Scandinavian Discovery & Arctic Wonders - Cruise & Land Journey

Welcome to Copenhagen. Your journey begins with a two-night Scenic Special Stay in the Danish capital.

From humble origins as a fishing village, Copenhagen went on to become the glittering capital of the Danish Empire. Today it is one of the world’s premier design capitals and a brilliant mix of the historic and modern. The cityscape comprises sumptuous palaces, copper-roofed town houses and atmospheric cobbled squares. The harbour is at its heart and is a popular place for boating, kayaking and swimming, with floating bars and hotels along the waterfront.

This morning, tour Rosenborg Castle, an elegant Renaissance castle built as a country summerhouse in 1606. Rosenborg Castle houses some of Denmark’s greatest cultural treasures spanning 400 years, including royal art, the Crown Jewels and Royal Regalia.

You will also get to see the delightful courtyard of Amalienborg Palace, home to Queen Mary and the Danish Royal Family.

Scenic Freechoice: Explore more of the city with one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:

• Canal Cruise: Take a cruise along the city’s picturesque canals to see its many attractions including Christiansborg Palace, the impressive Black Diamond library and the Little Mermaid sculpture.
• Tivoli Gardens: Visit the Tivoli Gardens for a self-guided exploration of this enchanting pleasure garden and amusement park that has been operating since 1843.

This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at one of Copenhagen’s finest restaurants.

Transfer to the airport for your flight to the chic Swedish capital, Stockholm. The city is spread across 14 islands connected by 57 bridges and is part of the larger Stockholm Archipelago, which is comprised of 30,000 islands stretching for 80 kilometres to the Baltic Sea. Stockholm is considered one of the most beautiful capital cities in the world and is also a creative powerhouse, fostering innovations in music, design, fashion and technology. Check in for a two-night stay at your Scenic Special Stay hotel.

Take a city tour with a local guide to discover City Hall, one of Sweden’s most famous buildings whose spire features the golden Three Crowns. You’ll also see the Riddarholm Church and the Royal Palace. Then, visit the Vasa Ship Museum located on the island of Djurgården, where the 17th-century warship ‘Vasa’ is now housed after it tragically capsized and sank on its inaugural voyage in 1628.

This evening, enjoy a dinner featuring Swedish cuisine with European influences in a stunning setting.

From the eighth to the 11th century, the Vikings journeyed across Europe, looking for land and trade. Discover this fascinating history on the Bygdoy Peninsula, home to famous museums honouring the rich nautical heritage of the Norse people. Visit the Fram Museum, dedicated to the 1892 polar vessel that was the strongest wooden ship ever built. It still holds the records for sailing the farthest north and farthest south. Step on board the ship and see how the crew managed to survive in the coldest and most dangerous places on Earth – the Arctic and the Antarctic. Then, see the Holmenkollen Ski Museum and take an elevator ride to the ski jump tower’s summit more than 60 metres above the ground.

Drive through the majestic Hardangervidda National Park, the country’s largest national park and Europe’s highest mountain plateau. This vast Arctic wilderness is also home to Norway’s largest herd of wild reindeer. Arrive in Lofthus, known as the orchard of Hardanger for its many fruit trees. The town is a hub for cider production and hosts an annual cherry festival. It also has a scenic position overlooking the majestic Folgefonna glacier, the country’s third largest. Your overnight Special Stay is complete with awe-inspiring fjord views.

Leave Lofthus and journey to Bergen, a Hanseatic fishing port that dates to the 12th century. Bergen is now Norway’s second largest city, though it still possesses the charm and warmth of a small town. Surrounded by seven hills that are dotted with colourful houses, the city named ‘Heart of the Fjords’ is considered one of the prettiest in the country.

During the Middle Ages, Bergen was Norway’s major seaport as well as its capital, and this rich legacy can still be seen today. You will have the opportunity to wander through Bergen’s narrow and steep cobblestoned laneways, and visit its World Heritage-listed old wharf, Bryggen.

Scenic Freechoice: Explore your way with one of these experiences:

• Mount Fløyen: Take the famous funicular railway to the summit of Mount Fløyen, 320 metres above Bergen. It offers a spectacular view of the city and fjord.
• Fantoft Stave Church: Catch the tram to Fantoft Stave Church, first built in 1170 and moved to Fantoft in 1820. The old church burned down in 1992 but was painstakingly reconstructed to reflect a style unique to Norway.

This afternoon, drive to Troldhaugen, the former home of Edvard Grieg, Norway’s most celebrated composer and pianist.

