Northern Europe, Netherlands
Northern Lights Expedition Cruise from Amsterdam
Stunning Arctic scenery
From Amsterdam, you’ll sail to the Norwegian coast and explore the dramatic and enchanting fjords. Marvel at the breathtaking mountains and glaciers which serve as the perfect backdrop along your roundtrip to the northernmost point of mainland Europe.
Coastal community charm
From cosy fishing villages such as Kalvåg and the epic island grandeur of Senja to the historic city of Bergen and the delightful capital of the Arctic, Tromsø, you’ll experience fascinating insights into the history and culture of the communities that call this remarkable place home.
• Encounter the glaciers, fjords and wildlife of the Norwegian coast in winter.
• Visit tiny fishing villages and vibrant cities and see some of Norway’s most jaw-dropping scenery, including the northernmost point of Europe, the North Cape.
• Explore under the Auroral Zone of the Arctic, searching for the Northern Lights,which are at their most active during October and March.
From Amsterdam, you’ll sail to the Norwegian coast and explore the dramatic and enchanting fjords. Marvel at the breathtaking mountains and glaciers which serve as the perfect backdrop along your roundtrip to the northernmost point of mainland Europe.
Coastal community charm
From cosy fishing villages such as Kalvåg and the epic island grandeur of Senja to the historic city of Bergen and the delightful capital of the Arctic, Tromsø, you’ll experience fascinating insights into the history and culture of the communities that call this remarkable place home.
Highlights
• Encounter the glaciers, fjords and wildlife of the Norwegian coast in winter.
• Visit tiny fishing villages and vibrant cities and see some of Norway’s most jaw-dropping scenery, including the northernmost point of Europe, the North Cape.
• Explore under the Auroral Zone of the Arctic, searching for the Northern Lights,which are at their most active during October and March.
Embarking on your adventure
Your winter expedition cruise begins in Amsterdam. Before boarding MS Maud, take some time to enjoy a stroll beside Amsterdam's famous canals and across the old bridges between the rivers Amstel and Ij, or admire the charming townhouses that line the canals of the Grachtengordel, now protected by UNESCO.
Once on board the ship, you’ll pick up your complimentary expedition jacket, locate your cabin, explore the ship and attend a mandatory safety drill. After leaving port, the captain will welcome you aboard and your adventure can truly begin.
Before heading for the North Sea, we’ll have a short stop in Den Helder, a strategically located and historic town where Napoleon constructed the naval dockyards, Willemsoord.
Easing into the journey
This day at sea will give you plenty of time to find your sea legs and enjoy the onboard facilities, such as our hot tubs, sauna and gym. You'll also dine on delicious seasonal produce in our restaurants.
The Expedition Team will begin the first in their series of lectures over at the Science Center. Each member of the Expedition Team is an expert in their field. They’ll share fascinating insights about the places, history and nature you may encounter on your Norwegian coast adventure.
Find out about our Citizen Science projects, where you can contribute to important scientific research. Or pick up pointers on improving your wildlife and landscape images from our expedition photographers.
Explore lively Stavanger
Today, we’ll explore the picturesque city of Stavanger – Norway’s fourth largest city.
With an international ambience and a lively cultural scene, Stavanger is a cosmopolitan city set in stunning surroundings. Discover the architectural relics of Old Stavanger, including a magnificent 12th century cathedral. You can also visit the Norwegian Petroleum Museum, pop into a local boutique or simply enjoy a beer on the waterfront.
Looking towards the harbour is the statue of the former mayor and well-known author Alexander Kielland. The pedestrian street leads you to the Valberg Tower, situated on a small hill and overlooking the central part of the city and harbour.
Visit one of the Norway's best preserved fishing villages
We’ll dock at the little fishing village of Kalvåg after breakfast, situated far out on the coastline with the open North Sea to the west. Its name literally means ‘Frozen Bay’ in the Old Norse.
If conditions allow, we’ll go ashore here and discover one of the best kept secrets of the Norwegian coast. Admire and walk around Kalvåg’s collection of old waterfront buildings, from restored wooden wharfs to herring salting warehouses.
Cosy-looking houses cluster together around the bay, the reflections of their lights shimmering like candles in the waters below. The wonderful wintery atmosphere is even more captivating when the village is coated with a snug blanket of snow.
Approaching the Arctic Circle
Today you can spend time in the ship’s lounge, soaking in a hot tub, or out on deck. Whatever you do, don’t take your eyes off the scenery as we sail through Helgeland County, with its pointed mountains and abundant islands.
