Astronomy Voyage | Bergen – Kirkenes – Bergen

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12 days from

£1869.92

* Current p/p indicative rate.

Overview
Highlights
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Itinerary
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Highlights

  • Discover more about the magical Northern Lights, the Arctic sky and the solar system with our onboard lectures from renowned astronomers; Ian Ridpath, John Mason, Sadie Jones and Tom Kerss.
  • Enjoy an exclusive visit to the Northern Lights Planetarium in Tromsø with our astronomy experts.
  • Voyage along Norway's coast under the dancing skies of the Northern Lights, visiting 34 ports, more than 100 fjords and 1,000 mountains.
  • Northern Lights Promise – see the Northern Lights or we’ll give you a FREE 6 or 7-day cruise for the next Northern Lights Season – T&Cs apply

Highlights

  • Discover more about the magical Northern Lights, the Arctic sky and the solar system with our onboard lectures from renowned astronomers; Ian Ridpath, John Mason, Sadie Jones and Tom Kerss.
  • Enjoy an exclusive visit to the Northern Lights Planetarium in Tromsø with our astronomy experts.
  • Voyage along Norway's coast under the dancing skies of the Northern Lights, visiting 34 ports, more than 100 fjords and 1,000 mountains.
  • Northern Lights Promise – see the Northern Lights or we’ll give you a FREE 6 or 7-day cruise for the next Northern Lights Season – T&Cs apply
Capacity: 525, Type: Expedition

Get unique insight and knowledge about the Arctic sky and the greatest light show on Earth, the Aurora Borealis, on this popular voyage along the mesmerising Norwegian Coast. This unique voyage is accompanied by special lecturers - experts on astronomy and expeditions to see the Northern Lights.

Through the series of lectures and a guided tour of the night sky from the deck of the ship, your lecturer will bring our galaxy’s stars, planets and meteors closer whilst also exploring the numerous myths and legends linked to the constellations in our skies.

  • Discover more about the magical Northern Lights, the Arctic sky and the solar system with our onboard lectures from renowned astronomers; Ian Ridpath, John Mason, Sadie Jones and Tom Kerss.
  • Enjoy an exclusive visit to the Northern Lights Planetarium in Tromsø with our astronomy experts.
  • Voyage along Norway's coast under the dancing skies of the Northern Lights, visiting 34 ports, more than 100 fjords and 1,000 mountains.
  • Northern Lights Promise – see the Northern Lights or we’ll give you a FREE 6 or 7-day cruise for the next Northern Lights Season – T&Cs apply
28 September, 2024 to 09 October, 2024 on Hurtigruten Ships
Prices

Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.

Arctic Superior. From
£ 3506 GBP pp
Arctic Superior. From
Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of our Arctic Superior cabins. Situated on both upper and middle deck, they all have bathrooms with shower and WC. They are also equipped with tea and coffee -making facilities. Most of them have separate beds, where one doubles as a sofa, and some have double beds. All the cabins have individual specifications.
Polar Inside. From
£ 2480 GBP pp
Polar Inside. From
Our cosy Polar inside cabins are on all decks and include bathrooms with shower/WC, separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, or upper and lower berths. All the cabins have individual specifications.
Polar Outside. From
£ 2822 GBP pp
Polar Outside. From
Our Polar outside cabins on the middle or lower decks all have bathrooms with shower/WC. Most of the cabins offer separate beds (one of which is a sofa bed) or upper and lower berths. All the cabins have individual specifications.
27 October, 2024 to 07 November, 2024 on Hurtigruten Ships
Prices

Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.

Arctic Superior. From
£ 3187 GBP pp
Arctic Superior. From
Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of our Arctic Superior cabins. Situated on both upper and middle deck, they all have bathrooms with shower and WC. They are also equipped with tea and coffee -making facilities. Most of them have separate beds, where one doubles as a sofa, and some have double beds. All the cabins have individual specifications.
Polar Inside. From
£ 2269 GBP pp
Polar Inside. From
Our cosy Polar inside cabins are on all decks and include bathrooms with shower/WC, separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, or upper and lower berths. All the cabins have individual specifications.
Polar Outside. From
£ 2575 GBP pp
Polar Outside. From
Our Polar outside cabins on the middle or lower decks all have bathrooms with shower/WC. Most of the cabins offer separate beds (one of which is a sofa bed) or upper and lower berths. All the cabins have individual specifications.
25 November, 2024 to 06 December, 2024 on Hurtigruten Ships
Prices

Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.

