Norway and the Midnight Sun

A choice of included excursions is offered during your visit to this port – please select your place on just one of these excursions. It is not permitted to book more than one option and in doing so will result in the automatic cancellation of additional excursions.

Stavanger has, over time, been shaped by both the natural fjordic waterways, and the history of those living here. This sightseeing tour begins with a drive north from Sandnes towards Stavanger. Pass through Jaeren, a natural landscape where emerald-green grass flows onto the rocky beaches. Your guide will tell you about Jaeren’s unique light which has attracted artists for many years.

On arrival into Stavanger city centre you will journey alongside Breiavannet lake and the pointed towers of 12th-century Stavanger Cathedral. Continue through the harbour area and across the city bridge. Connecting Stavanger with the islands of Grashomen and Solyst, the bridge epitomises the growth that this area has experienced over the last 50 years. Returning to the mainland, pass Ullandhaug, home to a reconstructed iron-age farm, before pausing at Hafrsfjord for a photo stop. It was here in AD 872 that Harald ‘Fairhair’ Halfdansson was victorious over several chieftains, uniting Norway as it exists today. See the three 33-foot swords which represent Norway’s gathering under one crown.

Finally, drive alongside Sola Beach – over a mile of white sand dunes, bound together by dense marram grass and dotted with World War Two coastal defences and bunkers. Finally, your coach will bring you back to Sandnes port.

Additional Information

Please note: Most of the sightseeing on this excursion is from your tour vehicle. Walking during your short stop is at your discretion.

A choice of included excursions is offered during your visit to this port – please select your place on just one of these excursions. It is not permitted to book more than one option and in doing so will result in the automatic cancellation of additional excursions.

Explore the fourth largest city in Norway independently, and uncover Stavanger’s important historic role. Discover its rich past from Viking Kings battling in the Hafrsfjord, through the times of the white sails and steamships, and up to the present day with the oil and gas industry as the most important income source. Travel by coach from Sandnes to Stavanger, a journey of approximately 30 minutes.

Your local guide will accompany you on the short drive and will introduce you to the city. On arrival, your guide will help you to get your bearings and then you are free to explore at your leisure. Perhaps take a stroll in 'Old Stavanger' to admire preserved wooden houses surrounded by tiny, colourful gardens, dating back to the 18th and 19th century. These houses were mostly built for seafarers, craftsmen and tradesmen and sit within the narrow lanes dressed in paving stones and old gas lanterns. You may also choose to visit the 12th century cathedral, the best-preserved medieval church in Norway. The city provides plenty of shopping opportunities too, coffee shops and eateries.

Finally, return to the meeting point for the drive back to Sandnes and your ship.

Additional Information

Please note: Walking in Stavanger is entirely at your discretion but you should expect to cover a distance of up to one mile for a good exploration of the city. This excursion may operate during lunch service times on board, but a packed lunch is available on request.

A choice between two included excursions is offered during your visit to Trondheim – please select your place on just one of these excursions. Duplicate or double bookings will be cancelled. It is not permitted to book both included excursions.

This excursion provides the ideal introduction to Trondheim, one of Norway’s oldest and grandest cities. You will pass many of its most important sites, viewing them from the comfort of your tour vehicle. Begin by travelling through the bustling heart of the city, spotting ‘Stiftsgarden’ – built in 1778 and one of the largest wooden buildings in Norway. It is owned by the state and is the King’s official residence while in Trondheim. Next, visit Nidaros Cathedral, where construction began in 1070 AD. Throughout the Middle Ages there have been many pilgrimages to the site, as Norway’s patron saint, St Olav, is buried here. Finally, from a viewpoint above the city, you can enjoy a fine panoramic view, before returning to Trondheim via one of the many bridges over the River Nid. Your return drive to the ship passes the old drawbridge and the many colourful warehouses beside it.

Additional Information

Please note: Expect to walk approximately 300 yards with five steps inside Nidaros Cathedral. Your guide will provide an introduction outside of the cathedral, after which you may explore inside independently. Admission to the cathedral interior may be restricted if a service is taking place.

A choice between two included excursions is offered during your visit to Trondheim – please select your place on just one of these excursions. Duplicate or double bookings will be cancelled. It is not permitted to book both included excursions.

Discover the highlights of Trondheim on this in-depth walking exploration. Founded by the Viking King Olav Tryggvason in 997 AD, Trondheim (loosely translated to ‘home of the good life’) faced ravaging fires in 1681, successfully repelled an invading Swedish army in 1718 and enjoyed a mercantile golden age towards the end of that century. It is bright, bold, and colourful. You begin this walking tour, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, at the modern-day centre of Trondheim life, the market square. Hard to miss is the statue of the founding king that stands on a tall plinth and acts as an elaborate sundial. Continue to Nidaros Cathedral, built between 1070 and 1300, where you will pause to admire its impressive exterior. It is the burial site of patron saint, King Olav II, and is therefore a site of significant pilgrimage. Neighbouring Nidaros is the ‘Archbishop’s Palace’, home to Norway’s crown jewels. Pass through Bakklandet, where a series of restored wooden houses are painted in vivid colours. See the old town bridge and numerous historic warehouses lining the waterway, and look out for the bicycle elevator – a unique piece of technology that gives bike riders a welcome (and free) push up a steep hill. Follow Trondheim’s waterway back to the pier, where your excursion ends, perhaps with a little more knowledge about this colourful city and its interesting past.

Additional Information

Please note: You should expect to walk approximately four miles on this strenuous excursion which requires a high level of physical fitness and mobility. The walk will involve some steep gradients, uneven surfaces and some steps along the way. The full duration of this excursion is spent outside, with no inside visits included.

A choice of included excursions is offered during your visit to port – please select your place on just one of these excursions. It is not permitted to book more than one option and in doing so will result in the automatic cancellation of additional excursions.

This excursion provides an introduction to Bodø from the comfort of your coach, without the necessity to walk long distances. Your sightseeing tour begins in the lively harbour area where your guide will describe how most of Bodø was reduced to rubble during a German bombing raid on May 27, 1940, and how the subsequent rebuild changed the face of the city. Take in its beloved cathedral, a concrete wonder completed in 1956, featuring a basilica design. Pass City Hall and the yellow facade of the Nordland Museum, in the city centre. Then enjoy a stop to view Bodin Church; originally built in 1240, this white stone house of worship is Bodø’s oldest surviving building. Bodø also has an abundance of street art which your guide will point out during your tour. Finally, return to your awaiting ship.

Additional Information

Please note: Most of the sightseeing is from your tour vehicle. Walking during the short stop at Bodin Church is at your discretion. Entrance inside the church is not included during this excursion. No restroom stops will be made during this two-hour excursion.

A choice of included excursions is offered during your visit to this port – please select your place on just one of these excursions. It is not permitted to book more than one option and in doing so will result in the automatic cancellation of additional excursions.

