Scandinavian Highlights & Norway's Arctic Coast

Arrive in the beautiful city of Stockholm. With no scheduled activities during the day, take some time to venture out on your own and get to know this relatively compact city, built on 14 islands and connected by 57 bridges.

Tonight, meet your fellow travelers for dinner.

Join a local expert to see Stockholm's greatest vistas and attractions, including Gamla Stan (Old Town), Riddarholm Church, the Royal Palace, and the Parliament, on a historic and cultural walking tour. Enjoy a visit inside Stockholm's stunning City Hall, which displays towering brick walls paired with an opulent interior. Explore the Vasa Ship Museum and learn about the vessel's shocking maiden voyage, when it sank in a single nautical mile (the perfectly preserved ship, commissioned in the 1600s by King Vasa, was raised from the bottom of the harbor 334 years later).

This afternoon is yours to explore Stockholm independently. Discover its strikingly colorful architecture and sample its innovative cuisine.

Bid farewell to Stockholm and set off by local train for a relaxing journey to Gothenburg. Take some free time for lunch and explore independently before meeting your local guide for a walking city tour.

Tonight, why not take an after-dinner stroll through the friendly and laid-back city streets before settling in for the night.

This morning, set out into the country to visit Sofiero Palace, once a summer residence of the Swedish royal family.

After a guided tour of the castle and included light lunch, continue to Denmark, ending the day in the cosmopolitan city of Copenhagen.

Join a local expert and set off on an engaging three-hour walking tour of Denmark's capital city. See Nyhavn, the picturesque harbor lined with colorful facades and charming cafes, as well as Amelienborg Palace, the residence of the Danish Royal Family. Visit the famous Little Mermaid statue, and finish at Tivoli Gardens, the world's second oldest amusement park.

This afternoon is yours to spend how you wish.

Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore Copenhagen your way.

This morning, it's your choice! Visit the National Museum of Denmark for an audio-guided visit at your own pace -OR- visit the Home of Carlsberg brewery, where an exhibition takes you through the history of the Jacobsen family and how they built their empire around this iconic beer.

This afternoon, head to the airport to catch a short flight to Oslo, Norway. After settling into your hotel, join your fellow travelers for dinner.

This morning, join a local guide for an exploration of Oslo. By motorcoach and on foot, discover the rich heritage of this fascinating city. The afternoon is yours to further explore independently.

Travel north from Norway's capital to the majestic fjord region. Visit Borgund Stave Church, the intricate structure built in dedication to the Apostle Andrew in 1180. Arrive in the quaint village of Flåm, nestled at the entrance to the stunning Aurlandsfjord, and visit the Railway Museum before settling in for the evening.

Embark on the renowned Flåm Railway, one of the world's steepest train rides, and ascend 3,000 feet past mighty waterfalls, towering mountains, and amazing valleys. Journey to the mountain plateau of Myrdal and cascade down to the fjord of Flåm, taking in the breathtaking views each way.

Continue onto the village of Loen, for a relaxing stay in the heart for Norway's fjord region.

An enchanting day in Norway's fjord region begins. In Geiranger, a UNESCO World Heritage site, embark on an exhilarating Geirangerfjord cruise, soaking in some of Norway's most beautiful scenery along the way. One of the most famous fjords in the world, Geirangerfjord is where you'll find Norway's mightiest waterfalls: the Seven Sisters, the Bridal Veil, and the Suitor. Marvel at homesteads along the steep sides of the mountains, where farms have been kept for centuries. The day's relaxed pace offers the opportunity to soak up the nature and stunning scenery of the region.

Be inspired by Norway's most impressive landscapes en route to Bergen – the gateway to the fjords. A visit to the Nordfjord Folk Museum tells the story of local enterprise and community spirit. Founded with Viking roots, the Bergen of today is known for its old-world charm and scenic landscapes.

Join a guided walking tour of Bergen and stroll along the historic and iconic harbor front, known as the Bryggen (UNESCO). Take a ride on the Floibanen funicular for spectacular views over the city. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure before reuniting with your fellow travelers for an atmospheric farewell dinner in the historic Bryggen neighborhood.