Polar Outside. From
£ 2108 GBP pp
Polar Outside. From
Our Polar outside cabins on the middle or lower decks all have bathrooms with shower/WC. Most of the cabins offer separate beds (one of which is a sofa bed) or upper and lower berths. All the cabins have individual specifications.
Polar Inside. From
£ 1869 GBP pp
Polar Inside. From
Our cosy Polar inside cabins are on all decks and include bathrooms with shower/WC, separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, or upper and lower berths. All the cabins have individual specifications.
Arctic Superior. From
£ 2583 GBP pp
Arctic Superior. From
Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of our Arctic Superior cabins. Situated on both upper and middle deck, they all have bathrooms with shower and WC. They are also equipped with tea and coffee -making facilities. Most of them have separate beds, where one doubles as a sofa, and some have double beds. All the cabins have individual specifications.
23 January, 2025 to 03 February, 2025 on Hurtigruten Ships
Prices

Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.

Arctic Superior. From
£ 3187 GBP pp
Arctic Superior. From
Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of our Arctic Superior cabins. Situated on both upper and middle deck, they all have bathrooms with shower and WC. They are also equipped with tea and coffee -making facilities. Most of them have separate beds, where one doubles as a sofa, and some have double beds. All the cabins have individual specifications.
Polar Outside. From
£ 2665 GBP pp
Polar Outside. From
Our Polar outside cabins on the middle or lower decks all have bathrooms with shower/WC. Most of the cabins offer separate beds (one of which is a sofa bed) or upper and lower berths. All the cabins have individual specifications.
Polar Inside. From
£ 2269 GBP pp
Polar Inside. From
Our cosy Polar inside cabins are on all decks and include bathrooms with shower/WC, separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, or upper and lower berths. All the cabins have individual specifications.
21 February, 2025 to 04 March, 2025 on Hurtigruten Ships
Prices

Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.

Polar Outside. From
£ 2685 GBP pp
Polar Outside. From
Our Polar outside cabins on the middle or lower decks all have bathrooms with shower/WC. Most of the cabins offer separate beds (one of which is a sofa bed) or upper and lower berths. All the cabins have individual specifications.
Arctic Superior. From
£ 3329 GBP pp
Arctic Superior. From
Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of our Arctic Superior cabins. Situated on both upper and middle deck, they all have bathrooms with shower and WC. They are also equipped with tea and coffee -making facilities. Most of them have separate beds, where one doubles as a sofa, and some have double beds. All the cabins have individual specifications.
Polar Inside. From
£ 2362 GBP pp
Polar Inside. From
Our cosy Polar inside cabins are on all decks and include bathrooms with shower/WC, separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, or upper and lower berths. All the cabins have individual specifications.
23 March, 2025 to 03 April, 2025 on Hurtigruten Ships
Prices

Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.