This sightseeing tour takes you around Bodø and to one of Europe's most remarkable natural attractions. The tour begins with a drive along the seafront promenade and continues past the area called Swedish Town, which was reconstructed with the help of Bodø's Swedish neighbours after the area was bombed in 1940. Your guide will tell you about the history of Bodø and its military past along with its role in World War Two.

Afterwards your coach takes you to the cantilever Saltstraumen Bridge. A short walk here will bring you to the water’s edge to view the power of the tide and hear the roar of the water as it is forced into swirls of differing sizes and patterns. Saltstraumen is one of the world's most powerful maelstroms. Every six hours, 82,000,000,000 gallons of water pass through a deep and narrow passage just 150 metres wide where whirlpools – many up to 35 feet in diameter – are formed. After witnessing this natural phenomenon, return to your tour vehicle where a short drive will bring you back to your ship.

Additional Information

Please note: There will be a walk of approximately 400 yards along a sloping gravel track between the coach parking area and viewpoint at Saltstraumen and the same on the return. The strength of Saltstraumen’s currents vary throughout the day and it cannot be guaranteed that you will see them at their strongest.

A choice of included excursions is offered during your visit to this port – please select your place on just one of these excursions. It is not permitted to book more than one option and in doing so will result in the automatic cancellation of additional excursions.

Explore Bodø on foot in the company of a local guide to see the local highlights and learn more about the history and culture in this vibrant town. As you walk through the town, you will pass by several iconic buildings including the city hall, cathedral and the modern Stormen building which houses a library and a cultural centre. Located just inside the Arctic Circle, on the surface Bodø appears to be a young town with a short history, but in reality, it hides a rich past. The town was reduced to rubble during a German bombing raid on May 27, 1940, and the subsequent rebuild changed the face of the city. Bodø was designated as the European Capital of Culture in 2024 and is renowned for its modern architecture and vibrant street art. At the end of your informative stroll, your guide will accompany you back to the ship.

Additional Information

Please note: Expect to cover approximately four miles during this excursion, on mostly flat and paved surfaces but with some inclines. An excellent level of physical fitness is required to participate.

The Lofoten islands meet the sea with an approximately 100-mile range of mountains and one can hardly imagine the rich green valleys, charming villages and fishing ports that lay beyond.

Enjoy a guided panoramic introduction to the Lofoten Islands and take in some of the finest views on offer here. Departing from the pier in Leknes, your first destination is Ballstad, situated on the southern tip of Vestågøy Island. As you pass through, you will notice a number of small dwellings which are known as rorbu - a traditional fisherman's cabin. Many of these have been preserved and converted into vacation homes with modern necessities. A short stop will be made in Ballstad for you to admire the coastal scenery.

Next you will head back in a northerly direction to visit the Torvdalshalsen viewpoint, where you will view the peaks of Eggum to the west and the gentle agricultural land at Borg to the south. Finally, stop at the Hagskaret viewpoint where you can admire the Lofoten peaks in the distance, before returning to Leknes.

Additional Information

Please note: Most of the sightseeing on this excursion is from your tour vehicle. Walking during your short stops is at your discretion.

A choice of included excursions is offered during your visit to this port – please select your place on just one of these excursions. It is not permitted to book more than one option and in doing so will result in the automatic cancellation of additional excursions.

Discover Alta’s most iconic landmark: the Northern Lights Cathedral, which opened in 2013 - delighting visitors with its challenging symbolism and unique design ever since. During a short panoramic tour of Alta, your guide will talk about the architecture, the construction and the artwork, both inside and out. The cathedral is an architectural achievement, rising as a sculptural peak to contrast the natural environment around it. The building symbolises the arctic northern lights through the spiral that rises to the top of the cathedral, and the titanium covered facade offers a reflection of the phenomenon during the dark winter nights.

Inside, the cathedral is illuminated by the tall windows which spiral around the building. You will have plenty of time to take pictures and to embrace the peaceful atmosphere. The cathedral basement is home to the ‘Borealis’ interactive exhibition, admission to which is included. Here you can learn about this natural phenomenon and hear some of the local legends associated with it.

Additional Information

Please note: This tour requires walking approximately 550 yards in total over relatively flat, somewhat uneven ground with a slight incline. The cathedral is accessed by a sloped path which has a handrail.

A choice of included excursions is offered during your visit to this port – please select your place on just one of these excursions. It is not permitted to book more than one option and in doing so will result in the automatic cancellation of additional excursions.

Alta Museum is one of only five rock art area inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Begin with a short drive from the port to the museum in the company of your local guide. The Museum sits amid a vast field of rock carvings and paintings, the first of which was only discovered as recently as 1973. The ancient carvings, made over a long period from 7,000 to 2,000 years ago, were inscribed into UNESCO'S list of Global Cultural Heritage in 1985.

Admire this rock art outside the museum before heading into the exhibition dedicated to their history and preservation. Further permanent exhibits highlight the region’s Sami history, slate industry and the northern lights, whilst temporary exhibits cover a variety of topics related to life, nature and history in the northernmost part of Norway. The museum has a small cafe, a souvenir shop and also enjoys a view of the Alta Fjord from an outside viewing area, providing a photo opportunity. After your museum visit, take a short sightseeing drive through Alta town centre before returning to your ship.

Additional Information

Please note: Expect to walk up to half a mile during this excursion with ten steps inside the museum; a lift is also available. Exploring the outside areas involves walking along narrow wooden walkways and some gradients.

A choice of included excursions is offered during your visit to this port – please select your place on just one of these excursions. It is not permitted to book more than one option and in doing so will result in the automatic cancellation of additional excursions.

This independent sightseeing tour allows you to explore the North Cape on the island of Magerøy, translated as ‘Meagre Island’. Begin with a drive through the arctic terrain to the North Cape Plateau. On arrival at the North Cape, you can explore at leisure and visit the cafeteria, souvenir shops and small Ecumenical chapel. You can also gaze across the ocean from the famous globe monument on the cliff’s edge or enjoy a short film in the cinema which shows the landscape changing through the seasons.

Additional Information

Please note: This excursion is an unguided transfer, allowing you to explore the North Cape site at leisure. Most of the walking in the centre and out to the cliffs is optional and at your discretion.

A choice of included excursions is offered during your visit to this port – please select your place on just one of these excursions. It is not permitted to book more than one option and in doing so will result in the automatic cancellation of additional excursions.

Depart Honningsvåg and travel along the Skipsfjord, dotted with weekend cottages, hotels and camping sites, before arriving in the small fishing village of Kamøyvær. Here, you will find a fish factory, small fishing fleet, lighthouse and the picturesque harbour. After taking in the views across the village, you have an opportunity to look around the Gallery East of the Sun, which showcases the art and handicrafts of local artist Eva Schmutterer. You will find exotic pictures made of fish bones, delicate jewellery carved from stones and glass, and a carved reindeer, all made by hand.

Returning to the main road, continue further north to Skarsvagkrysset where you’ll leave the main road and drive to Skarsvag. Stop at a viewpoint where you may catch a glimpse of the Horn - a cliff formation formerly used as a place of pagan worship. In Skarsvag, you’ll also visit the North Cape Christmas and Winter House. The house is decorated for Christmas in the Norwegian tradition. Christmas decorations, glass, pottery, postcards, pictures, and knitwear are available for sale.

