Overview:
Embark on this nostalgic journey from 1968, exploring the far reaches of the world, now reimagined for contemporary travelers. Experience the voyage in the exquisite MS Trollfjord, navigating the picturesque Norwegian coast towards Spitsbergen, the largest island in the Svalbard archipelago.
Holiday price is from £ 4,835 per person based on availability and two people sharing an inside cabin. Single supplement upon request.
2024 Departure Dates
| DEAPARTURE |
RETURN |
| 03 May |
18 May |
| 17 May |
01 Jun |
| 31 May |
15 Jun |
| 14 Jun |
29 Jun |
| 28 Jun |
13 Jul |
| 12 Jul |
27 Jul |
| 26 Jul |
10 Aug |
| 09 Aug |
24 Aug |
| 23 Aug |
07 Sep |
| 06 Sep |
21 Sep |
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Bergen
Welcome to Bergen, Norway! Take in the breathtaking views of the city surrounded by seven mountains. Explore the UNESCO-listed Bryggen quarter with its charming cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and the lively fish market offering fresh seafood delights.
With long summer days, you'll have ample daylight to discover the city. Climb Mount Fløyen on foot or take the Fløibanen funicular for stunning panoramic views. Indulge in local 7 Fjell beer and then rest at your hotel, preparing for your Svalbard Expedition the next day.
Day 2: Sailing the Svalbard Expedition
After a morning exploration of Bergen, a transfer will take you to the Bergen Terminal. Indulge in finger-food from Norway’s Coastal Kitchen, discuss optional excursions with the staff, and settle in for your journey. Meet the Coastal Experience Team, your hosts for the Norwegian coastline and Svalbard. Share your first meal aboard as colourful seafront buildings fade into the distance while sailing into the Norwegian Sea.
Day 3: Åndalsnes
Our first port of call is Åndalsnes, situated at the end of Romsdalsfjord along Isfjord. Docking in the town center in the morning, you'll have the opportunity to explore this picturesque coastal town, home to approximately 2,000 people. Åndalsnes, once the administrative center of Grytten municipality, underwent post-World War II reconstruction. Today, it stands as a modern town nestled in one of Norway's most breathtaking natural settings.
The town's highlights include towering mountains, inviting you to embrace the Norwegian love for the outdoors. Engage in various activities, such as hiking to the Rampestreken viewpoint. Alternatively, opt for a leisurely ride on the Romsdal Gondola or traverse the scenic Trollstigen Pass by bus. Whichever activities you choose, the day promises unparalleled views of Isfjord, Romsdalsfjord, and the surrounding peaks.
Day 4: Traena
In the morning, we'll sail along the Helgeland coast. The appearance of islands on the horizon signals our approach to our next destination, Træna, an archipelago situated 33 nautical miles northwest of the mainland, just on the edge of the Arctic Circle. Comprising around 500 islands, with only four inhabited year-round, Træna is a serene municipality with thriving birdlife on its mostly uninhabited isles.
Despite its small size, Træna has a rich history dating back to the Stone Age, as evidenced by archaeological finds, including relics in a cave on the island of Sanna, now a venue for an annual music festival.
Spend the afternoon in one of Norway’s oldest fishing communities, engaging in activities like hiking, biking, or island hopping, weather permitting. With a significant Sea Eagle population, birdwatching is a must. Experience the life of a Norwegian fisherman by casting a line under the summer sun.
As evening approaches, relax on board as we cross the Arctic Circle, commemorating the moment with a traditional Norwegian ceremony.
Day 5: Storkmarknes
Spend a day in Vesterålen, an archipelago northeast of Lofoten and the namesake of the first Coastal Express ship in 1893.
Dock in Stokmarknes, the historic birthplace of Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express. In 1893, Richard With founded the Original Coastal Express here, revolutionizing coastal passenger travel and boosting the economy of remote communities, including Svalbard. Stokmarknes hosts the Hurtigrutemuseet, a museum honoring our legacy, featuring the retired 1956 ship MS Finnmarken encased in glass. Explore interactive exhibitions with archives, photographs, and artifacts on a guided tour, immersing yourself in a bygone era.
Besides the museum, enjoy activities like hiking, RIB tours to Raftsundet, or a Sea Eagle safari in the fjord that inspired your ship's name, MS Trollfjord.
Day 6: Tromso
Tromsø, Northern Norway’s urban Arctic hub, is renowned for its impressive architecture, trendy eateries, and the world’s northernmost university. Steeped in polar history, it serves as a natural pause before our journey into the High Arctic.
Despite its modernity, Tromsø has a rich past, with Ice Age artifacts found nearby. Declared a "market town" in 1794 with only 80 residents, it evolved into an Arctic hunting hub in the mid-1800s and by the late 19th century, became a prominent Arctic trade center.
