17 Day Follow The Lights: Northbound

Description

Embark on the iconic Follow the Lights: Northbound tour through Norway and Finland This fully escorted small group tour promises an unforgettable exploration, rich in cultural insights and natural marvels. Beginning in Oslo, Norway’s vibrant capital, you’ll delve into the city’s fascinating blend of urban charm and natural beauty. From iconic landmarks like the Oslo Opera House to the historic Akershus Fortress, each moment offers a glimpse into Oslo’s captivating history and culture.

Experience the thrill of riding aboard the iconic Flåm Railway, renowned worldwide for its breathtaking scenery, before setting sail on the legendary Coastal Express. Journey northward through Norway’s picturesque fjords, with hopes of witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights illuminating the Arctic skies. Upon reaching Kirkenes, nestled in Norway’s far north, your expedition takes you southward into the enchanting landscapes of Finnish Lapland. Indulge in the unique experience of staying in a glass igloo, allowing you to marvel at the celestial beauty of the night sky from the comfort of your accommodation.

Continue your Follow the Lights journey with a visit to Rovaniemi, the esteemed hometown of none other than Santa Claus himself. Partake in husky and reindeer excursions, offering an authentic glimpse into the traditional lifestyles of the Sámi people. Throughout your adventure, enjoy guided city tours of Oslo, Bergen, and Helsinki, immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of these vibrant urban centres. With opportunities to witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights, “Follow the Lights” promises an enriching exploration of the Arctic region, creating memories to last a lifetime. Join us as we embark on this extraordinary adventure, filled with wonder, discovery, and the magic of the Northern Lights.

INCLUSIONS

Discover the Follow The Lights package, featuring a fully escorted tour, a 6-night Hurtigruten classic coastal voyage, and an overnight stay in a glass igloo for a chance to sleep under the Northern Lights. Experience the iconic ‘Norway in a Nutshell’ route, exhilarating dog sledding, and much more! Reserve this incredible journey with just a *50% DEPOSIT (Term’s & Conditions’s apply) and travel between October 2025 to March 2026. Call us to find out more. Alternatively, consider our 15-day Southbound itinerary for another unforgettable adventure. See tabs below for a full list of inclusions.

INCLUSIONS

4 star accommodation standard

9 nights hotel accommodation

1 night in a glass igloo under the Northern Lights

6 nights’ Hurtigruten Northbound Coastal Voyage

Cabin Selection – choose your own cabin location

Daily breakfast, 7 lunches (5 on Hurtigruten)

10 dinners (6 on Hurtigruten) & 1 farewell dinner in Helsinki including a glass of beer, wine, soft drink.

Norway in a Nutshell: Flåm Railway journey and fjord cruise on UNESCO listed Nærøyfjord.

First-class coach from Kirkenes to Rovaniemi

Second-class rail from Rovaniemi to Helsinki

English-speaking tour manager from start to finish.

City tours of Oslo and Bergen

Reindeer Safari (sled ride, depending on weather)

Husky Safari (cart or sled ride, depending on weather)

Santa Claus Village visit.

Siida Museum visit in Inari

Luggage service from hotel in Oslo to hotel in Bergen (1 bag per person)

Luggage service at all hotels (starting with luggage OUT in Oslo, and ending with luggage IN in Helsinki)

*EARLY BOOKING BONUS: Up to $500 On Board Credit on selected dates – Ask your MyHoliday2 agent (T’s & C’s apply)

EXCLUSIONS

International airfares

Optional shore excursions with our local partners

Travel insurance

Luggage handling other than those specified

Beverages with meals

Airport transfers

DEPARTURE DATES

DEPARTURE DATES 2025:

12 October (MS Polarlys)

11 November (MS Nordlys)

DEPARTURE DATES 2026:

28 January (MS Nordkapp)

12 March (MS Nordlys)

SHIPS & HOTELS

SHIPS:

This packages uses different vessels depending on departure date. The following Hurtigruten vessels are used:

Please click on the ship name for more information. You will be taken to Hurigruten’s website.

