Norwegian Fjords Cruise 10-Day Trip Itinerary

Flight to Bergen

Fly from your origin city (e.

g., London) to Bergen, Norway, the gateway to the fjords. Enjoy scenic views as you approach the Norwegian coast.

Ensure you arrive with ample time for transfer to the cruise terminal. Check flight details for exact timings.

Transfer to Cruise Port

Take a taxi or airport bus from Bergen Airport to the cruise terminal in Bergen city center.

The airport bus is a cost-effective and efficient option. Taxis are also readily available.

Embark on Fred. Olsen Ship

Board your Fred.

Olsen Cruise Line ship. Settle into your cabin, attend the mandatory safety briefing, and begin to explore the ship's amenities.

Have your boarding documents and passport ready. Luggage will be delivered to your cabin.

Welcome Dinner & Sailing

Enjoy your first dinner onboard as the ship departs Bergen and begins its journey north along the Norwegian coast.

Check your daily program for dining times and dress codes. This is a great opportunity to meet fellow passengers.

Breakfast with a View

Enjoy breakfast as the ship sails through stunning fjords, offering panoramic views of the dramatic Norwegian coastline, mountains, and waterfalls.

Ship Exploration & Leisure

Spend time exploring the ship's facilities, relax in a lounge with a book, or enjoy the outdoor decks.

Attend any introductory talks or activities offered onboard.

Traditional Afternoon Tea

Indulge in a traditional afternoon tea service, a hallmark of many Fred.

Olsen cruises, complete with sandwiches, scones, and pastries.

Dinner & Entertainment

Savor a delicious dinner in one of the ship's dining venues, followed by an evening of entertainment, perhaps a live show or music.

Northern Lights Watch

Head to the open deck or an observation lounge for your first opportunity to spot the Aurora Borealis, as the ship sails north into darker skies.

Dress warmly! The crew will often make announcements if the lights are visible.

Arrive in Ålesund

Wake up in the picturesque city of Ålesund, renowned for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1904.

Climb Aksla Viewpoint

Ascend the 418 steps to the top of Mount Aksla for breathtaking panoramic views of Ålesund, the surrounding islands, and the majestic fjords.

Alternatively, a tourist train or taxi can take you to the top. Wear comfortable shoes.

Stroll Through Art Nouveau Town

Wander through the charming streets of Ålesund, admiring the intricate facades and turrets of the Art Nouveau buildings. Visit local shops and cafes.

Consider visiting the Art Nouveau Centre for more insights into the city's unique architecture.

Visit Sunnmøre Museum

Explore the open-air Sunnmøre Museum, showcasing traditional Norwegian houses, boats, and cultural history from the region.

Dinner & Depart Ålesund

Enjoy dinner back on the ship as it departs Ålesund, continuing its journey northward.

Breakfast & Coastal Views

Start your day with breakfast while enjoying the continuous stunning scenery of the Norwegian coast as the ship sails further north.

Northern Lights Lecture

Attend an informative lecture onboard about the science, myths, and best viewing practices for the Aurora Borealis.

Relax & Onboard Activities

Take advantage of the ship's facilities – perhaps a spa treatment, a workout in the gym, or simply relaxing with a cup of coffee in a panoramic lounge.

Dinner & Pre-Aurora Prep

Enjoy dinner onboard.

Afterward, prepare for the evening's main event – the hunt for the Northern Lights. Check the weather forecast and aurora predictions.

Dedicated Aurora Viewing Session

Spend the late evening on deck, away from the ship's lights, to maximize your chances of witnessing the spectacular Northern Lights dancing across the Arctic sky.

Bring your camera and tripod for photography. The colder and clearer the sky, the better the chances. The ship's bridge crew often announces sightings.

Arrive in Trondheim

The ship docks in Trondheim, Norway's former capital, known for its rich history and beautiful wooden buildings.

Visit Nidaros Cathedral

Explore the impressive Nidaros Cathedral, a national sanctuary and the northernmost medieval cathedral in the world.

Admire its intricate Gothic architecture.

Consider a guided tour to fully appreciate its history and significance. Entrance fees apply.

Bakklandet District & Old Town Bridge

Stroll through the charming Bakklandet district, with its colorful wooden houses and artisan shops. Cross the iconic Old Town Bridge (Gamle Bybro) for picturesque views.

Enjoy a coffee or snack at one of the cozy cafes.

Ringve Museum of Music

Visit Ringve Museum, Norway's national museum of music and musical instruments, housed in a beautiful manor estate.

Interactive tours are often available. Check opening times as they can vary.

Dinner & Depart Trondheim

Enjoy dinner back on the ship as it prepares to depart Trondheim and continues its northward journey into the Arctic Circle.

