Northern Lights and Festive Delights

This short panoramic drive gives you an introduction to the city of Bergen. Begin with a drive through the old districts of Sandviken and Skuteviken – once areas of industry – before continuing along the peninsula of Eidsvaag, boasting scenic views of the surrounding mountains.

In the city centre, you will pass St Mary’s Church before arriving at the famous Bryggen. This UNESCO-listed district is a colourful reminder of the important role that Bergen played as a member of the Hanseatic League. Your excursion continues past the Fish and Flower Market before driving along the Nordnes peninsula to take in views of the old Hanseatic quarter.

Continue up into the rugged hills and pause at Helleveien to enjoy the view of the islands that surround Bergen. Returning to the city, you will pass the 13th-century Haakson’s Hall and the Rosenkrantz Tower.

Additional Information

Please note: Most of the sightseeing on this excursion is from your tour vehicle. Photo stops are subject to time constraints and walking during any stop is at your discretion.

Join a panoramic introduction to the Art Nouveau city of Ålesund, followed by a visit to one of Europe’s largest saltwater aquariums. 

Board your coach at the pier for a journey through both the city and its history, exploring Ålesund’s transformation during the Art Nouveau period. After the city centre was destroyed by a devastating fire in 1904, Kaiser Wilhelm of Germany led the relief effort, and Ålesund was rebuilt in the Jugendstil style of German Art Nouveau. As you travel along Kongensgata, you can admire the ornate turrets and spires of these historic buildings, before passing the striking Ålesund Church, completed in 1909 with a façade of natural stone.

Next, you visit the Atlantic Sea Park, one of Europe’s largest saltwater aquariums. Built directly into the coastline, it combines views of the ocean and nearby islands with a deep dive beneath the waves. Inside, there are 11 large aquariums, two open touch pools, a penguin park, activity pools and several smaller displays – all showcasing the rich marine life of the Norwegian coast and the northern Atlantic Ocean. Species from various ocean depths are on display, including marine life from deep water habitats. 

Following your visit, a short drive brings you back to your ship.

Additional Information

Please note: A choice between two included excursions is offered during your visit to Ålesund – 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. 

You have approximately one hour and fifteen minutes at the aquarium to explore at leisure. Walking here is at your own discretion, but you should expect to cover approximately 400 yards for a good exploration. The venue is completely accessible.

Join a knowledgeable guide for a tour of the Art Nouveau highlights of the city. As you walk around the winding streets, learn about the city’s buildings and fascinating history by seeing it at close quarters. 

Visit the Art Nouveau Centre, housed in the picturesque old Swan Pharmacy set beside the Brosundet Sound. The building has retained some of the original interiors from the early 20^th century, including the dining room of former pharmacist J A Owre, which is left as if ready for a dinner party. Other exhibits have been created to tell the story of the famous fire and include a multimedia 'time machine' to take you back to the time of the blaze and the rebuilding of the city.

Additional Information

Please note: A choice between two included excursions is offered during your visit to Ålesund – 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 walking tour will involve two miles of walking on paved surfaces with a flight of stairs to negotiate at the Art Nouveau Centre. This excursion is not recommended for guests with limited mobility.

For a unique evening experience, visit the Polar Park in search of the Northern Lights. 

Following an early dinner on the ship, board your tour vehicle to begin the journey to the Polar Park, located in Bardu, north of Narvik. On arrival, you will be met by your host and stroll through to the camp area. 

Here, you will find a cosy campfire burning and your host will share stories of the northern lights and the unique wildlife that calls this region home. Hear about Arctic predators such as wolves, lynx and bears and listen as your host calls out to the park's resident wolves. With luck, the Aurora Borealis will make an appearance and dance across the sky. 

Later, head inside and enjoy refreshments. Before long, it will be time to return to your tour vehicle for the drive back to Narvik.

Additional Information

Please note: A choice between two included excursion options is offered in Narvik across your two night stay. This provides an opportunity for all guests to join one included excursion in Narvik. Please select your place on just one of these options on your preferred day. It is not permitted to book an included excursion on both days in Narvik and doing so will result in the automatic cancellation of one excursion. 

Walking is generally at your discretion, but you should expect to walk up to 500 yards on uneven and snow-covered terrain if exploring outside. Warm, layered clothing is essential. There will not be opportunities to view the animals during this evening visit to the Polar Park. This excursion involves a coach drive of approximately one hour in each direction. Sightings of the northern lights cannot be guaranteed. An early evening meal service will be arranged on board if you are joining this excursion and snacks will also be available on your return to the ship.

Immerse yourself in Sami culture and traditions while searching the night sky for the northern lights. Listen to tales of local life as you travel to the Fjellkysten Mountain Guest House, located north of Narvik on the peaceful Lavangen fjord. On arrival, enjoy a warm welcome from your host as you are invited inside the cosy hall. Whilst here, listen to Sami tales and songs and enjoy a hot drink and snacks. 