Your Collette tour comes to an end after breakfast this morning, but your holiday is far from over! A new adventure awaits as you prepare to set sail on your Hurtigruten cruise.

Later today, you'll make your own way to the cruise departure point, ready to begin the next exciting chapter of your travels.

Take the opportunity to explore the historic Bryggen district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Bergen's most recognisable landmarks. Its colourful wooden wharves date back to the Hanseatic era, when merchants from across northern Europe helped shape the city's fortunes. Today, narrow alleyways and crooked passageways packed with old wooden buildings stow away independent galleries, artisan workshops and cosy cafés.

Before boarding, you might wish to spend some relaxation time in our comfortable Hurtigruten Guest Lounge at Jektevik Terminal. With complimentary snacks and drinks, you'll also find free Wi-Fi as well as charger sockets. Luggage lockers are also available here, if you want to do some exploring during the day.

As evening falls, we depart Bergen and sail north through the Hjeltefjord, the historic sea route once travelled by Viking longships heading towards the North Atlantic.

Beyond the city, the landscape quickly changes. The coast becomes a maze of islands, skerries and sheltered waterways, and it's well worth spending time out on deck, watching fishing villages, lighthouses and rocky shorelines drift by.

During the night, we call briefly at Florø and Måløy before a short stop at Torvik in the early morning. As the day unfolds, you'll find yourself gazing at some of the most picturesque coastal scenery in Norway. Leaving Nordfjord behind, we sail past the rugged headland of West Cape for our approach to  Alesund. 

Alesund  

By mid-morning, we arrive in Alesund, one of Norway's most distinctive towns. Rebuilt in the Art Nouveau style after a devastating fire in 1904, the town is renowned for its elegant architecture, colourful façades and decorative towers. Stretching across a series of islands, Alesund has long been an important fishing port and remains deeply connected to the sea. 

Please note that, outside of the winter season, we stop at Alesund twice today: a short visit on arrival, then a return call in the evening. In spring, summer and autumn, in between these stops we sail into the fjords (see below). From October through April, when the fjords are not visited, you will instead have the whole day in Alesund to explore at your own pace. 

If you're looking for a panoramic view, consider climbing the steps to Mount Aksla, where you'll be rewarded with sweeping vistas across the town, surrounding islands and distant mountains. Nature enthusiasts may also enjoy a visit to Atlanterhavsparken, one of Northern Europe's largest saltwater aquariums, showcasing marine life from the Norwegian coast. 

Into the fjords  

In May and September, we venture into the magnificent Hjørundfjord , a secluded fjord in the dramatic Sunnmøre Alps. Free from the crowds found elsewhere, this peaceful waterway is lined with towering mountains, cascading waterfalls and tiny farms clinging to the hillsides. We also pay a visit to the picturesque village of Urke, where a handful of historic houses and spectacular scenery combine to create one of the most atmospheric stops on the voyage. 

In summer, we continue into the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord * †, often considered one of the most beautiful fjords in the world. As we navigate deep into this narrow waterway, sheer cliffs rise dramatically from the water while waterfalls tumble from great heights. Keep watch for the famous Seven Sisters waterfall, whose seven streams cascade gracefully down the mountainside. 

Old, heritage farms cling improbably to steep slopes, reminders of the generations who once thrived in these remote areas. Viewed from the water, the fjord reveals its full scale and grandeur. 

For those wishing to explore further, the optional excursion to the Trollstigen mountain road combines spectacular viewpoints, dramatic engineering and some of the most celebrated scenery in the Norwegian fjords. 

*Please note that your ship does not dock at the cruise terminal pier in Geiranger. Instead, guests who are either disembarking or joining the excursion will be transported with tender boats by Geiranger Fjordservice from the ship to shore, or vice versa. Please arrive before 13:45 for the tender boat.  

† MS Vesterålen does not visit Geirangerfjord but does visit Hjøjundfjord.  

