DAY 1: Depart Australia
Today, depart Australia and begin your journey to Norway. Flight departure may occur in the evening prior (DAY 0), depending on the airline schedule.
MEALS: In-Flight
OVERNIGHT: In-Flight
DAY 2: Arrive Bergen, Norway – Embark Ship
Arrive in Bergen and proceed to stop A5, just outside Bergen Airport’s main terminal, to board the Flybussen heading to the Hurtigruten terminal (Jektevikterminalen). Check-in for your voyage opens at 16:00, with departure set for 20:30.
Use your spare time before sailing to explore the UNESCO-listed Bryggen district, known for its lively wharfs and artisan shops along charming cobblestone streets. Visit the nearby Fish Market for fresh local seafood, or take the Fløibanen funicular up Mount Fløyen for stunning city views.
For a memorable start to your Norwegian adventure, consider arranging tours such as the renowned Norway in a Nutshell programme for an immersive experience.
Before embarkation, relax in the guest lounge at the terminal. Once aboard, savour meals prepared with fresh, locally sourced coastal ingredients as you set out along the historic Viking route, sailing through the Hjeltefjord.
Meet the Coastal Experience Team on board, who will enhance your journey with expert lectures, engaging activities, and optional hikes along Norway’s scenic coastline.
TIME IN PORT:
Bergen: 14:45 – 20:30
MEALS: In-Flight, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Hurtigruten Coastal Vessel
DAY 3: Ålesund
Begin your day in the tranquil dawn of Nordfjord near Torvik, followed by a picturesque sailing past West Cape as you make your way to Ålesund.
Discover the stunning Art Nouveau architecture of Ålesund, and visit Atlanterhavsparken, Northern Europe’s largest saltwater aquarium. For journeys during spring or winter, enjoy plenty of time to explore the charming streets and attractions of this unique town.
TIME IN PORT:
Florø: 02:45 – 03:00
Måløy: 05:15 – 05:30
Torvik: 08:20 – 08:30
Ålesund: 09:45 – 20:00
Note: Ålesund itinerary may differ if sailing between April and September
Molde: 22:35 – 23:05
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Hurtigruten Coastal Vessel
DAY 4: Trondheim
Travel into Norway’s Trøndelag region, where you’ll encounter a landscape of rolling hills, scenic farmsteads, and charming coastal settlements.
Arrive in Trondheim, founded by Viking King Olav Tryggvason in 997. Today, it is Norway’s third-largest city, blending medieval highlights with a vibrant student atmosphere.
Enjoy three hours to discover Trondheim either independently or by joining optional excursions. Don’t miss Nidaros Cathedral, known as “Norway’s Notre Dame,” famous for stunning Gothic architecture and revered as the country’s most sacred site. Nearby, visit the Archbishop’s Palace, which houses the Norwegian crown jewels.
Just a short walk away, the charming Gamle Bybro bridge crosses the Nid River into the historic Bakklandet district. Here, colourful wooden wharves line the waterfront and offer a variety of cafés and restaurants. For a panoramic city view, head up to Kristiansten Fort overlooking the city and fjord.
As you sail north-west in the afternoon, look out for the striking Kjeungskjær Lighthouse, set amidst islets and rocky reefs, as the journey continues towards the picturesque town of Rørvik.
TIME IN PORT:
Kristiansund: 02:45 – 03:00
Trondheim: 09:45 – 12:45
Rørvik: 21:40 – 22:00
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Hurtigruten Coastal Vessel
DAY 5: Bodø
Early this morning, cross into the Arctic Circle and begin your Arctic adventure with a traditional ceremony to welcome you north.
Above the Arctic Circle, enjoy the unique phenomenon of the midnight sun during summer, with daylight all day long, or look for the magical Northern Lights in winter.
Your first stop at 10:00 is Ørnes, near Svartisen—Norway’s second-largest glacier—where you’ll find the famous Love Bench adorned with padlocks as a symbol of romance.
Continue to Bodø, Northern Norway’s second-largest city, surrounded by the dramatic Børvass peaks. Explore striking street art or join an excursion to Saltstraumen to witness the world’s most powerful maelstrom.
This afternoon, the ship sails into the spellbinding Lofoten archipelago, with the impressive 1,000-meter-high Lofoten Wall coming into view.
Arrive in Stamsund, home to one of the islands’ largest fishing fleets, especially busy from January to April during the Arctic cod (skrei) migration from the Barents Sea to Vestfjord.
As evening falls, marvel at traditional rorbuer—fisherman’s huts on stilts—lining the shore as you arrive in the idyllic harbour of Svolvær, the heart of the Lofoten Islands.