Set in a remote location, the guest house offers the perfect opportunity to spot the Aurora Borealis. You may choose to bundle up and step outside to search for them yourself, while your hosts keep a watchful eye on the sky, ready to alert you at the first glimmer of activity. The lights might appear as delicate wisps of colour or as shimmering curtains drifting above the forests and tundra. With a little luck, you will witness her grace the night sky before returning to Narvik.

Additional Information

Please note: A choice between two included excursion options is offered in Narvik across your two-night stay. This provides an opportunity for all guests to join one included excursion in Narvik. Please select your place on just one of these options on your preferred day. It is not permitted to book an included excursion on both days in Narvik and doing so will result in the automatic cancellation of one excursion. 

 This excursion will involve walking approximately 200 yards on uneven and snow-covered terrain. Warm, layered clothing is essential. This excursion involves a coach drive of approximately one hour in each direction. Sightings of the northern lights cannot be guaranteed. An early evening meal service will be arranged on board if you are joining this excursion and snacks will also be available upon your return to the ship.

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: 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.

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.

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. 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: 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.

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.

Set off on a scenic drive through the breathtaking Romsdal Valley, following the winding salmon river that carves through one of Norway’s most sought-after landscapes. 

Along the way, take in the dramatic, snow-capped peaks of Mount Romsdalshorn and Mount Trolltindane before arriving at the famous Troll Wall. This is the highest vertical and overhanging wall in Europe and climbers from all over the world visit here to test their skills. From here, continue to the village of Bjorli, a popular Norwegian ski resort, where you will have time for a short stop. 

Then, relax on the return journey to Åndalsnes, retracing your route through the picturesque Romsdal Valley.

Additional Information

Please note: Most of the sightseeing will be from your tour vehicle with walking at your discretion during your short stops.

Stavanger has, over time, been shaped by both the natural fjordic waterways, and the history of those living here. 

On this sightseeing tour, begin by driving 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. Pass Breiavannet and the green-pointed towers of 12th-century Stavanger Cathedral. As you leave the city, pass Ullandhaug (featuring its reconstructed iron-age farm), and continue to Jaeren, a natural landscape where emerald grass flows effortlessly onto the rocky beaches. Experience Jaeren’s unique light which has attracted artists for many years before continuing along Sola Beach - one and a half miles of white sand dunes, bound together by dense, spikey marram grass and featuring traces of World War II structures. 

See the 12th-century Sola Church before a photo opportunity at Hafrsfjord. It was here in AD 872 that Harald ‘Fairhair’ Halfdansson won a huge victory over several chieftains, uniting Norway as it exists today. See the three 33 -foot swords which represent Norway’s gathering under one crown before returning to the port.

Additional Information

Please note: A choice between two included excursions is offered during your visit to Stavanger – 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.

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

Despite the modern buildings built during the city’s oil exploration, Stavanger is steeped in architectural tradition and subsequent preservation. 

On this guided walking tour, pass the 12^th-century cathedral built in the Anglo-Norman style before arrival at ‘Gamle’ – old Stavanger. Here, stroll along the area’s cobbled streets to see its extensive collection of 17^th-century houses. Perhaps your visit will reveal why the city has received several awards for Gamle’s preservation. Before returning to the quayside, pass Ovre Holmegate, described as ‘the most colourful street in all of Norway,’ and Valberg Tower - the highest point of the city until 1853, and used to warn of fires.

Additional Information

Please note: A choice between two included excursions is offered during your visit to Stavanger – 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.

Expect to walk at least one and a half miles across sometimes uneven ground, including cobblestones. This tour is not appropriate for guests with limited mobility.

This is an ideal introduction to the Danish capital, Copenhagen, as you will explore 850 years of history in a compact timeframe on a panoramic drive. 

Begin with a stop at one of the most famous sights in Copenhagen: The Little Mermaid statue. This creation was completed in 1913 and was erected to express gratitude to Hans Christian Andersen for his well-known fairytales. Continue past Amalienborg Palace, home to his Majesty King Frederik the 10th of Denmark. Your guide will tell you about the palace and surrounding area, which has played a significant role in Danish history. You will also see the idyllic Christianshavn district. 

Finally, stop at the King's Garden which is set beside the Rosenborg Palace. Enjoy a short stroll in this delightful green area which is popular with locals and visitors alike. Return to your awaiting ship after your city exploration.

Additional Information

Please note: A choice between two included excursions is offered during your visit to Copenhagen – please select your place on just one of these excursions. It is not permitted to book both included excursions.

Most of the sightseeing is from your tour vehicle. You will spend approximately 30 minutes at the King's Garden. Walking of approximately 400 yards is required for a good exploration but this is entirely at your discretion.

A choice between two included excursions is offered during your visit to Copenhagen – please select your place on just one of these excursions. It is not permitted to book both option 1 and option 2 and doing so will result in the automatic cancellation of one excursion.