Polar Inside. From
£ 2441 GBP pp
Polar Inside. From
Our cosy Polar inside cabins are on all decks and include bathrooms with shower/WC, separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, or upper and lower berths. All the cabins have individual specifications.
Arctic Superior. From
£ 3447 GBP pp
Arctic Superior. From
Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of our Arctic Superior cabins. Situated on both upper and middle deck, they all have bathrooms with shower and WC. They are also equipped with tea and coffee -making facilities. Most of them have separate beds, where one doubles as a sofa, and some have double beds. All the cabins have individual specifications.
Polar Outside. From
£ 2776 GBP pp
Polar Outside. From
Our Polar outside cabins on the middle or lower decks all have bathrooms with shower/WC. Most of the cabins offer separate beds (one of which is a sofa bed) or upper and lower berths. All the cabins have individual specifications.
show reverse itinerary
DAY 1 : Bergen
All Aboard! Your astronomy adventure begins in Bergen, the cultural gateway to the fjords and the second-largest city in Norway. If you’ve time before your ship departs, visit the UNESCO-listed wharfs of the colourful Bryggen district with its artisan shops and cobblestone streets. Just across the street is the famous Fish Market which serves delicious seafood or venture to the Fløibanen funicular which whisks you up Mount Fløyen for breath-taking views of the city. Make yourself at home onboard the ship and enjoy the relaxed ambience, taking the opportunity to meet your fellow guests and astronomers.
DAY 2 : Ålesund
A day for masterpieces Arrive at the Art Nouveau town of Ålesund, renowned for its stunning and picturesque architecture. Take time to explore the city and its rich Norse history or visit Atlanterhavsparken, one of the largest saltwater aquariums in Northern Europe. You can also make your way up to small Mount Aksla for a panorama of the town and its picturesque position surrounded by islands. In the afternoon, we reach the port of Molde and the amazing view of 222 mountain peaks across the fjord, called the ‘Molde Panorama’.
DAY 3 : Trondheim
The Royal City of Trondheim As we journey north, we reach the medieval city of Trondheim, a vibrant mix of historic civic architecture and a bustling student population. Nidaros Cathedral is considered one of the most sacred buildings in all of Norway and rightly nicknamed ‘Norway’s Notre Dame’. Whilst here, take the time to visit the Archbishop’s Palace to view Norway’s crown jewels. Not far from Nidaros Cathedral is Gamle Bybro, a charming wooden bridge that sits over River Nid and marks the entrance to the old Hanseatic district of Bakklandet. This neighbourhood features colourful wooden wharves that stand on stilts and host some of the city’s most trendy eateries, making Bakklandet a key destination for all foodies.
DAY 4 : Arctic Circle and Lofoten Islands
Welcome to the Arctic! In the early hours of the morning, the ship crosses the Arctic Circle and enters the Arctic. Join us out on deck to mark the moment with a traditional ceremony that will be sure to wake you up fully! Above the Arctic Circle, your chances of spotting the majestic Northern Lights increase. As we call into the northern city of Bodø, gaze up at the snow-capped Børvass peaks before experiencing the fabulous street art this city has to offer. From here, we continue across the Vestfjord and towards the Lofoten archipelago which greets you with the stunning sight of the 1,000 metre-high Lofoten Wall
DAY 5 : Stokmarknes and Tromsø
Expand your Northern Lights knowledge Welcome to the historic Arctic exploration capital of Tromsø, a hive of culture, history and Northern Lights knowledge. Today you will visit the Science Museum of Northern Norway, learning more about the Northern Lights through a range of exhibits and installations. As part of this trip, you’ll stop at The Planetarium and its full-dome ceiling offering 360-degree views and high-quality digital projectors showing daily films about 'Experiencing the Aurora' and the constellations. Our expert astronomers will be joining you on the trip so make sure to ask them lots of questions!
DAY 6 : Honningsvåg
The Northern Lights and the North Cape As we reach Honningsvåg, at the top of the European mainland, be sure to visit the globe monument at the North Cape. This is a popular excursion, so make sure you book early! From Honningsvåg, look out for the striking rock formation called Finnkirka near the entrance to Kjøllefjord village. The building-like pillars were once an ancient sacrificial site for the indigenous nomadic Sámi people who still inhabit and herd reindeer in the region today. As we continue north towards Kirkenes, we sail past Slettnes Lighthouse, the northernmost lighthouse in continental Europe.