Additional Information

Please note: Expect to walk a distance of at least 200 yards with twelve steps at the gallery.

A choice of included excursions is offered during your visit to this port – please select your place on just one of these excursions. It is not permitted to book more than one option and in doing so will result in the automatic cancellation of additional excursions.

Set off on a scenic drive through the city of Tromsø, one of the furthest reaches of civilization in the unforgiving arctic. The city is the largest settlement inside the Polar Circle and serves as the launching point for most expeditions into the Arctic region.

Your drive winds past the Meteorological Institute and the famed Northern Lights Observatory on the shores of Lake Prestvatn. Travel into the city centre and cross Tromsø Bridge to reach the Arctic Cathedral, a mighty structure in the shape of an iceberg and clad in aluminium. This distinctive building was consecrated in 1965 and is dominated by a stained-glass window depicting the resurrection of Christ. The window was designed by Viktor Sparre and is one of the largest stained-glass windows in Europe.

Additional Information

Please note: There will be walking of approximately 200 yards at the Arctic Cathedral over flat terrain. You can choose to remain on the tour vehicle during this stop. In the event of a wedding, funeral or other special ceremony taking place, it may not be possible to stop at the Arctic Cathedral.

A choice of included excursions is offered during your visit to this port – please select your place on just one of these excursions. It is not permitted to book more than one option and in doing so will result in the automatic cancellation of additional excursions.

Discover the highlights of Norway’s Arctic capital on foot. Begin with a short shuttle bus transfer into the city centre, where you’ll explore the sights of the city including a blend of old wooden houses and slick modern architecture. The centre of Tromsø features one of the largest collections of historical wooden houses in Norway, with many built in an Empire style. During your walk, you will also pass the “wharfs”, where you will have the chance to take in views of the bridge connecting Tromsøya and Tromstalen.

Then continue past the marketplace, which features a monument honouring fishermen who lost their lives at sea. At the end of your excursion, travel back to the ship by coach or if time allows, continue exploring independently.

Additional Information

Please note: Expect to walk approximately two miles during this excursion on generally flat and even terrain. A good level of physical fitness is required to participate.

A choice of included excursions is offered during your visit to this port – please select your place on just one of these excursions. It is not permitted to book more than one option and in doing so will result in the automatic cancellation of additional excursions.

Admire the island-dotted countryside around Kristiansund by following the dramatic Atlantic Ocean Road. After departing from Kristiansund, you will settle in for a scenic drive along this stretch of picturesque road. The Atlantic Ocean Road links villages, crossing low bridges and hopping from island to island across the open sea. Widely known as one of Norway’s most panoramic drives, it was named “Norway’s Construction of the Century” in 2005. It was also famously used for a high-speed driving scene during the James Bond film ‘No Time to Die’.

During the drive, a stop will be made to take in views of the road and the coastal scenery that surrounds it.

Additional Information

Please note: Walking during this excursion is at your discretion but you can choose to walk up to 500 yards during your stop, which involves some gradients and uneven ground.

A choice of included excursions is offered during your visit to this port – please select your place on just one of these excursions. It is not permitted to book more than one option and in doing so will result in the automatic cancellation of additional excursions.

Kristiansund is a small town on the Atlantic Ocean Coast – built on three main islands surrounding a natural harbour. Join a guided walk through the traditional harbour, where your guide will point out the bronze statue of the ‘Clipfish Wife’, a homage to the town’s fishing heritage.

For a further insight, you will next visit the Norwegian Clipfish Museum, situated in the Old Miln Warehouse – the oldest part of the building was raised by the Scotsman William Gordon in 1749. The salting and drying of cod fish was introduced to Norway and Kristiansund in 1690 when foreign merchants settled here, and the Clipfish industry became very important for the town. Thanks to Kristiansund’s proximity to rich fishing grounds, combined with a climate ideal for air-drying fish, the town was established as a valuable centre for the fishing industry.

Your return journey to the cruise pier will include a ride on the traditional Sundbåten harbour ferry. This pedestrian ferry has a long history in the town with the first boat built in 1876 to transport people between the islands, with the service operating ever since. It has become an icon for the town and is loved by the residents who find it practical, enjoyable and an environmentally friendly mode of transportation.

Additional Information

Please note: Expect to walk up to three miles during this excursion. Therefore, a good level of physical fitness is required. The walking will be mainly on flat terrain but there is a gradient to access the museum and some steps inside. The excursion may operate in reverse.

The town of Lerwick dates back to the 17th century, growing as a trading port for Dutch herring fisherman.

Local merchants built Lodberries – houses and warehouses each with its own pier – allowing them to serve incoming fishing boats directly from their own property. On this tour, you will see that these historical buildings still line the harbour front today. Start with a short shuttle to Victoria pier where your walking tour begins. 

Overlooking the harbour, you will spot Fort Charlotte – built in 1665 and later rebuilt in 1780 – named after Queen Charlotte. Although the fort is no longer in use, it offers sweeping views over the harbour. It was once a prison and a Royal Navy reserve base, and in 1868, it temporarily housed 465 German passengers after the ship Lessing, bound for America, was shipwrecked off Fair Isle. 

The Victorian Town hall on Hillhead Street offers a glimpse into the island’s history through its stained-glass windows – depicting the main events in Shetland’s past. You will also explore the intriguing ‘closses’ (narrow lanes), which run from the harbour area to the top of the hill, home to many secret tales from the lives of the town’s inhabitants, including the smugglers who used to run clandestine operations beneath the town. 

This walking tour highlights all these sights and provides an ideal starting point for further independent exploration of the town.

Additional Information

Please Note: There is approximately three miles of walking, over some inclines, cobbled ground and some steps during this excursion. There will be a shuttle bus to take you from the ship to the walking tour starting point. If you wish to stay in Lerwick after the tour it is your own responsibility to return to the ship prior to sailing.

Depart the quayside and journey through Shetland’s only town, Lerwick, once an unofficial marketplace to service 17th-century Dutch herring fleets. 

Enjoy panoramic scenery as you journey around the south mainland of Shetland, passing through a number of small communities that make up rural Shetland. With the North Sea to the left and open countryside to the right you’ll arrive at the unusual limestone settlement of Fladdabister, home to several ruins with Dutch influences, as well as older croft houses. 

In the distance, on a clear day, you can see the 2000-year-old Iron Age Broch set on the Island of Mousa. Pause here for photographs before crossing the 60-degree North line of latitude to the rugged Atlantic coast. Admire views of St Ninian’s Isle and hear the story of the Pictish treasure unearthed there. 

Enjoy another photo opportunity at Rerwick Beach with its white sandy beaches, and possibly seals, from the cliff road. On your return journey to Lerwick your knowledgeable local guide will recount tales of Shetland's culture and heritage.

