14-night North Cape & Norwegian Fjords Cruise

The white cliffs of Dover are famous in song and story. From Dover you can visit nearby Canterbury or take a full-day excursion to see the sights of London, Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and more.

Destination Guide

Norway's royal residence since 997 AD, when King Olaf I founded Trondheim, the city still boasts Stiftsgarden, the huge wooden palace. A century later, St. Olaf II began to perform miracles for the people, making Trondheim a major pilgrimage destination. Be sure to visit Nidaros Cathedral, where the Norwegian kings are still crowned, which is certainly one of Europe's premier Gothic-style churches.

Destination Guide

Excursions

Trondheim City Tour with visit to Nidaros Cathedral and Trøndelag Folk Museum - 4 hours — Optional Private Excursions

This is a tour around Trondheim centre and its outskirts. You'll pass by the main highligts of the city, the old town bridge, the Norwegian University of Science and Technologi (NTNU) at the Kristiansten Fort, the Royal Residence and many more. 

The tour continues with a visit to Nidaros Cathedral, the world’s northernmost Gothic cathedral. Built from 1070 over the tomb of St. Olav, the Viking king who brought Christianity to Norway, the cathedral was completed around 1300. In the summer months, you can climb the 172 steps to the top of the tower and be rewarded with an unrivaled view of the city.

You will also visit Trøndelag Open-Air Folk Museum, also known as “Sverresborg”. This is an open air museum with more than 80 historical buildings and several indoor exhibitions. The museum’s old town is comprised of buildings that were originally located in downtown Trondheim, and offers a charming representation of the wooden houses that have dominated the cityscape from the 18th century up until today. The museum’s rural department is located around the ruins of the castle, and consists of farmsteads and houses surrounded by picturesque nature. The houses are all originally from the Trøndelag region. In the rural department you will also find our Sami collection, the Haltdalen stave church, the Lo church and the old school.

Beautiful Bronnoysund is situated in central Norway. Popular with travellers is a visit to the marvelous Torghatten, a mountain with a distinctive hole running straight through the hillside. Also of interest  is the Skarsasen fortress from WWII. Trenches and tunnels lead underground from the four large cannon sites. Fjord Seafood originated here, as well as the largest limestone mine in Northern Europe.

Svolvaer is the main town of the Lofoten Islands in northern Norway. It is on the southern coast of Ostvagoya, the easternmost island of the group. The rugged and bleak countryside around Svolvaer has attracted both tourists and artists, and the town has become something of an artists' colony.

Enjoy the appealing frontier atmosphere at this ancient whaling capital and base for expeditions to the North Pole.

Destination Guide

The world's northernmost village, Honningsvag, the gateway to the North Cape, is a completely modern fishing harbor set in a land of forests, fjord waters, and crashing waterfalls, everything bathed in summer by the eerie light of the midnight sun. Only the chapel withstood the German destruction of 1944. It's some 50 miles nearer to the North Pole than Hammerfest, on the Alta-Hammerfest bus route.

Destination Guide

Honningsvag/North Cape, Norway Welcome to the top of the world! The village of Honningsvag is the northernmost community in Europe, set in a land of vast forests, dramatic fjords and crashing waterfalls, bathed in the eerie light of the Midnight Sun. Just up the coast is the North Cape, Europe's northernmost point, with breathtaking views towards the Barents Sea and the polar north.

Nordfjord is a gateway to the majestic glaciers of Norway and truly an outdoor lovers paradise. Adventure tours lead groups into the spectacular Boldasbreen Glacier for glacier hiking, downhill skiing, rafting, kayaking, and much more. Nordfjord is also the perfect place to explore Norway's rich cultural history through the local folk museum, churches, and medieval Viking sites. Natural Wonders are to be found all over the fjord including, waterfalls, mountains, rivers, and the scenic National Park.

Loen is a beautiful glacier town on the point of the Nordfjord. See the magnificent Jostedalsbreen glacier, the largest glacier on the European continent. Take advantage of a flight tours over the glacier and see the breathtaking scenery from above. Majestic fjords, sparkling blue lakes, cascading waterfalls, awesome glaciers and towering mountains, Loen is a slice of Norway’s splendor.

