No-fly Norway on Azamara Pursuit

Your cruise begins on the south coast of England as you board Azamara Pursuit in Southampton to begin your voyage east along the English Channel before sailing north towards Norway's west coast.

Stay: Azamara Pursuit

With a full day on board, it's the perfect chance to acquaint yourself with the onboard delights of Azamara Pursuit. Perhaps take the chance to indulge with a treatment at Sanctum Spa, or work out at the fully equipped fitness centre. Or, if the weather's looking fine, why not head to the pool deck to soak up some North Sea sunshine? Whatever you choose, you'll be treated to a full spread of gourmet dining options, from the traditional Italian cuisine at Aqualina to the signature steaks at Prime C's. Then, there's the chance to experience the ship's superb evening entertainment, showcased in thrilling cabaret shows or more intimate performances in the cosy 'Living Room'.

Stay: Azamara Pursuit

Arrive in Stavanger, a port city best-known for its leading role in Norway's oil industry. However, despite the usual mish mash of development that comes with such industrial booms, Stavanger's old town remains a delightfully traditional showcase for some of Norway's best-preserved wooden buildings, many of which date back to the 18th century. It's also the jumping off point for trips to Lysefjorden, itself watched over by the famous granite jut of Pulpit Rock.

Stay: Azamara Pursuit

Your next port of call is Bergen, a port city famed for its Hanseatic wharf and pretty waterfront which, in summer, is alive with packed pavement cafés and visitors soaking up the Scandinavian sunshine. With a full day in port, take the chance to visit the famous fish market, pause for lunch at one of the atmospheric restaurants in the Bryggen quay and take the funicular to the summit of Mt. Fløyen for sweeping views back across the city and its mountainous surroundings.

Stay: Azamara Pursuit

Today is a real trip highlight, as you sail into the winding network of Norway's western fjords, dropping anchor at the tiny village of Flåm. Don't mis the chance of a trip on the Flåm railway – the steepest standard-gauge line in the world – which winds up from the water's edge, passing plunging ravines and cascading waterfalls, to arrive at the mountain station of Myrdal. Then, as part of the famous Norway in a Nutshell, you'll take the Bergen Railway to Voss before heading back down through the mountains to Gudvangen where you'll rejoin the ship. Your journey through the fjords then continues as you sail to the village of Geiranger, surrounded by snow-dusted peaks. Pause along the way to take in the views of the 410-metre-tall Seven Sisters Waterfall.

Stay: Azamara Pursuit

Enjoy a full day at sea as you sail north from the western fjords, crossing the Arctic Circle en route to the Lofoten Islands. As you skirt the coast, take the chance to enjoy all the facilities on board Azamara Pursuit, and head out on deck to watch passing landscapes illuminated by the Midnight Sun. 

Stay: Azamara Pursuit

Today's port is Svolvaer in the Lofoten Islands, a granite archipelago of giant cliffs and golden beaches whose rugged beauty is unmatched almost anywhere else in Europe. Step on shore to explore its wild coastlines and verdant interior, calling in at remote fishing villages and keeping an eye out for soaring eagles and even a glimpse of a passing whale. 

Stay: Azamara Pursuit

Arrive in Tromso, Norway's Arctic capital, whose surrounding fjords host whales and dolphins while the town itself is a showcase for Norwegian Arctic culture and cuisine. For an overview, take the cable car to the summit of Storsteinen mountain, then head to the modernist Arctic Cathedral, before tucking into a delicious seafood lunch or visiting one of the many bars and pubs, of which Tromso has more of per capital than any other town in Norway.  

Stay: Azamara Pursuit

Arrive at Honningsvag, the last settlement before North Cape – mainland Europe's most northerly point. Enjoy the spectacular setting as you gaze out towards the North Pole from a sheer cliff which soars 1,000 feet above the frigid ocean swells, far below. To take it all in in comfort, head to North Cape Hall. Built into the side of the mountain plateau, it offers sweeping views from through its floor-to-ceiling windows.

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Tucked away on the shores of Altafjord, this city above the Arctic Circle shines in the light of the midnight sun. The local Sami people are warm and welcoming, and outdoor adventures abound. Visit a cathedral inspired by winter's Northern Lights, channel your inner archaeologist as you discover ancient rock carvings, and explore the vast beauty of the Alta Canyon.

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Located on the island of Hinnøya,  Harstad welcomes visitors with a delightful coastline backdropped by the snow-dusted Scandinavian Mountains. Take the chance to hike to Sætertinden mountain, join fishing trip in the icy Atlantic waters or take an indulgent look into Nordic spa culture. There's something for the urbanite, too, with an ambling bike ride through the town's bustling streets.

Stay: Azamara Pursuit

It's the northern terminus of Norway's railway system, and the jumping off point for trips to the neighbouring Lofoten Islands. But, there's plenty more to Bodo itself, not least the dramatic beauty of its surroundings – a pretty islands, rugged peaks and endless skies home to soaring white-tailed sea eagles.

Stay: Azamara Pursuit

Enjoy another full day at sea as you sail towards Alesund. It's another chance to make the most of the facilities onboard, perhaps with a dip in the pool, an expert-led lecture on your next destination or to simply admire the view from out on deck as you journey south.

Stay: Azamara Pursuit

Your next port, Alesund, was almost entirely rebuilt following a devastating fire in 1904, which led to the creation of some of Norway's most impressive art nouveau architecture. Don't miss out on a trip to the summit of Aksla Mountain, from where you can enjoy stunning views of the town's spired and turrets, framed by the beauty of the Sunnmore Alps. To reach the top, you can either tackle the 418 steps, or take the train. Either way, the result is spectacular. 

Stay: Azamara Pursuit

Relax and reflect on your journey with two final days at sea. Get a behind-the-scenes look at life onboard with an Insider’s View Tour, indulge with a spa treatment or try your luck at the ship's onboard casino.

Stay: Azamara Pursuit

After a final delicious breakfast on board, it's time to disembark in Southampton to begin your journey home.