Explore Copenhagen by sea on this one-hour private canal cruise. Embark your canal boat together with your fellow travellers, just a short walk away from your ship. After safety instructions, set off on your cruise through the inner harbours and canals of Christianshavn with its picturesque old buildings. During your cruise, you will see some of the city’s major sights such as Holmen’s Church, the old naval base at Holmen and some of the interesting new experimental architecture along the harbour front, such as the new Royal Library. 

Also sail by Nyhavn, the colourful and lively waterfront district which was once the favourite haunt for sailors dating back to the seventeenth century. Today the canal district is lined with gabled houses, pavement cafes and bars and the fairy tale author Hans Christian Andersen lived at three different addresses along the Nyhavn canal. Try to spot the most cherished landmark of Copenhagen, the famous Little Mermaid statue, watching over the port of Copenhagen. 

End your cruise back at your starting point and walk back to your ship.

Additional Information

Please note: The distance to walk between your ship and the sightseeing vessel will depend on the mooring locations on the day. We estimate this to be approximately 300 yards in each direction with 14 steps to negotiate and you will need to embark and disembark the canal boat independently. Your sightseeing vessel has a covered top but with open sides.

Discover the festive delights of Bremen on this independent exploration. 

Browse the atmospheric market stalls and seasonally decorated shop windows, all coming together to make Bremen a truly special Christmas experience. Taste the crisp air filled with the aromas of roasted almonds, gingerbread and Glühwein. More than 160 Christmas stalls line the historic Market Square, set in front of the 600-year-old City Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

A local escort will travel with you to provide a basic introduction to the city. They will also give you a handy map of Bremen and help you to get your bearings on arrival. Whether you are taking the opportunity to complete some last-minute Christmas shopping or sampling the many tasty treats on offer, your time in Bremen promises to be a memorable festive experience.

Additional Information

Please note: The coach transfer to and from Bremen will take approximately one hour and fifteen minutes in each direction. You will have approximately three-and-a-half hours of free time in Bremen to explore at leisure. Bremen Christmas Market is a popular attraction and is likely to be very busy. Walking during your free time is at your discretion, but you should expect to cover at least 500 yards and encounter some cobbled and uneven terrain. While we aim to secure a drop-off point as close as possible to the Christmas Market, it may be necessary to walk up to 500 yards. This is not a fully guided excursion, but a local escort will travel with you. A designated meeting point and time will be confirmed by your escort on the day. Many of the market booths accept cash only and not card payment. A small charge usually applies to use public restrooms in Germany.

Go winter sightseeing around the Hardanger region on this excursion. First take a short orientation drive through Bergen, passing the fish market, the 13th-century Bergenhus Fortress, medieval King Håkon’s Hall and Rosenkrantz Tower.

Leaving the city behind, your scenic journey brings you to Bjørnefjord where you will begin a short drive along the fjord with views of islands and snowcapped mountains in the distance. At Hatvik, cross the fjord by ferry to Venjaneset on the opposite side; then after a short drive, you will meet Hardangerfjord – queen of the fjords.

Near the village of Norheimsund, make a stop for a light lunch before visiting Steinsdal waterfall. The water gushes away from the cliff enabling you to walk underneath without getting wet, subject to conditions on the day. Afterwards, climb up the Tokagjel gorge via several tunnels to reach the mountain plateau of Kvamskogen.

The final leg of your drive will take you past Sørfjord, where you’ll find Oster Island, the largest island on the west coast, before returning to your ship.

Additional Information

Please note: Although this tour requires a very small amount of essential walking, some of it is over uneven ground with a handful of steps and thresholds. In addition, if Steinsdalsfossen Waterfall is not frozen, you may have the opportunity to walk behind it. Extra care should be taken as this is a 200-yard walk up a steep, sloped path that is likely to be very slippery. This excursion will involve driving on some winding, mountain roads and is not recommended for those who suffer from motion sickness.

Your excursion begins with a scenic drive through the city centre whilst your guide talks you through Bergen’s rich history. You will then take a thrilling five-minute cable car ride to the summit of Mount Ulriken, which at just over 2,000 feet is the highest of the seven mountains that surround Bergen.

At the top you can admire far-reaching winter views, not just of the city, but also the fjords, sea and mountains beyond. A hot drink and sweet treat will be served in the cafe, followed by free time to appreciate the surroundings. After your cable car descent, return to your tour vehicle for a short drive outside of the city centre.

Your second destination is the reconstructed Fantoft Stave Church, which was restored using traditional methods after a fire destroyed the original 12th-century building in 1992. Unique to Norway, the original timber stave churches were all built before the year 1300 and only 28 remain. Admire the church’s exterior and enjoy photo opportunities before your tour vehicle brings you back to Bergen.

Additional Information

Please note: At Mount Ulriken there may be a walk of up to 200 yards to reach the cable car station. Walking at the summit is at your discretion but will involve uneven and snow covered, slippery terrain. You will remain standing during the cable car ascent and descent. Each carriage carries up to 50 passengers. Views are subject to weather conditions on the day. At Fantoft Stave Church there is an uphill walk of approximately 250 yards from the coach parking area to the church and back again. This walk is over gravel which may be snow-covered.