Alesund and Molde  

We then continue north towards Molde . Known as the City of Roses, Molde occupies a beautiful setting overlooking the Romsdalsfjord, with the famous Molde Panorama visible across the water. On a clear evening, you may glimpse the outline of more than 200 mountain peaks, creating one of Norway's most celebrated views. 

During the night, we call briefly at Kristiansund before continuing north into Trøndelag, a region often described as the historic heart of Norway. Here, the coastline softens into rolling farmland, wooded hills and sheltered fjords. For centuries, this fertile landscape has supported farming communities and trading centres, and is a place rich in history. 

Trondheim  

Founded in 997 by Viking king Olav Tryggvason, Trondheim was Norway's first capital and remains one of the country's most significant historic cities. Today, medieval heritage sits comfortably alongside a vibrant student population, creating a city that feels somehow both ancient and youthful. 

With three hours ashore, there are plenty of opportunities to explore at your own pace. Dominating the city skyline is the magnificent Nidaros Cathedral, traditionally the coronation church of Norwegian monarchs, and sometimes called “Norway's Notre-Dame”. Built over the burial site of St Olav, the country's patron saint, it has drawn pilgrims from across northern Europe for centuries. Its richly decorated Gothic façade and remarkable interior make it one of Scandinavia's most impressive religious buildings. 

Beside the cathedral stands the historic Archbishop's Palace, where you can learn more about Norway's medieval past and view the country's crown regalia. 

A short walk away, the elegant Gamle Bybro spans the Nid River and leads into Bakklandet, one of Trondheim's most charming neighbourhoods. Colourful wooden warehouses line the riverbanks, while cobbled streets are home to independent cafés, shops and galleries. For panoramic views of the city and fjord, the climb to Kristiansten Fort is well worth the effort. 

Along the Trøndelag coast 

Back on board, we continue northwest through the broad Trondheimsfjord before returning to the open coast. Later, we pass the distinctive ochre-red Kjeungskjær Lighthouse , standing alone among reefs and skerries. Built in 1880, it remains one of Norway's most photographed lighthouses. 

It's around here that we begin to see a dramatic change in the way the coast looks. The gentle landscapes of the south now start to be replaced by rockier, wilder scenery. For many, this feels like an inflection point in the voyage, as if we are transitioning from one Norway to another. 

As evening approaches, we arrive at Rørvik , a lively coastal town at the centre of the Vikna archipelago. Surrounded by thousands of islands and skerries, this region has long been closely connected to the sea. The brief call offers a glimpse of everyday coastal life before we continue on our journey north, with plenty of time to enjoy the passing scenery from the deck. 

In the small hours of the night, we call briefly at Brønnøysund , Sandnessjøen and Nesna as we continue north through Helgeland, a region known for its islands, rugged peaks and coastal legends. Keep an eye on the horizon during the early morning hours and you may spot the distinctive outline of the Seven Sisters mountain range, one of the most recognisable landmarks on the Norwegian coast. 

Crossing the Arctic Circle 

Early today, we cross the Arctic Circle. This milestone has long captured the imagination of travellers, explorers and seafarers. We celebrate the occasion out on deck with a traditional, and slightly silly, Arctic Circle ceremony. 

Beyond this point, the character of the landscape begins to change as we head further into the Arctic. 

Ørnes and Svartisen 

By mid-morning, we arrive in Ørnes , a small coastal community closely connected to the sea and nearby Svartisen , Norway's second-largest glacier. The approach to Ørnes is one of the most picturesque sailings along the coast and it's well worth heading out on deck to view the scenery.  

Bodø  

In the early afternoon we reach Bodø , northern Norway's second-largest city. Sitting beneath the Børvasstindan mountain range, Bodø has long served as an important gateway to the north. 

Nature lovers may wish to join an excursion to Saltstraumen , the world's most powerful tidal current, where enormous volumes of water surge through a narrow strait to create powerful whirlpools and currents.  

Another excursion on offer (from November to May) is a visit to a Sámi family at their camp in Saltfjellet. Here, you'll be treated to their hospitality in a lavvu tent and will hear traditional joik songs and can meet their resident reindeer.  