Additional Information

Please Note: Most of the sightseeing on this excursion is from your tour vehicle and walking during your short stop is at your discretion. There are no restroom stops during this tour.

Visit the Art Nouveau home Villa Rosehagen and enjoy views of the famous Lysefjord on this scenic excursion. Begin with a coach drive north from Sandnes, passing through Stavanger before entering the Ryfast subsea tunnel system, which takes you below the fjord to the municipality of Strand. Soon you will reach your first destination, Villa Rosehagen, a charming wooden home built in 1912. Uncover its history as you explore this architectural gem, and walk through the garden filled with over 120 different species of roses. While here, enjoy a hot beverage and homemade waffles topped with cream and jam, a Norwegian tradition. 

Continue to Høllesli, at the entrance to the famous Lysefjord. Stop at a viewpoint to admire the fine view of the fjord and breath in the fresh air. Your return drive takes you back through the Ryfast Tunnel to Stavanger, where you can look forward to a short panoramic drive. Before returning to Sandnes, pause at the Swords in Rock, a striking monument commemorating the Battle of Hafrsfjord in 872 AD, where Norway was unified.

Additional Information

Please note: There will be essential walking of approximately 300 yards with further walking at each stop entirely at your discretion. At Villa Rosehagen you will encounter some steps and uneven ground if exploring further. This excursion will involve a one-hour coach drive in each direction, which will include approximately fifteen minutes of driving through tunnels.

Delve into Norway’s history of conflict, beginning with a drive toward the Norwegian Aviation Museum. On your way, pass by the medieval Sola Ruinkirke (Sola Church), a 12th-century stone church that was destroyed during World War Two but carefully restored, offering a glimpse into Norway's medieval Christian heritage. At the Norwegian Aviation Museum, you will discover a collection of World War Two aircraft, including the rare Heinkel He-115 and Messerschmitt Bf-109, as well as Cold War jet fighters. Lean about the history of Norway’s military aviation and hear stories about the pilots who flew these remarkable planes. You can also enjoy some refreshments here before continuing your excursion.

Next, you visit the Eiganes Churchyard, a Commonwealth war cemetery dedicated to soldiers who lost their lives here during World War Two. This site invites reflection on the sacrifices made, and some poignant stories about the soldiers laid to rest here will be shared by your guide. On the return journey, stop at the iconic Sverd i fjell (Swords in Rock) monument. This tribute commemorates the Battle of 872 AD, where King Harald Fairhair united Norway under a single rule. Take the opportunity to admire the view and take photographs of the monument before returning to Sandnes and your ship.

Additional Information

Please note: There will be essential walking of just under 500 yards during this excursion with further walking at your discretion. The Aviation Museum is fully accessible and is housed in an aircraft hangar.

Pulpit Rock is one of south west Norway’s most popular tourist attractions. Towering 1,982 feet above the Lysefjord, this flat mountain plateau was called Hyvlatanna or ‘planed tooth’ in ancient times. It is an amazing, much-photographed landmark and its bare rock tabletop shape is in stark contrast to the green slopes and mountainsides that surround it.

After a short stroll along the quayside, board your sightseeing boat. The vessel has been exclusively chartered for Saga guests, sailing across to Lysefjord, a ribbon-like waterway that stretches 30 miles into the heart of the fjordlands, flanked on both sides by steep slopes, verdant mountainsides and the occasional small, picturesque farm. You pass directly below Pulpit Rock and pause for a while at the eerie Vagabond's Cave before stepping ashore at the Lysefjord centre to enjoy refreshments.

You then sail back to the quayside in Sandnes and stroll back to your ship.

Additional Information

Please note: There may be a walk of up to 200 yards between the coach and the sightseeing vessel. There is a further walk of at least 100 yards to the refreshment venue. There may be a number of steps to reach the boat’s upper deck. The boat may have limited outside seating. Views of Pulpit Rock are dependent on the weather conditions on the day.

Perched on a hill overlooking the Trondheim Fjord and surrounded by gardens lies the Ringve Museum –Norway’s National Museum of Music. Founded in 1946 by Victoria Bachke, the museum now houses more than 2,000 instruments along with an impressive collection of musical memorabilia. In its early days, the museum was the subject of newspaper stories, with tales of Bachke’s adventures: haggling with antique dealers across Europe, bringing back plaster casts of Chopin, and an 18th-century harpsichord, believed to have once been owned by Louis XIV himself! After a short sightseeing drive through Trondheim, you will arrive at Ringve Museum. Here, many exhibits are displayed within an opulent manor house, complete with period furnishings and grand décor. A glass of sparkling wine is then served as you sit down to enjoy a short recital, performed by musicians dressed in colourful national costume. You will then have free time to explore the museum at your own pace and ask any questions to your expert guide. On the return journey to the port, there is one final highlight: a stop to admire the 12th-century Nidaros Cathedral.

Additional Information

Please note: Expect to walk approximately 700 yards in total, with up to 10 steps at the museum and some cobblestone paths outside. Entrance inside Nidaros Cathedral is not included during this excursion.

The Lade trail is a popular coastal hiking route, providing a retreat from the city for locals and visitors alike. A short drive from your ship will bring you to Ladehammeren, where your hike begins in the company of a local guide. Despite the rugged terrain around you, the trail itself is mostly along flat, gravel paths with some slight gradients and is considered to be a gentle hike. The walk offers a fine view of the Trondheimsfjord and passes through the sheltered bays of Korsvika, Sponhuset and Ringve. Learn about the importance of Lade in Trondheim’s history and the geography there, such as the creation of the inlets caused by the ice age. Finally, reach Rotvoll, where the coach will bring you back to the port.

Additional Information

Please note: Expect to cover approximately four miles in total. While most of the route is along gravel paths, there are some gradients and areas of uneven ground. A good level of physical fitness and mobility is required to take part. Layered outdoor clothing and flat walking shoes are recommended.

Trondheim is one of Norway’s oldest cities, established in 997 AD and a city of great importance throughout its history. This excursion explores this rich history with visits to the Stiftsgaarden Royal residence, Trøndelag Museum and Nidaros Cathedral.

Travel from the pier by coach and head towards the city centre. Trondheim was founded by the Viking king Olav Tryggvason under the name of Nidaros, as the town was situated at the estuary of the river Nid and it served as the capital of Norway for a long period. Arrive at Stiftsgaarden, the largest wooden building in Scandinavia. It was constructed using special techniques from the Trøndelag District of Norway. Stiftsgaarden also serves as the Royal residence when the Norwegian King is visiting Trondheim. This "Palace", constructed between 1774 and 1778, is typical Rococo in design despite its classical first impression. Explore the building, which is divided into three spacious wings, decorated in Empire style and housing paintings by well‑known Norwegian artists.

Afterwards, a short drive brings you to Trøndelag Folk Museum at Sverresborg, located just outside the city centre. The museum provides an insight into how Norwegians lived during medieval times. View ancient cooking and farming implements that were gathered from surrounding districts and re-assembled to provide a historically accurate cross-section of life in the 16th century.