CABIN TYPES:

I2 POLAR INSIDE (8-9m2)

Lower deck for 2 travellers

These comfortable, standard inside cabins for up to two people on the lower deck have separate single beds, one of which converts into a sofa, plus one chair and desk.

No window
Bathroom

L2 POLAR OUTSIDE (10-12m2)

Lower deck for 2 travellers

These are comfortable outside cabins, situated on lower decks. They have separate beds, where one of the beds can be turned into a sofa. These are cabins with portholes, some with limited or no view.

Porthole
Bathroom
Twin bed

P2D ARCTIC SUPERIOR (8-11m2)

Upper deck for 2 travellers

These comfortable, refurbished outside cabins for up to two people on the upper deck have a double bed, TV, one chair and a small desk, and coffee and tea facilities.

Window
Bathroom
TV
Double bed

HOTELS ON TOUR (4 STAR):

Oslo: Thon Hotel Opera

Flam: Fretheim Hotel

Bergen: Clarion Admiral Hotel

Saariselkä: Santa’s Hotel Tunturi

Sinetta: Arctic Snowhotel (Glass Igloo)

Rovaniemi: Scandic Rovaniemi City

Helsinki: Scandic Grand Marina

In the unlikely event that the listed hotels are fully booked, alternative hotels of the same standard will be used

UPGRADES & OPTIONS

UPGRADE YOUR CABIN:

Pricing is based on I2 – Polar Inside, L2 – Polar Outside, and P2D – Arctic Superior Cabins. Please contact MyHoliday2 for information on other cabin upgrades.

OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS

Optional excursions can be booked as part of your Hurtigruten coastal voyage. Please contact MyHoliday2 if you would like to add any excursions. Alternatively, they can be booked once onboard. Please note that excursions are subject to availability and may be weather-dependent. Additionally, prices are subject to currency fluctuations, and the exact price will be determined upon booking.

HURTIGRUTEN

CANCELLATION & REFUNDS:

This package is subject to Hurtigruten’s terms and conditions.

By purchasing this package, you agree to Hurtigruten’s terms and conditions as well as MyHoliday2’s terms and conditions.

HURTIGRUTEN FARE TYPES

BASIC FARE:

The BASIC or Unspecified fare gives you access to all the core services and facilities on board. When booking, you’ll be able to select from three general cabin categories; Arctic Superior, Polar Outside, and Polar Inside. Your specific cabin will be assigned to you at check-in, after coming aboard. The Basic fare includes all three daily meals in the main restaurant, with pre-allocated meal times.

SELECT FARE:

With SELECT Fares, you have the option to choose your cabin, including specifying the cabin number (subject to availability), and select your preferred dining time. Stay connected on board with basic complimentary Wi-Fi where available, and enjoy complimentary tea and coffee at any time.

HURTIGRUTEN NORTHERN LIGHTS PROMISE:

If the Northern Lights are not recorded during your return Classic Voyage or Follow The Lights tour, including the land component, a free northbound or southbound voyage will be offered. T&Cs apply.

A Northern Lights occurrence is defined as a sighting from the ship recorded by the ship’s deck officers and announced to passengers onboard. The occurrence duration can range from a few minutes to several hours, and the ship’s decision is final.

Announcements of Northern Lights sightings will be made onboard, with an option for direct announcements to your cabin or suite.

In the event of no Northern Lights occurrence, a 6 or 7-day Original Coastal Express Classic Voyage will be offered, departing the following season in an unspecified inside twin cabin on a full-board basis. Upgrades to other cabin grades are subject to additional costs and availability.

The offer must be claimed and booked within 28 days from your return date, with a choice of departure dates provided.

The offer excludes flights, transfers, all onboard expenses, excursions, and luggage handling, and does not apply to rescheduled or cancelled cruises. Bookings are non-transferable, non-changeable, and have no cash value. This offer is not combinable with claims for compensation, refunds, or price reductions.

HURTIGRUTEN AMBASSADOR PROGRAM:

Join the 1893 Ambassador program to unlock exclusive offers, benefits, discounts, and newsletters about distant destinations.

Membership is free and open to all travellers.

MyHoliday2 cannot honour Ambassador discounts; these must be arranged directly with Hurtigruten.