Alternatively, stay in town and explore this very walkable city independently. Bodø was in 2024 named a European Capital of Culture, and it's well worth wandering around at leisure to discover why.  

The Lofoten Islands 

Later in the afternoon, one of Norway's most celebrated landscapes comes into view. Rising dramatically from the sea, the mountains of the Lofoten archipelago form the famous Lofoten Wall , a seemingly unbroken chain of peaks stretching along the horizon. For many travellers, this first sight of Lofoten is among the most memorable moments of the voyage. 

Our first call is Stamsund , a traditional fishing community whose fortunes have long been tied to the annual arrival of Arctic cod, known locally as skrei . During the fishing season, the harbour becomes one of the busiest in the islands. Optional overland excursions here offer opportunities to delve deeper into local culture, whether through Viking history, traditional farming, or simply seeing the landscapes that continue to inspire artists and photographers. 

Svolvær 

In the evening, we arrive in Svolvær , the vibrant heart of the Lofoten Islands . Surrounded by steep mountains and sheltered waters, the town blends modern life with centuries of fishing heritage. Traditional red and ochre-coloured rorbuer line the waterfront, while fishing boats come and go in the harbour. 

As we depart the Lofoten Islands, the peaks remain silhouetted against the sky as we continue north overnight. If conditions allow us to, the Captain may choose to sail into the Trollfjord during the seasons where it is light in the evening.  

Night owls will witness our short stops at Stokmarknes , Sortland and Risøyhamn as we continue into the Vesterålen archipelago. As the morning light grows stronger, it reveals a panorama of islands, sounds and mountain peaks. 

Harstad and Finnsnes 

We arrive in Harstad at around breakfast time. Situated on Norway's largest island, Hinnøya, Harstad occupies a strategic position between the islands of Vesterålen and the fjords of Troms. If you're up early, enjoy a quick stroll along the waterfront and watch local life unfold as fishing vessels and ferries move through the harbour. 

After this short stop, we call at Finnsnes , a lively coastal town connected to the island of Senja by the impressive Gisund Bridge. Senja is often described as "Norway in miniature" thanks to its variety of landscapes, from jagged peaks and white-sand beaches to forests and sheltered fishing villages. Keep watch for seabirds as we sail through these waters, including gulls, cormorants and, at certain times of year, puffins. 

Tromsø 

By afternoon, we arrive in Tromsø . For centuries, this vibrant small city served as the starting point for polar expeditions, and many of the world's most famous Arctic explorers passed through here before heading north into the unknown. 

Today, Tromsø combines this rich polar heritage with a lively cultural scene, a thriving university and a distinctly cosmopolitan atmosphere. With four hours ashore, there's plenty of time to explore independently or join one of our optional excursions. 

Along the waterfront, you'll find Polaria, where interactive exhibits and aquariums reveal life in the Arctic. History enthusiasts may enjoy learning more about the city's pioneering explorers, while those interested in the local culture can browse independent shops, galleries and cafés in the compact city centre.  

Across the water stands the striking Arctic Cathedral, one of northern Norway's most recognisable landmarks. Its dramatic triangular design and beautiful stained-glass window have made it a symbol of the city. Meanwhile, the historic Mack Brewery and the famous Ølhallen pub offer a taste of Tromsø's social history, while local cafés serve everything from fresh pastries to expertly crafted coffee.  

The Lyngen Alps 

As we depart Tromsø in the early evening, the city gradually fades behind us. Ahead lie the magnificent Lyngen Alps, one of Norway's most dramatic mountain ranges. Their jagged peaks seem to rise directly from the sea, creating a spectacular backdrop as we continue north.  

Later in the evening, we arrive at the historic trading settlement of Skjervøy , founded in 1622. Surrounded by islands and sheltered waters, this small community has long depended on fishing and maritime trade.  

Moving ever further north during the night, we call briefly at Øksfjord before arriving in Hammerfest in the early morning. Often described as one of the world's northernmost towns, Hammerfest has been shaped by life at the edge of the Barents Sea. The town sits on Kvaløya, an island where herds of reindeer roam, moving across landscapes that have supported Sámi communities for generations. 

