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On the Trail of the Vikings

Lofoten, Norwegian Fjords & Western Europe 11 Day Expedition Cruise

D1623072910
Dates
07/29/23 - 08/08/23
Ship
SH Diana
Duration
10 Nights
Guests
2 Guest
Price From
$ 0
Per Person
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Trip Details

Sail through the land of the midnight sun past spectacular scenery on our Wonders of the Fjords adventure as our luxury expedition ship visits the places it was built to explore. We leave from Tromso, 250 miles above the Arctic Circle, visiting the friendly Lofoten Islands, before slipping into fjords, from one of the narrowest that a ship can navigate, Trollfjorden, to Norway’s longest, Sognefjord, and, arguably, the most beautiful, Geirangerfjord. You’ll snake past mighty glaciers, along tiny channels, through emerald-green waters, past magnificent waterfalls and around rugged headlands, before heading south. By the time we arrive in Amsterdam, you’ll have visited remote lands and seen some of Norway’s wildest scenery in boutique style.

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Trip Highlights
Sail under the midnight sun as the Arctic gleams in a way that will stay with you forever
Appreciate the silence while you cruise gently through Trollfjorden as white-tailed eagles soar overhead
Get up close to the mighty Svartisen glacier, Norway’s second largest
Hike into the mountains for magnificent views of waterfalls and majestic fjords
Learn more about the Vikings and Norway’s seafaring history from our on board experts
Itinerary Map
Itinerary
Tromsø Day 1

Known as the Arctic gateway, Tromso is a remote Norwegian city at 69° north, 250 miles above the Arctic Circle, where you can take in the soft glow of the midnight sun. Learn more about early polar explorations at the Polar Museum. Famed for the Northern Lights on winter nights, you can find out more about this natural spectacle at the Science Centre.

Cruising Trollfjorden Day 2

Trollfjorden is unbelievable – a 100 m-wide entrance to a narrow fjord with near-vertical mountainous sides up to 1,100 m high. The passage slices through Austvågøya, on the edge of the Lofoten Islands, and there’s no way in, other than by boat or a dizzying hike. Appreciate the silence while you cruise gently onward as white-tailed eagles soar overhead - and marvel as the ship slowly spins around to leave.

Svolvaer, Lofoten Day 2

Svolvær is a classic Norwegian fishing port, tucked away on Austvågøya in the Lofoten Islands. Surrounded by peaks and beaches, bays and craggy inlets, it’s an age-old picture, a jumble of white and red clapboard houses, the clear water filled with little, bobbing boats. Popular with mountain climbers, the town’s mountain Fløya commands a spectacular viewpoint across the harbour and Vestfjord. Trollfjorden doesn’t come more startling than this – a 100 m-wide entrance to a narrow fjord with near-vertical mountainous sides up to 1,100 m high. The passage slices through Austvågøya, on the edge of the Lofoten Islands, and there’s no way in, other than by boat or a dizzying hike. Appreciate the silence while you cruise gently onward as white-tailed eagles soar overhead - and marvel as the ship slowly spins around to leave.

Shore Excursion
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Svolvaer Panorama Tour
  • Duration: 02 h 00 m
  • Included
  • Take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and fjords at Svolvær
  • Visit Lofoten’s beautiful 12th century cathedral
  • Explore Henningsvær’s craft shops and impressive art gallery
Svartisen, Svartisen Glacier Day 3

Glomfjord is a village in the municipality of Meløy in Nordland county, Norway. The industrial community is located along Norwegian County Road 17 at the head of the Glomfjorden, just north of the Arctic Circle. The 1.14-square-kilometre village has a population of 1,077 and a population density of 945 inhabitants per square kilometre. Although located north of the Arctic Circle and not far from Norway's second largest glacier Svartisen, the climate is well suited for living due to the Gulf Stream, albeit rather wet. The temperature is seldom below −10 °C (14 °F) during winter time. During summer time the sun does not set. The midnight sun also makes the plants grow faster.