Fantoft Stave Church is closed during the winter months so regrettably it is not possible to visit inside. A high level of fitness and mobility is required to participate in this excursion and sturdy outdoor footwear is essential. This excursion includes many of the sights seen on ‘An Introduction to Bergen’, so it is not recommended that you book both excursions.

Begin with a drive through Sandviken or 'Sandy Bay', where you can see many white wooden buildings, built in the traditional Bergen style. On your return pass St Mary’s Church, the oldest building in the city and one of the few Romanesque buildings in Norway.

Then take a funicular ride to a height of 1,000 feet up Mount Fløyen, one of the seven mountains that surround Bergen, for a bird's-eye-view of the city below. Take some time to appreciate the view or perhaps purchase refreshments in the cafe.

Pass by the popular fish market, now housed in a stunning glass building, before continuing to the Nordnes Peninsula for a photo-stop at the old customs pier. Then travel past the Bergen Aquarium, see a typical Bergen narrow street known as a 'smug', and pass Bergen's theatre. 

Drive into Håkonsgaten for a glimpse of St John's Church, before continuing past the Grieg Hall, the busy Danmarksplass intersection, Haukeland University Hospital and Kalfaret, a residential area with many charming old buildings.

Additional Information

Please note: Most walking on this excursion is entirely at your discretion, however there is an unavoidable 100-yard walk with a few steps to access the funicular. A lift is available at both the top and bottom stations. During busy times it may be necessary to stand in a queue for the funicular. The view from Mount Fløyen will depend on the weather. This excursion includes many of the sights seen on ‘An Introduction to Bergen’, so it is not recommended that you book both excursions.

Think of Bergen and the chances are that Bryggen will spring to mind, with its colourful and historic houses flanking the quayside.

This enchanting area is the old wharf district of Bergen, which grew up during the city’s rise as one the Hanseatic League’s major trading ports in the 14^th century. Today some 62 buildings survive, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past. The area has been ravaged by fire on several occasions and many of the buildings today date from the early 18^th century. Despite this, the narrow passages and design of the wooden houses reflect the area’s medieval roots when the port rose to prominence.

On this walking tour you will start by passing the fortress of Bergenhus at the entrance to the harbour, parts of which date to the 13^th century. You will also pass the 13^th-century Coronation – or Hakon’s - Hall, before exploring Bryggen. Afterwards, take the Floibanen Funicular and rise 1,000 feet to the summit of Mount Fløyen, from where you can enjoy stunning views of the city on a clear day.

Enjoy some time at leisure at the summit before descending back down into Bergen centre and strolling back to your ship.

Additional Information

Please note: This tour involves walking at least one-and-a-half miles across uneven cobbles. A good level of physical fitness and mobility is required to participate. Views are subject to weather conditions on the day. During busy times it may be necessary to stand in a queue for the funicular.

The Hjørundfjord is a 12-mile-long arm of the Storfjord, located in the heartland of the Sunnmøre Alps with pointed, snow-covered mountain peaks and jagged walls of rock on each side. Many claim that Hjørundfjord is Norway’s most idyllic fjord, and this excursion provides the perfect opportunity for you to see the natural wonder for yourself.

The tour begins when you board your sightseeing boat in Ålesund and sail south to reach the fjord. Kings and Queens have been renowned to visit the Hjørundfjord throughout history, each one captivated by its immense beauty – surrounded by waterfalls, icy glaciers and rocky mountains. From the open deck, enjoy the panoramic winter vistas of the fjord before retreating inside for a warming cup of tea or coffee, served with a traditional Norwegian waffle.

Finally, your sightseeing boat takes you back to Ålesund.

Additional Information

Please note: There may be a walk of up to 300 yards in each direction between your ship and sightseeing boat. You will need to board the boat independently via a gangway. There are multiple steps to reach the upper deck viewing areas, but none to access the inside seating area. This excursion takes place on a large sightseeing boat, with a capacity of approximately 200 passengers.

Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Ålesund’s main sights, driving through the art nouveau quarter to see the architecture that replaced the more traditional Norwegian buildings that were lost to the devastating fire of 1904.

After leaving the city, travel through some of the world’s largest under-sea tunnels, which connect the islands of Giske and Godøy to the mainland. Giske is famous as the birthplace of the Viking King Rollo, who conquered Normandy in 911 and was an ancestor of William the Conqueror.

Your tour takes you to Giske Chapel, built from Roman marble and used as a private church by the Viking Giske family. The interior of the church was restored in 1756 and features a beautifully-carved pulpit and altar. Continue to the island of Godøy and the charming fishing village of Alnes, where you may enjoy a stroll through the village or climb the lighthouse for some fantastic views.

Stop for included coffee and cakes at the lighthouse before returning to your ship at Ålesund port by coach via the under-sea tunnels.