Along the Arctic coast 

As we continue eastwards, the coastline becomes increasingly open and dramatic. Islands appear scattered across the sea, while exposed headlands face the Arctic Ocean. Sailing towards Havøysund, the coastline feels increasingly wild and remote. Low islands, rocky outcrops and wide skies reveal a landscape that is little changed since the last Ice Age. 

Honningsvåg and the North Cape 

By late morning, we arrive in Honningsvåg , gateway to one of Norway's most iconic landmarks. With almost four hours ashore, this is your opportunity to experience the northernmost reaches of mainland Europe. 

Here, you can choose to join the optional excursion to the North Cape , where a globe monument stands high above the Arctic Ocean. The journey across Magerøya offers a chance to appreciate the vast, treeless landscapes of Finnmark. Standing atop the cliffs, with nothing but the Arctic Ocean stretching northwards, it's easy to understand why this place captures the imagination of travellers. 

For nature enthusiasts, optional excursions also explore nearby fishing communities and reveal the rich birdlife of the region, including colonies of seabirds that thrive along these remote northern shores. 

Sámi heartlands 

During the afternoon, we call at Kjøllefjord , a small fishing community set amid rugged coastal scenery. As we approach, keep watch for Finnkirka , an unusual rock formation that resembles a man-made structure rising from the landscape. This distinctive landmark was once an important site of spiritual significance for the indigenous Sámi people. 

If you'd like to gain deeper insight into northern Norway's cultural heritage, during the summer and autumn you can join an optional excursion focused on Sámi traditions, where stories of reindeer herding, traditional livelihoods and the hauntingly beautiful sounds of joik offer a window into one of Europe's oldest living cultures. 

When there's enough snow on the ground, an alternative optional excursion is a snowmobile tour across the Nordkyn peninsula, driving through snowy valleys and below icy mountains while your guides tell you about the local people and their traditions.  

Towards the Barents Sea 

Further east lies Mehamn , our northernmost port of call. This resilient fishing community has long depended on the rich waters of the Barents Sea, and the fishing industry remains central to life here. 

In the evening, we reach Berlevåg , a remote settlement perched on the edge of the sea. En route, we pass Slettnes Lighthouse, which at a latitude of 70° 45' is the northernmost mainland lighthouse in the world.  

During the night, we call at Båtsfjord and Vardø , two communities whose fortunes have long been tied to the natural wealth of the Barents Sea. As morning approaches, we continue along the Varanger Peninsula, one of the most distinctive stretches of coastline in Norway. 

Vadsø and the Varanger Coast 

We arrive in Vadsø early in the morning. This region is renowned among birdwatchers, lying directly beneath one of the Arctic's most important migration routes. Throughout the year, a remarkable variety of species pass through these waters and coastal wetlands. 

The landscape here feels noticeably different from the fjords and mountains further south. Wide horizons, open tundra and sweeping coastal views create the sense of space that is characteristic of Finnmark.  

Kirkenes 

By mid-morning, we arrive in Kirkenes , a frontier town located close to the border. Positioned at the crossroads of Norwegian, Sámi, Finnish and Russian influences, Kirkenes has a fascinating history shaped by trade, diplomacy and life in the far north. 

You'll have several hours to explore the town or join one of our optional excursions. The surrounding landscapes offer opportunities to visit forests, lakes and Arctic wilderness, while local museums provide insight into the region's wartime history and multicultural heritage. During the Second World War, Kirkenes became one of the most heavily bombed places in Europe, and traces of this history remain visible throughout the area. 

Kirkenes is the last port of call before the ship turns around and begins the long voyage back south.  

Sailing the Barents Sea 

In the afternoon, we sail northeast along the Varanger coast. The region reveals a striking landscape of rocky shorelines, fishing villages and wide-open skies.  

This is a prime area for birdlife, so have your binoculars at the ready as we pass the bird island of Hornøya. Depending on the season, this can be a prime spot to see species such as puffins, gannets, guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes and arctic terns, while sea eagles are often spotted gliding above the cliffs year-round.  