Shore Excursion
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RIB Støtt
  • Duration: 03 h 30 m
  • Optional
  • Experience a charming Norwegian fishing village up close
  • Take a guided tour of the island’s most iconic spots
  • Get a taste of local products Explore the island’s history and sample local produce
Kayaking
  • Duration: 03 h 30 m
  • Optional
  • Go for an unforgettable swim in the fjord
  • Experience a unique view of Glomfjord's industrial history
  • Take a break on the beach by a bonfire with some snacks and hot drinks
Lahko National Park
  • Duration: 02 h 00 m
  • Included
  • Explore Norway’s largest continuous area of alpine karst
  • Discover the park’s rich flora and unique landscape
  • Keep an eye out for the domestic reindeer that use this area for grazing
Bronnoysund Day 4

A pretty town on a narrow peninsula amid a world of islands halfway up the Norwegian coast. Nearby, Torghatten, a granite dome of a mountain on the isle of Torget, is famed for the hole through the middle, which you can walk right through. Boat trips head to the Vega Archipelago UNESCO site, with shallow waters, fishing docks and nesting spots for down-rich eider ducks. The Norwegian Aquaculture Centre gives guests a taste of salmon farming with aquariums, underwater cameras – and a restaurant.

Shore Excursion
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Discover the Norwegian Aquaculture Centre
  • Duration: 02 h 30 m
  • Included
  • See the sights as you drive through the charming town of Brønnøysund
  • Visit the idyllic old fishing village Toft
  • Explore an interesting exhibition with aquariums and geology from the area
Walk to Torghatten
  • Duration: 02 h 00 m
  • Optional
  • Climb one of the most iconic mountains the Norwegian coast has to offer
  • See Torghatten’s legendary hole at 35 meters high, 160 meters long and between 15 - 20 meters wide
  • Refuel with complementary local refreshments at the end of your hike
Yttersian, Froya Island Day 5

Froya is one of two main islands in a 5,400-strong archipelago off Trondheim, a wild place of moors, marshes and fishing villages. Froya has northern Europe’s tallest lighthouse (45 m), and it and its neighbour, Hitra, have the country’s biggest salmon factories. The islands (connected to each other and mainland by tunnel) are history-rich, from stone and iron age remains to relics of German wartime occupation. View the island-speckled panorama from a sea eagle-spotting boat trip or a hike up 310 m Brannhaugen.

Shore Excursion
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Best of Froya
  • Duration: 03 h 15 m
  • Included
  • Explore Frøya, home to Sletringen lighthouse, Scandinavia’s tallest lighthouse
  • Visit the islands impressive new windmill park
  • Stop for photos at SalMar, the world’s second largest producer of Atlantic salmon
Nordfjordeid Day 6

A stopping off point for Briksdal Glacier and overland excursions to Geiranger on the beautiful, UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord, the Eidsfjorden village of Nordfjordeid is wedged between Jostedalsbreen glacier, the biggest in mainland Europe. Nordfjordeid has a craftsman-built replica of the country’s biggest known Viking ship, Myklebust, while the area around is rich in Viking burial mounds. Nearby, at the end of Innvikfjorden, the Loen Skylift gondola rises 1,011 m for the most staggering views.

Shore Excursion
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Helicopter Flight
  • Duration: 01 h 00 m
  • Optional
  • Start off with a complete safety run-down for peace of mind while flying high
  • Marvel at unbeatable panoramic views that only a helicopter ride can offer
  • The minimum age to take part is 3 years and the maximum weight is approx. 198 lbs per person (depending on the total combined weight of the guests)
Leisurely Nordfjord
  • Duration: 03 h 00 m
  • Included
  • Marvel at the sublime views of Hornindal Lake, Europe’s deepest - and clearest – lake
  • Take in marvellous panoramic views of nature, framed by snow-capped mountains
  • Explore fantastic views of the Nordfjord on this excursion through Norway's wild coast
Nordfjordeid Village & Home Visit
  • Duration: 03 h 30 m
  • Optional
  • Be welcomed into the inviting home of a Nordfjordeid local for a truly exceptional and unparalleled cultural experience
  • Cozy up with coffee, tea and mouthwatering pastries in the lounges or garden at the local’s home
  • Learn about the traditional tools and techniques used to create the delicious local pastries before putting them into practice
Hike Mount Veten
  • Duration: 03 h 30 m
  • Optional
  • Enjoy remarkable views of the fjord from atop Mount Veten
  • Be prepared for any terrain with sturdy shoes and durable clothing on this rugged expedition
  • Take some time to relax and recharge at the summit while snapping pictures of the marvellous views
Skjolden Day 7

Our cruise takes us along Sognefjord, at 204 km not only the longest but the deepest in Norway, before entering Lustrafjord. From the village of Skjolden, the gateway to the national parks, hike to the viewpoint for a breathtaking panorama, have a quiet moment in Urnes Stave Church, Norway’s oldest, or cycle along the narrow, fjord-hugging Romantic Road, past waterfalls and ancient buildings. You’ll be mesmerised as you sail in.

