No-fly Northern Lights and Fjords Expedition

With no need to brave the airport as you'll embark the MS Maud in Tilbury. After embarkation you'll have plenty of time to explore the ship and its many amenities, including the Science Center, hot tubs, Explorer lounge, and open decks with panoramic views. Your accommodation onboard features natural Scandinavian materials, such as granite, oak, birch and wool, for a stylish and contemporary feel.

Stay: MS Maud

Enjoy the next two days at sea as you continue north to the Norwegian coastline. You'll meet the onboard Expedition Team, who will prepare you for the exciting adventures ahead. Listen in on talks by these experienced explorers who share their extensive knowledge about the places, people and natural phenomena we are likely to encounter, like the Northern Lights. Or, simply make the most of your free time admiring the views, trying some of the ship’s cuisine, or relaxing with a good book as you watch the world go by.

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This morning you'll rise to the stunning Norwegian coast at Hornelen, Europe's highest sea cliff before venture deeper into the majestic fjords where larger ships simply can't go. Meandering your way through the waterways, you'll spot numerous old fishing communities, colourful villages and impressive glaciers, before arriving into the small town of Loen, at the heart of Nordfjord. Boarding smaller vessels, you'll head to the jetty and the starting point of the Loen skylift, which will take you to the top of Mount Hoven for fantastic panoramic views.

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Continuing north you'll sail through the Helgeland county, where thousands of small islands make up the lowland area, before passing by Torghatten mountain and its distinct hole right through the middle. As you make your way more north, closer to the Arctic circle, you'll pass into the auroral zone, where you'll have the best chance of spotting the elusive Northern Lights. Although not in complete darkness, you'll enjoy the extended twilight hours where its soothing blue glows casts over the snow capped mountains. With many lectures on offer, make sure to warm up inside and learn more about the region and what you'll be seeing in the coming days.

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Today you'll make your approach to the Lofoten islands, a formidable wall of mountains looming on the horizon. The Lofoten Islands are world famous for their distinctive peaks, sheltered bays and iconic red buildings , and today you'll dock in idyllic Reine. Fishermen's huts dot the shoreline and snowy granite peaks shoot out of the fjord, making Reine one of the most frequently photographed landscapes in Norway. You'll have the chance to discover the nearby hamlet of Å, a scenic traditional fishing village where you can tour the Norwegian Fishing Village Museum. Walk among coastal buildings from a century ago and get a sense of everyday life in the Lofoten fisheries over the last 250 years. Return to Reine, where you'll have the opportunities to kayak the frigid waters, hike the local trails or warm up on the ship simply enjoying the views.

Stay: MS Maud

Enjoy breakfast as you arrive into the vast wilderness of Finnmark country, well above the Arctic Circle and at the heard of the auroral zone and the northernmost town you'll visit on this expedition. This region also forms part of the traditional lands of the indigenous Sami, whose lives revolved around nomadic reindeer herding and the expedition team may choose to pay them a visit, otherwise, you'll have the chance for option husky sledding, ice hotel visits and snowmobiling adventures. As darkness takes over, turn your eyes to the sky, where your chances of spotting the Northern Lights have never been greater.

Stay: MS Maud

Today you'll arrive into Norway's spectacular Northern Lights capital – Tromsø. Optional winter activities from here include everything from dog-sledding and cross-country skiing to snowshoeing through the wilderness. Your included activity in Tromsø is visit to the Polar Museum, learning about the heritage of the town and the explorers who first passed through many years ago. There's plenty more to see – the Arctic Cathedral is a landmark in Tromsø visible from the Tromsø Sound, featuring a huge stained-glass window, while the world’s northernmost brewery, Mack Bryggeri, is well worth a visit. 

Stay: MS Maud

Arriving into Narvik this morning, set your eyes on the three fjords of Ofotfjord, Rombaken and Beisfjord and the sheltered Arctic town of Narvik. The town also played an important role during World World II, due to its rich ore mines, and the War Museum offers great insight into that period and worth a visit. Aside from the museum, enjoy the local shops, super fresh seafood and excellent local restaurants. Take the cable car to the top of Mount Narvik for panoramic views or optionally head out snowshoeing local trails.

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Today you'll enjoy the day at leisure, where you may like to spend your time in the ship’s Explorer lounge, soaking in a one of the ship's hot tub, or out on deck watching fjords pass by. Just like any true expedition, the next two days will be at the discretion of the expedition team, as they navigate the fjords, visiting off-the-beaten track villages, coves and bays along the way. This freedom allows each journey to be truly unique, as no two expedition days will be alike.

Stay: MS Maud

This morning you'll arrive into Bergen, one of Norway’s most beautiful cities and the perfect place to explore on foot. Founded in 1070 AD, Bergen was Norway’s capital for many years, and has retained a great deal of its local character, history and charm. Take a stroll through the historic UNESCO-listed Bryggen district, with its colourful wooden wharfs dating back to the 14th century. An included excursion to Mount Fløyen sees you to the top of the mountain in just six minutes via the Fløibanen. Experience panoramic views over the city, mountains and the sea from the summit, and if you have the energy, follow one of many light trails into the snow-decked alpine forest. Then, back at sea level, wander Bergen's cobblestone streets and alleyways, drop into one of its many cafés or pubs and order a half-litre of local Hansa beer. 

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You're final Norwegian visit will be to the picturesque town of wooden houses, Egersund. Its cosy vibe and brightly coloured houses date back to the stone age and there are several places around town where you'll find ruins of past settlements. Enjoy the town at your own pace, exploring the town centre which has some of the best preserved houses, dating back over 160 years. The terrain outside town is also great for walks, the last chance to hike among the beauty of Norway.

Stay: MS Maud

Today is your final day at sea, and as you cross the North Sea, you might spot giant gas flares atop one of the many oil and gas platforms. Relax with one last soak in the hot tub, with a drink in the ship’s lounge, or by joining the Expedition Team as they review the highlights of your memorable winter expedition cruise to the coast of Norway. Round it all off with a delicious gourmet dinner. During the night, you'll have a technical stop in Calais.

Stay: MS Maud

After breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to your ship and set off for home.  All 2023 voyages end in Tilbury.