Destination Guide

With its spectacular setting among seven hills, Bergen is one of the most beautiful and enjoyable cities in Norway. Most sites are within an easy walk from the harbor. From fine surviving medieval buildings to a series of good museums such as Fishery Museum and Old Bergen open-air museum, Bergen offers a wide variety of attractions. Its scenic beauty can best be appreciated from Mt. Floyen and is captivating. Enjoy this lovely city by taking a stroll to the old part of town, passing impressive 12th-century Bergenhus fortress. Old Hanseatic Wharf, called Bryggen, is where reconstructed gabled buildings house workshops, boutiques and restaurants. St. Mary's Church is Bergen’s oldest building and one of the finest Norman churches in Norway. Rasmus Meyers Collection is a rambling townhouse featuring one of the best collections of Norwegian art, including an upper floor devoted almost entirely to Munch. Bergen boasts numerous historic buildings dating from medieval times: Bergenhus Fortress; Rosenkrantz Tower; Haakon’s Hall.

Destination Guide

Excursions

Bergen Walking Tour - 3 hours — Optional Private Excursions

Bergen may perhaps be a relatively small city (population of 260,000) however it is overflowing with history (the first settlement here were over 900 years ago), culture, incredible nature, gourmet restaurants and cosy cafe’s
Bryggen, the ancient Hanseatic Wharf, which is one of the best known European dwelling places from the Middle Ages, comprises a maze of characteristic wooden buildings with pointed gables facing the harbour.

This unique architectural gem is now listed by UNESCO as one of the world's most significant examples of the history and culture of a medieval settlement. Bryggen thrives today as a honeycomb of painter’s and craftsmen’s workshops, plus access to the interior of some of the buildings themselves where history has been preserved as it was originally. 
The Fløibanen funicular in Bergen is one of Norway's best-known attractions. Fløibanen can be found in the heart of Bergen. Fløibanen is a funicular cable car that takes you 320 metres above sea level. In just a few minutes you find yourself on top of a mountain with a perfect view of the city and its surroundings. You have not seen Bergen before you have taken Fløibanen.
 

Bergen -Hike to Mount Fløien and lunch at Bergen´s Fish Market – 5 hours — Optional Private Excursions
You start this journey by meeting our guide and taking Bergen´s funicular, one of the trademarks of the city.
The funicular railway is one of Norway's most famous attractions. The trip starts in the heart of the city and takes you 320 meters above sea level. In just 6 minutes, you will find yourself on top of Mount Fløyen. After enjoying a panoramic view of Bergen we will start our hike!
Our guide will take you through the beautiful surroundings, enjoying the views of the city, the fjords and mountains while discovering the local nature. You will do this hiking at your own pace.
You may walk down to the city center or take the funicular. The tour ends at Bergen´s Fish Market, a place that has a long history that dates to the 1200s. Since then, the market has been one of the most important places for trade between fishermen, farmers, and the inhabitants of the city. Here you will say goodbye to our guide and enjoy a delicious and traditional Norwegian lunch. You will be served a traditional fish platter that includes local delicacies such as king crab, lobster, langoustines, oysters, and creamy mussels.
 
Basis:  Private hiking/walking tour.
Duration:       5 hours (incl 4 hours for funicular and hike, plus time for lunch on your own).
Start / End:   City/Fish Market.
Inclusions: English-speaking guide, Other languages on request, Entrance to  Funicular, Lunch at the Fish Market (Luxury platter: King crab, lobster and langoustines in garlic butter, oysters and creamy mussels. Served with salad, bread, aioli and tarragon dip, tap water). Vegetarian option available (Filled spicy portobello mushroom covered in melted local cheese, served on a bed of vegetables and sweet potato purée.)
Not included: Vehicle
Physical Activity Level:      Grade Moderate. Walking required over uneven surfaces.
Tour can operate: afternoon/evening
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Notes: Tour program may be reversed for logistic / planning purposes. Bring appropriate clothing and shoes.
 