This morning your handcrafted Land Journey will end in Bergen, but your discovery will continue on board Scenic Eclipse.

This afternoon, you’ll meet the Captain and crew of your ultra-luxury Scenic Discovery Yacht. Be welcomed on board with a glass of Champagne and explore your spacious suite. Meet your fellow guests for a drink at the Sky Bar and toast to the start of an unforgettable voyage as you set sail into the largest fjord in Norway, Sognefjord.

Tucked away at the very end of the Lustrafjord, the longest and deepest branch of the Sognefjord, Skjolden is surrounded by some of Norway’s most striking mountain scenery. Waterfalls cascade from steep valley walls, while glaciers and snow-dusted peaks frame the village in every direction.

Skjolden is a gateway to the Jostedalsbreen National Park, home to mainland Europe’s largest glacier, as well as historic stave churches and scenic walking trails. This peaceful fjord community offers a moment of calm amid Norway’s dramatic landscapes, where still waters, crisp alpine air, and unspoilt scenery define the experience.

An Art Nouveau gem at the entrance to Geirangerfjord, Ålesund is one of Norway’s most beautiful cities. It was completely reborn after a devastating fire in 1904, and its gorgeous architecture acts like a living time capsule.

Wander the streets lined with some of the best period architecture in Europe or learn about the city’s unique history at the Art Nouveau Centre & the Art Museum KUBE. A late departure lets you experience the vibrant nightlife in a place where the sun does not set until close to midnight.

Begin the day with a brief visit to the picturesque village of Hellesylt before sailing into the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Geirangerfjord. Cruise along pristine waters framed by towering cliffs of up to 800 metres and admire the iconic Seven Sisters Waterfall cascading down the mountainside. Visit the charming village of Geiranger to wander its streets, enjoy the local cafés, and take in panoramic views of the fjord before continuing your journey through this breathtaking landscape.

Take a moment to yourself this morning and soak in the comforts of your luxuriously appointed suite. Ask your butler to deliver breakfast to your suite, where you can enjoy it on the verandah as the deep blue waters of the sea slip by outside.

Visit the Sky Bar and outdoor Vitality pool on Deck 10. Step into the tranquil Senses Spa# on Deck 6 with its steam rooms, saunas, plunge pool and Vitality Thermal Lounge. Stop for a coffee or a cocktail at one of the nine bars and lounges on board, otherwise curl up with a good book in the library of the Observation Lounge.

Every day on board Scenic Eclipse, a true culinary journey awaits, with up to 10 extraordinary all-inclusive culinary experiences. You may decide to return to the Yacht Club for lunch, or choose Azure Bar & Café, where you can graze throughout the day.

As dusk falls, the hardest decision you have to make is which direction to wander. Elements is the main dining experience, where the menu ranges from Italian to steak and seafood. Channel the spirit of Asia at Koko’s Asian Fusion, which also comes with a Sushi & Saké Bar and private Night Market+ experience. Journey to France at Lumière+ complete with a champagne bar, or dine in the privacy of your suite, choosing from a comprehensive 24-hour menu.

This morning, head to your private verandah or join other guests on the Observation Terrace and prepare to be amazed as you sail into the breathtaking Lofoten Islands. Rising dramatically from the sea, these tall, craggy outcrops, sheltered coves and pristine beaches are a must-see. Leknes is the gateway to the islands’ outdoor adventures with sea kayaking, hiking and surfing available nearby.

Tonight, under the glow of the midnight sun, Scenic Eclipse will cruise through the majestic Trollfjord.

Known as the cultural hub of the Arctic, Tromsø sits 400 kilometres above the Arctic Circle. Surprisingly cosmopolitan for its remote location, during the summer months, Tromsø welcomes locals enjoying extended daylight hours, tucking into fresh seafood on the docks, enjoying a drink at the world’s northernmost brewery, or taking a dip in the refreshing waters of the local beach.

Tromsø has been the point of origin for many Arctic expeditions over the past two centuries, and you can follow in the footsteps of legendary explorers through the town or learn their stories at the museum.

Today, a remarkable sight awaits you on the Observation Deck or with a drink at the Sky Bar after lunch. Your Scenic Discovery Yacht will sail past Nordkapp, or North Cape, soaring 307 metres from the sea into the sky. This is the northernmost point of Europe, where the sun does not set for up to three months over summer.

Use your time today to dive into Norwegian history and the legends of the fjords with engaging lectures from the Discovery Team. Tonight, sail north across the Barents Sea towards Svalbard.

