Overview
Cruise
3-99 Years
NL
Itinerary
Tour Begins: Tromsø, Norway. Transportation is included from the Tromsø Airport to your choice of hotel, Scandic Ishavshotel or Tromsø Clarion Hotel, The Edge. Join your fellow travelers tonight for a welcome reception and dinner at your hotel. Stay: Clarion The Edge Hotel (D)
Your introduction to Norway begins in Tromsø. Located in Northern Norway, Tromsø has been inhabited since the end of the last ice age, with discovered artifacts dating back 9,000 – 10,000 years ago! Today, Tromsø is best known as Norway's most vital urban center above the Arctic Circle. It is home to a variety of museums, a world-renowned university and numerous research institutions. Embark by motor coach for a sightseeing journey across the city, with stops at the Northern Lights Planetarium and the Arctic Cathedral.
Late this afternoon, board your floating home for the next 10 nights – Le Lapérouse, one of Ponant's explorer-class vessels. You'll receive your Arctic Parkas for excursions off the ship, then enjoy dinner onboard. Stay 10 Nights: Le Laperouse (B/L/D)
Your adventures in Tromso continue this morning on a choice of excursions. First, you can zip up those parkas and accompany your Tauck Director outside Tromsø for a guided opportunity to meet, feed and pet local reindeer, highlighted by a sleigh ride along the Norwegian countryside. Your excursion continues with a visit to a Nothern Sami láávu, a traditional dwelling used by the Sami people. Here, indulge in conversation about the lives and experiences of the Sami people, a culture that spans the northern latitudes of Norway, Sweden, Finland and Russia.
You may also choose to enjoy an indoor, panoramic cruise along the Arctic fjords where breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery stun at every angle and moment. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the local wildlife as well. Alternatively, venture outside of Tomso to meet and learn about the region's sled dogs highlighted with opportunities to take photos and pet the dogs as well as embarking on a sled ride. After lunch aboard the ship, you'll have free time to explore Tromsø before setting sail this evening to Narvik. (B/L/D)
Your ship arrives early this morning in Narvik. Derived from the Old Norse word, vik, meaning "inlet," Narvik stands today as a commercial center for the region and an integral stop on our Arctic journey. Your jam-packed day begins with a choice of excursions: a visit to Narvikfjellet and a guided tour of the Narvik War Museum, detailing the history of the Battle of Narvik and the town's involvement in World War II; a visit to the Arctic Wildlife Center for an in-depth lesson in the center's mission to conserve endangered arctic species; or a third option takes you on an active snowshoe hike from the top of Mt. Narvikfjellet, through open fields and forests.
Your day continues with a scenic and historic train journey on the world's most northern railroad - the Ofoten Line. Finished at the beginning of the 20th century, the railroad was built to ensure access to an ice-free export port for the huge iron ore deposits from northern Sweden. With towering mountains, dramatic waterfalls and fantastic views of the fjord, this journey goes through the beautiful and wild arctic landscape.
Tonight, join us aboard your ship for the Captain's Welcome Reception and dinner as your ship charts a course for Leknes. (B/L/D)
Arrive early this morning in the town of Leknes. Situated in the geographical middle of the Lofoten archipelago, Leknes is known for its stunning natural surroundings, including white, sandy beaches, mountain peaks and cliffs. Head out this morning on a choice of excursions; you may either decide to indulge in horseback riding on a guided ride through the stunning northern Norwegian landscapes. Or, set off on a full-day excursion to the village of Å (pronounced "oh"), one of the country's most well-preserved fishing villages located on the southernmost extent of the Lofoton Islands.
Tonight, a visit to the Lofotr Viking Museum offers you an in-depth and authentic Viking experience. Enjoy a guided tour through the museum, a costumed historical interpretation of a 'circle dance, a 'court' hearing with a Viking Chieftain, and a feast fit for a warrior, including a mead tasting and samplings of lamb soup and Viking bread. (B/L/D)
Set sail along the high seas today for a full day of cruising. Enjoy onboard lectures and presentations from your Tauck Director, as well as a guest lecturer presentation by Peter Bassett, a multi-award-winning producer, wildlife filmmaker and longtime Tauck partner. (B/L/D)
Stretch your legs on a short sightseeing excursion to Hammerfest, the self-proclaimed "northernmost city in the world" (although its neighbor Honningsvåg would disagree). Your sightseeing tour includes Hammerfest's Mt. Salen viewpoint, views of the Struve Geodetic Arc, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and stops at the Museum of Reconstruction and the Hammerfest Kirke (church).