TIME IN PORT:
Brønnøysund: 01:35 – 01:45
Sandnessjøen: 04:35 – 04:50
Nesna: 06:00 – 06:10
Ørnes: 10:00 – 10:10
Bodø: 13:05 – 15:20
Stamsund: 19:15 – 19:40
Svolvær: 21:20 – 22:15
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Hurtigruten Coastal Vessel
DAY 6: Tromsø
Arrive in Harstad just after 07:00 and enjoy a peaceful early morning stroll around town.
Continue your journey to Finnsnes, gateway to the stunning island of Senja, connected by the impressive Gisund Bridge. Watch for seabirds, including puffins, as several colonies inhabit the nearby area.
Next, arrive in Tromsø, a renowned Arctic exploration hub, with four hours to explore independently or join optional excursions. Along the waterfront, visit Polaria—an environmental research centre with Arctic exhibits and a small aquarium. The city centre offers shopping, dining, Mack Brewery, Ølhallen pub, and inviting cafés serving delicious cinnamon buns and creative coffee art. Across the fjord, admire the Arctic Cathedral’s magnificent stained-glass mosaic.
Depart Tromsø in the early evening and set course for the historic trading post of Skjervøy, established in 1622. Sail past the impressive Lyngen Alps, rising majestically from the sea.
TIME IN PORT:
Stokmarknes: 01:30 – 01:40
Sortland: 02:55 – 03:10
Risøyhamn: 04:35 – 04:50
Harstad: 07:10 – 07:45
Finnsnes: 11:00 – 11:30
Tromsø: 14:15 – 18:15
Skjervøy: 22:10 – 22:25
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Hurtigruten Coastal Vessel
DAY 7: Honningsvåg
Arrive early morning in Hammerfest on Kvaløya island, where—during summer—thousands of reindeer migrate, offering a remarkable sight.
Sail past the notable wind turbines of Havøyglaven wind farm near Havøysund, which generate enough electricity to supply 6,000 homes.
By mid-morning, reach Honningsvåg, gateway to the iconic North Cape and its globe monument marking Europe’s northernmost continental point. Depending on the season, you may opt for an excursion by bus from Honningsvåg to North Cape, with the chance to spot reindeer along the journey.
As you approach Kjøllefjord, lookout for the striking Finnkirka rock formation—once a sacred Sámi sacrificial site. In summer, join an optional excursion to meet local Sámi people, learn about their traditional reindeer herding, and hear joik folk songs.
Continue north to Mehamn, arriving in the evening. During February and March, see cod drying outdoors on hjell wooden racks, mainly for export.
The voyage continues to Berlevåg, passing the Slettnes Lighthouse—the world’s northernmost mainland lighthouse—illuminating your path through Arctic waters.
TIME IN PORT:
Øksfjord: 01:50 – 02:00
Hammerfest: 05:05 – 05:45
Havøysund: 08:30 – 08:45
Honningsvåg: 10:55 – 14:30
Kjøllefjord: 16:40 – 17:00
Mehamn: 18:55 – 19:15
Berlevåg: 22:00 – 22:10
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Hurtigruten Coastal Vessel
DAY 8: Kirkenes
Overnight, the ship stops at Båtsfjord and Vardø before arriving early morning in Vadsø.
Vadsø is renowned for its exceptional Arctic birdwatching, located directly under major migration routes. Watch for hooded crows and impressive sea eagles as they soar above the landscape.
Approaching the Norwegian border, you’ll reach Kirkenes after breakfast, now further east than both St. Petersburg and Istanbul. Choose from a range of optional excursions to discover this intriguing region.
Kirkenes is a milestone in your coastal cruise, where the ship reverses direction to begin its southbound journey. Ports visited overnight will now be experienced in daylight.
On your return to Vardø, take time to visit the Witches’ Monument and the historic star-shaped Vardøhus Fortress, built in 1737—the northernmost military fortification of its kind.
The adventure continues with calls at Båtsfjord and a late evening arrival in Berlevåg, where you’ll cross paths with the northbound vessel.
TIME IN PORT:
Båtsfjord: 00:00 – 00:30
Vardø: 03:30 – 03:45
Vadsø: 06:55 – 07:10
Kirkenes: 09:00 – 12:30
Vardø: 16:05 – 17:00
Båtsfjord: 20:00 – 20:30
Berlevåg: 22:25 – 22:35
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Hurtigruten Coastal Vessel
DAY 9: Hammerfest
During the night, stop at Mehamn and Kjøllefjord before early morning visits to Honningsvåg and Havøysund.
In the early afternoon, arrive in Hammerfest, home to the largest population among the world’s northernmost communities. Take in the UNESCO-listed Meridian Column, browse for souvenirs at the Polar Bear Society, or hike the scenic trail behind town up to the viewpoint at Mount Salen for breathtaking panoramic views.