Welcome to the Svalbard Archipelago, a dramatic polar desert surrounded by rugged glaciers, frozen tundra, and craggy mountain peaks. Bear Island, or Bjørnøya in Norwegian, is the southernmost island in the archipelago. It is home to the largest seabird colony in the northern hemisphere with around 1.5 million nesting birds – use your in-suite binoculars to spot Svalbard rock ptarmigans, puffins, skuas, little auks, kittiwakes, black guillemots and more.

Due to the extraordinary nature of Svalbard, your itinerary will be flexible over the next five days. Your experienced Captain and Discovery Leader will use their expertise to design this section of your voyage from day to day, making the most of the long hours, weather, and ice conditions to give you the best experience possible in this extraordinary part of the world.

Daily Discovery Excursions may include Zodiac cruises, kayak tours and nature walks where you can discover majestic Arctic scenery, native wildlife, and marine life. Then join the Discovery Team for insightful lectures in the state-of-the-art theatre.

As we continue sailing around the islands of Svalbard, there may be opportunities to see whales, Arctic foxes, seals, and seabirds, along with sightings of Svalbard reindeer, wolverines, and Arctic rabbits. Be sure to keep the binoculars provided in your suite with you or use the Swarovski telescopes in the Observation Lounge for a closer look at the Arctic wildlife. Listen out for the loud crack of a glacier calving as you soak in the scenery and keep your eyes peeled for movement on the ice and in the water.

Scenic Discovery: You will have the opportunity to enjoy Discovery Excursions such as Zodiac cruises, kayaking and guided nature walks. Explore pristine locations and discover majestic Arctic scenery and tundra landscapes.

Your Scenic Discovery Yacht’s Open Bridge policy offers a unique opportunity to observe the Captain’s expert navigation firsthand. Enjoy some of the best views on board and discover how decisions adapt to ever-changing ice and weather conditions in the Polar regions. The unpredictability of an Arctic voyage is all part of the journey and adds to the excitement.

Weather permitting, more Discovery Excursions will be available today, taking you further into these spectacular landscapes. Meet up with the Discovery Team to answer any questions you may have and to learn more about your upcoming expedition experiences.

In the evening, escape to France at Lumière+, complete with a luxurious champagne bar, or savour an intimate dining experience in your suite with an extensive 24-hour menu at your fingertips.

Every day brings a new magical vista, from magnificent glaciers in iceberg dotted waters to jagged snow topped mountains towering over slopes of tundra.

Continue cruising around the spectacular Svalbard Archipelago. As you immerse yourself in daily Discovery Excursions, take the opportunity to seek photography tips and expert guidance from your Discovery Team, ensuring you capture every moment perfectly. They will help you immortalise incredible moments while cruising on the Zodiacs and kayaking around impressive ice formations.

With up to 20 specialists including geologists, historians, ornithologists, marine biologists, and glaciologists, the Discovery Team is at the heart of your Expedition Voyage.

Scenic Discovery: You will have the opportunity to enjoy Discovery Excursions such as Zodiac cruises, kayaking and guided nature walks. Explore pristine locations and discover majestic Arctic scenery and tundra landscapes.

Mark your final day in Svalbard with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. For many, the polar plunge is an exhilarating rite of passage and, while the day may change, your Discovery Team will always look for a special place to set up the yacht’s marina so that you can don your swimsuit and leap into the icy water below. After the plunge, warm up with a drink of your choice, from a specialty tea to aged whiskey, or head to the infrared saunas in the Senses Spa# for some relaxation.

Savour one last breakfast on board Scenic Eclipse before saying farewell to the crew who have shared this once-in-a-lifetime journey with you. As you disembark, share the highlights of your Expedition Voyage in this spectacular part of the world with new friends, knowing you have created memories to last a lifetime.

You will be transferred to Oslo for an overnight stay, the final part of your journey.

After breakfast in your hotel, take the time to say goodbye to your fellow Arctic travellers. As you fly out of Norway, treasure all the memories made on your voyage aboard a Scenic Discovery Yacht.

For those looking to explore even more of Scandinavia, consider joining our pre-cruise land tour from Copenhagen to Bergen, an unforgettable journey through charming cities, and rich Nordic culture before embarking on your ocean voyage. Inquire today for more details on this exclusive opportunity.

#Spa treatments and services at additional cost. Daily activities may be subject to change; please consult your Daily Wonder for updates.

+All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. Specialty restaurants require a reservation, enquire on board.

^Experiences on board our two helicopters and submersible are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather, ice and tidal conditions.

~Kayak and stand-up paddleboard not available in all locations.

Helicopter and submersible not in operation in Svalbard.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information. Hotels are indicative and subject to change.