Finally, on your way back to the port, pause outside Nidaros Cathedral for an opportunity to admire its beautiful exterior.

Additional Information

Please note: Expect to walk a little over one mile in total with some uneven and cobbled ground and some steps. You will spend approximately one hour at both Stiftsgarden and the Trøndelag Museum.

Take to the water onboard a RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) to discover the Saltstraumen and seek out the white-tailed sea-eagle. These lightweight boats carry a small group of passengers and can move at high speeds, providing an exhilarating experience. After a short stroll arrive at the boat pier, where you’ll be greeted by your captain. Following an introduction and safety briefing, you’ll be kitted out in a flotation suit, gloves and protective glasses.

After boarding your RIB, head off on a ride along the fjord. Experience the Saltstraumen up close as your captain takes you nearby the whirlpools created by the strong tidal currents. Enjoy the surrounding landscape as you speed across the water, taking in the natural environment of the sea eagle. Bodø is located in Nordland County which boasts 35% of all the white-tailed sea-eagles in Norway and 20% of the world’s population. These are powerful birds of prey with an impressive wingspan of up to eight feet and have been a protected species in Norway since 1968. Your captain will slow down at the best places to spot the eagles and you may also be able to spot an array of other wildlife. Returning to dry land, a short stroll will bring you back to your ship.

Additional Information

Please note: This excursion involves approximately 300 yards of walking but has been graded based on the adventurous nature of the boat ride. You must be able to climb into the boat unaided, which will involve a large step. The ride will be bumpy and travel at high speeds, therefore please consider the suitability of this excursion if you have any pre-existing medical concerns. Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Nordland's largest town, Bodø was founded as a trading centre and later turned to fishing to bolster its economy. It's unfortunate heavy bombing during World War Two led to a city rebuild – transforming the area with a bright and modern architectural style. During your sightseeing drive through the city, you can also admire the buildings' backdrops of distant rugged peaks and vast skies. Begin by passing through an area named Swedish Town, reconstructed with the help of Bodø's Swedish neighbours. Your first stop is at the cantilever Saltstraumen Bridge.

From here, a short walk here will bring you to the water’s edge to view the power of nature. Saltstraumen is one of the world's most powerful maelstroms. Every six hours, 82,000,000,000 gallons of water pass through a deep and narrow passage just 150 metres wide where whirlpools – many up to 35 feet in diameter – are formed. After witnessing the natural phenomenon of swirling water pools, return to your tour vehicle and continue to the Norwegian Aviation Museum. Constructed in the shape of a propeller, this building stands as Scandinavia's largest and one of the most modern in Europe. It is home to civilian and military aircraft and helicopters, including famous and infamous military aircraft such as the Supermarine Spitfire, Canadair CF-104 Starfighter and Lockheed U-2 spy plane, as well as workhorses like the De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter and the Fokker F28 Fellowship. You will also have the chance to visit the control tower that provides a sweeping view over the town, before the short coach drive back to your ship.

Additional Information

Please note: Expect to walk a little under one mile in total during this excursion. The Aviation Museum is fully accessible. The strength of Saltstraumen’s currents vary throughout the day and it cannot be guaranteed that you will see them at their strongest.

For an active experience during your time in Bodø, embark on a hike to Mount Keiservarden, rewarding you with views at the summit. Begin with a short coach drive from the port to Rønvikfjellet Viewpoint where the hike commences. Mount Keiservarden is named after the German Emperor Wilhelm II who visited the summit in 1891. A plaque in his honour is mounted here on a varden (pile of stones). The route to the summit includes trails, paths and stone stairways. On reaching the top, 1200 feet above sea level, admire Bodø from above with panoramic views of Bodø town, peaks of the mighty Børvasstind mountain range, crystal blue seawater, mountains near the Swedish border and on a clear day, the Lofoten islands. After some time to take in the views, descend along the same route and return to your ship by coach.

Additional Information

Please note: This hike covers approximately one-and-a-half miles in each direction on a steady gradient with some uneven terrain. An excellent level of physical fitness and mobility is required to participate, along with good quality hiking footwear.

Visit Reine, which enjoys a scenic setting in the Lofoten Islands. Head west from Leknes to reach Flakstad Island via an underwater tunnel. Here you will pass a small onion-domed church, believed to have come from Siberia. A short stop is made at Ramberg Beach, where the white sand and bright blue ocean are an unexpected sight in this Arctic location.

Returning to your coach, the journey continues south to Reine. This small fishing village is located at the entrance of a fjord and is surrounded by towering mountains. Its shoreline is dotted with red wooden cabins and cod drying racks, backed by more natural scenery. The traditional red fishing houses, known locally as rorbu, are perched on the edge of the water whilst the cliffs, for which Lofoten is famous, provide a dramatic backdrop.

Enjoy a short walk in the village with your guide before your return drive to Leknes. En-route you will pause at the Torvdalshalsen viewpoint, where you will view the peaks of Eggum to the west and the gentle agricultural land at Borg to the south.

Additional Information

Please note: Expect to walk approximately 700 yards during this excursion, mainly on flat terrain. The scenic coach journey between Leknes and Reine will take approximately one hour in each direction, but with stops along the way.

Leave Leknes and enjoy a trip around Vestvågøy island, driving past fertile farmland to the white sandy beaches backed by mountains towards the west.

Continue to the Lofotr Viking Museum in Borg, where archaeologists uncovered a chieftain’s farmstead, proving that the Lofoten Islands were once an important Viking stronghold. The main house was the largest Viking building ever uncovered – about 270 feet long and almost 30 feet wide – and a replica has been built next to the excavation site. Here you can step back in time to experience how the Vikings used to live over 1,000 years ago. The site is thought to date back to 500AD, and many of the artefacts found here are on display in the exhibition hall.

Finally, reboard your coach for the return drive to your ship, stopping briefly en route to visit a wooden church which lies close by the fjord. The exterior is very much like the old stave churches, but it only dates back to the beginning of this century.

Additional Information

Please note: Getting to and from the museum involves a short walk along a hilly footpath and you should expect to walk a total distance of 500 yards, including looking around the longhouse and exhibition hall. There are a few steps, high thresholds and narrow doorways to negotiate in the longhouse. Seats and benches are available throughout the museum, where you will spend approximately two hours.

Discover the beauty of the Lofoten Islands from the water onboard a RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat). These lightweight boats carry a small group of passengers and can move at high speeds, providing an exhilarating experience. A short walk will bring you to a nearby pier where you will be kitted out with a protective waterproof suit and gloves; then you will receive a safety briefing before boarding your boat.

As you set off with your experienced helmsman, whisk across the waters, perhaps leaping over the wake of a passing ferry and sidling up to vertical cliffs rising from the water. Pass the red fishing huts that line the water of the small coastal villages and keep your eye out for sightings of sea eagles. Possessing a wingspan of more than six feet, these birds are hard to miss. After your fast-paced journey on the waves, return back to the pier before the short walk back to your ship.

