Scenic Islands of Northern Norway

The dramatic natural beauty and rural delights of rugged, remote islands in Northern Norway are within your reach on this exceptional autumn escape, with Black Watch guiding you into the Arctic Circle to uncover breathtaking archipelagos. Wild, untamed landscapes and postcard-perfect settlements await you, while there’s even a chance of catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

Your exploration of Norway’s northern islands takes in three of the region’s most captivating destinations.[ReadMoreMob] The beautiful Lofoten Islands and the Vesterålen archipelago are wonderlands of glorious coastal scenes, spellbinding fjords, soaring mountains peaks and enchanting villages. During a stop at Leknes you can discover picturesque areas such as the Henningsvaer fishing village and Houkland Beach, and immerse yourself in rich Viking history; [ReadMoreDesk]while sprawling Svolvær, with its mix of new and historic attractions – set upon a backdrop of towering mountains, rugged cliffs and lush-green fields – offers a taste of life in Lofoten today. In Vesterålen you’re in for a unique experience, with a chance to explore the ‘blue town’ of Sortland – famed for being almost entirely painted blue – to find art exhibitions, interesting architecture and shopping; or perhaps go in search of seals, birds and possibly orcas on wildlife-watching adventures. As you’ll visit northern Norway early in Northern Lights season, you might be lucky enough to see the awe-inspiring Aurora Borealis in all its colourful glory too. 

Another incredible Arctic destination on your itinerary is Tromsø. You’ll stop overnight in the ‘Gateway to the Arctic’, affording you time to explore the city and admire its impressive neoclassical architecture, visit the iconic, iceberg-shaped Arctic Cathedral, and ride a cable car to the top of majestic Mount Storsteinen for unspoilt views of Tromsø’s scenic surroundings. Your Arctic adventure also includes memorable scenic cruising of the spectacular Trollfjord and Raftsundet, both out of reach to larger ships, as well as by the quaint fishing village of Reine. Elsewhere in Norway Black Watch will bring you to Kristiansund, where you can marvel at the remarkable architecture of the city’s charming Old Town; and sail past the Torghatten and Seven Sisters mountains to present you with plenty of unmissable photo opportunities. You’ll visit Scotland’s gorgeous Shetland Islands as you head back to UK; from Lerwick you can seek out the Shetlands’ diverse wildlife, or visit the ancient sites of Clickimin Broch and Jarlshof.