Norwegian Fjords & Northern Lights Cruise 14-Day Trip Itinerary

Cruise Embarkation

Arrive at the port of Southampton (or similar UK departure port), complete check-in procedures, and board your Fred.

Olsen cruise ship. Settle into your cabin.

Mandatory Safety Drill

Participate in the essential safety briefing and muster drill to familiarize yourself with emergency procedures.

Sail Away from Port

Enjoy the 'sail away' experience from the ship's deck, watching the coastline recede as you begin your journey across the North Sea.

Welcome Dinner

Enjoy your first dinner onboard in one of the ship's main dining rooms.

A chance to meet fellow travelers.

Evening Entertainment

Catch an evening show or live music performance in the ship's lounge or theatre.

Breakfast Onboard

Start your day with breakfast, choosing from buffet or a la carte options.

Morning Leisure & Ship Exploration

Spend the morning at your leisure, exploring the ship's facilities, relaxing by the pool, or reading in a quiet lounge.

Lunch Onboard

Enjoy lunch at one of the ship's casual dining venues.

Northern Lights Lecture

Attend an informative lecture on the Aurora Borealis, learning about the science behind this natural phenomenon and best viewing practices.

Traditional Afternoon Tea

Indulge in a classic afternoon tea experience with sandwiches, scones, and pastries.

Dinner & Evening

Enjoy dinner, followed by an evening of onboard entertainment or a quiet drink in a bar.

Spa & Fitness Centre

Utilize the ship's spa facilities, gym, or participate in a fitness class.

Library & Quiet Time

Find a quiet spot in the ship's library to read a book or enjoy the ocean views.

Casual Lunch

Have a relaxed lunch at one of the ship's buffet or specialty restaurants.

Onboard Activity/Class

Participate in an organized onboard activity such as a craft workshop, bridge game, or dance class.

Deck Stroll & Ocean Views

Take a refreshing stroll on the outer decks, enjoying the vast expanse of the ocean as you head north.

Pre-Dinner Drinks

Enjoy a cocktail or aperitif in one of the ship's elegant bars before dinner.

Dinner & Socializing

Savor another delicious dinner and perhaps join a trivia night or listen to live music.

Breakfast with a View

Enjoy breakfast while admiring the first distant views of the dramatic Norwegian coastline.

Photography Workshop

Attend a workshop focused on landscape and Northern Lights photography to prepare for optimal photo opportunities.

Lunch Onboard

Casual lunch at your preferred onboard dining venue.

Norwegian Culture & History

Learn about Norway's rich history, Viking heritage, and modern culture through an engaging onboard presentation.

Afternoon Tea & Relaxation

Enjoy afternoon tea, followed by time to relax and anticipate your arrival in Norway.

Northern Lights Opportunity Briefing

Receive an update on potential Northern Lights activity for the evening and tips for viewing from the deck.

Dinner & Stargazing

Enjoy dinner, then head to the open decks for stargazing and potential Northern Lights viewing if conditions are favorable.

Arrival in Bergen

Wake up to stunning views as your ship docks in Bergen, Norway's picturesque second-largest city, nestled among seven mountains and fjords.

Explore Bryggen Wharf & Fish Market

Walk through the historic Bryggen Wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage site with its colorful wooden houses.

Visit the bustling Bergen Fish Market nearby.

Lunch in Bergen

Enjoy a traditional Norwegian lunch at a local restaurant in Bergen, perhaps sampling fresh seafood.

Rodne Fjord Cruise Bergen

Embark on a scenic fjord cruise from Zachariasbryggen in Bergen, experiencing the beautiful Mostraumen fjord.

This roundtrip takes you through narrow fjords, past waterfalls, and stunning landscapes.

Book tickets in advance, especially during peak season. Dress warmly as it can be chilly on deck.

Dinner Onboard

Return to the ship for dinner and reflect on your first port of call in Norway.

Depart Bergen & Night Sailing

Enjoy the evening as the ship departs Bergen, beginning its journey further north along the coast.

Arrive in Tromsø

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

Enjoy the scenic approach to this northernmost city.

Prepare for cooler temperatures. Dress in layers.

Visit Polaria

Explore Polaria, the world's northernmost aquarium and experience center.

Learn about Arctic wildlife, climate, and environmental challenges. Don't miss the panoramic cinema.

Located close to the city center and cruise terminal.

Arctic Cathedral Visit

Admire the unique architecture of the Arctic Cathedral (Ishavskatedralen), a modern masterpiece inspired by Arctic nature. Its striking design makes it a famous landmark.

Accessible by a short bus ride or pleasant walk across the bridge from the city center.