DAY 7 : Kirkenes
To the top and back again By breakfast, we will have reached the top of Norway and the town of Kirkenes, situated just a few kilometres from the Russian border. The area still retains many influences from Norway’s neighbour, from signs in both Norwegian and Russian to a monthly Russian market. There is the option to visit the border town of Storskog for views over both countries. It is at this point of our coastal voyage that we turn and return south. The ports we visited at night are now seen during the day for a full Norwegian coastal experience.
DAY 8 : Hammerfest and Tromsø
The extreme north Once the northernmost town in the world, (before Longyearbyern, Svalbard) Hammerfest is a key destination for Astronomy lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Be sure to trek up Mount Salen, for views over the town and picturesque landscapes. You can also take a moment to see the UNESCO-listed Meridian Column which commemorates the first-ever measurement of the globe. As we sail, keep your eyes open for the Northern Lights, but you might also spot pods of Orcas and Humpback Whales migrating to these waters to feed on herring.
DAY 9 : Vesterålen and Lofoten Islands
Welcome to Lofoten Passing through the legendary Lofoten and Vesterålen archipelagos, the ship negotiates an intricate network of inlets and isles through one of the most beautiful stretches of the Norwegian coast. From here, the coastal landscape changes from rolling hills to soaring mountains. Along this stretch of coastline is where The Hurtigruten Coastal Express story began, in the coastal town of Stokmarknes in 1893. Don’t miss the newly opened Hurtigrutemuseet in Stokmarknes, a museum dedicated to The Coastal Express housed in the full-sized and fully restored ship MS Finnmarken from 1952.
DAY 10 : Arctic Circle, Seven Sisters
A date with the Seven Sisters Leave behind the magic of the Arctic Circle and head towards the ports of Bodø and Ørnes. Marvel at the Seven Sisters mountain range where local legend has it seven beautiful troll princesses, fleeing from an unwanted suitor, got caught out as the sun rose, turning them into the seven beautiful mountains you see today. The landscapes will continue to amaze you! Don’t miss views of the Torghatten Mountain, with its distinctive hole right through the centre. There is a local legend as to why and how this mountain came to have such a hole. Make sure you ask your Coastal Guide about it!
DAY 11 : Trondheim and Kristiansund
The old cities and the sea An early morning arrival in Trondheim will give you time to further explore the city and discover any sites you might have missed on the northbound section of the journey. Some insider advice: treat yourself to a barista-brewed coffee and Nordic patisserie in one of the many cafés in the Bakklandet district before walking up to Kristiansten Fort for great views over the city. In the afternoon, we dock at Kristiansund, a quaint harbour town spread over three islands. Meander along the cobbled streets of the old town and be sure to sample the local delicacy of klippfisk, salted cod that’s dried on the surrounding cliffs.
DAY 12 : Bergen
The final chapter of the fairytale A few nautical miles are left between you and Bergen today as your Astronomy Voyage draws to a close. Before we say our goodbyes, we voyage across the mouth of Sognefjord, the longest and widest fjord in the whole of Norway. As we arrive in Bergen, it’s time to say goodbye to the Captain, crew and astronomers who have accompanied you on this unique voyage along Norway’s spectacular coastline. However, if you aren’t ready to leave Norway just yet, there are plenty of extension options that will make your trip that extra bit more special.
Please Note:
The day-by-day programme will give you a few ideas about what you can see and do on your coastal voyage in Norway, but bear in mind that this itinerary is just an indication of what you can experience. After all, this is a sailing where the elements rule and weather conditions might vary, which is why every voyage is unique.
Hurtigruten Ships
All of our ships include large lounges and deck space affording perfect views to the changing scenery, creating a proximity to nature throughout the ship. This atmosphere give you the energy to parti…