Pick out the peaks of the Seven Sisters Mountain range, thought to be the petrified bodies of seven troll sisters caught out at sunrise. And spot the Torghatten mountain with its distinct hole through the middle. Local legend states that the mountain was in fact the troll-king’s hat which turned to stone when it was pierced by an arrow.
The Expedition Team will continue their onboard lectures, covering everything from local folklore and wildlife to the history of navigation along the coast.
Visit one of the world's most spectacular destinations
Svolvær is the largest town in Lofoten with about 4,800 residents, many of whom work as fishermen. There are shops and art galleries to browse along the seafront promenade and rows of rorbuer to admire.
You might spot wooden racks called hjell dotted around the shores of the town too. Locally caught cod is dried on these racks and later turned into tørrfisk, or stockfish in English, and prized as a local delicacy. Fishing is clearly an important way of life in Lofoten and the lectures for the day may focus on how cod effectively helped to build Norway into a country.
Encounter the fascinating history and culture of the gateway to the Arctic
It’s time to explore Tromsø, the capital of the Arctic. We’ll reach the city of Tromsø before noon and spend the rest of the afternoon exploring its fascinating history, culture and bold architecture.
Historically, Tromsø was a frontier town for returning hunters and explorers and acted as a launch point for several Arctic expeditions. Compared to the barren tundra they experienced, Tromsø was like Paris because of the fashion and food they found there. Hence the nickname, ‘Paris of the North’.
The Arctic Cathedral is one of the most striking landmarks in Tromsø, especially when lit up at night. It features an attractive, huge stained-glass window that is well worth seeing up close.
Experience the spectacular North Cape and the best seafood in Europe
In the morning we’ll arrive at Honningsvåg and visit one of the northernmost points in Europe - the North Cape. At 71°10’21´N, it’s just 2,100 kilometres away from the Geographic North Pole, with only the Svalbard archipelago in between.
Stand at the cliff’s edge and gaze out across the sparkling sea. There’s the obligatory selfie at the Globe Monument to snap before visiting the North Cape Hall for several exhibits and a short film that chronicles the history of the cape.
Back in Honningsvåg, enjoy a stroll by the pretty harbour, browsing the charming shops, houses and church. The local restaurants offer fresh fish and seafood, with king crabs available all year round. This is the ship’s turning point and from here, we start our return trip southbound.
Spend a day exploring ‘Norway in miniature’
Today, we dock at Senja, one of the most ruggedly beautiful and lesser-visited islands in Norway.
Sometimes referred to as ‘Norway in miniature’, the island boasts diverse landscapes and weather that seem to change in the blink of an eye. The wild Atlantic side boasts towering, rocky mountains that plunge into the sea, while the tranquil southern side is home to lush, green farmland.
While you’re here, explore the striking landscape on a guided hike, or kayak around the crystal-clear waters that reflect the mountains like glass. Top your visit off with a tasting experience and sample delicious local produce.
Dabble in science or simply relax and watch the world go by
Enjoying the moment and taking time to reconnect with nature and the world around you is part of being on an expedition cruise. So, during a day at sea, relax on a sofa in the panoramic Explorer Lounge & Bar and reflect on your experience so far. Or why not soak in a hot tub out on deck, or simply sit back and take in the serenity of the Norwegian coast.
There’s more to learn in lectures from the Expedition Team, and you can dabble in science in the onboard Science Center. You can also participate in Citizen Science projects and contribute to important global research.
Adventure among Norway’s little-known islands
There’s no set plan for today – so expect the unexpected! In true expedition style, we’ll spend the time heading off the beaten track and making the most of the conditions. Your Expedition Team will draw on their in-depth knowledge of the area to bring you to the most exhilarating activities in naturally beautiful locations.
There are many islands and fjords to discover in this region, and we’ll be sailing in to get a closer look at some of them. Our expedition boats will take us ashore where we’ll be on the lookout for the local wildlife in these stunning surroundings.
Learn all about glaciers and how they shaped the Norwegian landscape
In the morning, we plan to cruise deep into Sognefjorden, the longest and deepest fjord in Norway, to the tiny hamlet of Fjærland. Only 300 people live in this idyllic village with its many charming old buildings and picturesque second-hand book shops. This is also the place where Sognefjorden meets Jostedalsbreen, the largest glacier on the European continent.
A visit to the Norwegian Glacier Museum is the included activity of the day. There you can learn why glacier ice is blue and how the fjords were formed. You can even perform a few experiments with 1,000-year-old glacier ice and watch a panoramic film about Europe’s largest glacier.