Later, we call once more at Båtsfjord, where fishing vessels and their associated industry reflect the enduring importance of the seafood sector in northern Norway. Life here remains closely connected to the sea, much as it has for generations. After Båtsfjord, we continue on our journey, calling next at Berlevåg . 

Long before breakfast, we call at Mehamn and Kjøllefjord , two fishing communities on the edge of the Barents Sea. By early morning, we arrive in Honningsvåg , where you will get a chance to visit the North Cape , if you haven't already done so on the northern leg of the journey. Later Havøysund , passing through a landscape where wide tundra plateaus meet rugged coastlines. 

Along the coast of Finnmark 

This stretch of coastline offers a fascinating glimpse into life in Norway's far north. Fishing remains at the heart of many communities here, just as it has for centuries. As we sail south, keep watch for seabirds wheeling overhead and, in the warmer months, perhaps reindeer grazing on the open landscapes beyond the shore. 

Hammerfest  

By late morning, we reach Hammerfest . Long associated with Arctic exploration, hunting and fishing, Hammerfest occupies an important place in the history of the far north. Today, it's also a prime hub of Norway's energy industry, giving it a bustling, modern port atmosphere. 

You'll have time to explore independently and discover some of the town's highlights. The Meridian Column, recognised by UNESCO, commemorates the Struve Geodetic Arc, an ambitious scientific project that helped measure the size and shape of the planet. Nearby, the Polar Bear Society celebrates the town's Arctic heritage and offers an opportunity to browse local crafts. 

For those seeking a little exercise (conditions permitting), a walk up Mount Salen rewards you with sweeping views across the town, surrounding islands and the waters of the coast. 

Through mountain and fjord landscapes 

In the afternoon, we continue to Øksfjord , a small community surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. The landscape gradually changes as we leave the open expanses of Finnmark behind and enter regions where steep peaks once again dominate the horizon. 

Later, we arrive at Skjervøy , an island community with a long and proud fishing tradition. As the waters cool through autumn and winter, herring begin to gather around Skjervøy, drawing orcas and humpback whales that follow them. These nutrient-rich seas support an abundance of marine life year-round. 

Towards Tromsø 

As evening progresses, we continue south through some of northern Norway's most spectacular coastal scenery. Off to the east, the jagged peaks of the Lyngen Alps rise dramatically above the fjords.  

Approaching Tromsø late in the evening, the city appears as a scattering of lights beneath the mountains, creating one of the most atmospheric approaches of the voyage. 

Today's voyage takes us through the spectacular archipelagos of Vesterålen and Lofoten. 

Harstad and northern heritage 

After an early call at Finnsnes , we continue to Harstad , located on Norway's largest island, Hinnøya. Just beyond the town stands Trondenes Church , the world's northernmost medieval stone church. Dating from the 13th century, it serves as a reminder of the region's long history as a centre for trade, faith and coastal life. 

Further west, we call briefly at Risøyhamn , the smallest port on the route, before arriving in Sortland , sometimes called the “Blue City” thanks to its distinctive colour scheme. As we continue through Vesterålen, the landscape begins to change. Rolling hills give way to sharper peaks, and the mountains become increasingly dramatic as we approach Lofoten. 

Stokmarknes: our birthplace 

In the afternoon, we arrive in Stokmarknes , the birthplace of Hurtigruten's Coastal Express. It was here in 1893 that Captain Richard With launched a service that would transform travel and communication along the Norwegian coast. 

You'll have time to visit the remarkable Hurtigrutemuseet, where the history of Hurtigruten comes to life through exhibitions, stories and the beautifully preserved MS Finnmarken, built in 1956. Housed within a striking glass structure resembling a ship in a bottle, the museum offers fascinating insight into how coastal communities have depended on these voyages for more than a century. 

Entering Trollfjord 

Leaving Stokmarknes, we sail through the narrow Raftsund strait. Weather, conditions and time of year permitting, the Captain may take the opportunity to navigate into the spectacular Trollfjord, one of the most dramatic waterways in Norway. 