Dinner Onboard

Enjoy a delicious dinner onboard your Fred.

Olsen cruise ship, reflecting on your first day in Tromsø.

Check daily program for dinner sittings and dress code.

Northern Lights Watch (Tromsø)

Step out on deck or find a vantage point to look for the magical Aurora Borealis.

Tromsø is ideally located within the Northern Lights Oval.

Bundle up warmly! Ship announcements will often be made if the lights are visible. Consider an optional shore excursion for a darker viewing spot (booked separately).

Morning Fjord Exploration

Option to join a short morning fjord cruise from Tromsø.

Experience the calm waters, picturesque islands, and stunning Arctic landscapes. Look out for local wildlife.

Several local operators offer shorter fjord tours, perfect for experiencing the scenery without leaving the port far. Check with your cruise line for available shore excursions or local providers.

Fjellheisen Cable Car

Ascend Mount Storsteinen via the Fjellheisen cable car for breathtaking panoramic views of Tromsø, the surrounding fjords, and islands. A perfect photo opportunity!

The lower station is a short bus ride from the city center. Dress warmly as it can be windy at the top. There's a café at the summit.

Polar Museum

Delve into Norway's polar history at the Polar Museum, showcasing Arctic hunting, trapping, and the famous expeditions of Nansen and Amundsen.

Located in a historic customs warehouse by the harbor. Informative and engaging displays.

Local Tromsø Dinner

Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local Tromsø restaurant, savoring fresh seafood or traditional Norwegian dishes.

Tromsø offers a range of excellent restaurants. Reservations may be advisable for popular spots.

Optional Northern Lights Excursion

Join a dedicated shore excursion (booked through the cruise line or local operator) to chase the Northern Lights away from city lights.

Options include bus tours, husky sledding, or catamaran tours.

This significantly increases your chances of a clear viewing. Tour operators often provide warm suits and hot drinks. Availability of specific tours may depend on weather and demand.

Morning Scenic Cruising

Enjoy a leisurely morning onboard as your ship sails along the stunning Arctic coastline towards Alta.

Take in the dramatic fjords, scattered islands, and remote coastal villages.

Find a cozy spot on deck or in a panoramic lounge to watch the scenery unfold. Keep an eye out for seabirds and marine life.

Arctic Wonders Lecture

Attend an informative lecture onboard, perhaps about Norwegian culture, Arctic wildlife, or the science behind the Aurora Borealis, enhancing your understanding of the region.

Check the ship's daily program for specific topics and times.

Afternoon Tea

Indulge in a delightful afternoon tea service, a classic cruise tradition, complete with sandwiches, pastries, and hot beverages.

A perfect way to relax and socialize.

Dinner Onboard

Enjoy another exquisite dinner onboard as the ship continues its journey north.

A great opportunity to mingle with fellow passengers and share experiences.

Northern Lights Watch (At Sea)

Seek out the Northern Lights from the open decks of the ship.

Being away from land-based light pollution can offer excellent viewing opportunities if conditions are right.

The captain will often make announcements if the Aurora is spotted. Remember your camera settings for low light photography!

Arrive in Alta

The ship arrives in Alta, a city known for its UNESCO World Heritage rock art and as a prime Northern Lights destination.

Prepare for shore excursions. Alta is surrounded by stunning Arctic wilderness.

Alta Museum & Rock Art Centre

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Rock Art Centre at Alta Museum.

Discover thousands of prehistoric rock carvings and paintings, some dating back 7,000 years, depicting ancient Arctic life.

The outdoor rock art sites are accessible via boardwalks. Dress appropriately for walking outdoors in potentially cold weather.

Lunch Onboard or Local

Enjoy lunch back on the ship or find a local café in Alta to sample some local fare.

Many cafes and eateries are available in Alta if you choose to dine ashore.

Optional Arctic Experience: Sorrisniva or Dog Sledding

Choose an optional afternoon excursion.

Visit the Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel (seasonal opening, check if open in early October) for its ice art, or experience an exhilarating dog sledding adventure (dependent on snow conditions, sometimes wheeled carts are used in early season).

These are popular shore excursions; book in advance through your cruise line or local tour operators. Pricing will vary significantly.

Prime Northern Lights Hunt Excursion (Alta)

Embark on a dedicated Northern Lights excursion from Alta, known for its stable climate and clear skies. Often involves a bus trip to a remote, dark location, sometimes with a campfire and hot drinks.

Alta is considered one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. This excursion is highly recommended for maximizing your chances. Dress in extreme layers, often thermal suits are provided.

Departure from Alta

Your cruise ship sets sail from Alta, beginning its journey south.