BEDDING CONFIGURATIONS:

Bedding configurations on Hurtigruten Coastal vessels are fixed.

MyHoliday2 cannot guarantee specific bedding types or cabin locations due to fare types used for packages.

Surcharges apply for specific bedding configurations or cabin locations. Contact MyHoliday2 for pricing and availability.

Not all cabin categories are available for all departures.

Single cabin pricing is available upon request.

HURTIGRUTEN FAQ:

For a list of Coastal Express frequently asked questions, please go to FAQ: The Coastal Express.

ADDITIONAL TERMS:

Hurtigruten reserves the right to remove availability at any time, potentially affecting unconfirmed bookings.

Hurtigruten reserves the right to increase sale prices due to availability.

All planned activities are subject to weather and ice conditions.

Excursions and activities may change.

Ensure all entry and boarding requirements are met.

Hurtigruten uses a flexible pricing system, with prices subject to availability and capacity control.

It is recommended to bring a backpack or small bag for the Bergen to Oslo leg as access to luggage is unavailable during the day.

The 7 Day Money Guarantee does not apply to this package.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

OFFER:

By purchasing this package, you agree to MyHoliday2’s Terms and Conditions and the specific terms detailed in each information tab of the package.

The package is valid for one person based on twin share.

Bookings are subject to availability.

SINGLE TRAVELLERS:

For solo travellers, a mandatory single supplement applies.

Select the “SINGLE CABIN” option in the “Departure Date” dropdown list.

Accommodation for single customers on a tour or cruise package may be in a single room, subject to availability.

CHILDREN POLICY:

AMENDMENTS:

Any amendments are subject to the supplier’s terms and conditions.

Any changes will incur a $100 per person amendment fee PLUS any additional fees applied by the supplier.

All changes must be requested in writing.

No changes can be made within 90 days of departure. The standard cancellation policy will apply.

If unable to select new dates, a credit valid for 12 months may be offered.

CANCELLATION POLICY:

Cancellations are subject to MyHoliday2’s Terms and Conditions.

Refunds and credits will be offered in accordance with MyHoliday2’s Refund Policy.

PAYMENT PLANS:

MyHoliday2 offers a variety of payment plans based on your tour departure date. Refer to our Terms and Conditions for details.

All payment plans incur a 2% surcharge, paid with the deposit.

If the wrong plan is selected, a $25 fee will be charged to manually amend all invoices.

TOURS, DRIVERS & GUIDES

Day tours included may involve joining larger groups.

Drivers do not provide information on tours.

Drivers may assist in organizing expert guides at certain locations.

Refer to INCLUSIONS for the type of guides included in this package.

For more information on guides, refer to the Terms and Conditions.

TRANSFERS

Refer to INCLUSIONS/EXCLUSIONS to determine if a transfer is applicable and the type of transfer included.

If you have booked your own flights, send flight details to booking@myholiday2.com.au to confirm transfers.

Contact details for our local tour operator can be found on your voucher in your online account.

GROUP TRANSFER

The timing of group transfers will be set to accommodate the majority of arrival and departure flights.

If you arrive early or depart late, you may need to wait or make your own way to the hotel or airport at your own expense.

As you clear immigration, look for a MyHoliday2 sign with your name.

PRIVATE TRANSFER:

As you clear immigration, look for a MyHoliday2 sign with your name.

OTHER INFORMATION:

A 25% deposit is non-refundable.

Prices are in AUD$.

Travel insurance is highly recommended; MyHoliday2 takes no responsibility for any travel issues that may arise.

MyHoliday2 pricing reflects current market rates which may fluctuate from day to day.

MyHoliday2 is not obliged to refund or match any subsequent price reductions after purchase.

Customers must obtain the correct visa for their destination and cover associated fees. Please check visa and travel requirements via the Smartraveller website.

For any medical-related information, refer to Smartraveller or contact a travel medical specialist.

Customers must ensure their passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended stay.

MyHoliday2 pricing reflects market rates, so package prices may fluctuate, and refunds to match subsequent price reductions are not guaranteed.

Departures are not guaranteed until confirmation.

If advertised availability is not present post-purchase, another date selection is necessary.