Nordic Navigator – From Norway’s Wilds to Scotland’s Isles

Discover the gateway to the Arctic

Backed by snowy mountains, lively Tromsø is the perfect place from which to set out on an adventure. It was the base for many a historic Arctic expedition, including those of Roald Amundsen, and its situation 250 miles north of the Polar Circle has led to it being called the ‘Gateway to the Arctic’.  Just like the legendary explorers, now it is your turn to set a course for the Arctic.

If you arrive early in Tromsø, we recommend exploring the city before joining your cruise.  There’s plenty to see, such as the Polar Museum, where you’ll learn about the city’s exploration heritage. And make sure to visit the striking Arctic Cathedral – with its huge stained-glass window. For those who’d like a little extra adventure, why not take a look at our Pre-Program.

Discover Norway in miniature

Senja is Norway’s second-largest island, and it’s sometimes called Norway-in-miniature. With its rugged mountains, sandy beaches, dark forests, and idyllic fishing villages, you can see how it earned this name. Free-roaming reindeer wander around the island, so keep an eye out for them.

Here, we’ll visit a local community and experience some warm Scandinavian hospitality. We'll learn about ancient Viking culture and modern life in remote villages in Arctic Norway during the winter months.

Later, it’s time for a real treat. Inspired by Norway’s friluftsliv, or deep love for the great outdoors, we’ll gather on the beach and enjoy the warmth of a bonfire on our Day to Dusk – Flames and Flavors experience. With hot drinks in hand and Norwegian treats cooked by our onboard chefs, you’ll really feel at one with nature. If we’re lucky, perhaps the Northern Lights will put on a display for us.

Some of the time, we’ll be sailing in the dark and at dusk – but this will only enhance our experience, with glittering snowscapes illuminated by the low sun and the starlight.

Enjoy an exclusive adventure

As we sail towards Vesterålen, the Expedition Team will seek out the best place for a nature landing, perhaps at one of the many fine beaches likely covered in pristine snow. We may head out in our small expedition boats to explore between remote islands or get out the kayaks.

Vesterålen awaits with its beautiful snow-covered landscapes, ideal for expedition activities such as snowshoe hiking, small boat cruising, and kayaking.

It’s here that we have our special Into the Night – Dinner at the Museum experience at Hurtigrutemuseet, the Hurtigruten Museum. You’ll enjoy an exclusive opening of this heritage setting and dine amid historical artefacts in the old dining room of the ship, MS Finnmarken.

Experience dramatic panoramas

Sailing from Vesterålen to Lofoten, if conditions allow, we’ll venture into Trollfjord, where narrow waters are framed by sheer-sided cliffs. Or we’ll cruise between rugged peaks through the Raftsundet Strait. Whatever route we take, you’ll be immersed in striking scenery. And as we navigate dramatic fjords, the mountains rise so close to the ship you’ll feel like you could reach out and touch them.

In winter, the Lofoten Islands transform into a snow-covered wonderland. Narrow fjords, hidden beaches between towering mountains, and picturesque fish communities are all ideal for a visit with a small ship like MS Spitsbergen.

One such community is Svolvaer, where you’ll enjoy your second special experience, a Nordic Sauna and Polar Plunge. Embrace a revitalizing Norwegian tradition as you relax in the warmth of a sauna before taking a thrilling polar plunge.

Discover Norway's second-largest glacier

Today, we'll sail into Holandsfjord off the rugged Helgeland coast, and head towards Svartisen glacier. Covering 230 square miles and with 60 ‘tongues’, this incredible geographical feature is Norway’s second largest glacier after Jostedalsbreen.

Meaning ‘black ice’, the epic Svartisen is made up of two separate glaciers, Vestisen and the Østisen, which are divided by the 0.6-mile-long Vesterdalen valley. The ice color can range from turquoise to dark blue, although never quite black.

If conditions allow, your Expedition Team will land at a local jetty and lead you ashore, where we’ll take a hike to get a closer view of this incredible glacier.

Relax at sea as we head toward Scotland’s Shetland Islands

As we make our way south through the sheltered fjords, the soul-stirring scenery continues. Passing through the inner waters, see how the soft winter sun casts its magical spell across the snow-dusted landscape and soaring mountains.

Take some time to relax and enjoy the facilities of your expedition ship. Soak up the scenery out on deck, warm up in the sauna, or join your Expedition Team for fascinating talks and demonstrations in the Science Center.

As we get closer to Scotland’s Northern Isles, we’ll enter the waters of the North Sea.

Discover Scotland's most northerly inhabited isles

Today we reach the most northern outpost of the British Isles, docking at the capital of Scotland’s Shetland Islands, Lerwick. These islands have a rich heritage, and local people are justifiably proud of it. You’ll see references to monuments and times past wherever you go.

After our crossing of the Norwegian Sea, find your land legs again walking around this friendly Victorian-influenced fishing town. Wander around the town’s narrow lanes and discover little shops selling locally made products such as whiskies, woolen sweaters and fudge. By the old waterfront you’ll find the Shetland Museum, charting the area's rich history. Nearby you can see Fort Charlotte and the regal-looking Town Hall.

Learn about Kirkwall's Norse heritage

Today we arrive at the Orkney Islands' largest town, Kirkwall. Explore this vibrant, Viking-influenced island capital, which is still compact enough to cover on foot.

Visit the regal St Magnus Cathedral, made from distinctive local red sandstone, and the adjacent Earl’s Palace to see the stone ruins of this once-grand Renaissance building. The famous Neolithic settlement of Skara Brae is also only a bus ride away.

Whisky aficionados will enjoy Kirkwall's Highland Park and Scapa distilleries for their unique single malts. Or if you fancy something a bit different, Orkney Distillery produces gin made from local Orcadian botanicals.

Relax and recap en route to Glasgow 

As your journey edges closer to its end, we sail south past the Hebridean Islands towards Glasgow.

Take this day at sea to indulge in your ship’s facilities one final time. Relax in the Explorer Lounge & Bar with newfound friends and recap the experiences you’ve had, or soak in the hot tubs and take in the last of the sea views. There’s also still time to visit the Science Centre and find out more about the things you’ve seen, or edit the images you’ve captured with tips from the onboard photographer.

End your voyage in Scotland's second city

For the last week and a half, we’ve traveled from the wilds of Arctic Norway to the islands of Scotland, and today our expedition comes to an end in Fairlie.

Lying on the shores of the Firth of Clyde, nestled against a backdrop of the North Ayrshire Hills, this area is known for its Viking heritage and scenic walks.  Wander the small community here or make your way back to vibrant Glasgow.

If you’re still in explorer mode, nearby Glasgow has plenty of things to offer the curious traveler.