Enjoy the last views of Arctic Norway's dramatic coastline.

This marks the transition from the deep Arctic north to the stunning fjords further south.

Morning Scenic Cruising

Relax on deck or in a panoramic lounge as the ship navigates through beautiful fjords and past picturesque coastal scenery.

Take this time to relax, read, or reflect on your Arctic adventures.

Afternoon Leisure & Ship Amenities

Enjoy the ship's amenities: perhaps a visit to the spa, a swim in the pool, or simply relaxing in a lounge.

Participate in any onboard activities or talks offered.

The cruise offers various facilities to ensure a comfortable and entertaining journey.

Farewell Arctic Dinner

Enjoy a special dinner onboard, celebrating the experiences in Arctic Norway and anticipating the next part of your journey through the Norwegian Fjords.

Check for any special themed dinners or entertainment in the evening.

Evening Entertainment Onboard

Enjoy the ship's evening entertainment, which might include live music, a show, or a movie.

A relaxing end to your time in Arctic Norway.

Arrival in Bergen

The ship docks in Bergen, often referred to as the 'Gateway to the Fjords'.

Prepare for a day of exploring this beautiful city.

Check the ship's daily program for exact docking times and shuttle bus services if available.

Explore Bryggen

Wander through the historic wharf area of Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage site with its distinctive colorful wooden houses.

Many shops and cafes open on Sundays, though some smaller ones might have reduced hours. Wear comfortable shoes for cobblestone streets.

Mount Fløyen Funicular

Take the Fløibanen funicular up Mount Fløyen for panoramic views of Bergen, the surrounding fjords, and islands.

Tickets can be purchased at the station or online. Consider combining with a short walk on top of the mountain.

Mostraumen Fjord Cruise

Embark on a scenic fjord cruise from Bergen to Mostraumen, experiencing stunning landscapes, narrow fjords, and waterfalls.

Rødne Fjord Cruise offers year-round departures. Book in advance, especially for a Sunday.

Dinner Onboard

Enjoy a delicious dinner in one of the ship's restaurants.

Arrival in Stavanger

The cruise ship arrives in Stavanger, a city known for its charming old town and proximity to the famous Lysefjord.

Check the ship's daily program for exact docking times. Stavanger port is typically close to the city center.

Lysefjord & Preikestolen Cruise

Take a breathtaking fjord cruise into the Lysefjord, passing majestic waterfalls, idyllic islands, and seeing the iconic Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) from below.

Rødne Fjord Cruise is a highly-rated option for Lysefjord tours. Booking in advance is recommended.

Stroll Through Old Stavanger

Explore Gamle Stavanger (Old Stavanger), a charming district with narrow cobblestone streets and well-preserved white wooden houses.

Perfect for a leisurely walk and photography. Many small galleries and artisan shops are open on Mondays.

Norwegian Petroleum Museum

Visit the Norwegian Petroleum Museum to learn about Norway's oil and gas history, a crucial part of its modern economy.

An interesting and interactive museum, suitable for all ages. Check opening hours for Monday afternoons.

Farewell Norwegian Dinner

Enjoy a special dinner onboard as the ship begins its journey back to the UK.

Leisurely Breakfast

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast onboard as the ship cruises back across the North Sea.

Spa & Wellness Session

Indulge in a morning at the ship's spa, perhaps with a massage or a relaxing dip in the thermal suite.

Spa treatments often require advance booking and incur additional charges.

Guest Speaker Presentation

Attend a fascinating lecture by a guest speaker, often covering topics related to the region visited, wildlife, or maritime history.

Check the ship's daily program for today's topic and speaker.

Traditional Afternoon Tea

Enjoy a classic British afternoon tea experience onboard, complete with sandwiches, scones, and pastries.

This is often a complimentary Fred. Olsen experience.

Captain's Farewell Cocktails & Dinner

Dress up for the Captain's farewell cocktail party, followed by a special dinner to celebrate the end of your memorable cruise.

This is usually a formal or smart casual evening. Check the dress code for the night.

Final Breakfast Onboard

Enjoy one last breakfast on the ship as it sails towards its home port.

Luggage Collection & Checkout

Follow the ship's instructions for collecting your luggage and completing the disembarkation process.

Ensure you have all personal belongings and any outstanding bills are settled. The time for disembarkation will be staggered by deck or group.

Disembarkation in UK Port

Depart the cruise ship at its arrival port (e.

g., Southampton, Dover, or Newcastle) in the United Kingdom, concluding your incredible Norwegian Fjords and Northern Lights adventure.

Arrangements for onward travel (trains, taxis, transfers) should be made in advance. Immigration and customs procedures will take place upon arrival.