This afternoon, chart a course for Bjørnøya Island. Your ship won't arrive there until late tomorrow morning, so you'll have the rest of the day to do as you wish. Enjoy lectures this afternoon by Peter Bassett and your Tauck Director, or visit the top deck and take in the incredible views on the horizon. (B/L/D)
While Bjørnøya translates to 'bear' in Norwegian, the island's name is actually somewhat of a misnomer because there are no native bears found there. Instead it's believed that bears floated aboard drift ice to the island's edge. You'll have the exciting opportunity to view the native wildlife from the comfort of your ship, and your Tauck director will assist you in spotting and identifying the various species of birds and marine animals native to the islands. Keep your eyes peeled for thick-billed murres, Arctic terns, northern fulmars, Glaucous gulls as well as narwhal and bowhead whales, walruses, dolphins and harbour porpoise. After lunch, get your last glimpse of the animals as your ship heads toward Honningsvåg. (B/L/D)
The actual northernmost city in mainland Norway, Honningsvåg serves as the gateway to the North Cape, and is a primary destination for travelers who wish to visit the Arctic landscapes. Your time in the northernmost city is highlighted by a choice of excursions, both of which include a visit to Nordkapp (North Cape), one of the best places in the world to view the Midnight Sun. Your choices are either a King Crab tasting experience or a visit to a local seafood factory, where you'll learn about the region's fishing industry on a guided tour.
Tonight, set sail for Alta. (B/L/D)
A full day of all-included shore excursions awaits once you step foot in Alta, one of the best places in the world to experience aurora borealis (the Northern Lights). Choices include: a winter safari by snowmobile through Finnmarksvidda, Norway's largest plateau; an active snowshoe trek and ice fishing experience; an active cross-country skiing adventure; a reindeer sledding excursion with a visit to a local Sámi camp, where you'll have an opportunity to learn about the ways of the Sámi; a dog sledding experience or a morning at leisure to explore the town of Alta on your own. After lunch back onboard the ship, join us for an afternoon excursion to the Alta Museum, focusing on the town's prehistoric past followed by a stop at the Ice Hotel, one of the coolest spots in town.
Tonight, please join us for the captain's farewell reception followed by dinner. (B/L/D)
What better way to finish off your Northern Norway adventure than with a special morning concert at the Northern Lights Cathedral. Known for its unique architecture (specifically designed to honor aurora borealis with its shape and titanium exterior) and its excellent acoustics, here, enjoy a setlist comprised of traditional folk tunes and classical pieces. Your ship departs early this afternoon for the return trip to Tromsø (and the official end to your journey). Savor the last afternoon of your cruise with a final presentation by guest lecturer, Peter Bassett, and then join your fellow travelers for dinner, reminiscing about the amazing experiences you've shared together for the past 11 days. (B/L/D)
Tour Ends: Tromsø. A transfer is included from your ship to Tromsø Airport. Please allow up to three hours for check in. (B)
Tour Inclusions
- On the March 2 and 22 departures, Multi-award winning producer and wildlife filmmaker Peter Bassett, with a 20-year track record in natural history productions, shares insights during onboard presentations.
- Travel back in time to the age of the Vikings on a guided tour of the Lofotr Viking Museum
- A choice of excursions on most days offers you the ability to customize your journey ashore
- Meet and learn about the indigenous Sami people
- Glide through the snowy wilderness on a traditional reindeer sled, learning about Sámi culture and connecting with Arctic traditions
- Sail through breathtaking Arctic fjords, surrounded by nature's unspoiled beauty and wildlife in its natural habitat
- A choice of excursions in Narvik offers you the opportunity to embark on a snowshoe trek, the Arctic Wildlife Center or ascend the mountain - Narvikfjellet followed by a visit to the town's World War II museum
- On-deck sightseeing of nearby Bjørnøya Island offers you the chance to spot and identify a variety of pelagic species of birds and marine mammals
- All gratuities to Tauck Directors, ship staff and local guides
- Tauck's private shore excursions and distinctive inclusions
- 10-night cruise, hotel stays and sightseeing in Tromso, Narvik, Leknes, Honningsvag and Alta.