Experience stunning mountain views, and explore the charming city of Bergen
Bergen, one of Norway’s most beautiful cities, was Norway’s capital for many years. Your included activity is an excursion to Mount Fløyen. From the ship, we’ll hop on buses and drive to the Fløibanen funicular. At the summit, 1,049 ft high, bask in stunning views over the city surrounded by seven mountains and the sea.
Back in Bergen, you can explore the cobblestone streets and alleyways of this thriving, compact city. Also, be sure to stroll through the historic Bryggen district with its colourful wooden wharfs. The area dates back to the 14th century and now houses boutique stores selling a range of Norwegian arts and crafts.
Take the time to relax with friends and look back on your adventures
On the return journey, you can spend time chatting with new friends, perhaps recalling the best moments of your expedition together. Enjoy drinks in the Explorer Lounge & Bar while swapping friendly banter and stories of past adventures. You might even catch a couple of the crew and Expedition Team members here too.
Make the most of your day on board MS Maud. You may want to soak in a hot tub, work out in the gym, relax in the Explorer Lounge, or edit the photographs from your trip. Don’t miss the Expedition Team as they review the highlights of your memorable expedition cruise along the beautiful coast of Norway.
A creative, cosmopolitan city known for the arts
Your winter expedition cruise to Norway comes to an end back in Amsterdam. After a final breakfast, it’ll be time to say a fond farewell to the ship, the crew and any new-found friends you’ve made. As you head ashore, you’ll take with you special memories of Norway in winter - spectacular scenery, majestic fjords, fascinating towns and cities, and welcoming people.
As you might remember from the start to this voyage Amsterdam is a wonderful city for a walking tour. Stroll along its cobbled streets, admiring the canals and architecture. Enjoy a canal trip, visit the Anne Frank House or relax in quirky cafés.
Whatever’s next for you, we wish you a safe onward journey and look forward to seeing you on your next adventure!
Itineraries are subject to change.
|
Book now |
Polar Inside. From
$5,535 AUD pp
Our cozy Polar Inside cabins are located on all decks. All cabins include bathrooms with a shower/toilet. Most cabins have separate beds, with one doubling as a sofa. Others are equipped with upper and lower berths. All cabins have individual specifications.
Polar Outside. From
$5,978 AUD pp
Our Polar Outside cabins are mostly situated on the middle or lower decks and all have bathrooms with a shower/toilet. They have separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, or upper and lower berths. All cabins have individual specifications.
Arctic Superior. From
$7,029 AUD pp
Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of our Arctic Superior cabins. Situated on both the upper and middle decks, they all have bathrooms with shower/toilet. They are also equipped with tea- and coffee-making facilities. Most of them have separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, and some have double beds. All cabins have individual specifications.
Expedition Suite. From
$12,011 AUD pp
Our Expeditions Suites are the most luxurious cabins. Situated on the ship’s upper deck, the suites feature seating areas with TV and bathrooms with shower/toilet, all with double beds. Some suites have more amenities than others. Located on decks 6, 7, and 8. An exciting welcome gift awaits all suite guests in their cabin.
|
Book now |
Polar Inside. From
$5,834 AUD pp
Our cozy Polar Inside cabins are located on all decks. All cabins include bathrooms with a shower/toilet. Most cabins have separate beds, with one doubling as a sofa. Others are equipped with upper and lower berths. All cabins have individual specifications.
Polar Outside. From
$6,301 AUD pp
Our Polar Outside cabins are mostly situated on the middle or lower decks and all have bathrooms with a shower/toilet. They have separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, or upper and lower berths. All cabins have individual specifications.
Arctic Superior. From
$7,410 AUD pp
Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of our Arctic Superior cabins. Situated on both the upper and middle decks, they all have bathrooms with shower/toilet. They are also equipped with tea- and coffee-making facilities. Most of them have separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, and some have double beds. All cabins have individual specifications.
Expedition Suite. From
$12,661 AUD pp
Our Expeditions Suites are the most luxurious cabins. Situated on the ship’s upper deck, the suites feature seating areas with TV and bathrooms with shower/toilet, all with double beds. Some suites have more amenities than others. Located on decks 6, 7, and 8. An exciting welcome gift awaits all suite guests in their cabin.
|
Book now |
Polar Inside. From
$5,985 AUD pp
Our cozy Polar Inside cabins are located on all decks. All cabins include bathrooms with a shower/toilet. Most cabins have separate beds, with one doubling as a sofa. Others are equipped with upper and lower berths. All cabins have individual specifications.
