Trondheim to Longyearbyen

Trondheim is one of the oldest of Norway’s major cities. With wide streets that are largely pedestrian-friendly, it’s a simply lovely city with a long history. Visit the magnificent Nidaros Cathedral, the largest medieval building in Scandinavia. Kristiansten Fortress consists of a central square tower for cannons, which has come to be known as the Donjon, a relic filled with history for the curious to discover. Stiftsgarden Palace, the royal residence, is one of the largest wooden buildings in Northern Europe, offering an intriguing story to entice the mind. The publicly accessible garden around the east side is one of Trondheim’s loveliest corners.

Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore

Sitting just above the Arctic Circle, the mountain landscapes of Bodø create the starting point for the true north and beckon you and your fellow explorers to hike and climb their rugged paths. As the Midnight Sun sits on the horizon, the fjords invite you to marvel at the city’s natural wonders on a sea kayaking adventure. Look to the skies for sea eagles soaring above, a sight made better when experienced together with your expedition team and new friends. Spectacular scenes can be found at the Red Beach at Mjelle, its sands of which are said to get their color from gemstone particles. Beyond the natural beauty, Bodø is rich in culture. The Bodin Church, built in 1240, displays a distinct copper steeple in the shape of a teardrop. While the Norwegian National Aviation Museum is the usual main attraction among history buffs, the smaller Salten Museum offers a closer look at local history, including Sami life and Viking treasures.

The small fishing town of Leknes amid the breathtaking Lofoten Islands offers an unexpected culinary adventure. From the commonly found stockfish to wine varieties made from blueberries and mountain fruits, there’s a unique flavor for every foodie profile. Venturing to the outskirts of town on the fjord shores, find local wooden crafts, paintings and hand-spun textiles for an authentic memento to take home. About eight miles north of Leknes discover Norwegian history at the Lofotr Viking Museum, including a replica of a Viking chieftain’s longhouse.

Not only will you witness magnificent fjords and glaciers throughout Tromsø, Norway, but you will also immerse yourself in a sophisticated cultural life and architectural delights. A superb example of blending the built environment with the natural setting is the Arctic Cathedral, an architectural marvel made up of aluminum-coated concrete panels, making it a stunning façade resembling an iceberg. To see the real icebergs, all you have to do is take the Fjellheisen cable car 1,525 feet above sea level for incredible views of the Norwegian fjords. You can also stroll around the Arctic-Alpine Botanical Garden, visit the Science Centre of Northern Norway or gain new knowledge at the city’s museums including the Polar Museum, Tromsø University Museum, and Perspektivet Museum.

Within the stunning Altafjord sits the relatively young town of Alta, only established in the year 2000 when it was combined with the villages of Bossekop and Elvebakke. Known as “the city of the Northern Lights,” the people of the town have paid homage to that natural phenomenon with the Alta Church. Its exquisite interior reflects the beauty of the lights while its exterior spirals up into the sky. Near the Arctic Circle, a series of petroglyphs known as the Rock Art of Alta has been deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These mesmerizing rock carvings, created up to 6,000 years ago, showcase everyday life in the Stone Age with images of fishing and hunting. Gather with other explorers for a kayaking adventure through the fjords or an awe-inspiring hike in Alta Canyon. Connect with the rich culture and traditions of Norway with a possible meeting of the Sami people, a tribe with ancestral roots in herding reindeer.

This village in North Cape on the island of Magerøya claims the distinction of being the northernmost fishing village in the world. Rolling hills of green, magnificent arctic fjords and an untamed natural beauty make it a stunning stop off the beaten path. Rugged cliffs are home to thousands of cormorants, puffins and gannets. While there are few people who inhabit the village, you are likely to come across wild reindeer that may venture close to town. Within the village of Skarsvåg sits the Christmas and Winter House, a cozy visitors’ attraction where you can experience the holiday year-round with a hot drink and slice of cake as you peruse the local wares and handicrafts and enjoy an atmosphere of dazzling decorations and festive music.

For being one of the oldest towns in Norway, Hammerfest feels modern. This micro-metropolis has a breathtaking backdrop of steep mountains leading to glaciers and ice fields. For the best panoramic view, walk up the winding trail of Salen Mountain and look out at the islands of Hoja and Hjelmenout. Venture to the Sami camp of Mikkelgammen, the indigenous locals who will welcome you to share an open fire. Discover the Meridian Column, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized as the place where the Earth’s size was first calculated. Claim membership to the exclusive Royal and Ancient Polar Bear Society, an honor bestowed on those who visit the world’s northernmost town.

Even in one of the most isolated regions of the Arctic, there is still the captivating history of a pioneering past. Our expedition leaders, along with the captain and onboard pilot, will determine possible landings each day for all-out explorations. Wildlife abounds throughout the archipelago of Svalbard, such as puffins, reindeer, Arctic terns and foxes. An expert photographer will help you look out for the perfect photo opportunity of these animals, but especially for the elusive polar bear. As Zodiac cruises may bring you closer to glaciers, keep your eyes on the water for whale fins.

CAPTAIN’S CHOICE – Captain’s Choice ports of call add to the sense of adventure and an element of surprise. Your ship’s captain will sail around changing weather conditions as needed and take you to the best areas for wildlife viewing.

Longyearbyen is in a valley on the shores of the idyllic Adventfjord, surrounded by steep mountains and several glaciers. There are only around 25 miles of roads in this village, which is divided into several neighborhoods, including the town center and Nybyen (New Town), which consists of charming miners’ barracks constructed after the war, as well as guest houses, a restaurant and gallery, and not to mention beautiful views of the landmark mountain, Hiorthfjellet. Be sure to visit the Svalbard museum as a break between the plethora of activities like summer dogsledding or cruising to the abandoned Russian city of Pyramiden