Additional Information

Please note: This tour is mainly by coach, but you will need to walk approximately 350 yards in total along gravel paths to view the church at Giske, the village of Alnes and the lighthouse. Refreshments are served on the ground floor of the lighthouse but there is a steep spiral staircase to climb if anyone wishes to go up to the top.

Visit the Polar Park, the world’s northernmost wildlife park. Your journey begins with a scenic coach ride through the shifting landscapes of Bjerkvik and Salangsdalen, en route to Polar Park in Bardu, north of Narvik. The park offers a gateway into the Norwegian wilderness, with the vast areas designed to mirror the animals’ natural habitats. 

Here you will encounter native wildlife, from predators such as bears, wolves, lynx and Arctic foxes to deer, moose, reindeer and muskox. Be sure to look out for the wolverine too – this Nordic species and the largest of the weasel family is the symbol of the Bardu community. Your knowledgeable guide will accompany you around the park, introducing you to the residents you may see along the way.

 During your visit, refreshments of coffee will be served. There will also be time to shop for souvenirs before the return journey back to the ship.

Additional Information

Please note: This excursion will involve essential walking of approximately one-and-a-quarter miles on uneven, sometimes steep and snow-covered terrain. Further walking is at your discretion, and an excellent level of physical fitness is required to participate. This excursion involves a coach drive of approximately one hour in each direction. As your visit is during the polar night, light levels will be low and something akin to dusk. Animal sightings cannot be guaranteed.

This excursion provides an opportunity to head out into the Arctic landscapes of the region with limited walking involved. Pass volcanic terrain, steep mountains and deep fjords on a scenic drive to Skjomen. 

Board your coach and settle back in comfort as you depart on a panoramic sightseeing drive, heading south from Narvik towards Skjomen, a small and picturesque fjord. The region is renowned for its scenic and volcanic terrain, and you will spot the towering mountains of Skjomtind, Reintind, and Klubbviktind that surround the fjord. 

Your route takes you along the banks of the fjord before arriving at Skjomen Golf Club - the world's second northernmost 18-hole golf course. Pause here to stretch your legs and enjoy some refreshments. Afterwards, return by coach along the same route to Narvik.

Additional Information

Please note: There will be approximately 100 yards of walking during your stop. This excursion involves approximately two hours of scenic coach driving. As your visit is during the polar night, light levels will be low and something akin to dusk. Views will be dependent on the weather conditions.

Discover Narvik’s past and present during this panoramic drive. 

Meet your local guide and board your coach to embark on a journey of the city exploring Narvik in detail. Along the way, your guide will share tales of Narvik’s young history and its pivotal role during World War Two, when fierce battles were fought here and many lives were lost. You will also hear about the “Navvies” who built the railway over 120 years ago, in the harsh Arctic conditions. 

Your tour includes a stop in Ankenes, a western suburb of Narvik, where you will visit the striking octagonal church built in 1842, one of the oldest buildings in the region. After this introduction to Narvik’s heritage, you will return to your ship.

Additional Information

Please note: There will be approximately 200 yards of walking during your short stop, which may involve some snow-covered terrain and ten steps. As your visit is during the polar night, light levels will be low and something akin to dusk.

All aboard the Arctic Train, chartered exclusively for Saga guests, as you journey across wild, rugged mountain plateaus towards the Swedish border. 

When it was first constructed, this 26-mile line was the world’s northernmost railway project — engineered in extreme Arctic conditions and painstakingly carved through the mountains. Since its opening in 1902, this railway has played a vital role in transporting iron ore from the mines of Kiruna in Swedish Lapland to the ice-free port of Narvik. 

Experience this unique feat of engineering for yourself as you board the train in Narvik, bound for Bjørnfjell, close to the Swedish border. Along the way, learn about the lives of the Navvies and the incredible effort it took to construct this vital link between Sweden and Norway. During the relaxing return train journey, along the same route to Narvik, enjoy a warm coffee and pastry.

Additional Information

Please note: This excursion involves a short coach drive between the ship and the train station. There will be approximately 50 yards of walking between the coach and the train in each direction, which may involve some snow-covered terrain. There are ten steps to board the train. The train journey lasts approximately two-and-a-quarter hours in total. There is an audio-guide commentary during the outbound train journey only. As your visit is during the polar night, light levels will be low and similar to dusk. Views will be dependent on weather conditions.

Head across the Swedish border for an unforgettable dogsledding adventure.

From the pier, you will board your coach and travel to Riksgransen on the Swedish border. On your way, learn about the Navvies who constructed the Ofotbanen railway, Norwegian cottage life and traditions as well as stories from World War Two. On arrival, you will meet your human and four-legged hosts who will be very pleased to see you. After a short safety briefing you will board your wooden sled to be pulled through the Arctic landscape by a team of lively huskies. Relax as your experienced musher guides and the well-trained dogs negotiate the rugged terrain. 