Shore Excursion
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Bike & Hike to Drivande Waterfall
  • Duration: 04 h 00 m
  • Optional
  • Bike through 7km of stunning Norwegian nature to experience some of the most unforgettable views
  • Learn about the daily lives of the locals and how they’ve had to adapt to master the art of survival
  • Flatbread and local cured meats await you at the waterfall where you’ll get to rest and enjoy the views
Scenic Drive & Urnes Stavechurch
  • Duration: 03 h 30 m
  • Included
  • The Urnes Stave Church is the oldest and most decorated of the 28 remaining stave churches in Norway, earning it a UNESCO World Heritage Site honour
  • Examine the extraordinary Viking Pagan art with carvings adorning the stave church
  • Admire the fjords beauty on a ferry ride across the waters, taking you to a scenic motor coach tour of the western side
Ulvik Day 8

We reach one of Norway’s most dramatic spots by sailing mighty Hardangerfjord (at 179 km, Norway’s second longest) with its impressive waterfalls and then through to the end of Ulvikafjorden. The village of Ulvik, surrounded by mountains, has breathtaking views across glistening waters in which the peaks are reflected. This is the place for lofty hikes, kayaking and other water activities. In May, the slopes are filled with the blossom of thousands of fruit trees.

Shore Excursion
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Farm Cider Tasting
  • Duration: 03 h 00 m
  • Optional
  • Pass through Ulvik, a vibrant village known as "Norway's fruit garden,” which is home to many orchards showcasing the region's agricultural abundance
  • Take a photo stop at Osafjord and the small village situated at the end of where the fjord lies, Osa
  • Make a short detour through Hjeltnes for a brief photo break before continuing on to Lekve Farm to start your cider experience
Voss Cable Car
  • Duration: 03 h 00 m
  • Included
  • Enjoy the panoramic drive from Ulvik to Voss
  • Take the cable car and on the top of the hill admire the stunning views
Voss Cable Car
  • Duration: 03 h 00 m
  • Included
  • Enjoy the panoramic drive from Ulvik to Voss
  • Take the cable car and on the top of the hill admire the stunning views
Mandal Day 9

The southernmost town in Norway has a curving 1 km, grassy dune-backed beach., Sea Sand, one of seven beaches in Furulunden forest park, a place to walk, jog, cycle, swim and picnic. Sea Sand is only one of the calm, beautiful hideaways surrounding this charming town of white-painted buildings at the mouth of the river Mandalselva. The snaking waterway is filled with sailboats while gentle hills rise as a backdrop. Mandal also has the biggest wooden church in Norway, seating 1,800 people.

Shore Excursion
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The Essence of Mandal - on foot
  • Duration: 01 h 30 m
  • Included
  • Visit the Andorsen Estate, and learn about a genuine merchant townhouse
  • Meet the locals with a trip to Mandal’s picturesque shops, cafes and bakeries
  • Learn the history of Mandal’s Town Hall, home of the town scribe in 1766
Coastal Farmstead - Sustainable Living
  • Duration: 03 h 30 m
  • Optional
  • Get to know the ins and outs of how coastal farmers manage animal welfare, slow food production, and soil fertility
  • Wander through the surrounding area to find panoramic views of the Harkmark Fjord
  • Pop into the shop for locally made souvenirs to commemorate your day on the farm
Easy Mandal on foot
  • Duration: 01 h 30 m
  • Included
  • Learn about a genuine merchant townhouse
  • Meet the locals with a trip to Mandal’s picturesque shops, cafes and bakeries
  • Learn the history of Mandal’s Town Hall, home of the town scribe in 1766
The Essence of Mandal - on foot
  • Duration: 01 h 30 m
  • Included
  • Visit the Andorsen Estate, and learn about a genuine merchant townhouse
  • Meet the locals with a trip to Mandal’s picturesque shops, cafes and bakeries
  • Learn the history of Mandal’s Town Hall, home of the town scribe in 1766
Helgoland Day 10

You could easily miss this mesmerising German island, barely 2 km long and only 56 m above sea level, as we sail through the North Sea. Part of a tiny archipelago 50 km out from the River Elbe, the mostly grassy plateau surrounded by jagged red sandstone cliffs was a wartime naval base. Now a holiday getaway, visitors come for windswept walks and birdwatching. The town of Helgoland was rebuilt following wartime destruction - take a tour of the Festung Helgoland war tunnels.

