Narvik Cruises
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.[ReadMoreMob] 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.
Top Experiences
Ofoten Railway
The Ofoten Railway is a 43 kilometre (26 miles) long railway that runs between the port of Narvik and the Swedish border Riksgransen where the line continues into Sweden. The line opened in 1888 to accommodate transporting the iron ore from the mountains to the port. Some refer to Ofotbanen as one of the most spectacular railway lines in the world.
Norwegian Animals
Meet the natural predators of the Arctic – wolves, bears, wolverine and lynx – as well as other animals from the polar fauna in one of the animal parks at Polar Park. Polar Park is the northernmost animal park in the world and is located in the heart of the Salangsdalen Valley. The park is based on exhibiting animals in their natural surroundings, which means each species is provided with plenty of room to roam.
World War II History
Battles of Narvik were fought from 9 April to 8 June 1940 as a naval battle in the Ofotfjord and as a land battle in the mountains surrounding the north Norwegian city of Narvik as part of the Norwegian Campaign of the Second World War. Narvik War Museum is a modern and new war museum with architectonical and interactive experiences, where northern Norway’s war history is gathered under one roof.
Cruises to Narvik
In Search of the Northern Lights • L2230
- Overnights in Alta and Tromsø to spot Aurora Borealis
- Spend time with the Sámi people in Tromsø
- Cross the Arctic Circle
Borealis Searches for the Northern Lights • S2301
- Search for the Northern Lights in Alta & Tromso
- Spend time with traditional Sami people
- Sail across the Arctic Circle
In Search of the Northern Lights • T2304
- Enjoy a thrilling husky ride from Bodø
- Seek out the breath-taking Northern Lights in Alta
- Explore the 'Gateway to the Arctic' city of Tromsø
In Search of the Northern Lights • L2328
- Revel in Arctic Norway’s winter wonders, from its snowy landscapes to the astonishing Northern Lights
- Go husky sledding from Narvik and, in Alta, seek-out Aurora Borealis and connect with Sami culture
- Experience unforgettable scenic cruising on Christmas Day, and celebrate New Year’s Eve at Ålesund
In Search of the Northern Lights • L2404
- An incredible Arctic adventure packed with memorable experiences
- Mush a team of huskies on an Arctic sledding adventure
- Capture the beauty of Arctic wilderness and stunning natural landmarks
In Search of the Northern Lights • L2405
- Seek-out the Northern Lights on a special exploration
- See the Northern Lights from on board Balmoral
- Enjoy unique Arctic experiences
In Search of the Northern Lights • L2406
- Take in some of the most memorable Arctic sights
- Go in search of the fascinating Northern Lights
- During time ashore, husky sled into Arctic wilderness
In Search of the Northern Lights in Nine Nights • L2407
- Embark on a cruise created specifically for seeking out the Northern Lights
- You’ve chances to witness Mother Nature’s light show from the comfort of Balmoral
- Explore Arctic wilderness, go husky sledding and have a go at traditional ice fishing too