Bergen Art & Design Walking Tour visiting KODE Art Museum and Arven silver factory – 4 hours — Optional Private Excursions
You start this walking tour with our guide, visiting two of the main attractions in Bergen for art and design lovers.
 
We will pay a visit to KODE 3 Museum, which The Rasmus Meyers Collection and a great compilation of works by Edvard Munch, one of the most renowned Norwegian painters.
Among the highlights of the collection are paintings from the Golden Age of Norwegian art, as well as historical interiors from the Bergen area. The presentation includes highlights from the careers of other famous Norwegian artists such as J.C. Dahl, Harriet Backer, Erik Werenskiold and Gerhard Munthe.
 
We continue our tour by visiting Arven´s workshops. In 1868 Theodor Olsen brought international expertise when he established his own sterling silversmithery and store and quickly became a leader in Bergen’s arts and crafts community. Following his death in 1890, the silver smithery and store continued under the name of Theodore Olsen managed by the Aase family for many generations until 2016 when it became Arven AS. Today, Arven is a modern and innovative factory which is constantly developing new and exciting products through bold design work in cooperation with contemporary designers but preserving traditional techniques and classic design.
During your private visit you will be greeted by your host offering you a special welcome with a drink and a taste of delicious Norwegian local produce cheese and snacks, all served using their beautiful cheese slices and knives we create.
Your visit continues with a presentation about the story of silversmithing in Bergen, about Arven, our history, our products, and our way of working. Afterwards there will time for your questions and participation to “show and tell” how each visitor can make their own stamped pendant!
You are then guided to our workshop and witness where our silver cutlery and jewelries are crafted. There will be a little “ceremony” in the workshop where each visitor gets their own Arven medal.
 
Basis: Private tour.
Duration:      4 hours walking tour.
Start / End:   City.
Vehicle:        None.
Guide: English-speaking. Other languages on request.   
Entrances:     KODE 3 Museum and Arven Silver Factory.
Meals: None.
Physical activity level:      Grade Easy. Walking required over uneven surfaces.
Wheelchair accessible: NO
Tour operates: morning, afternoon. Tour not available on Mondays.
Notes: Tour program may be reversed for logistic / planning purposes. The tour is not offered on Sunday and Monday.
 

Bergen Food Tour – 3,5 hours — Optional Private Excursions
During your private visit you will visit Bryggen, which is on UNESCO’s list of world heritage. Your guide will take you through the old part of the city and you will have 5 stops with tastes on your experience. Your also visit the famous Fishmarket including a stop for a sweet surprise.
Bergen is a vibrant port city in the heart of the fjords. The second largest city of the country with 275, 000 inhabitants, it has a long history in international trade in seafood, reflected in its traditional and coastal gastronomy. The city’s food culture originating from sea biodiversity is considered the most sustainable in Europe. Deeply linked to healthy nutrition, gastronomy in Bergen thrives on organic food, the production of which is supported by more than 3,000 farmers and 200 artisan food entrepreneurs. In addition to this, another 6,500 people are employed by the aquaculture industry and fisheries.

Basis: Private tour.
Duration:      3,5 hours walking tour.
Start / End:   City.
Vehicle:        None.
Guide: English-speaking. Other languages on request.   
Entrances:     None
Meals: Tastings of local specialties and 1 beer or soft drink
Difficulty:      Grade Easy. Walking required over uneven surfaces.
Notes: Tour program may be reversed for logistic / planning purposes. The tour is not offered on Sunday and Monday.

 

Cosmopolitan Amsterdam is most famous for its narrow, gabled houses lining the canals. Interesting attractions include the medieval weighhouse, Royal Palace on Dam Square, and New Church. Its most glamorous industry is the diamond trade. Not too far from Amsterdam are the flower centers of Aalsmeer, the picturesque fishing villages of Volendam and Marken, cheese markets at Edam and Gouda, and historic Haarlem, the main center of the bulb-growing industry. Enjoy the city’s sights from a glass-topped sightseeing boat which passes characteristic gabled houses and negotiates picturesque arched bridges. Facing Dam Square, the Royal Palace was built in 1648 and is still officially the royal residence, although the royal family resides in The Hague. The marbled Citizens Hall with inlaid maps of the world is worth seeing. One of Amsterdam’s most visited sites is historic Anne Frank House. Rijksmuseum, the city’s most prestigious museum, houses the largest collection of Dutch paintings in the world. Van Gogh Museum houses a striking collection.

