Ultimate Norway at Christmas - Arctic Expedition under the Northern Lights (2027/28)

Discover the gateway to the Arctic

Tromsø was the base for many historic Arctic expeditions, 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 High Arctic.

If you arrive early in Tromsø, take the opportunity to ride the Fjellheisen cable car for wide views over this city, located some 200 miles north of the Arctic Circle. Stroll past the modernist Arctic Cathedral, duck into cosy cafés glowing with festive lights, and keep one eye on the water: whales are sometimes spotted offshore.

The scenic Lyngenfjord

Over the next week we’ll be exploring four distinct regions in depth, each with its own outstanding features and unique beauty. The first such region we’re likely to visit is Lyngen.

Stretching out to just about 50 miles long is Lyngenfjord, a region of dramatic mountains and valleys, framed by the glacier-capped Lyngen Alps. It’s an incredible place for winter activities. Conditions permitting, you can tackle a hike, try snowshoeing, kayak in the icy waters, or join nature landings where you might spot otters and potentially even orcas and humpback whales.

Later, it’s time for a real treat. Inspired by Norway’s friluftsliv, a 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 Flavours 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.

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.

We plan to visit the historic settlement of Tranoya for a unique experience with some warm Scandinavian hospitality. Learn about ancient Viking culture and modern life in the remote villages of Arctic Norway during the winter months.

In December and January, we’ll sometimes be sailing in the dark and at dusk during the day – but this will only enhance our experience, with glittering snowscapes illuminated by the low sun and the starlight.

Enjoy an exclusive adventure

Vesterålen awaits us with its beautiful snow-covered landscapes, ideal for expedition activities such as snowshoe hiking, small boat cruising and kayaking. We plan to spend two days in this region.

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.

Enjoy an exclusive adventure

Vesterålen awaits us with its beautiful snow-covered landscapes, ideal for expedition activities such as snowshoe hiking, small boat cruising and kayaking. We plan to spend two days in this region.

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.

Get to know Lofoten in more detail

Sailing from Vesterålen to Svolvær, your Captain and Expedition Leader will chart the day’s route based on conditions and opportunities, ensuring we make the most of what the region has to offer.

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 beached between towering mountains and picturesque fishing communities are all ideal to visit with a small ship like MS Spitsbergen.

One such community is Svolvær. As Christmas nears, the streets and homes are decorated with beautiful lights – wander around and simply soak up the festive atmosphere.

To top it off, you’ll also get to enjoy your second special experience, a Nordic Sauna and Polar Plunge. Embrace a revitalising Norwegian tradition as you relax in the warmth of a sauna before taking a thrilling polar plunge.

A Jul to remember

In Norway, Christmas Eve is the first day of Christmas – or Jul, as the Norwegians say. We’ll enjoy a lovely day as we sail around the Lofoten Islands, seeking out landings to get closer to nature – perhaps it will be a beach covered in snow! We may head out in our small expedition boats to explore between remote islands or even get out the kayaks.

Later, on board, you’ll feel the Christmas spirit all around you. Decorations, Christmas singing, storytelling, hot chocolate and gløgg - could there be a better place to be at this special time of year? In the evening you’ll enjoy a special Norwegian-themed dinner – or julebord – and afterwards the celebrations will continue.

Enjoy Christmas Day in serene Norwegian beauty

Today is Christmas Day, and we’ll continue to enjoy the uniquely festive onboard atmosphere, but with added adventure. We’ll stay sheltered in the deep fjords as we make our way back towards Tromsø – at each turn there will be a new island or mountain. Along the way we have plenty of time to scout out landing sites in our small expedition boats, and to go on nature walks and take part in other activities.

The scenery continues to be stunning as we pass through these inner waters, with the magical winter light playing softly on the sea and mountains. We also pass through areas where we’re likely to see whales. While on board, enjoy the Arctic scenery from the ship, warm up in the sauna or join the Expedition Team to listen to talks and attend discovery sessions in the Science Centre.

Another opportunity to explore Tromsø

Your Christmas expedition cruise ends back in Tromsø. If you didn’t have an opportunity to explore this beautiful town before the cruise, make sure you do now. There’s so much to see and do here.