Polar Outside. From
$6,463 AUD pp
Our Polar Outside cabins are mostly situated on the middle or lower decks and all have bathrooms with a shower/toilet. They have separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, or upper and lower berths. All cabins have individual specifications.
Arctic Superior. From
$7,601 AUD pp
Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of our Arctic Superior cabins. Situated on both the upper and middle decks, they all have bathrooms with shower/toilet. They are also equipped with tea- and coffee-making facilities. Most of them have separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, and some have double beds. All cabins have individual specifications.
Expedition Suite. From
$12,988 AUD pp
Our Expeditions Suites are the most luxurious cabins. Situated on the ship’s upper deck, the suites feature seating areas with TV and bathrooms with shower/toilet, all with double beds. Some suites have more amenities than others. Located on decks 6, 7, and 8. An exciting welcome gift awaits all suite guests in their cabin.
|
Book now |
Polar Inside. From
$6,284 AUD pp
Our cozy Polar Inside cabins are located on all decks. All cabins include bathrooms with a shower/toilet. Most cabins have separate beds, with one doubling as a sofa. Others are equipped with upper and lower berths. All cabins have individual specifications.
Polar Outside. From
$6,788 AUD pp
Our Polar Outside cabins are mostly situated on the middle or lower decks and all have bathrooms with a shower/toilet. They have separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, or upper and lower berths. All cabins have individual specifications.
Arctic Superior. From
$7,982 AUD pp
Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of our Arctic Superior cabins. Situated on both the upper and middle decks, they all have bathrooms with shower/toilet. They are also equipped with tea- and coffee-making facilities. Most of them have separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, and some have double beds. All cabins have individual specifications.
Expedition Suite. From
$13,638 AUD pp
Our Expeditions Suites are the most luxurious cabins. Situated on the ship’s upper deck, the suites feature seating areas with TV and bathrooms with shower/toilet, all with double beds. Some suites have more amenities than others. Located on decks 6, 7, and 8. An exciting welcome gift awaits all suite guests in their cabin.
|
Book now |
Polar Inside. From
$6,585 AUD pp
Our cozy Polar Inside cabins are located on all decks. All cabins include bathrooms with a shower/toilet. Most cabins have separate beds, with one doubling as a sofa. Others are equipped with upper and lower berths. All cabins have individual specifications.
Polar Outside. From
$7,111 AUD pp
Our Polar Outside cabins are mostly situated on the middle or lower decks and all have bathrooms with a shower/toilet. They have separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, or upper and lower berths. All cabins have individual specifications.
Arctic Superior. From
$8,363 AUD pp
Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of our Arctic Superior cabins. Situated on both the upper and middle decks, they all have bathrooms with shower/toilet. They are also equipped with tea- and coffee-making facilities. Most of them have separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, and some have double beds. All cabins have individual specifications.
Expedition Suite. From
$14,289 AUD pp
Our Expeditions Suites are the most luxurious cabins. Situated on the ship’s upper deck, the suites feature seating areas with TV and bathrooms with shower/toilet, all with double beds. Some suites have more amenities than others. Located on decks 6, 7, and 8. An exciting welcome gift awaits all suite guests in their cabin.
|
Book now |
Polar Inside. From
$6,585 AUD pp
Our cozy Polar Inside cabins are located on all decks. All cabins include bathrooms with a shower/toilet. Most cabins have separate beds, with one doubling as a sofa. Others are equipped with upper and lower berths. All cabins have individual specifications.
Polar Outside. From
$7,111 AUD pp
Our Polar Outside cabins are mostly situated on the middle or lower decks and all have bathrooms with a shower/toilet. They have separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, or upper and lower berths. All cabins have individual specifications.
Arctic Superior. From
$8,363 AUD pp
Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of our Arctic Superior cabins. Situated on both the upper and middle decks, they all have bathrooms with shower/toilet. They are also equipped with tea- and coffee-making facilities. Most of them have separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, and some have double beds. All cabins have individual specifications.
Expedition Suite. From
$14,289 AUD pp
Our Expeditions Suites are the most luxurious cabins. Situated on the ship’s upper deck, the suites feature seating areas with TV and bathrooms with shower/toilet, all with double beds. Some suites have more amenities than others. Located on decks 6, 7, and 8. An exciting welcome gift awaits all suite guests in their cabin.
|
Book now |
Polar Inside. From
$6,435 AUD pp
Our cozy Polar Inside cabins are located on all decks. All cabins include bathrooms with a shower/toilet. Most cabins have separate beds, with one doubling as a sofa. Others are equipped with upper and lower berths. All cabins have individual specifications.