Additional Information

Please note: This excursion involves very little walking but has been graded due to the adventurous nature of the boat ride. You must be able to climb into the boat unaided, which will involve a large step. The boat will travel at high speed and can get bumpy; therefore you are encouraged to consider the suitability of this excursion if you have any pre-existing medical conditions. Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Join an exciting Kayak adventure in the beautiful waters of the Lofoten Islands. A short stroll in Leknes brings you to the Kayak station where you will be greeted by your hosts. Begin with an introduction to the activity and safety briefing, before being kitted out and helped into your kayak. The sheltered waters around Leknes are perfect for kayaking and you will paddle around the beautiful small sandy and rocky islands. During periods of rest, watch the birds or sea life and taking in the views from your kayak, your guide will tell you stories about the life and nature of Lofoten. Depending on the conditions on the day, a short stop will be made on a sandy beach during the excursion.

Additional Information

Please note: This is a strenuous activity which requires excellent physical fitness and stamina. The kayaking activity will take between two and two-and-a-half hours. All kayaks are double occupancy and single participants will be paired together. Please consider the suitability of this excursion if you have any pre-existing medical conditions. Life jackets will be provided and a wind and waterproof jacket is recommended. There will be walking of up to 600 yards in each direction between the tender landing and kayak station.

Tirpitz was a German battleship which spent much of World War Two in Nazi-occupied Norway. Known as the ‘Lonely Queen of the North’, she was the sister ship of the Bismarck. At 52,600 tonnes, it was the largest battleship ever built in Europe. This major threat to Allied convoys travelling through the Atlantic and Barents seas to Russia, was damaged by British mini-submarines in September 1943. The battleship was then relocated to Tromsø, where on November 12, 1944, it was attacked by RAF Bomber Command and sunk in the bay of Håkøybotn.

Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, this excursion will take you to the Tirpitz Museum in Kåfjord, which exhibits a host of World War Two artefacts, including many associated with the Tirpitz. At the museum, you can also watch a short film before enjoying a tour around and a talk on the region’s turbulent wartime history. Before returning to the port, stop for an exterior visit to Kåfjord church, a 19th-century building which has some Gothic touches and a diverse past.

Additional Information

Please note: There will be at least 400 yards of walking, including a short uphill slope and a couple of steps to access the museum and church, which can be icy in winter months.

Setting off from the cruise port, drive through a small city and out into the surrounding nature, following a country road along a river and farmland up onto the Finnmarksvidda mountain plateau. You will arrive in northern Europe’s largest canyon: the Alta Canyon (more locally known as Sautso in the Sami language). Your local guide will relate stories about the area, including the demonstrations that took place over the construction of a dam here and the “Sami revolution” that occurred as a result. On arrival, enjoy some time to take in the views of the canyon. You will also make a short visit to the Sautso Power Station to hear about the important role this facility plays in the region.

Next, a short drive will bring you to Sami Siida where you will be welcomed by your traditionally dressed Sami hosts. Approximately 40,000 Sami live in Northern Norway’s Finnmark region; their culture is very traditional and has been influenced by their isolated nomadic subsistence lifestyle. You will be invited inside an authentic Sami tepee (called a “lavvo”) to sit around a crackling campfire. Coffee, dried reindeer meat and spiced Maze Cake will be served as the hosts explain more about Sami culture and traditions. You will also hear a demonstration of “joiking”, the chant-like singing of the Sami people. Afterwards, return to Alta cruise port by coach.

Additional Information

Please note: Expect to walk approximately 800 yards in total, mainly on flat terrain. Seating at the Sami experience is traditionally low to the ground which may present difficulties for guests with mobility limitations. The excursion will involve two coach journeys of approximately an hour each.

This unique adventure takes you onto the waters of the Sarnesfjord in search of king crab. The king crab, with a monstrous claw span of up to six feet, is a relatively new arrival in Norwegian waters. Aboard your RIB (rigid inflatable boat) you will head out with your crew to check the traps, perhaps learning where the crabs came from and why their diet of almost anything in its path is seen as unwanted destruction. Having learnt plenty of facts about the huge crustacean, the traps will be pulled up from the ocean floor for you to discover what’s inside! Head for dry land, where their preparation for lunch can begin!

Back at cosy basecamp, perhaps take the opportunity to hold a crab for a memorable photograph and see how the crabs are prepared by your host. A delicious light lunch is then served using your fresh catch whilst you warm yourself by the fire. Return to the ship following this unique and memorable experience.

Additional Information

Please note: This excursion features a walking distance of at least 300 yards, some of which will be on a steep gradient. The downhill gradient may at times prove steep, so extra care is advised. Agility is required to board the boat and take your seat. The boat trip will be bumpy and travel at high speed. Therefore, please consider the suitability of this excursion if you have pre-existing medical conditions. You will be provided with a waterproof suit and lifejacket before boarding the boat.

Gain an insight into traditional Sami life on Magerøya Island in the very north of Norway. Magerøya comes from the Sami word Makkaravjo, meaning "steep, barren coast." The island is dotted with several small fishing villages and there are approximately 200 different plant species here, some of which are very rare.

Begin with a drive through Honningsvag and along Skipsfjord, lined with a plethora of small holiday homes. Continue up to the plateau and then down to the fishing village of Skarsvåg, home to only 200 residents. Make a short stop here to appreciate the views, before arriving at Sami Siida in Skipsfjord where you will be welcomed by a Sami family. Your hosts will introduce you to the Sami culture whilst you enjoy a warm drink and a traditional Sami snack.

During the summer, the family bring their reindeer to graze on the open land, before returning inland during the winter months. There will be an opportunity to meet the reindeer during your visit.

Finally, after a farewell joik (a traditional Sami song), return to your ship in Honningsvåg.

Additional Information

Please note: Expect to walk approximately half a mile in total during this excursion, some of which will be over uneven and grassy terrain which can be muddy. The Sami Camp has very basic WC facilities.

A 45-minute drive takes you to Gjesvær, the first settlement on Magerøy Island and an important trading centre since the Viking era. Here board a boat and cruise across the chilly waters to the Gjesværstappan Nature Reserve, nine miles west of the North Cape Cliffs. The reserve consists of over 100 islands, and, although disembarkation is not allowed, you are able to cruise surprisingly close to the shore, allowing you to spot a wide range of birds including cormorants, razorbills, gannets and the mighty sea-eagle. Look out for puffins, easily recognisable by their brightly coloured bills.

Your guide will provide a lively commentary and delight you with in-depth knowledge of the wildlife and environment. Following your safari you sail back to Gjesvær to board your coach back to the port.

Additional Information

Please note: There is very little walking involved on this excursion, although the gangway to the boat may be steep due to the tides, and there are a few steps on board, and a certain amount of dexterity is required when embarking or disembarking: for this reason, we have graded this tour as 'Moderate'.

See Tromsø from above and discover the highlights of the city with your expert guide.