Sailing further south, head to Øksfjord and then Skjervøy, surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks. Skjervøy, an important fishing port since 1896, is a winter hotspot for spotting orcas and humpback whales attracted by the plentiful herring.
En route to Tromsø, admire the spectacular Lyngen Alps, which feature some of Norway’s highest peaks.
Dock in Tromsø just before midnight. In the summer, take advantage of 24-hour daylight for a relaxed stroll through the lively streets of this Arctic city.
TIME IN PORT:
Mehamn: 01:20 – 01:30
Kjøllefjord: 03:25 – 03:35
Honningsvåg: 05:45 – 06:00
Havøysund: 08:00 – 08:15
Hammerfest: 11:00 – 12:45
Øksfjord: 15:50 – 16:05
Skjervøy: 19:30 – 19:45
Tromsø: 23:45 – 01:30
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Hurtigruten Coastal Vessel
DAY 10: Svolvær
Enjoy a spectacular day exploring the enchanting archipelagos of Lofoten and Vesterålen, renowned for some of Norway’s most breathtaking scenery.
After an early morning visit to Finnsnes, journey onward to Harstad to see Trondenes Church—the world’s northernmost medieval stone church—beautifully set on its peninsula.
Continue to the cozy port of Risøyhamn and then Sortland, where the landscape transforms from gentle rolling hills to majestic 1,000-meter-high mountains.
Arrive next at Stokmarknes—birthplace of Captain Richard With and The Coastal Express (established in 1893). Take time to visit Hurtigrutemuseet, displayed inside a unique ship-in-a-bottle building, focusing on the retired MS Finnmarken from 1956 and rich coastal heritage.
Sailing through Raftsund, keep watch for the dramatic Trollfjord. If conditions allow, the Captain will steer into this narrow fjord for an up-close experience with steep mountain walls. Enjoy watching the ship perform a 180-degree manoeuvre to exit, and keep an eye out for soaring sea eagles above.
Arrive in Svolvær during the evening and look for Svolvær’s landmark—the Svolvær Goat mountain—famed for its resemblance to a goat. Challenge yourself to spot its iconic shape!
As the journey continues, head for Stamsund, passing the formidable granite cliffs of the Lofoten Wall—a striking finale to your exploration of these spectacular islands.
TIME IN PORT:
Tromsø: 23:45 – 01:30
Finnsnes: 04:20 – 04:40
Harstad: 08:00 – 08:30
Risøyhamn: 10:45 – 11:00
Sortland: 12:30 – 13:00
Stokmarknes: 14:15 – 15:15
Svolvær: 18:30 – 20:30
Stamsund
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Hurtigruten Coastal Vessel
DAY 11: Brønnøysund
The day begins with an early morning call at Bodø, followed by a 7am stop in Ørnes. After breakfast, cross the Arctic Circle and mark the occasion with the traditional Norwegian cod liver oil tasting ceremony!
A quick stop at Nesna leads to Sandnessjøen, gateway to the splendid Helgeland Coast.
Sail past the dramatic Seven Sisters mountain range, with peaks rising to 1,100 meters. According to legend, these mountains were once seven troll princesses, turned to stone by the sunrise.
Be sure to spot Torghatten Mountain, easily recognized by the hole piercing through its summit. Your Coastal Experience guide will share the captivating local folklore behind this natural marvel.
By mid-afternoon, arrive in Brønnøysund. Enjoy a stroll along Havnegata near the lively marina and admire Brønnøy Church, a Neo-Gothic stone church built in 1870 at the heart of the town.
The day concludes at the picturesque fishing port of Rørvik in the Vikna archipelago, where you can relax and absorb the tranquil coastal scenery before another memorable evening at sea.
TIME IN PORT:
Bodø: 02:30 – 03:30
Ørnes: 06:25 – 06:35
Nesna: 10:25 – 10:35
Sandnessjøen: 11:45 – 12:15
Brønnøysund: 15:00 – 17:25
Rørvik: 21:00 – 21:30
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Hurtigruten Coastal Vessel
DAY 12: Trondheim
Begin your morning in Trondheim, once the capital of the Viking Age, and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the waking city. Visit the revered Nidaros Cathedral—resting place of St. Olav—and capture the perfect photo from Gamle Bybro bridge overlooking the scenic Nid River.
Treat yourself to coffee and Nordic pastries at one of Bakklandet’s stylish cafés, then head uphill to Kristiansten Fort for sweeping views of Norway’s third-largest city.
Sail past picturesque islands and charming coastal communities before arriving in Kristiansund during the late afternoon. Spread over three islands, Kristiansund is famed as Norway’s “Bacalao Capital,” renowned for dried salted cod (klippfisk) displayed on nearby cliffs. Wander cobblestone streets in the old town, explore the lively port, or climb to the Varden viewpoint for panoramic vistas.
