Get Out & Get Active

With snowmobiling, reindeer sledding, and Husky dog interactions, there is much to love about Norway in the winter. Your Chasing the Northern Lights journey provides boundless opportunities to get active. Discover what makes this one of earth’s most exciting travel destinations. Interact with the native Sámi people or try your hand at ice fishing. Learn about “mush” and how to train precious Husky pups. Or, lace up your boots for a wondrous snow trek.

Please note that all active events are seasonal and weather dependent.

• Bergen: With its Viking roots and provincial charm, Bergen is indeed a Norwegian treasure. Established as a trade center in the 12th century, this city’s history is as rich as its wooden buildings are colorful. You’ll visit to Bryggen Wharf, Bergen’s historic harbor district and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll the serene harbors and savor the city’s modern cuisine, eclectic art scene, and bustling marketplaces.
• Trondheim: As one of Norway’s largest cities, Trondheim is bursting with life. Eclectic stores beckon shoppers, museums display centuries-old relics of treasures, and every corner is steeped in history. Imminent sites include Nidaros Cathedral, the largest medieval building in Scandinavia, and the jewel-laden, 12th century Archbishop’s Palace.

Bask in nature’s wintry splendor on this unforgettable Norwegian cruise. Discover 1,250 miles of pristine coastline with snowcapped mountains, boundless white wilderness, and the shimmering of frozen landscapes. The inimitable Northern Lights beckon, should Mother Nature be so generous. The Aurora Borealis is a phenomenon that sets dazzling green and violet lights dancing in the sky. Witness some of the world’s most stunning fjords reflecting the colors of this luminous astral display.

On these exclusive seasonal departures, you’ll experience local culture in an authentic way. Visits to locations like Trondheim Torg and its holiday skating rink, as well as the Snowhotel, will help you make insightful connections.

• Seasonal Beauty: Since we offer departures in all four seasons, you won’t miss a moment of the natural beauty for which this country is renowned. In spring, Norway transforms into a mixture of snowcapped peaks and budding greenery
  • During the summer, Norway’s mountains trade their snowy veils for green expanses; open fields bloom under the radiant midnight sun
  • Fall is ideal to see landscapes bursting into fiery colors and migrating birds creating patterns across the sky
  • Winter provides the greatest chance to see one of nature’s magnificent phenomena, the Aurora Borealis. When the Northern Lights’ green and violet hues reflect off snow-covered peaks and softly glow in fishing villages, the magic of Norway becomes palpable
• Ålesund: With its undeniable beauty and artistic spirit, Ålesund is not to be missed. This charming seaport town is spread across several islands in Norway’s western fjord country. Witness its breathtaking views of glimmering ocean water, regal mountains, and glistening fjords
• At Sea: Check the Arctic Circle off your bucket list as you cross into northernmost Europe. Vivid skies stretch overhead as ice shimmers along the sea’s surface and the crisp air invigorates. Cruise past a variety of scenic landmarks, including the Lofoten and Vesterålen islands, the Grip and Hitra islands, and the remarkable Seven Sisters mountain chain

During your Nordic cruise, your shipmates will be a mix of local and international travelers. This provides for a unique opportunity to make international connections at sea. Your Cruise Director will also give presentations while aboard your Hurtigruten ship. Designed to illuminate this region’s unique culture and enrich your discoveries, you’ll enjoy learning about the following topics:

• Life in Norway
• Second World War — Norway's involvement
• Facts and Myths — Vikings in Scandinavia
• Norwegian Cooking Culture
• Norwegian Language Lesson
• The Topography of Norway

You’ll have additional opportunities to experience Norway’s art and culture while visiting these unique cities and towns:

• Bergen:
  • During a city tour of Bergen, note the traditional architecture and extraordinary street patterns
  • Pay a visit to Troldhaugen, the former summer residence of composer Edvard Grieg. Inspired by the history, scenery, and legends of his homeland, Grieg’s talent and passion marked him as one of Norway’s most celebrated pianists. Stroll through the grounds, including the family villa, the Edvard Grieg Museum, the hut he used to compose music, and his gravesite
• Ålesund: In addition to its natural beauty, Ålesund features an incredible display of art nouveau architecture waiting to be admired. Rebuilt after an early 20th-century fire destroyed most of it, this Nordic town has an intriguing mix of styles and an undeniable artistic spirit. We’ll explore the best of Ålesund on a walking tour
• Tromsø: During our explorations of Tromsø, known as the "Gateway to the Arctic," we’ll admire some of its distinctive architecture, including the iconic shape of the Arctic Cathedral. Perched scenically at the end of the Tromsø Bridge, this house of worship is a beacon for locals and travelers alike

The Hurtigruten’s onboard Expedition Team is comprised of specially trained experts to guide you through Norway’s natural wonders. Here is how they will enhance your adventures:

• Exciting Expedition Team discussions on board, providing insight on Norway’s history and the indigenous Sámi tribe culture
• Dozens of seasonal activities, including guided hikes
• Onboard skits that bring local culture and customs to life
• Your Expedition Team will always be on watch for the Northern Lights, ensuring you see the most of this phenomenon from the top deck

Trying to capture the Northern Lights with a camera can be tricky, but there are myriad of subjects waiting for you in the Arctic Circle. Here are a few ways to take the best photographs on your Norwegian cruise:

• Chronicle the distinctive landscapes along the Atlantic Road, considered often “the world’s most beautiful drive”
• Depending on your departure, you could experience the Arctic’s dramatic wintry landscapes and possible glimpse reindeer. You never know what you’ll witness. So, always keep your camera near!
• From early September to April, the Aurora Borealis can be seen on clear, dark nights. To capture the lights correctly, you’ll need a DSLR with a manual setting and a tripod. Adjust your ISO to 1600 or lower; set your aperture to the lowest number possible, and adjust your shutter speed according to the light levels

Your solo-friendly voyage has been enhanced with special features catering to independent travelers, including:

• A lively social media night and musical performances most nights
• Solo-friendly social activities, including a Solo Connection mixer
• Onboard entertainment, lectures, and cooking demonstrations

Some of our top Concierge suggestions for this Norwegian adventure include:

• Snowshoeing excursions
• Norwegian food tour
• Bergen Segway tours