In Search of the Northern Lights

Often referred to as the Atlantic City, due to its close proximity to one of the world's most scenic roadways, the Atlantic Road, Kristiansund is home to much of Norway’s most iconic modern architecture. The Atlantic Road is a true feat of engineering, offering breath-taking scenery and culture at every point, as it snakes over a series of small islands, spanned by a total of eight bridges.

Torghatten is an iconic mountain shaped by the Scandinavian Ice Age and renowned for the huge hole that punctuates its centre. Sailing alongside this geological spectacle, framed by towering cliffs and rugged coastlines, offers a unique view from the perspective of the sea. In winter, the scene transforms into a picturesque wonderland, with snow dusting the mountain’s peak and the surrounding fjords often partially frozen.

Forming a majestic chain of peaks overlooking the shipping channel, the Seven Sisters mountain range is an awe-inspring backdrop to a myriad of islands and Norwegian landscapes. Standing 1,000 feet above the shoreline, these striking peaks are perhaps best observed in all their glory from your cruise ship. It is possible to climb them, and to learn the legend of the trolls who were turned to stone!

Embarking on the maritime tradition of crossing the Arctic Circle is a cherished experience for guests and crew alike. This momentous occasion, often announced by our Captain, invites you to venture out on deck and celebrate. You may choose to participate in a ceremonial ritual, complete with optional 'baptisms', where ice-cold water is poured down your back, or simply delight in the atmosphere of excitement and anticipation.

Sortland in winter makes for a fascinating visit as you'll experience the intriguing Polar Night, where twilight reigns as the sun hides below the horizon. A stroll through the centre, with its array of blue-hued buildings, will reveal why the town is known as the 'Blue City', while the Sortland Museum showcases the history and culture of the Vesterålen Islands. Amidst your exploration, relish opportunities to soak up the vibrant arts scene and savour authentic Norwegian cuisine, such as stockfish. And remember to keep your eyes peeled for the elusive spectacle of the Northern Lights.

During winter, the ice-covered seas around Tromsø are filled with hundreds of whales, as they go in search of food and breeding grounds. One of the main reasons they visit this area is for the abundance of herring in the waters. Tromsø is also well-known for its husky sledding, where these magnificent creatures pull sleds through the snowy countryside. It's also possible to see the other-wordly Northern Lights as they dance and flicker in the skies above northern Norway's largest city. 

Norway’s first capital city, Trondheim, was established in 997 by Viking King Olav, who returned from England to spread Christianity to Norway, thus ridding it of the existing paganism. He was posthumously declared a saint in 1070, due to the widespread adoption of Christianity in Scandinavia. Trondheim has colourful buildings and wooded hills, and is home to the largest university in Norway, the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, where and one in seven inhabitants work within the knowledge and innovation sectors, focussing on green technology.

Ålesund promises a captivating blend of history, nature, and adventure. After ascending the 418 steps to Mount Aksla’s summit, which reveals panoramic views of snow-speckled islands and fjords, you could be enjoying a winter stroll in the charming city centre, with its colourful Art Nouveau buildings and eateries serving fresh seafood and local dishes like bacalao. Meanwhile, the nearby islands of Giske and Godøy, with their quaint villages and unspoilt scenery, offer opportunities to partake in outdoor pursuits such as hiking and wildlife spotting.