Destination Guide

Excursions

Amsterdam: An Introduction to Amsterdam – 4 hours — Optional Private Excursions
Meet your driver at the Port in Amsterdam for a private transfer to the city centre where your guide is waiting to meet you for a walking tour of this beautiful city. Begin at Dam Square, bordered by the Royal Palace and enjoy wonderful views of the canals and gabled houses of the mercantile quarter before visiting the house in which Anne Frank wrote her celebrated diary during the last war*. After your tour, transfer in the comfort of your own private vehicle back to your ship.

*tickets for the Anne Frank House sell out very quickly and are subject to availability. Guides are not allowed to accompany you into the house itself, but will be waiting for you at the end of your visit (approx. 45-90 mins)

Highlights:

• Tour Anne Frank's house

• Private transport by luxury car or minivan
• An expert local guide for 4 hours
• Entrance fees to all sights and museums
• All taxes

• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities

Amsterdam: Highlights of Amsterdam - 8 Hours — Optional Private Excursions
Spend the day exploring Amsterdam in the hands of your expert guide. You are met at the port and transferred to Dam Square where your morning’s walking tour includes the notable Royal Palace.  Admire the views of the canals and the gabled houses of the Canal Ring district, where you will visit the house in which Anne Frank wrote her celebrated diary during the last war*.

After lunch explore the beautifully-restored Rijksmuseum, to admire the stunning collection of masterpieces from the seventeenth-century Golden Age, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer. No visit to Amsterdam would be complete without seeing the delightful Van Gogh Museum, home to many of his famous works as well as those of other Impressionists and Post-Impressionists.

*tickets for the Anne Frank House sell out very quickly and are subject to availability. Guides are not allowed to accompany you into the house itself, but will be waiting for you at the end of your visit (approx. 45-90 mins)

Highlights:

• Visit Anne Frank's House
• Explore the Van Gogh Museum

• Private transport by luxury car or minivan
• An expert local guide for 8 hours
• Entrance fees to all sights and museums
• All taxes

• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities

Amsterdam: The Three Sisters, Delft & Den Haag - 8 Hours — Optional Private Excursions
You are met at Amsterdam port for a full-day excursion outside of the city. Head south into the countryside for a photo opportunity at the impressive Three Sisters Windmills in Stompwijk. As over a third of the Netherlands lies below sea level, windmills were initially designed to pump vast amount of water out, thus protecting land from flooding. Today, these silent giants draw many visitors every year for their charming appearances.

From here, you travel on to Delft, world-renowned for its famous blue and white pottery and one of the most beautiful towns in the Netherlands. Take in the town’s architectural gems and charming ambience, which are best appreciated by walking along its small canals with their graceful humpbacked bridges.

Following this, enjoy a privately-guided tour at the Royal Delft Experience, where a painter shares the passion behind the production of this stunning 17th-century earthenware during a special demonstration.

After lunch at leisure, you continue to the Hague, the home of the Dutch Royal Family and the administrative capital of the Netherlands; walk the Inner court past the Government buildings and take the opportunity for a photo stop at the International Court of Justice. You may like to visit the Mauritshuis Museum, which holds one of the world's finest collections of paintings, including Rembrandt, Steen, Hals, Rubens and Van Dyck, or you may choose to visit the Panorama Mesdag, which hosts the Panorama, one of the largest canvas paintings in the world (subject to opening times).

On your return journey, stop at Scheveningen beach for some spectacular views before continuing back. (8 hours, driver and guide)


Highlights:

• Witness the majestic windmills known as the Three Sisters
• Delve into Delft's artistic heritage

• Private transport by luxury car or minivan
• An expert local guide for 8 hours
• Entrance fees to all sights and museums
• All taxes

• All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
• Gratuities

The white cliffs of Dover are famous in song and story. From Dover you can visit nearby Canterbury or take a full-day excursion to see the sights of London, Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and more.

Destination Guide