After approximately 25 minutes, you will return to the husky camp to warm yourself with a hot beverage before returning to your ship.

Additional Information

There will be approximately 400 yards of walking during this excursion over rugged, snow-covered and potentially slippery terrain. The sleds are low to the ground and you will need to climb in and out independently. Due to the bumpy nature of this excursion, it is not recommended for those with back or neck problems. Please follow the instructions provided at all times for your safety. Warm clothing, including gloves, scarf and hat, is necessary and you should wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty. As your visit is during the polar night, light levels will be low and something akin to dusk. Views will be dependent on the weather conditions. This excursion involves a coach journey of one hour and thirty minutes in each direction. This excursion may be cancelled if the snow and weather conditions are considered to be unsuitable. In this instance you will be notified on board and a full refund will be issued

Discover the very best of Narvik on this comprehensive tour, combining a cable car ride up Fagernesfjellet mountain with insights into the city’s role during World War Two. 

Meet your guide at the pier and take a short tour through the town, pausing outside Ankenes Church before arriving at the cable car station. Here, you will board one of the gondolas for the five-minute ascent up the Fagernesfjellet mountain. At 2,100 feet above sea level, you will step out at the top of a popular ski resort, where free time allows you to take in the view and perhaps purchase a refreshment before your return journey down the mountain. 

Then, after rejoining the coach, continue to Narvik War Museum. Several important battles were fought in Narvik during World War Two and many soldiers lost their lives here. Narvik was badly damaged during the first few months of the war and on April 9, 1940, it was invaded by the Nazis. Less than two months later, the Allies managed to recapture the city, but as troops were required elsewhere it fell to the Nazis again, who occupied it for a further five years. This fascinating story is told in chronological order at the war museum. Join a guided tour of the museum, with an opportunity to explore further independently, before rejoining the coach and returning to your ship.

Additional Information

Please note: Expect to walk approximately 800 yards during this excursion with a few steps to board the cable car. You will likely encounter some snow-covered and slippery terrain. There are approximately 10 steps to negotiate at the museum. Warm, layered clothing is essential. As your visit is during the polar night, light levels will be low and similar to dusk. Views will be dependent on the weather conditions.

Embark on a journey to the Isogaisa Sámi Camp, where you will receive a warm welcome from your Sámi hosts. 

Travelling north from Narvik, pass along the banks of the Ofotfjord and through remote landscapes towards the Sami camp. On arrival, you will be welcomed inside a traditional Lavvu tent, complete with reindeer hide blankets and a crackling fire. During your visit, you will gain an introduction to Sami culture as a traditional shaman ceremony is performed, complete with singing and drums. Refreshments will be served as you listen to stories of the Sami lifestyle here in northern Norway. 

After this unique and memorable experience, return back to Narvik and your ship.

Additional Information

Please note: There will be approximately 200 yards of walking in total, with further walking at your discretion. You are likely to negotiate uneven terrain and possibly some snow-covered and slippery ground. This excursion involves a coach journey of approximately 45 minutes in each direction. As your visit is during the polar night, light levels will be low and similar to dusk. Views will be dependent on weather conditions.

Enjoy an exclusive, small-group evening visit to the Narvik Mountain Lodge overlooking Narvik city centre. 

Begin with a short minibus transfer from your ship to the lodge, located almost 1000 feet above sea level. Built in traditional Norwegian style, the wooden lodge serves both as a cosy place to stay and a venue for festivities. Its terrace offers views over the city lights below and the clear winter night sky. Between moments spent gazing upward in search of the Aurora Borealis, you can head inside to warm up. 

The venue also has a traditional lavvu, a tent-style dwelling used by the Sami people of northern Scandinavia. A warming fire will be burning inside the lavvu and your host will entertain you with some storytelling. During your stay, a glass of sparkling wine and some canapes will be served to you, as well as tea or coffee. 

As your stay comes to an end, take a stroll back to your bus and return to the ship.

Additional Information

Please note: This excursion involves very little essential walking, but you will likely encounter some snow-covered and slippery ground between the minibus and the venue. There are six steps to access the Lavvu. Further walking is at your discretion. Warm, layered clothing is essential. During the short minibus transfer, you will be accompanied by a Saga escort, but not a guide, and your host will meet you at the lodge. You will spend approximately two hours at the lodge. Sightings of the northern lights cannot be guaranteed. An early evening meal service will be arranged on board if you are joining this excursion and snacks will also be available on your return to the ship.

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 18^th-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 12^th-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.

Step on board your sightseeing boat, exclusively chartered by Saga, and head off to discover the beautiful waters of the Lysefjord and famous Pulpit Rock. 

Pulpit Rock is one of southwest 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 a much-photographed landmark and its bare rock tabletop shape is in stark contrast to the green slopes and mountainsides that surround it. 

Your sightseeing cruise takes you directly below Pulpit Rock. Next, pause for a while at the eerie Vagabond's Cave before stepping ashore to enjoy refreshments. Finally, relax on board the boat as you sail back to the quayside in Stavanger.

