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Day 1
London Tilbury (UK)
If you have time, explore the U.K.’s vibrant capital before heading to Tilbury port to embark your comfortable expedition ship, MS Maud. Once on board, you’ll pick up your complimentary expedition jacket, settle into your cabin, and attend a mandatory safety drill. When the ship sets sail, your Christmas and New Year’s adventure to the Arctic is officially underway! Later in the evening, we’ll call on the port of Harwich, which is one of the most important ports on the Essex coast. To celebrate the start of our journey, you’ll enjoy a local sea shanty performance before crossing the North Sea.
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Days 2-3
At Sea
You’ll have a truly memorable Christmas as we sail to Norway over the next two days. You can relax in the sauna, soak in a hot tub or listen to insightful lectures from the Expedition Team. They’ll share their extensive knowledge about the places, Christmas traditions, history, and natural phenomena you are likely to encounter. On Christmas Day, we’ll sit down to a meal inspired by the Christmas dinner that Norwegian explorer Fridtjof Nansen ate on his expedition to the North Pole in 1893. Washed down with a generous glass (or more) of local akevitt (snaps) and beer, this is one Christmas you’ll remember for years to come!
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Day 4
Loen (Norway)
Today marks the start of Romjulen, the quieter period between Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Many Norwegians head to the slopes to go skiing or sledding. You’ll be admiring the scenic winter landscapes as we sail into Norway’s sixth-longest fjord, Nordfjord. Thanks to the smaller size of our ship, you’ll get closer to the scenery and small communities Norway is famous for. One such place is Loen, a tiny fishing village dating back to pre-Viking times. In the shadow of the mighty Jostedalsbreen glacier, at the very heart of Nordfjord, Loen is the perfect place to explore the gorgeous surroundings.
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Day 5
At Sea
Relax in the ship’s Explorer Lounge or take in the scenery out on deck as we sail through Helgeland county, home to the Seven Sisters mountain range. The Expedition Team continues its onboard lecture series and there may be a photography workshop, giving you top tips on how to capture the best Northern Lights images. It’s the Polar Night above the Arctic Circle, but it won't be complete darkness. You’ll get to experience the very romantic ‘blue hour’. This is an extended twilight where the winter sun glows just below the horizon, bathing Norway’s fjords and mountains in a dreamy cobalt-blue light.
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Day 6
Reine, Lofoten Archipelago
Welcome to the picture-perfect fishing village of Reine in the breathtaking Lofoten Islands. You’ll immediately recognise the snow-covered fishing huts, or rorbuer, that dot the shoreline. After exploring pretty Reine, you’ll visit Å. It’s one of the best-preserved traditional fishing villages in Norway and features delightful cultural attractions, including the Norwegian Fishing Village Museum. Later, we return to Reine where there may be opportunities to go on hikes with the Expedition Team or even try some winter kayaking. The views here will certainly tempt you to sign up for either.
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Day 7
Tromsø
Scan for humpback whales out on deck or in the Explorer Lounge as we sail to Tromsø, capital of the Arctic. The city is especially pretty around Christmas, adorned with lights and decorations. You’ll spend your day discovering its fascinating history, culture and bold architecture. The Arctic Cathedral is one of the most striking landmarks in Tromsø, especially when lit up at night. Check out the Polar Museum to learn about Tromsø’s fabled explorer history and join the friendly locals in the town’s many pubs, including the world’s northernmost brewery.
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Day 8
Narvik
Sitting 150 miles inside the Arctic Circle and surrounded by three fjords, Narvik enjoys a spectacular setting. Developed as an all-year port for the Swedish iron mines, Narvik was a strategic target for Germany during World War II. Today, you can browse the local galleries, shops, and restaurants specialising in local seafood and reindeer meat. If conditions allow, ride the cable car to the top of Mount Narvik for breathtaking views. Or go hiking, snowshoeing or kayaking on the fjord.
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Days 9-10
On expedition
Over the next two days we’ll go off the beaten track, heading wherever takes our fancy. Activities and any landings will be chosen by the Expedition Team. They’ll draw on their in-depth knowledge of the area to bring you to the most exhilarating and scenic locations. There are many islands and fjords to discover in this region, and we’ll get a closer look at some of them. Our expedition boats will take us ashore, giving you the chance to see local wildlife. Weather conditions will also play a part in deciding where to explore – so all we can say is expect the unexpected!
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Day 11
Bergen
Welcome to Bergen, one of Norway’s most picturesque cities and perfect for exploring on foot. You’ll see that the city has retained a great deal of its local character, heritage and charm. Your included activity is a funicular ride to the top of Mount Fløyen. Prepare to bask in stunning views over the city surrounded by seven mountains and the sea. Once back in the centre of Bergen, check out the historic Bryggen district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with distinctive wooden wharves. Across from Bryggen is Bergen’s famous fish market, full of sights, sounds and scents to savour.
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Day 12
Egersund
You’ll go back in time as you stroll around Egersund, admiring the rustic wooden houses and narrow streets. At this time, they’re normally decked out in festive decorations, fairy lights and a Christmas tree in the town square. Peruse the many beautifully decorated shops of the pedestrianised town centre. Check out the local chocolate and ice cream factory. There are small windows inside where you can see tasty treats being prepared. Indulge in gourmet chocolate and pick from a range of ice cream flavours. We recommend the pepperkake-is, gingerbread ice cream!
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Day 13
At Sea
Make the most of your day on board MS Maud. You may want to soak in the hot tub, work out in the gym, relax in the Explorer Lounge or sit back and edit the photographs from your trip. Likely, you’ll spend your day reflecting on all the wonderful experiences you’ve had. Like the sensation of standing in awe under the Northern Lights or the spectacular scenery of the Lofoten Islands. Don’t miss the Expedition Team as they review the highlights of our memorable expedition cruise to the fjords of Norway. Their enthusiasm might tempt you to return, but perhaps in a different season next time.
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Day 14
London Tilbury (UK)
Today you’ll say farewell to Ms Maud, taking with you memories of Norway in winter during Christmas time - wonderful fjords, fascinating towns and cities, and – hopefully – the Northern Lights. Before beginning your onward journey, why not visit some of London’s iconic sites, and absorb the atmosphere of this vibrant and cultural city. The city’s world-renowned restaurants rub shoulders with myriad markets, so take some time to discover this foodie’s paradise. Why not explore historic landmarks such as St Paul’s Cathedral and the Houses of Parliament, or experience culture at London’s many world-famous museums and galleries. A perfect way to end your festive voyage. Whatever’s next for you, we wish you a safe onward journey and look forward to seeing you on your next adventure!