Shore Excursion
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Helgoland Highlights
  • Duration: 02 h 00 m
  • Included
  • Drink in over 400 years of European history as you explore this tiny archipelago
  • Watch out for kittiwakes and common guillemots at Bird’s Rock, where 1000s of birds nest during early summer
  • Visit the Operation Big Bang blast site, listed by Guinness World Records as the location of the 'Largest single conventional explosion' ever recorded
Amsterdam Day 11

Our port is the gorgeous Dutch city where a boat cruise along the canals gets to the very heart of things, but where walking the narrow streets and over the hundreds of bridges is magical too. Discover a treasure trove of fabulous museums such as the Rijksmuseum, filled with Dutch Masters – and just around the corner from the Van Gogh Museum. While, south of the city, explore windmill-filled stretches of countryside canal.

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Rates Include
Regional flights to the port of embarkation and/or disembarkation (ONLY available for Antarctica cruises starting or ending in Ushuaia, Arctic cruises starting and ending in Longyearbyen and Kangerlussuaq)
Group return transfers from the airport to the cruise port (via our included accommodation where applicable)
One night pre-cruise accommodation with breakfast in a 4/5-star hotel or onboard
All meals onboard
Onboard accommodation in a stateroom selected category
24-hour room service
Coffee, tea, soft drinks and selected alcoholic beverages available 24-hours per day
Lecture programmes by our experienced expedition team and guest speakers
One selected shore excursion/expedition activities per port of call (Kayak not included, bookable for a fee on board)
Branded Swan Hellenic expedition parka and use of rubber boots in Polar Regions
Standard WiFi
Onboard gratuities & port taxes
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Itinerary Map

We are providing a list of sample excursions that Swan Hellenic may offer on this itinerary, which are subject to change. We constantly update our shore excursion program with exclusive and genuine experiences, so please do not hesitate to review your excursion program choice closer to your departure date.

We invite all guests to visit swanhellenic.com for the most updated information.

09:00 AM – 05:30 PM (EST)

+1 (800) 537 6777
ARRANGE A CALLBACK
Stateroom
Number of Guests
Oceanview D4
20 m2 Sleeps 2
Oceanview staterooms features 2 single beds, bedroom and living room and a luxurious ensuite bathroom.
Price From
$ 0
Oceanview M4
20 m2 Sleeps 2
Oceanview staterooms features 2 single beds, bedroom and living room and a luxurious ensuite bathroom.
Price From
$ 0
Balcony D5
28 m2 Sleeps 2
Located on decks 5, these balcony staterooms feature 2 single beds or a double bed, distinct bedroom and living room areas, a luxurious bathroom and your own private 6 sq. m balcony.
Price From
$ 0
Balcony M5
28 m2 Sleeps 2
Located on decks 5, these balcony staterooms feature 2 single beds or a double bed, distinct bedroom and living room areas, a luxurious bathroom and your own private 6 sq. m balcony.
Price From
$ 0
Balcony D6
28 m2 Sleeps 2
Located on decks 6, these balcony staterooms feature 2 single beds or a double bed, distinct bedroom and living room areas, a luxurious bathroom and your own private 6 sq. m balcony.
Price From
$ 0
Junior Suite
35 m2 Sleeps 2
SH Diana’s Junior Suite features a Super King Size bed, separate living room area, walk-in closet, luxurious ensuite bathroom, and a 7 sq. m private balcony.
Price From
$ 0
Suite
44 m2 Sleeps 2
Our Suites feature a Super King Size bed and separate living room with a soothing flame-effect fireplace, a luxurious ensuite bathroom, a walk-in closet, and a 6 sq. m. private balcony.
Price From
$ 0
Premium Suite
47 m2 Sleeps 2
SH Diana’s Premium Suites feature a Super King Size bed, separate living room with homely flame-effect fireplace, luxurious ensuite bathroom, spacious walk-in wardrobe and a 12 sq. m private balcony.
Price From
$ 0

We are providing a list of sample excursions that Swan Hellenic may offer on this itinerary, which are subject to change. We constantly update our shore excursion program with exclusive and genuine experiences, so please do not hesitate to review your excursion program choice closer to your departure date.

We invite all guests to visit swanhellenic.com for the most updated information.

09:00 AM – 05:30 PM (EST)

+1 (800) 537 6777
ARRANGE A CALLBACK