Just two kilometres long and barely 100 metres wide at its entrance, Trollfjord is surrounded by towering mountain walls that rise almost vertically from the water. From the deck, it can feel as though the cliffs are close enough to touch. To leave the fjord, the ship performs a remarkable turning manoeuvre before sailing back into the Raftsund. 

Keep watch overhead for sea eagles in this area, which are frequently spotted gliding between the peaks and searching the waters below. 

Svolvær and Lofoten 

By evening, we arrive in Svolvær , the largest town in the Lofoten Islands . Surrounded by steep mountains and sheltered harbours, it has long been a centre for fishing, trade and maritime culture. Look towards the distinctive twin-peaked formation known as the Svolvær Goat, one of the region's most famous landmarks.   

As we continue to Stamsund , traditional fishing villages and red-painted rorbuer line the shore. Beyond them rises the magnificent Lofoten Wall , a seemingly endless chain of granite peaks stretching across the horizon.  

During the early hours, we call at Bodø before continuing south to Ørnes . This morning marks another memorable milestone as we cross the Arctic Circle, leaving the far north behind and returning to the southern reaches of Arctic Norway.  

Along the coast of Helgeland 

As we continue south, the scenery begins to change once again. Thousands of islands, skerries and sheltered waterways characterise the Helgeland Coast . The route through this intricate coastal seascape has provided safe passage for seafarers for centuries. 

Following a brief call at Nesna , we arrive in Sandnessjøen , gateway to a region rich in both natural beauty and folklore. 

The Seven Sisters 

Rising dramatically are the peaks of the Seven Sisters, one of Norway's most recognisable mountain ranges. According to local legend, these seven mountains were once troll princesses fleeing an unwanted suitor. Caught by the rising sun, they were turned to stone, remaining forever as guardians of the coast. 

Whether or not this is to be taken literally, there is something undeniably magical about seeing these peaks emerge above the islands and fjords. The mountains form part of a landscape where nature and mythology are deeply intertwined. 

Brønnøysund  

By mid-afternoon, we arrive in Brønnøysund , a quiet coastal town set amid islands, mountains and sheltered waterways. With more than two hours ashore, there is time to explore independently. 

Why not take a stroll along the marina and waterfront, where fishing vessels and pleasure craft sit side by side. In the town centre, you'll find Brønnøy Church, an elegant Neo-Gothic stone church dating from 1870 and one of the area's most notable landmarks. Cafés, local shops and quiet streets offer a glimpse of everyday life in this peaceful coastal community.  

Torghatten  

Later in the day, we pass one of Norway's most unusual landmarks. Torghatten Mountain, sitting on a small island, rises from the sea and features a remarkable hole that pierces straight through its centre. The Captain will manoeuvre the ship so that we can get a view right through the centre of the hole. 

Geologists explain the formation as the result of thousands of years of erosion, but local folklore offers a more colourful explanation involving trolls, arrows and dramatic pursuits across the landscape. Ask the Expedition Team about the legend and decide for yourself which version you prefer.  

Through the Vikna archipelago 

In the evening, we continue to Rørvik , nestled within the island-rich Vikna archipelago. For centuries, skilled sailors have navigated these protected waters, weaving between islands that seem to stretch endlessly towards the horizon. 

This morning, we spend several hours in Trondheim , one of Norway's most historic and characterful cities. 

If you didn't explore Trondheim on the northbound leg, this is the perfect opportunity to discover why it was once Norway's Viking capital. A look at the outside of Nidaros Cathedral is highly recommended. Built over the burial site of St Olav, Norway's patron saint, it remains the country's most important medieval building. Nearby, the elegant Gamle Bybro bridge leads into the charming district of Bakklandet, where colourful wooden houses line the riverbanks and cosy cafés begin to welcome the morning's first visitors. 

If this is your second visit, then why not experience a different side of the city. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast or coffee in Bakklandet, browse independent shops before they become busy, or take a walk up to Kristiansten Fort for panoramic views across the city and Trondheimsfjord. The nearby riverside paths also offer a peaceful way to start the day while watching Trondheim gradually come to life. 