We plan to dock in the morning, granting a full day to explore this historic Arctic city. Choose from optional excursions like a city walk delving into Tromsø's culture and polar history or a visit to Polaria, one of the world's northernmost aquariums, to observe seals and Arctic marine life. Options may also include a visit to the Arctic Cathedral with its impressive stained-glass window or a trip to Storsteinen Mountain via Fjellheisen Cable Car for breathtaking views of the city, mountains, and fjords.
Day 7: Honningsvag
In mid-morning, we reach Honningsvåg, mainland Norway's northernmost city, declared in 1996 and still one of the country's smallest. Choose from various optional excursions, such as king crab fishing, meeting Sámi families, birdwatching, or a guided tour of life at 71°N.
Honningsvåg serves as the gateway to the North Cape, Europe's famed northernmost point. Standing 307 meters above the sea, it offers a mesmerizing view of the waves crashing against the cliffs below. Take a selfie at the iconic globe monument, and explore North Cape Hall for exhibits and a short film on the cape’s history.
As we sail away, marvel at dramatic views of the plateau from the sea. The ship will venture further into the Barents Sea, leaving mainland Norway's coast far behind.
Day 8: En Route from Norway to Svalbard
The southernmost island in the Svalbard archipelago, Bjørnøya, lies midway between mainland Norway and Spitsbergen. The island's sparse vegetation, mainly moss and lichen, is sustained by abundant birdlife nesting on sea cliffs. Take pictures of Little Auks, Puffins, Black-legged Kittiwakes, and Northern Fulmars soaring over dramatic cliffs and steep slopes.
Despite its name, meaning "Bear Island," the only native mammals here are Arctic foxes. Learn about Bjørnøya's history, its strategic importance, and its role in World War II through polar history lectures on board.
As we sail from Bjørnøya, take advantage of MS Trollfjord’s facilities like the sauna and fitness room. Join a photography workshop to practice your skills for capturing the wildlife and wilderness in Svalbard.
Day 9: Arrival in Longyearbyen
Today, we reach the Svalbard archipelago and make our way to Spitsbergen, its largest island. Majestic brown and green mountains soar from the High Arctic tundra, and snow-melt rivers glisten in the valley plains under the summer sun.
Pause and absorb the moment in Svalbard, at a latitude surpassing 78°N and merely 820 miles from the North Pole. The air in this Arctic desert is pure, with summer temperatures averaging between zero and eight degrees Celsius, thanks for the the warm northern Gulf Stream branch.
Discover Longyearbyen, the largest settlement in Svalbard. Originally a coal mining colony in 1906, it now houses around 2,000 residents from around the world. Explore the town with its galleries, pubs, restaurants, brewery, and the renowned North Pole Expedition Museum. Optional excursions offer adventures in the awe-inspiring landscapes surrounding Longyearbyen, including unique experiences like dog sledding without snow.
Day 10: Ny-Alesund
As we depart Longyearbyen, wake early to enjoy the breathtaking views of Kongsfjord, one of the area's largest fjords. Guarded by colossal glaciers, this stretch offers a chance to spot walrus along the shores and various migrating birds, including puffins, king eiders, pink-footed geese, and guillemots.
Look for Arctic foxes and Svalbard reindeer on land, and perhaps catch a glimpse of the white beluga whale. If fortunate, you might even witness a polar bear hunting for seals along the coast.
On the Brøgger Peninsula's tip lies Ny-Ålesund, originally a coal mine turned scientific hub . In summer, the town hosts over a hundred researchers from 20 glaciology and climate institutes worldwide. Explore this northernmost settlement, visit the local museum and souvenir shop, and send a postcard from the small post office.
Take a guided tour of the Amundsen monument, erected in honor of the Norwegian explorer's record-breaking 1926 flight to the North Pole aboard the airship Norge, which landed in Alaska three days later via the North Pole.
Day 11: At Sea
Regrettably, it's time to bid farewell to Svalbard and Spitsbergen as we sail back south to mainland Norway. Onboard, take the day to unwind. If the skies are clear, enjoy the summer sun on deck, keeping an eye out for whales, dolphins, and porpoises.
For enriching insights into local history and wildlife, attend a lecture by the Coastal Experience Team or join a photography workshop to enhance your skills. Delight in the sumptuous offerings from our Norway’s Coastal Kitchen, featuring the finest local Norwegian produce. You may also have the chance to taste regional specialties or witness demonstrations by our skilled onboard chefs in the show kitchen.
Whether curled up with a good book in the lounge or sharing voyage memories with newfound friends in the bar, savor the moments and experiences of the journey so far.