Your tour begins with a sightseeing drive through the city which is beautifully situated on the forested island of Tromsøy between snow-capped mountain peaks. Tromsø was and still is the starting point for numerous arctic expeditions. Your city tour leads from the port through an underwater tunnel to the Arctic Cathedral, one of the finest examples of modern Norwegian church architecture.

After a short stop here continue to the cable car station where after a thrilling ride up Mount Storsteinen, you will be introduced to a wonderful bird’s eye view of the city. From here it is perhaps Tromsø Bridge that will stand out: straddling the water as it passes by the peninsulas and islands. Take some time to appreciate the views before returning to ground level for the short drive back to your awaiting ship.

Additional Information

Please note: Expect to walk approximately one mile in total during this excursion. This includes walking on a gradient between the coach parking and cable car which is steep in places. There are also 25 steps to negotiate in each direction. You will need to remain standing during the cable car ride. A good level of fitness and mobility is required to participate. In the event of a wedding, funeral or other special ceremony taking place, it may not be possible to stop at the Arctic Cathedral.

Following a brief exterior stop at the Arctic Cathedral, step into the world of the polar regions as you head first for Troms Island where you will visit the Polar Museum, located in an old customs warehouse dating from 1830. The museum is home to several fascinating exhibits and displays relating to the early polar expeditions, hunting and trapping.

Following time to browse at leisure, continue to the Polaria adventure centre. This modern building brings to life the wildlife and environment of the polar regions. Enter the large panoramic cinema to watch films about the Aurora Borealis and Arctic Wilderness, which take you on an airborne trip along the west coast of Spitsbergen.

Next, visit the aquarium and touch pools which are brimming with aquatic life, including bearded seals and fish from the Barents Sea. This is the most northerly aquarium in the world. You may like to spend a little time browsing in the interesting gift shop before heading back to the ship.

Additional Information

Please note: Essential walking on this excursion is limited to approximately 300 yards, but there will be regular periods of standing. In addition, to reach the Amundsen and Nansen exhibitions at the Polar Museum, you will need to climb a flight of 22 steps.

Travel by coach to the city centre, where you will explore the sites in the city – a blend of old wooden houses and slick modern architecture. The centre of Tromsø features a large collection of historical wooden houses and is home to one of the most important concentrations of Empire houses in Norway. You will also pass the “wharfs”, where you will have the chance to take in views of the bridge connecting Tromsøya to Tromstalen.

You will continue past the market place, which features a monument to the fishermen who lost their lives at sea. On your way to the brewery, there will be the opportunity to see the world’s northernmost Protestant cathedrals. Your walking tour concludes with a beer tasting at the city’s very own Mack Brewery, one of the world's northernmost breweries. The company was established in 1877 by Mr Ludwig Marucs Mack, the son of a German immigrant who thought it a shame that the only alcoholic drink obtainable in Tromsø was hard liquor which he considered not to be a particularly healthy drink!

Today the brewery produces 18 different types of beer and whilst the main production takes place outside of the city, the old brewery facilities have been changed into a micro-brewery. Enjoy a guided tour and watch a short movie about the history of beer-brewing in Tromsø. Continue to the Oldest Pub in town, the 'Beer Hall' (ølhallen) for taste of three of Mack beers before travelling back to the ship by coach. Your host will explain the brewing process and the range of beers produced here, before the opportunity to taste them yourself.

You will travel back to the ship by coach.

Additional Information

Please note: Expect to walk up to two miles during this excursion on generally flat and even terrain. There will be fifteen steps to negotiate at the brewery.

Join this exclusive walking tour for a taste of the Arctic. After a short ride by shuttlebus into town, your guide will give you an introduction to the city, passing some of the highlights. At the "Full Steam" exhibition centre located inside a historic pier-side warehouse, you will be met by a storyteller who will bring the history of Norwegian cod fishing to life. While listening to the stories you will be able to enjoy tastings, including real cod caviar.

Afterwards there will be some time to browse the exhibitions before your tour continues on foot to Tromsø’s Magic Ice Bar. Step inside for a real taste of the Arctic winter. You will be given a winter poncho and gloves to wear inside, and you will be served a small drink in a glass made from ice. There will be plenty of photo opportunities with time to take in the ice sculptures that celebrate Norwegian Arctic exploration.

Finally, stroll back to the coach for the short drive back to your ship.

Additional Information

Please note: This excursion will involve approximately three miles of walking on mostly flat and even terrain. There will be periods of standing at both venues. A good level of physical fitness is required to participate.

Grip Island looks like a small village floating on the sea as you approach by boat. It is part of a group of around 80 islets and skerries, scattered out to sea approximately nine miles northwest of Kristiansund. The village is situated on the largest and only populated island, except for the tall lighthouse on the northernmost skerry.

Grip has a long history, and you may wonder what led people to settle on this barren little rock in the North Sea. The answer is fish. In the days before fishing boats were equipped with engines, it was important to live as close as possible to the best fishing grounds. The houses were built close together to shield them and their inhabitants from the wind and sea, with narrow streets running between them.

In the middle of the village, about eight metres above sea level, lies the compact, red-painted Grip Stave Church, a reminder of bygone days and generations. It is believed to have been built around 1470 to 1500 AD. The last permanent residents left the island in 1974, but the houses remain intact and well maintained. Many are used as summer homes for the people that moved away and their descendants.

Your guided walking tour of the island will include a visit to the Stave Church and a break to enjoy refreshments.

Additional Information

Please note: Please Note: This excursion is weather dependent and can be cancelled at late notice. The ferry boat journey takes a little over half an hour each way. On the island, expect to walk up to two miles on mostly flat terrain but participants can choose to opt out of this and explore independently. As the island is quite exposed, warm layered clothing is recommended.

In 2005, the Atlantic Ocean Road was named ‘Norway’s construction of the century’. It winds its way along the Kristiansund coastline, offering stunning views across the waterway and the small islands upon which it is built. While these islands are unoccupied, there are many in the archipelago which are home to small, cosy communities, ready for your visit.

Begin with a drive along the Atlantic Ocean Road, stopping for photographs, to Averoy and the 14th-century Kvernes Stave Church. Step inside and see the 13th-century alterpiece, the walls of the choir which are decorated with scenes from the bible and the floral-painted nave – historical interior design which has only recently been discovered. The church is located against a backdrop of rolling hills, covered in fern forests, perfectly posed for a photograph – so make sure your camera has plenty of battery!

Your drive will then continue across the island, where your guide may point out the abundant fish farms, many of which are cultivating salmon. Having always been fairly inaccessible, the arrival of the Atlantic Ocean Road brought with it a new lease of life and potential for exciting industry. Descend into a two-mile tunnel before emerging at Kristiansund, ready to meet your awaiting ship.

Additional Information

Please note: You should expect to walk approximately 400 yards on this excursion, with three steps at the church. There may be moderate inclines to negotiate and frequent steps. Restroom facilities are available at the Atlantic Ocean Road photo stop location, but not at the church.

Explore the mystical Bergtatt marble and limestone mine as a wooden raft ride takes you deep into the cave system.