Island-dotted waters 

Back on board, we continue west through the broad Trondheimsfjord before returning to the open coast. Throughout the day, the scenery shifts between fertile farmland, low-lying islands and small coastal communities. 

This is a region where fishing, farming and maritime trade have shaped daily life for generations. Many of the settlements visible from the ship can only truly be appreciated from the water, offering a perspective land travellers miss out on. 

Kristiansund and the klippfisk trade 

By late afternoon, we arrive in Kristiansund , one of Norway's most important fishing ports and a town built across four islands linked by bridges and ferries. 

Kristiansund is particularly famous for klippfisk, salted cod traditionally dried on exposed coastal rocks. For centuries, this preserved fish was exported across Europe and became especially important in Portugal and Spain – bacalao – and remains a key ingredient in many traditional dishes. 

Take a stroll through the harbour area, where colourful waterfront buildings reflect the town's long relationship with the sea. Check out the statues of the klippfiskkjerringa and sildegutten , or ‘the klippfisk woman' and ‘herring boy', erected to honour the women and children from times past who worked in the local fishing trade, thus helping to build the city of today. 

Molde, the City of Roses 

In the evening, we arrive in Molde , beautifully situated on the shores of the Romsdalsfjord. Known as the “City of Roses”, Molde enjoys a mild climate perfectly suited to growing roses, with thousands of varieties flourishing across the town for much of the year. 

Across the fjord rises the famous Molde Panorama, a remarkable chain of more than 200 mountain peaks forming one of Norway's most celebrated views. On clear evenings, the mountains seem to stretch endlessly across the horizon, creating a spectacular backdrop as the ship continues south along the coast. 

During the night, we call at � lesund and Torvik before continuing south through the island-dotted waters of western Norway. There is just enough time for a quick stroll around the harbour in � lesund, for those who are good at staying up late.  

A morning of fjords and islands 

As dawn breaks, we arrive at Måløy , one of Norway's most important fishing ports. From here, the voyage continues through landscapes shaped by glaciers, mountains and the sea. 

Keep watch for views towards the Nordfjord , one of Norway's longest and most beautiful fjords. Stretching deep inland beneath towering mountains, the fjord leads towards the immense Jostedalsbreen , the largest glacier on mainland Europe. Though the glacier itself lies far inland, its influence can be seen throughout the surrounding landscape, carved by ice over thousands of years.  

Later in the morning, we call briefly at Florø , Norway's westernmost town. Built on islands exposed to the sea, Florø remains closely connected to fishing, shipping and offshore industries. The harbour and marina offer another glimpse into everyday coastal life before we continue south. 

Along the western coast 

Leaving Florø, we pass the photogenic Stabben Lighthouse, perched on a tiny rocky outcrop at the edge of the sea. One of Norway's most distinctive lighthouses, it has guided sailors safely through these waters for more than a century. 

Soon afterwards, we cross the mouth of the Sognefjord, Norway's longest and deepest fjord. Extending more than 200 kilometres inland, this vast waterway cuts deep into the Norwegian landscape. 

As the day progresses, the scenery gradually becomes gentler and with more signs of settlement. Islands, skerries and sheltered channels accompany us southward, offering a final reminder of why this journey is sometimes called “the world's most beautiful voyage.” 

Back to Bergen 

In the afternoon, the ship makes its final approach to Bergen via the Hjeltefjord. Colourful houses begin to appear along the shoreline as we navigate through the last islands of the voyage.  

Whether you've travelled the full Coastal Express route or joined us for only part of the journey, you've experienced some of Norway's most remarkable landscapes, islands and communities. Along the way, the coast has revealed its many faces: vibrant cities and remote fishing villages, deep fjords and open sea, Arctic landscapes and fertile farmland.  

As we arrive in Bergen, it's time to say farewell to the ship, crew and fellow travellers. But the journey need not end here. Whether you choose to spend more time exploring Bergen, venture further into the fjords, or begin planning your next coastal voyage, we hope the memories of Norway's coast will remain with you long after you step ashore. 

Until next time.