Day 12: Tromso & Senja
Back on mainland Norway, our first stop is Tromsø. The ship unloads cargo from Svalbard and takes on cargo bound for southern ports. Tromsø's historical significance as a hub for Arctic explorers earned it the nickname 'the Paris of the North.'
Continuing south, we head towards Senja, ranked among CNN's top ten most beautiful islands globally. Often called a 'mini Norway,' Senja boasts landscapes inspired by various parts of the Norwegian coast.
For an immersive exploration of this enchanting island, consider disembarking in Tromsø and joining one of our optional excursions.
Day 13: Svolvaer
Today is dedicated to exploring the stunning Lofoten archipelago, renowned as one of Norway's most spectacular areas. Marvel at jagged green cliffs rising dramatically from the ocean like giant teeth, while charming fishing villages with red-roofed houses on stilts cling to mountainous islands. The serene and peaceful life in Lofoten seems to stop time.
The heart of the archipelago is Svolvær, where the ship is based for most of the day. Enjoy shops and restaurants, immersing yourself in the town's charm. Handpicked Lofoten excursions offer opportunities to discover the mountains, islands, and villages around Svolvær.
Opt for a hike to a local white-sand beach, where you can assist in a beach clean-up and take a refreshing swim. Take advantage of the long summer days by combining a mountain hike and kayaking, providing you with the best of both sea and summit experiences.
Day 14: Bronnoysund
Continuing south, the ship reaches the midpoint of the Norwegian coast—the Helgeland Coast, known for its distinctive mountains steeped in charming myths and local folklore.
Look out for the Vega archipelago, boasting 6,500 islands, skerries, and islets. Gardsøy island, part of this cluster and a UNESCO World Heritage Centre, showcases the harvesting of highly prized eider down from local eider ducks.
Our ship will be based in Brønnøysund, a town with a delightful marina and a Neo-Gothic stone church from 1870. Explore the town or opt for excursions like kayaking, cycling, or a RIB cruise.
Further along is the unique Torghatten Mountain, featuring a hole said to be the result of a troll's arrow. Legend claims the mountain is the fossilized hat of a Troll King. An optional excursion offers a leisurely one-hour hike to the hole, rewarding you with a panoramic view.
Day 15: Alesund & Hjorundfjord
The ship will briefly stop in Ålesund, known for its Art Nouveau architecture and scenic location below Mount Aksla. Cargo will be offloaded, along with guests joining excursions.
Near Ålesund, cutting through the Sunnmøre Alps peaks, is the magnificent Hjørundfjord, a hidden gem and a favorite among those who discover it. Its deep blue waters and verdant mountainsides appear meticulously crafted by nature.
On one of Hjørundfjord’s branches lies the idyllic village of Sæbø, where the ship will pick up guests who left earlier for an excursion in Ålesund.
Approaching the last day of our voyage, celebrate the Svalbard Expedition experience with a merry farewell dinner, providing an opportunity to reflect on the shared highlights of this journey.
Day 16: Arrival back to Bergen, departure
We arrive back in Bergen in the morning. It’s time to disembark the ship, but not before saying fond farewells to your fellow passengers and to the crew of MS Trollfjord who made your Svalbard Expedition journey such a comfortable one.
If you wish, we can extend your stay in Bergen in the end.
Make your way to Bergen Airport for your return flight.
Package Includes:
- Return flights as given above from London Gatwick (other UK airports upon request)
- 1 piece of check-in luggage per traveler (up to 23 kg)
- 1 night’s accommodation in a 4-star hotel in Bergen incl. breakfast
- Transfers between hotel and ship in Bergen
- 14 nights’ Expedition Cruise in cabin grade of your choice on a full board basis
- Cabin Guests:
- All-day dining in Flora and Árran
- Afternoon snack in the 1893 Bar
- Suite Guests:
- All-day dining at Flora, Arran and fine-dining à la carte restaurant Røst
- Choice of restaurant dining times
- Exclusive Røst Afternoon Tea with sparkling wine
- Exclusive dinner with the ship’s senior officers
- Fast track priority check-in including exclusive Espolin Johnson lounge access
- Hurtigruten Collection clothing package including shell jacket, sweater and wool hat
- Two inclusive seasonal excursions of your choice
- Unlimited mineral water, tea, and coffee
- Unlimited select beer, wine, and spirits at Flora, Árran, and the 1893 Bar, served during restaurant and bar opening hours excluding breakfast
- Multi-lingual Coastal Experience Team
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Access to fitness room and sauna
- Daily themed lectures, photography guidance, arts and crafts activities
- Movie nights, music entertainment, and library access
- Culinary demonstrations and food tastings
- Selection of equipment for outdoor activities
- 24-hour emergency service
- ATOL protection
- All taxes
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