Ultimate Norway at New Year’s - Arctic Expedition under the Northern Lights

Discover the gateway to the Arctic

Backed by snowy mountains, lively Tromsø is the perfect place from which to set out on an adventure. It was the base for many historic Arctic expeditions, including those of Roald Amundsen, and its situation 250 miles north of the Polar Circle has led to it being called the ‘Gateway to the Arctic'. Just like the legendary explorers, now it is your turn to set a course for the Arctic. 

If you arrive early in Tromsø, we recommend exploring the city before joining your cruise. This time of year is enchanting, with a cosy midwinter atmosphere, cafés serving gløgg (hot mulled wine) and twinkling lights in every window. From the Fjellheisen cable car, you'll have an amazing view over the snowy city and its festive decorations. Make sure to visit the striking Arctic Cathedral – with its huge stained-glass window.

Approaching the scenic Lyngen Alps via the Lyngenfjord

For the next twelve days we'll be exploring four distinct regions in depth, each with its own outstanding features and unique beauty. The first such region we're likely to visit is Lyngen. 

The scenic Lyngen area is a landscape of jagged, snowy mountains, and a magnet for winter activities. Lyngenfjord is over a hundred miles long, and we'll spend our time here going on nature landings, hiking, snowshoeing, kayaking and, if conditions allow, spotting whales from our small expedition boats or the ship's deck. 

Later, it's time for a real treat. Inspired by Norway's friluftsliv, or deep love for the great outdoors, we'll gather on the beach and enjoy the warmth of a bonfire on our Day to Dusk – Flames and Flavors experience. With hot drinks in hand and Norwegian treats cooked by our onboard chefs, you'll really feel at one with nature. If we're lucky, perhaps the Northern Lights will put on a display for us.

Discover Norway in miniature

Senja is Norway's second-largest island, and it's sometimes called Norway-in-miniature. With its rugged mountains, sandy beaches, dark forests, and idyllic fishing villages, you can see how it earned this name. Free-roaming reindeer wander around the island, so keep an eye out for them. 

We plan to visit the historic settlement of Tranoya for a unique experience with some warm Scandinavian hospitality. Learn about ancient Viking culture and modern life in the remote villages of Arctic Norway during the winter months. 

In December and January, we'll sometimes be sailing in the dark and at dusk during the day – but this will only enhance our experience, with glittering snowscapes illuminated by the low sun and the starlight.

Experience dramatic panoramas and ring in the New Year

In winter, the Lofoten Islands transform into a snow-covered wonderland. Approaching the dramatically steep mountains of Lofoten by ship is an experience that's unforgettable. You'll be in awe of the landscapes as we sail through this region of windswept islands, sheltered bays, and some of the most beautiful fjords in the world. Look out for Sea Eagles as you admire the exceptional beauty of this stretch of coastline. Narrow fjords, hidden beaches between towering mountains, and picturesque fish villages are all ideal to visit with a small ship like MS Spitsbergen. 

You'll be immersed in the natural beauty of Lofoten as you ring in the New Year. What better place to commit to your New Year's resolutions than the edge of the world, where old meets new in every way. Perhaps the Northern Lights may even appear to mark the occasion. 

During your time in Lofoten, the Expedition Team will seek out the best places for nature landings and exploration, perhaps at one of the many fine beaches likely covered in pristine snow. We may head out in our small expedition boats to explore between remote islands or get out the kayaks.  

We also hope to visit the fishing port of Svolvaer, where you can discover how Lofoten's fisheries have shaped the culture here. You'll also get to enjoy your second special experience, a Nordic Sauna and Polar Plunge. Embrace a revitalizing Norwegian tradition as you relax in the warmth of a sauna before taking a thrilling polar plunge.

Where history meets Arctic wilderness

Narvik has a spectacular setting, perched on a peninsula surrounded by three striking fjords: Ofotfjord, Rombaken, and Beisfjord. Despite sitting some 135 miles within the Arctic Circle, the town's popular ski slopes are sheltered from strong coastal winds by the surrounding mountains, and it enjoys a milder climate than you might expect thanks to the North Atlantic Current. 

Closely linked to the Swedish iron mines and WWII, Narvik traces its history back to the Vikings and beyond. While here, you can wander the local museums and see this colorful past brought to life, or explore the town's many galleries, shops and cafés serving locally sourced food. Or you can join an optional excursion to explore the region further.

Navigating the waterways of the north

As we head toward Vesterålen, your Captain and Expedition Leader will chart the day's route based on conditions and opportunities, ensuring we make the most of what the region has to offer. 

We'll cruise between rugged peaks through the Raftsundet Strait, and if conditions allow, we'll venture into Trollfjord, where narrow waters are framed by sheer-sided cliffs. Whatever route we take, you'll be immersed in striking scenery. And as we navigate dramatic fjords, the mountains rise so close to the ship you'll feel like you could reach out and touch them.

Enjoy an exclusive adventure

Vesterålen awaits us with its beautiful snow-covered landscapes, ideal for expedition activities such as snowshoe hiking, expedition boat cruising and kayaking. We plan to spend two days in this region. 

It's here that we have our special Into the Night – Dinner at the Museum experience at Hurtigrutemuseet, the Hurtigruten Museum. You'll enjoy an exclusive opening of this heritage setting and dine amid historical artifacts in the old dining room of the ship, MS Finnmarken. 

Experience a final day on expedition

We'll stay sheltered in the deep fjords as we make our way back toward Tromsø – at each turn there will be a new island or mountain. Along the way, we have plenty of time to scout out landing sites in our small expedition boats, and to go on nature walks and take part in other activities.  

The scenery continues to be stunning as we pass through these inner waters, with the winter sun illuminating the landscapes and mountains or enjoy the magic of the polar night. We also pass through areas where we're likely to see whales. While on board, enjoy the Arctic scenery from the ship, warm up in the sauna or join the Expedition Team to listen to talks and attend discovery sessions in the Science Center.

Another opportunity to explore Tromsø

Your New Year expedition cruise ends back in Tromsø. If you didn't have an opportunity to explore this beautiful town before the cruise, make sure you do now. There's so much to see and do here. 

After days immersed in the stillness of the season and the quiet power of the north's midwinter light, you'll return renewed, with fresh energy, new perspectives, and a deeper sense of clarity for the year ahead.