Hurtigruten Ships

All of our ships include large lounges and deck space affording perfect views to the changing scenery, creating a proximity to nature throughout the ship. This atmosphere give you the energy to participate on our on board activities and excursions, that take you even closer to the coast.

On all our ships you will find a wide range of comfortable cabins, from exclusive suites with their own balcony and extras, to cosy inside cabins. We have devided them into four categories; Expedition Suite, Arctic Superior, Polar Outside and Polar Inside with different amenities and extras. 

MS MIDNATSOL The name Midnatsol (Midnight Sun) is something to live up to, and this ship is dedicated to the Norwegian summer. The interior’s bright, colourful décor is inspired by the warm sunny climate, a motif also reflected in the many pieces of Norwegian modern art on display. SPECIAL FEATURES: • Two-story panorama lounge • 3 bars • Café • Library • Restaurant • Separate À la Carte dining room • Playroom • Sauna • Jacuzzi • Fitness room

MS TROLLFJORD The ship is named after the famous Trollfjord, and has a comfortable interior, with an extensive use of Norwegian wood and stone. SPECIAL FEATURES: • Two-story panorama lounge • 3 bars • Café • Library • Restaurant • Separate À la Carte dining room • Playroom • Sauna • Jacuzzi • Fitness room 

MS FINNMARKEN On board MS Finnmarken you find the relaxed Hurtigruten atmosphere combined with a bit of luxury. The ship is beautifully appointed and decorated in the Art Deco style. She is the only ship with both a swimming pool and Jacuzzi on deck. A special feature on the MS Finnmarken is the bow; from deck 5 you can actually go all the way to the tip. SPECIAL FEATURES: • Top deck features a panorama lounge • Fitness room • Sauna with a view • Deck 8 has a café with sitting space both inside and outside Bar • Playroom • Café • Restaurant on deck 5 and separate À la Carte dining room

MS NORDNORGE Nord-Norge means the northern part of Norway, mostly situated north of the Arctic Circle. The interior décor reflects an Art Nouveau and Art Deco influence. MS Nordnorge is one of our three expeditions ships, meaning she take guest on more active voyages along the coast. SPECIAL FEATURES: • Sun deck • Expedition ship • Expedition team • Extra lectures • Extra activities • Extra excursions • Large panorama and observation lounge with great views • Restaurant • Café • Library

MS NORDKAPP MS Nordkapp is named after one of the highlights of the Hurtigruten voyage, the northernmost point of mainland Europe, the North Cape (71ºN). She is one of our expedition ships. There will be interesting lectures inside the ship, and out on the sun deck. Topic will depend on season and waters we sail in. SPECIAL FEATURES: • Sun deck • Expedition ship • Expedition team • Extra lectures • Extra activities • Extra excursions • Large panorama and observation lounge with great views • Restaurant • Café • Library

MS POLARLYS Polarlys is the Norwegian word for polar light. MS Polarlys is a stylish and furnished with mahogany panelling, polished brass, and a selection of Norwegian contemporary art. SPECIAL FEATURES: • Sun deck • Large panorama and observation lounge with great views • Restaurant • Café • Library

MS NORDLYS Expedition ship MS Nordlys is named after spectacular natural phenomena; the Northern Lights (or Aurora Borealis). The ships art, décor and colours are all inspired by the Northern Lights phenomenon. SPECIAL FEATURES: • Expedition ship • Expedition team • Extra lectures • Extra activities • Extra excursions • Large panorama and observation lounge with great views • Restaurant • Café • Library

MS RICHARD WITH MS Richard With is named after Captain Richard With. His establishment of the Norwegian Coastal Express back in 1893 had an enormous impact on life along the Norwegian coast. SPECIAL FEATURES: • Sun deck • Large panorama and observation lounge with great views • Restaurant • Café • Bar • Fitness room

MS KONG HARALD Although this ship is named after King Harald of Norway, you will find other famous Norwegians on board as well: The bar is named after the Norwegian polar pioneer Fridtjof Nansen and the café is named after explorer Roald Amundsen. SPECIAL FEATURES: • Sun deck • Large panorama and observation lounge with great views • Fitness room • Restaurant • Café • Library

MS VESTERÅLEN MS Vesterålen is characterised by her bright, cheerful public areas and lounges. SPECIAL FEATURES: • Panorama lounge • Smaller lounges in the front and back of the ship • Café • Restaurant

MS LOFOTEN MS Lofoten, our old time favourite, was launched in Oslo in 1964, and provides you a voyage of real nostalgia and intimate informal atmosphere. SPECIAL FEATURES: • Special programme that enhances the heritage of Hurtigruten and the feeling of the 60s • Four-course special made dinners • Activities specially made for voyages with MS Lofoten • Two sun decks • Panorama lounge • Bar and Café • Extra lounge in the aft.

Please Note : the deckplap below is the Nordcapp and the deckplans vary.

Cabin layout for Hurtigruten Ships
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12 days from £1869.92

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