Polar Outside. From
$6,950 AUD pp
Our Polar Outside cabins are mostly situated on the middle or lower decks and all have bathrooms with a shower/toilet. They have separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, or upper and lower berths. All cabins have individual specifications.
Arctic Superior. From
$8,172 AUD pp
Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of our Arctic Superior cabins. Situated on both the upper and middle decks, they all have bathrooms with shower/toilet. They are also equipped with tea- and coffee-making facilities. Most of them have separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, and some have double beds. All cabins have individual specifications.
Expedition Suite. From
$13,964 AUD pp
Our Expeditions Suites are the most luxurious cabins. Situated on the ship’s upper deck, the suites feature seating areas with TV and bathrooms with shower/toilet, all with double beds. Some suites have more amenities than others. Located on decks 6, 7, and 8. An exciting welcome gift awaits all suite guests in their cabin.
Vessel Type: Expedition Ship
Length: 135,75 m
Passenger Capacity: 528
Built: 2003
About the ship
MS Maud, previously MS Midnatsol, is named after one of the most famous polar vessels of all time, Roald Amundsen's 'Maud' from 1917. The original 'Maud' got her name from the first Queen of modern-day Norway. She also had her namesake in Hurtigruten Expedition’s 1925 flagship, DS Dronning Maud ('DS Queen Maud').
Ship features
This ship has passed stringent tests and has been accredited by the leading independent certification body Bureau Veritas (BV). The strict and thorough safety audit required by BV ensures every ship is in compliance with industry and international health, safety and hygiene best practices. When you see the SafeGuard label, you can feel confident the vessel you’re sailing in meets the highest standards to achieve certification. SafeGuard furthermore ensures that best practice guidelines are being followed with regard to hygiene, sanitation and limiting the spread of infectious diseases on board.
Today, MS Maud is equipped with advanced technology that makes her exceptionally well-suited for expedition cruises in Norway and the British Isles.
Premium expedition comfort
Her bright interiors are appointed in a classic Art Deco style. Colours are inspired by the Midnight Sun, allowing you to relax in warm vibes every day of the year. Channel your inner scientist in the advanced Science Center and enjoy daily lectures in the lecture hall or in the comfort of your cabin with our new streaming service. Sample delicious dishes from local suppliers in the restaurants and enjoy beverages and the spectacular views in the Explorer Lounge & Bar. On deck 9, you can enjoy the spectacular views from the outdoor Observation deck. There’s also a gym and a sauna with stunning views.
Interior and Cabins
MS Maud is well-suited for expedition cruising, with a décor inspired by Norway’s stunning nature, reflected in many of the pieces of Norwegian modern art on board. Her bright interiors are appointed in a classic Art Deco style. Colours are inspired by the Midnight Sun, allowing you to relax in warm vibes every day of the year.
Explorer lounge & bar
Enjoy the view with a drink in the Explorer lounge & bar.
Science Center
The hub of onboard learning is our Science Center, an edutainment venue where guests and crew meet to create a deeper understanding of the areas we explore. We stream for your comfort our lectures to cabins.
Gym
The MS Maud offers a complete gym.
Sauna & Ralaxation
After a day of exploring, guests can relax and rejuvenate in the hot tubs or the sauna, exercise in the gym, take in the scenery in the elegant Explorer Lounge & Bar, or browse in the on-board shop.
Library
The ship has a small selection of books that are available to guests while on board.
Observation Deck
The Observation Deck is an ideal place to scan the scenery and watch wildlife with your binoculars.
Aune Restaurant
Welcome onboard to a culinary journey and our award-winning food sourcing program. On board you find restaurant Aune - our main dining room; Named after the Norwegian ship chandler and polar expedition supplier Tinus Aune.
Fredheim Restaurant
The ships’ informal and social meeting place – named after a 1900s hunting station on Svalbard. Fredheim - with casual fast food and plant based alternatives.
Lindstrom Restaurant
And our fine dining restaurant Lindstrøm, named after Polar Hero and Amundsen Chef Adolf Lindstrøm. Take a deep breath, relax and enjoy.
Inclusions
• Voyage on board in selected cabin category
• All meals while on board
• On board lectures
Exclusions
• International and domestic flights unless otherwise stated
• Passport and visa costs where applicable
• Travel insurance
• Transfers unless otherwise stated
• Optional Excursions
• Pre and Post voyage accommodation
• Beverages on board unless otherwise stated
• Meals while ashore
Expedition
15 Days from
$5,535 AUD pp
Our Associates Include