Arrive in Tromsø

The ship arrives in Tromsø, often called the 'Gateway to the Arctic'.

Enjoy the scenic approach to this vibrant northern city.

Prepare for cooler temperatures. Excursions will be available from the ship.

Explore Arctic Cathedral

Visit the iconic Arctic Cathedral (Tromsdalen Kirke) known for its striking modern architecture and beautiful stained glass.

Accessible by local bus or short taxi ride from the city center. Check opening hours.

Polaria Arctic Museum

Discover Arctic wildlife and environmental research at Polaria, the world's northernmost aquarium, featuring bearded seals.

Watch the seal feeding and training sessions.

Fjellheisen Cable Car

Take the Fjellheisen cable car up Mount Storsteinen for breathtaking panoramic views of Tromsø and the surrounding fjords and islands.

Dress warmly as it can be windy and cold at the top.

Aurora Borealis Lecture

Attend an informative lecture on board about the science and folklore of the Northern Lights, preparing you for the evening's hunt.

Check the daily program for exact timing and location.

Northern Lights Watch

Head out on deck or to designated viewing areas to look for the magical Aurora Borealis as the ship cruises away from city lights.

Dress in layers and bring a hot drink. The ship will often make announcements if the lights are visible.

Scenic Cruising

Enjoy the breathtaking views as the ship navigates through stunning fjords towards Honningsvåg, the northernmost city on mainland Norway.

Keep an eye out for seabirds and marine life from the comfort of the ship's lounge or deck.

North Cape Excursion

Take an unforgettable shore excursion to the iconic North Cape (Nordkapp), the northernmost point of mainland Europe.

Visit the North Cape Hall and enjoy the dramatic cliff views.

This is a popular excursion and typically booked through the cruise line. Be prepared for strong winds and potentially snow.

Explore Honningsvåg

If time permits, take a short stroll through the small fishing town of Honningsvåg, known for its charming harbor and local shops.

Souvenir shops and local cafes are usually open when the ship is in port.

Northern Lights Viewing

Continue your quest for the Northern Lights from the ship's observation decks as you cruise further into the Arctic night.

The captain will often try to position the ship for optimal viewing conditions.

Arrive in Alta

The ship docks in Alta, a city renowned for its clear skies and excellent Northern Lights viewing conditions.

Alta is also famous for its UNESCO-listed rock carvings.

Excursions to the rock carvings and other local attractions will be available.

Alta Museum & Rock Art

Visit the Alta Museum, home to a large collection of prehistoric rock carvings dating back 2,000 to 6,200 years, offering insight into early Arctic life.

This is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The carvings are outdoors, so dress appropriately for the weather. Guided tours are often available.

Sami Cultural Experience

Participate in an optional excursion to learn about the indigenous Sami people, their reindeer herding traditions, and enjoy a warm drink in a lavvo (traditional tent).

This can be a truly enriching cultural experience. Book through the cruise line if offered.

Final Northern Lights Hunt

As the ship departs Alta, often considered one of the best places for Aurora viewing, join fellow passengers on deck for a final dedicated Northern Lights hunt.

Remember your camera with manual settings for the best Aurora photos. Bring a tripod if you have one.

Leisurely Cruising

Enjoy a relaxed morning onboard as the ship begins its southbound journey.

Take advantage of the ship's amenities.

Sleep in, enjoy a late breakfast, or find a cozy spot with a view.

Onboard Activities

Participate in various onboard activities such as quizzes, crafts, or attend a presentation about Norwegian culture or wildlife.

Check the ship's daily program for a full schedule.

Spa & Relaxation

Indulge in some well-deserved relaxation at the ship's spa facilities, perhaps a massage or some time in the sauna.

Treatments usually require advance booking and incur an additional cost.

Captain's Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a special Captain's Farewell Dinner, a highlight of the cruise, celebrating your journey through the Arctic.

Dress code may be smart casual or semi-formal. Check with the cruise line.

Last Chance for Aurora

Take one last opportunity to scan the skies for the Northern Lights as you sail south, reflecting on the incredible journey.

Even as you head south, conditions can still be favorable for a final glimpse.

Final Breakfast Onboard

Enjoy your last breakfast on the Fred.

Olsen cruise ship as you approach your disembarkation port.

Check your disembarkation instructions for specific meal times and luggage procedures.

Packing & Disembarkation

Complete your final packing and prepare to disembark the cruise ship in Bergen, concluding your incredible Northern Lights adventure.

Have your travel documents and any necessary customs forms ready. Luggage assistance will be available.

Onward Travel from Bergen

Arrange your transfer from Bergen port to the airport or your next accommodation, depending on your post-cruise plans.

Bergen airport (BGO) is well-connected. Consider spending an extra day or two exploring Bergen if your schedule allows.