Later, reach Molde, set against the breathtaking Romsdal Alps. Known as “The City of Roses,” Molde is aglow with vibrant blossoms from mid-June to late August, offering a beautiful backdrop for your visit.
TIME IN PORT:
Trondheim: 06:30 – 09:30
Kristiansund: 16:30 – 17:30
Molde: 21:15 – 21:45
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OVERNIGHT: Hurtigruten Coastal Vessel
DAY 13: Arrive Bergen – Disembark Ship
Overnight, the ship makes its final stops at Ålesund and Torvik. On approach to Måløy, early risers may catch sight of the northbound Coastal Express.
This morning, enjoy the dramatic views of Nordfjord beneath the immense Jostedal Glacier, mainland Europe’s largest. Pause to appreciate Florø’s charming harbour and marina upon docking.
Departing Florø, keep your camera ready for the iconic Stabben Lighthouse—a favourite of photographers—and soak up magnificent vistas as the ship sails across the mouth of Sognefjord, Norway’s longest and widest fjord.
Arrive in Bergen in the afternoon, gracefully sailing through the last islands and skerries of Norway’s scenic coast before navigating down Hjeltefjord to your final port.
Docking in Bergen at 14:45, disembark and make your own way to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure, discovering Bergen’s captivating history and architecture, shaped by its Hanseatic League past. Bergen, Norway’s second-largest city, has roots dating to 1070 AD.
NOTE: If you have booked the land only package option, all services conclude at disembarkation from the vessel.
TIME IN PORT:
Ålesund: 00:30 – 01:20
Torvik: 02:35 – 02:45
Måløy: 05:45 – 06:00
Florø: 08:15 – 08:30
Bergen: 14:45
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Bergen or similar
DAY 14: Bergen ~ Voss ~ Gudvangen ~ Flåm
After breakfast, head to Bergen train station to board your train to Voss. Relax and enjoy panoramic views of Norway’s fjords, mountains, and rural villages along the way.
At Voss, transfer to a coach bound for the quaint village of Gudvangen. This scenic road trip treats you to striking valleys and dramatic mountain landscapes.
In Gudvangen, board a fjord cruise along the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord. Admire soaring cliffs, glittering waterfalls, and idyllic hamlets during this breathtaking journey—one of Norway’s highlights.
The cruise ends in Flåm, a picturesque village by the fjord. Upon arrival, make your own way to the hotel and check in. The rest of the day is yours to explore Flåm, visit local shops, or simply bask in the stunning scenery.
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: Flåmsbrygga Hotell, Flåm or similar
DAY 15: Flåm ~ Flåm Railway ~ Myrdal ~ Oslo
After breakfast, head to Flåm Train Station for the start of your journey on the renowned Flåm Railway. This stunning route showcases Norway’s dramatic scenery—deep ravines, powerful waterfalls, and picturesque fjord views.
As the train climbs through the mountains, appreciate the remarkable engineering and pause for a brief photo stop at the impressive Kjosfossen waterfall, capturing the beauty of this landmark.
At Myrdal, transfer to the Bergen Railway—one of the world’s top rail journeys—for a scenic ride from the mountainous terrain to vibrant Oslo. Travel across Northern Europe’s highest railway stretch, passing the wild Hardangervidda plateau and glimpsing the Hardangerjøkulen glacier.
The landscape gradually transforms into wooded valleys and open countryside as you approach Oslo. Sit back and enjoy the comfortable ride, taking in Norway’s varied scenery.
Upon arriving in Oslo, make your way to the hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is yours to discover Oslo—explore its waterfront, shops, cafés, or simply relax and enjoy the capital’s unique atmosphere at your own pace.
MEALS: Breakfast
OVERNIGHT: Comfort Hotel Xpress Central Station, Oslo or similar
DAY 16: Depart Oslo
After breakfast, make your way to the airport for your flight home. If you wish to extend your stay and discover more of Oslo’s vibrant attractions, MyHoliday2 can assist with arranging additional nights.
MEALS: Breakfast, In Flight
OVERNIGHT: In Flight
DAY 17: Arrive Australia
Today marks your return to Australia. Depending on your flight schedules, arrival may occur on Day 18.
MEALS: In-Flight
Polar Inside cabins are situated on the lower and middle decks and all have bathrooms with shower/WC. The cabins have separated single beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, or upper and lower berths. All the cabins have individual specifications.
Polar Outside cabins are situated on all decks and all have bathrooms with shower/WC. Most of the cabins have separated single beds, one of which converts into a sofa, or upper and lower berths. A few of the cabins have double beds. The cabins may have portholes, with limited or no view. All the cabins have individual specifications.
