that is popular with locals and tourists alike. The aquarium’s tanks are full of Arctic fish species, and the friendly bearded seals always delight the visiting crowds.

Tromsø, and the stunning landscapes that surround it, are best viewed from the top of the Storsteinen Mountain, which stands 420 metres above sea level. Accessible via cable car, the peak is easy to reach and one of the most popular spots on the edge of the city.

Founded in 1903, Narvik is a relatively new city but still offers a fascinating history. Located north of the Arctic Circle, the city's harbour is surprisingly ice-free, however, there are still a number of stunning Arctic sights to see, including the Narvikfjellet Mountain.

Although over 400km north of the Arctic Circle, Narvik’s harbour is ice-free and in use all year as a port for iron ore exports. Although inhabited since prehistoric times, the town was not established until 1903 when the Ofoten Railway was
completed. The line is a tourist attraction in itself, running 42km through magnificent scenery to the Swedish border. A cable car ride from the centre of town to the viewpoint on the Narvikfjellet Mountain gives fabulous views over the Ofotfjord and surrounding area.

Close to the town centre is the Ofoten Museum, with displays of local history including 5,000-year-old rock carvings. The Nordland Red Cross War Memorial Museum commemorates the occupation of Narvik in the Second World War. Narvik Church is a fine example of Scandinavian architecture, with a painted altar piece by Eilif Pettersen, while the northernmost animal park, Polar Park, is worth a look.

Not only is Newcastle one of Britain’s greatest and most vibrant cities, it is also a fantastic starting point for a Fred. Olsen cruise. With its excellent road and rail connections to the rest of northern England, Scotland and beyond, and its large, comfortable passenger lounge, the Port of Tyne is the perfect place to set sail on your relaxing holiday. 

The Port of Tyne is the departure port for an extensive range of exciting Fred. Olsen cruises departing in 2018 and 2019, each featuring itineraries packed with incredible destinations and memorable experiences. From the spectacular wonders of Arctic Norway, Iceland and the breathtaking Norwegian fjords to the culture-rich cities of Andalusia, the Baltic or Scandinavia, you can get closer to some of the greatest places on earth when you cruise from Newcastle on board Fred. Olsen's smaller, friendlier ships. 

So, whether you fancy a cruise packed with sunshine, scenic sights or city delights you're sure to find that you have plenty of choice. The hardest part is trying to decide which cruises to book! See below to view and find out more about Fred. Olsen cruises from Newcastle.