Additional Information

Please note: The walk from the ship to the boat will amount to approximately 200 yards, and there is a further walk of at least 100 yards, over uneven ground, to the refreshment venue. There are steps to the upper deck of the boat. The boat may not have sufficient outside seating, and the view from some inside seats could be restricted. Views of Pulpit Rock are dependent upon the weather conditions on the day.

Leaving the quayside, you travel from Denmark to Sweden by crossing the Øresund Strait, which forms the border between the two countries. 

Before making the crossing, a short stop allows you to capture photos of this impressive construction. It is the longest combined road and rail bridge in Europe. Apart from the main cable-stayed bridge, which is about six miles long, the crossing also includes a two-and-a-half-mile tunnel and an artificial island called Peberholm, which has an area of 325 acres. 

After a drive of approximately one hour, you reach Malmö. The city has a wonderful contrast of old and new and your visit here will introduce both sides. Stop to take in the view of the towering Twisted Torso skyscraper, which stands beside the waterfront, and then enjoy a short city tour on your coach. 

Afterwards, you have some free time to visit Malmö’s main square, Stortorget, and the picturesque, cobbled Lilla Torg or Little Square. Finally, return across the Øresund Bridge to Copenhagen.

Additional Information

Please note: This tour involves minimal essential walking, as most of the sightseeing will be from the coach. Walking during your free time in Malmö is at your discretion. You should note that there are some cobbled streets in Malmö. Please bring your passport, as you will be crossing an international boundary and there may be a check at the frontier.

This scenic tour takes you to Dragoer, one of Denmark’s oldest and quaintest fishing villages. Set on Amager Island and lapped by the blue waters of the Øresund, Dragoer is well preserved and has retained its historic character due to the fact that conservation work was started as long ago as 1934.

In 1968, parking was prohibited in the entire old district, and in 1978 Dragoer became Denmark’s first ‘pedestrian town’, which is now protected by a local preservation plan. Historically, Dragoer was once an international trading post for Hanseatic merchants, and it became a thriving fishing port during the 16th and 17th centuries.

After the herring industry dwindled, the town survived as a major centre for shipping, and is now a friendly place with a fascinating history. Your guide will take you on a leisurely stroll through the cobbled back streets to the bustling harbour.

Then you have free time to explore: look around the village, browse for souvenirs in some of the small handicraft shops that line the main street or admire views of Øresund Bridge, which has connected Copenhagen with the Swedish town of Malmö since the year 2000.

Refreshments will be served at a hotel by the harbour before you travel back to Copenhagen and your ship.

Additional Information

Please note: You will need to walk approximately three-quarters-of-a-mile on this excursion, partly along cobbled streets. There are six steps to access the refreshment venue.

Visit two historic but contrasting attractions during your time in the Danish capital. 

Begin with a visit to Christianborg Palace and enjoy a guided tour inside. It is the only building in the world to be the seat of all three supreme powers of a nation: the executive, the legislative, and the judicial. A visit is made to the Royal Reception rooms, used by the Danish King for entertaining VIP visitors and foreign heads of state. Of special interest are the tapestries, given to the former Queen on her 50^th birthday in 1990, to decorate the large banqueting hall. 

Then continue to the world-famous Tivoli Gardens, which is transformed into a magical Christmas wonderland during the festive season. Take a guided stroll through the park, which opened in 1843, and admire over a million twinkling lights and fir trees before spending some free time to explore further at your leisure. There will be a traditional Christmas market with stalls selling seasonal treats, such as aebleskiver (a type of Danish pancake) and gløgg (Scandinavian mulled wine). You can also see the 1914 wooden rollercoaster – still operated by a ‘brake man’ – or pass along ‘The Alley’, styled on a fantasy Danish market town. 

On your drive back to the cruise pier, you will also have the opportunity to see the most cherished landmark of Copenhagen, the famous Little Mermaid statue, watching over the port of Copenhagen.

Additional Information

Please note: During the visit to Christianborg Palace, you should expect to walk approximately 600 yards and negotiate 80 steps. The palace is not wheelchair accessible. In Tivoli Gardens there will be approximately 200 yards of essential walking with further walking at your discretion. Access to rides and amusements inside Tivoli are not included in the price of this excursion. You will spend approximately one-and-a-half hours at Tivoli Gardens.

Tivoli Gardens is one of the world’s oldest and most iconic amusement parks – a delight in summer, becoming even more special during the Christmas season as it transforms into a true winter wonderland, filled with festive magic. 

Meet your local guide and board your transfer coach for a short drive through the city centre of Copenhagen to reach Tivoli Gardens. The park opened on August 15, 1843, and prominent visitors include fairytale writer Hans Christian Andersen and the Danish Royal family. Tivoli combines a variety of attractions including a theatre, restaurants, cafes, well-kept gardens, and rides. Enjoy a guided stroll through the Christmas decorated garden or choose to explore on your own. Browse the stalls of the Christmas market selling festive delights such as gingerbread hearts and marzipan, and discover the many restaurants, lights and Christmas delicacies that can be found in Tivoli at this time of year. 