- Your cruise may be a shared ship experience with non-Tauck guests onboard as well; all Tauck guests will be accompanied by one Tauck Director for approximately every 40 Tauck guests, and your itinerary will always be highlighted by exclusive, private Tauck shore excursions
- Aboard ship – alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are available throughout the day aboard ship including house wines and spirits; premium spirits and wines are available at extra cost
- Airport transfers upon arrival and departure as noted
- Applicable fuel surcharges, service charges, porterage and taxes
- 32 included meals (11 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 11 dinners)
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
Operator
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Cruise Line
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm). A bathroom with shower. A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs. A glazed panoramic swing door and rectangular window. Services provided include 24-hour read more room service, inclusive Wifi internet access, individually-controlled air conditioning, dressing room with shelves and closet, dressing table and hairdryer, Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products, minibar, Nespresso coffee maker, Bose Bluetooth speaker and Flat screen TV.
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm). One chaise longue. A bathroom with shower. A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs. A panoramic sliding bay window or panoramic swing door. Services provided read more include 24-hour room service, inclusive Wifi internet access, individually-controlled air conditioning, dressing room with shelves and closet, dressing table and hairdryer, Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products, minibar, Nespresso coffee maker, Bose Bluetooth speaker and Flat screen TV.
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm). An armchair and sofa (90 x 190 cm). A bathroom with shower. A private 6 m² balcony with two armchairs. A glazed panoramic swing door and panoramic window. read more Services provided include 24-hour room service, inclusive Wifi internet access, individually-controlled air conditioning, dressing room with shelves and closet, dressing table and hairdryer, Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products, minibar, Nespresso coffee maker, Bose Bluetooth speaker and Flat screen TV.
A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm). A lounge with convertible sofa to a king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm), armchair, second TV, and sliding courtesy door. read more Two bathrooms with shower. A private 8 m² balcony with four armchairs. Two panoramic sliding bay windows. Additional services provided include champagne and fruit basket upon arrival, an assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day, 24-hour room service, inclusive Wifi internet access, individually-controlled air conditioning, dressing room with shelves and closet, dressing table and hairdryer, Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products, minibar, Nespresso coffee maker, Bose Bluetooth speaker and Flat screen TV.
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm). A lounge corner with chaise longue and armchair. A bathroom with shower. A private 8 m² balcony with two armchairs. A panoramic sliding bay window. Additional read more services provided include priority boarding, butler service, 24-hour room service, inclusive Wifi internet access, individually-controlled air conditioning, dressing room with shelves and closet, dressing table and hairdryer, Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products, minibar, Nespresso coffee maker, Bose Bluetooth speaker and Flat screen TV.
A bedroom with one king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm). A lounge with sofa bed convertible to a double bed (160 x 190 cm) or a single bed (80 x 190 cm) , armchair, and second TV. A bathroom with read more shower and Baleno bathtub. A private 32 m² terrace with two deckchairs and four-seater dining table. Two panoramic sliding bay windows. Additional services provided include priority boarding, butler service, an assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day, 24-hour room service, inclusive Wifi internet access, individually-controlled air conditioning, dressing room with shelves and closet, dressing table and hairdryer, Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products, minibar, Nespresso coffee maker, Bose Bluetooth speaker and Flat screen TV.
A lounge with armchair, double sofa bed, and second TV. A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm). A bathroom with shower, balneo bathtub and smart mirror. A private 45 m² terrace: 2 deckchairs, read more jacuzzi, and lounge corner with sofa and armchair. Two panoramic sliding bay windows. Additional services provided include concierge service from your reservation until you return from your trip, private return transfer, priority boarding, champagne and fruit basket upon arrival. butler service, a one-hour spa treatment per person (for 2 people) in the well-being space, chosen from the facial and body treatments on offer and premium drinks at the bar.
USD Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Tauck. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
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