Follow Norway's majestic fjord-carved coast, past the North Cape, to the glaciers and polar bears of Arctic Svalbard -- one of the few places remaining where Nature provides highlight after wild highlight.
Heading north among Norway's thousands of islets on this enchanting Arctic cruise, the scenery becomes overpoweringly dramatic. This is the fjordlands—a region that stretches 1,000 miles. Each fjord is different from its neighbor: roaring waterfalls, granite cliffs and tiny villages that cling to the steep sides of the fjord walls.
Then just 350 miles north of Norway's mainland, lies the Svalbard Archipelago, a wilderness region of massive icebergs, deep fjords, ice-capped mountains—and the masters of the Arctic, polar bears. Svalbard is the best place on earth to observe polar bears in their natural habitat--on the pack ice. And no one gives you a more immersive and respectful Arctic cruise experience there than we can.
Charter flight approx. USD$360
National Geographic - Norway's Fjords & Arctic Svalbard itinerary:
Day 1 - Bergen, Norway/Embark Ship
Arrive this morning in Bergen, the gateway to the fjordlands, and embark our ship, the new National Geographic Explorer. Beautiful Bergen is set on a fjord and known as the city of seven hills. Once an important Hanseatic town, its maritime history is still evident at the exceptional Bryggens Wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After lunch, we have a guided walk of Bryggen before embarking our ship. (L,D)
Day 2 - Nordfjord
Today we enter lovely Nordfjord, included on our itinerary since it is less touristed. We spend the morning at the end of the fjord, where we are transported up the Loen Valley via coach through some incredibly beautiful scenes: a turquoise-colored lake on one side and breathtaking mountains all around. A number of relatively flat trails lead along valleys shaped by massive glaciers (more strenuous hikes are also an option). And, we walk to a tongue of the large Briksdal Glacier. This afternoon be on deck as our ship sails back out of the fjord amid high peaks. (B,L,D)
Day 3-4 - Exploring the Fjords of Norway
The coast of Central Norway is rugged with mountainous islands and steep-walled fjords. The Expedition Leader and Captain will discuss with the local Norwegian pilots the many landing possibilities where options are many: Zodiac along vertical rock faces, paddle serenely in a deep fjord surrounded by cascading waterfalls, or venture ashore for a hike with our naturalist staff. Over the years, we’ve discovered a number of special places, including Melfjord. This narrow channel is surrounded by high granite cliffs polished smooth by massive glaciers, and is one of the most spectacular spots on our voyage. (B,L,D)
Day 5 - Lofoten Islands
The Lofoten Archipelago is an enchanting area of picturesque villages by the sea backed with jagged peaks. By Zodiac, we view nesting seabirds: Atlantic puffins, razorbills and guillemots. Later, we go ashore on the island of Aa, where cod fishing is still a major part of the economy. Be on deck as we cruise into one of the most famous fjords in Norway, the short yet dramatic Trollfjord, and search the cliffs for Norway's mythical beings: trolls. (B,L,D)
Day 6 - Tysfjorden
Today we enter Tysfjorden, a long fjord indenting the mainland of Norway so deeply it stretches inland almost to Sweden. This is an area devoid of roads where a few small villages cling along the shore. We explore splendid Hellemobotn by Zodiac, kayak or on foot. The Tysfjord area has numerous side channels, which we explore later. (B,L,D)
Day 7 - Tromso
Tromso, the capital of northern Norway, is known as the "Gateway to the Arctic" since so many arctic expeditions originated here. We visit the Arctic Cathedral, whose unique architecture is evocative of snow and icebergs. Its stained glass windows are among the largest in Europe. And we visit the Polar Museum, with excellent exhibits on arctic nature and environment. (B,L,D)
Day 8 - At sea
Having spent a full week in coastal Norway, we'll now set our sights toward the High Arctic. If weather conditions allow, we may search for marine mammals in areas we've found over the years they are likely to frequent. (B,L,D)
Day 9 - Bear Island
Zodiac cruises take us around mist-shrouded Bear Island, populated by thousands of fulmars, kittiwakes, guillemost and gulls; this is a birdwatcher's paradise. (B,L,D)
Day 10-13 - Exploring Svalbard
Svalbard is an archipelago of deep fjords, mountains and massive ice sheets. Our focus during our days here is the search for walruses, seals, reindeer, arctic foxes and, of course, polar bears. Our flexible itinerary and years of experience here allow us to take the best advantage of ice and weather conditions. Each season we are discovering new landing sites to explore, giving meaning to being on an expedition. Shore walks, Zodiac and kayaking adventures bring us up close to mystical landscapes and passing icebergs. (B,L,D)
Day 14 - Longyearbyen/Disembark/Oslo
Disembark our ship in Longyearbyen and explore the Svalbard Art Gallery and Museum. Then proceed to the airport for our charter flight to Oslo. (Flight not included) Check in to the SAS Radisson Airport Hotel for overnight. (B,L)
Day 15 - Oslo/Home
After breakfast, proceed to the airport for a flight to Newark aboard SAS Scandinavian Airlines, or on to other adventures. (B)
National Geographic Explorer
National Geographic Explorer is a state-of-the-art expedition ship, and the newest addition to the Lindblad fleet. It is a fully stabilized, ice-class vessel, enabling it to navigate polar passages while providing exceptional comfort. It carries kayaks and a fleet of Zodiac landing craft. An Undersea Specialist operates a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) and sophisticated video equipment, extending access to the underwater world.
Capacity: 148 guests in 81 outside cabins.
Registry: Bahamas. Overall Length: 356 feet.
Public areas: Bistro Bar; Chart Room; Restaurant; Global Gallery; Library, Lounge with full service bar and state-of-the-art facilities for films, slideshows and presentations; Mud Room with lockers for expedition gear, and Observation Lounge. Our “Open Bridge” provides guests an opportunity to meet our Officers and Captain and learn about navigation.
Meals: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Menu is international with local flair.
Cabins: All cabins face outside with windows or portholes, private facilities and climate controls.
Expedition Equipment: Zodiac landing craft, kayaks, Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), hydrophone, SplashCam, underwater video camera, Crow’s Nest remote controlled camera, video microscope, snorkeling gear.
Special Features: A full-time doctor, Undersea Specialist, LEX Photo Specialist and Video Chronicler, Internet Cafe and laundry.
Wellness: The vessel is staffed by two Wellness Specialists and features a glass enclosed Fitness Center, outdoor stretching area, two LEXspa treatment rooms and Sauna.