Soak up the festive joy before rejoining your local guide and returning to your ship.

Additional Information

Please note: In Tivoli Gardens there will be approximately 300 yards of essential walking with further walking at your discretion. However, for a good exploration you should expect to walk up to a mile. There are areas of uneven ground that may be slippery during winter. Warm, layered clothing is recommended. Access to rides and amusements inside Tivoli are not included in the price of this excursion but tokens can be purchased on the day. You will spend approximately three hours at Tivoli Gardens.

Embark on a unique journey through Danish Christmas traditions with a combined visit to the National Museum and the Victorian Home. This tour provides a glimpse into the traditions and celebrations of Christmas as they have evolved over the past 150 years. 

A short drive through Copenhagen brings you to the Danish National Museum. Upon arrival, step into the Christmas exhibition, where familiar traditions are turned on their head. The exhibition reveals the rich and varied ways Christmas has been celebrated as a powerful community ritual throughout history, proving there’s more than one way to make the holiday truly meaningful. 

Next, step back in time with a visit to the Victorian Home, where you can admire the lavish Christmas celebrations of Denmark’s upper middle class in the late 19th century. The preserved décor and festive traditions of this bygone era offer a contrast to the broader historical perspectives explored at the National Museum. Once the real home of two sisters, it was lovingly donated to the museum after their passing, allowing its stories to live on. It is a unique time capsule from the late 19th century, located in a private residence, a short walk from the National Museum.

Additional Information

Please note: Expect to walk approximately three-quarters-of-a-mile in total, with up to 60 steps to negotiate at each venue. There is a lift at the National Museum, but not inside the Victorian Home. Shoe coverings are provided at the Victorian home and must be worn over existing footwear; however, these can make the floor slippery.

Founded in 1795, Meyer Werft Shipyard in Papenburg has been crafting ships for over two centuries – and remarkably, it is still run by the same family, now in its sixth generation. 

The shipyard has achieved an excellent worldwide reputation over the last decades, particularly for its construction of large, modern and sophisticated cruise ships. Indeed, Meyer Werft Shipyard is where Saga's Spirit of Adventure and Spirit of Discovery were constructed. Every year, about 300,000 tourists visit the shipyard to see behind the scenes of state-of-the-art shipbuilding. 

The visitor centre provides a comprehensive overview of Meyer Werft's history and present-day production. There are also unique exhibits, films and a mock-up cabin. Modern ships are built from massive, prefabricated blocks – more than 80 in total – that are welded together to create the hull. Construction takes place inside colossal, covered docks, and when the vessel is finally complete, the dock is flooded, allowing the ship to float out for the very first time. 

Discover how ships are designed, built and transported along the River Ems. For safety reasons, visitors cannot go on board a ship during the tour, but you may be able to see construction in progress from a gallery. Your visit begins with a guided introduction before you are free to explore the exhibits at leisure.

Additional Information

Please note: The coach transfer to and from the shipyard will take approximately two hours in each direction. You will be on your feet for most of your visit and will cover a distance of approximately three-quarters of a mile. A packed lunch will be provided from the ship for you to bring with you on this excursion.

This full-day excursion reveals the highlights of UNESCO-listed Bremen, while giving you plenty of time to explore the famous Christmas Market. 

After your transfer into the city centre of Bremen, begin with a walking exploration, starting from the centrally located Market Square, where the architectural styles of five different eras are visible. See the 13^th-century St Petri Cathedral (Bremer Dom) and the bronze statue of the Bremer Stadtmusikanten (Bremer Town Musicians), sculpted in 1951. Continue your walk to a small lane called the “Boettcherstrasse”, where you will find many restored medieval buildings housing art galleries, museums and restaurants. 

Following your walk you will be rewarded with a stop at the famous “Ratskeller” wine cellar, located below the town hall and boasting a wine collection of over 650 different German wine varieties. At approximately 600 years old, it is Germany’s oldest wine cellar. Enjoy a guided wine tasting tour conducted by a specialist guide while meandering through the cellars and its cavernous vaults.

After this unique experience, enjoy some free time. Take a stroll through Bremen’s Christmas Market at the main square and browse for the perfect festive gift. Finally, return to the port having experienced many of Bremen’s unique treasures.

Additional Information

Please note: The coach transfer to and from Bremen will take approximately one hour and fifteen minutes in each direction. Expect to walk approximately one mile and encounter some uneven, cobbled ground and multiple steps inside the wine cellar. Further walking during your free time is at your discretion. A good level of physical fitness and mobility is required to participate in this excursion. You will have approximately one hour and fifteen minutes of free time in Bremen to explore at leisure. Many of the market booths will accept cash only and not card payments. A small charge usually applies to use public restrooms in Germany.