After a short drive through Kristiansund, continue along the Krifast road system of tunnels and bridges which opened in 1992 as the first ferry-free mainland connection from Kristiansund. Your destination is Eide, at which you will visit the old marble and lime quarries of Bergtatt.

Upon arrival, you will be met by local guides and equipped with a helmet and an inflatable vest for your cave exploration. Inside, the temperature is always 6 degrees Celsius, regardless of the outside temperature. A short video will be shown to provide an introduction whilst you enjoy a warming coffee. You will learn about the quarry drift in terms of its past and present before boarding wooden rafts that will take you on crystal clear water further into the mountain through beautifully lit tunnels. During the tour you will be able to tap your own water directly from the cave walls. The caves are illuminated in different colours, providing a special atmosphere and allowing you to appreciate the silence.

After leaving Bergtatt, continue to the Atlantic Ocean Road - a scenic five-mile-long section of road that connects the mainland with Averøy Island through an Archipelago on the coast facing the Atlantic Ocean. It is built on several small islands and skerries – connected by causeways, viaducts and bridges. Opened in 1989, the Atlantic Ocean Road is classified as one of the world’s most unique and scenic driving routes.

Additional Information

Please note: There will be approximately 300 yards of walking in low light conditions and on uneven surfaces. A good level of mobility is required to participate. A hard hat and vest must be worn for your safety.

Image credit © Bergtatt Opplevelser

Enjoy a tour unveiling the unique landscapes and impressive archaeological remains of the Shetland Islands, beginning with a short introduction to the capital of Lerwick. The most northerly town in Britain, Lerwick’s origins go back some 3,000 years, and it has strong links with the Vikings: today it is a place of great character that retains many relics from its intriguing past.

You next head south along the coast, passing a number of small settlements, before arriving at the village of Sandwick. Here you pause to enjoy views, weather permitting, of Mousa Broch, which dates back 2,000 years and is the best-preserved structure of its kind in Britain. Afterwards, take a short drive to the remarkable Jarlshof archaeological site at Sumburgh, where traces of human occupation date back over 4,000 years, covering the period from Neolithic times to the late medieval era. The Viking remains are especially impressive and you will have time to explore here before returning to your ship by coach.

Additional Information

Please note: This excursion involves walking a total distance of approximately three-quarters-of-a-mile, partly over rough paths, cobblestones, grass and uneven ground. The order of visits may vary. There are about 15 steps at Jarlshof.

Ride the MV ‘Seabird’ – a fast catamaran with a stable viewing platform and ample space inside and out to view Shetland’s seabirds and seal colonies. This small group tour gives you the opportunity to get up close to some of the 25,000 gannets, thousands of guillemots and hundreds of puffins, razorbills, black guillemots, gulls, shags and skuas at Noss National Nature Reserve.

Along the way you’ll discover the scenic coastline of the island of Bressay. The route changes each day, depending on the wind speed and direction, to ensure you can embark on a journey with the most sheltered route. Weather permitting, you will sail close to the rock arch of the Giant’s Leg and almost certainly get close to the grey seals and harbour seals.

Additional Information

Please note: This is a small group tour with limited capacity. Lifejackets are provided and demonstrated during the safety briefing. You should dress warmly with layers and bring lightweight waterproofs if possible and binoculars.

Departing Lerwick, travel south along the coastal road, with the sea on one side and the hills of the South Mainland on the other. Pass through several small settlements before reaching the village of Sandwick where you will meet your skipper who will take you on the short ferry trip to the uninhabited island of Mousa. On the way, they will point out any sightings of porpoises or seals that the island is famous for.

Mousa Sound is one of Scotland’s most important sites for the endangered harbour porpoise, typically spotted between May and September. Once on the island, enjoy a walk to the famous and mysterious Mousa Broch. Standing 13 metres high, this Scottish tower is the tallest and best-preserved broch in the world.

For those who would like to explore more of Mousa, and perhaps see some seals in their natural habitat, there is an optional, additional two-mile circular walk, taking you past two pools which are known seal resting sites. There is a viewing point en route and, as well as seals, you may see many kinds of sea birds including Arctic Terns, Arctic Skua and great Skua. Mousa is also home to around 6000 pairs of nocturnal storm petrel which you may catch sightings of along the way.

For those not participating in this additional optional walk, there will be ample time for exploring the broch and taking photos, both of and from the tower.

Finally, reboard the ferry for the return journey to Sandwick. From here, return to the ship at Lerwick.

Additional Information

Please note: There is up to one-and-a-quarter mile of essential walking and an optional two-mile extension walk. We recommend that you wear flat footwear, bring a jacket and wear layered clothing. There are no inside seats on the Mousa Boat, but the seating area is partially covered.

Mousa Island is home to the World's best-preserved Iron Age 'Broch' and is an unspoilt natural habitat, populated only by sheep, seals and seabirds. You leave Lerwick by coach to Sandwick village, where you meet your skipper who will take you for a one-hour cruise along the coast of this uninhabited island.

Look out for the endangered harbour porpoises, seals, Storm Petrels, Arctic Terns or Arctic and Great Skuas - the island is a haven for wildlife. You will enjoy views from your boat of the famous Mousa Broch, one of Scotland's best-preserved Iron Age monuments. It stands 42 feet high and may have been built as a status symbol as well as serving as a defensive tower. After your boat trip, you return by coach to the quayside in Lerwick.

Additional Information

Please note: This excursion involves very little walking, but you must be able to get on and off the coach and boat unaided. Warm, comfortable clothing and a waterproof jacket are recommended. There are no inside seats on the Mousa Boat, but the seating area is partially covered. Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed. This excursion is dependent upon favourable weather conditions and may be cancelled at short notice.

Once a fishing port in the 17th century, the town of Lerwick today is a lively centre located by the water’s edge. Passing through Lerwick, spot the Town Hall and other monumental highlights before heading west. On the west coast, there will be a stop at a scenic viewpoint overlooking Scalloway.

The journey then continues across two road bridges, offering views of the landscapes of the smaller islands of Trondra and West Burra. On West Burra, the small fishing village of Hamnavoe overlooks the sheltered inlet of Hamna Voe, protected from the open Atlantic by the arm of Fugla Ness and its lighthouse. Here, you will meet Arnold Goodlad, a local fisherman who lands his catch at the pier in Hamnavoe. Arnold will share a brief history of how the village developed around the fishing industry before he demonstrates how he catches fish. You may also spot seals at the pier as Arnold shares his catch of the day.

Returning to Shetland’s mainland, stop at Carol’s Ponies, where there will be the opportunity to meet, learn about and photograph Shetland's world-famous ponies. The local croft owner will be there to introduce the ponies and share more about these beautiful animals. Turning north, the route passes the scenic Loch of Tingwall – an area with strong Norse heritage.

Continuing on, there will be a stop at Wormadale Hill to photograph panoramic views across the water of Whiteness Voe and Stromfirth before returning to the port.

Additional Information

Please note: This tour includes up to 300 yards of walking, plus periods of standing and some inclines. We recommend that you wear flat walking shoes.