In Search of the Northern Lights with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines
10 nights
10 Oct 24 to 20 Oct 24
Book by 31 Aug 24
Set off on a six-night British Bank Holiday voyage to explore Norway's breathtaking fjordland scenery aboard the smaller-sized Balmoral. Traverse a series of majestic fjords, including Langsfjord, Eresfjord, Nordfjord, Innvkfjord, and Hjørundfjorden, each offering awe-inspiring vistas of rugged terrain and towering mountains. Witness iconic landmarks like the Trollveggen, whose sheer vastness demands attention as you navigate through serene waters flanked by sheer cliff faces. Immerse yourself in the Norwegian outdoor lifestyle by venturing closer to the fjords via boat or kayak, or opt for a hike through verdant valleys and mountainous scenery to capture unparalleled views of this stunning landscape.
Includes
10 Night Fred. Olsen Cruise onboard the Balmoral
10-Night cruise onboard the Balmoral in an inside stateroom
All meals: breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner
Entertainment onboard
Leisure facilities
On board activities
Port and handling fees
Excludes
Flights
Arrival / departure transfers
Visas
Travel Insurance
Items of a personal nature
Highlights
10 Night cruise onboard the treasured Balomoral
All meals and entertainment onboard
Port and handling fees
Itinerary
Day 1: Newcastle, England
Departure - early evening
Day 2: Cruising
Some of the best moments of cruising are the days spent at sea where you can relax and enjoy the wonderful programme of events and activities we have planned for you.
Day 3: Molde, Norway
The picturesque town of Molde makes for an enchanting visit, as you’ll be presented with opportunities to experience one of Norway’s most famous scenic drives along the Atlantic Road, which spans several tiny islands connected by bridges with the ocean on each side. A hike to the Varden viewpoint also offers breathtaking panoramas across the archipelago and the mountain peaks of Romsdalsalpene, covered in burnished autumnal colours. During a stroll through the city, you’ll have the chance to visit a local restaurant and sample fresh seafood, game, berries, and traditional Norwegian dishes like ‘klippfisk’, dried and salted cod, a speciality of the region. Meanwhile, with its proximity to the fjord, Molde offers opportunities to partake in fishing and boat trips, giving you a different perspective of the coastline.
Day 4: At Sea & Crossing the Arctic Circle
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.
Day 5: Pilot Station Lodingen & Alta, Finnmark, Norway
Slicing through the rugged landscapes of Troms og Finnmark, separating the islands of Hinnøya and Tjeldøya from the mainland, the Tjeldsundet Strait has long been one of Norway’s most important waterways, serving as a vital route between the country’s northern and southern regions. The beauty and peace of Tjeldsundet is surrounded by mountains and dramatic rock faces; and the impressive Tjeldsund Suspension Bridge connects the islands of Lofoten and Vesterålen with the mainland.
Day 6: Alta, Finnmark, Norway
Located deep into the Altafjord, and originally inhabited by the indigenous Sámi people, Alta is one of the best places on earth to see the ethereal Northern Lights. As the city had to be rebuilt after the Second World War, many of its buildings are relatively new – one remarkable piece of architecture is the striking Northern Lights Cathedral. The Alta Rock Drawings, dating back to between 4200 and 500 B.C, provide an excellent example of human activity in this area.
Day 7: Tromsø, Norway
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.
Day 8: Pilot Station Lodingen & Cruising Seven Sisters Mountain Ran
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, particularly when snow-covered in the winter months. It is possible to climb them, and to learn the legend of the trolls who were turned to stone!
Day 9: Alesund, Norway
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 the surrounding islands and fjords, you could be enjoying an autumn 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.
Day 10: Cruising
Sailing at Sea
Day 11: Newcastle, England
Arrival - early morning
Ship info
Balmoral
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, a renowned British cruise company, offers a unique seafaring experience epitomized by their ship, Balmoral. With a capacity for around 1,300 guests, Balmoral exudes elegance and comfort across its range of cabins, from cozy interior rooms to spacious suites.
Prices are per person sharing in twin share cabin, include discounts, and are subject to availability and rate of exchange changes. Offers above are a guide only and will vary depending on departure date, our guide price is based on the cheapest departure within the stipulated season and availability is correct at time of loading. Visas may be necessary and insurance is essential. Pentravel and Tour Operator terms and conditions apply, and may be found on our website. Offer can be removed at any time. All cruise offers are capacity controlled and offer selected cabins at a specific price in line with Fred Olsen Cruise Lines Pricing Policy. Prices are correct at the time of loading. All rates/prices are per person based on 2 adults sharing a twin cabin and subject to availability, foreign exchange and fuel cost fluctuations. Advertised price is based on (10 October, 20 October & 30 October 2024 departure. These packages are based on CASH price. E&OE;.
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