DAY 10 – FINNSNES, NORWAY
Today’s voyage takes us through the jaw-dropping archipelagos of Lofoten and Vesterålen. After departing from Finnsnes early in the morning, your ship calls at Harstad, home to the historic Trondenes Church, said to be the world’s northernmost medieval stone church. Next is Risøyhamn, followed by Sortland, where the scenery shifts from gentle hills to towering mountains.
You then visit Stokmarknes, the birthplace of The Coastal Express, and explore the Hurtigrutemuseet (Hurtigruten Museum), which showcases Norway’s maritime legacy with the beautifully preserved ship MS Finnmarken. Afterwards, sailing along Raftsund, the captain may navigate into Trollfjord, where towering mountain walls seem within reach, before turning around in this dramatic fjord. Keep a lookout for soaring sea eagles here.
In the evening, you arrive in Svolvær in the Lofoten Islands and then continue past the impressive granite cliffs of the Lofoten Wall, concluding a truly memorable day on ‘the world’s most beautiful voyage’.
DAY 11 – BODE, NORWAY
The ship calls at Bodø in the early morning, followed by Ørnes. After breakfast, we cross the Arctic Circle, marking the moment with a traditional taste of Norwegian cod liver oil. A brief stop at Nesna precedes your journey to Sandnessjøen, the gateway to the magnificent Helgeland Coast.
Marvel at the lofty peaks of the Seven Sisters mountain range, and learn the local legend of seven troll princesses turned into mountains. You can’t miss the distinctive holed mountain of Torghatten – learn from the Expedition Team about the fascinating mythology associated with it.
In the afternoon, you arrive in Brønnøysund, where a walk along Havnegata reveals the lively marina and historic Brønnøy Church. Your day concludes with a stop at the charming fishing port of Rørvik, nestled in the picturesque Vikna archipelago.
DAY 12 – TRONDHEIM, NORWAY
You begin your day in historic Trondheim as the city awakens. Take a trip to see the exquisite Nidaros Cathedral, the resting place of St. Olav, and enjoy a stroll across Gamle Bybro bridge for scenic views over the River Nid. Relax in the trendy Bakklandet district with a coffee and some typical Norwegian ‘boller’ or buns, before ascending Kristiansten Fort for panoramic vistas of Norway’s third-largest city.
Later, your ship docks at Kristiansund, known as Norway’s ‘bacalao capital’ for its salted, dried cod known as klippfisk. Wander through the cobbled streets of the old town and visit the lively port, with an optional visit to Varden viewpoint to savour a sweeping panorama. The journey then continues to Molde, famed for the Romsdal Alps and nicknamed ‘City of Roses” due to the vibrant blooms which typically flourish from mid-June to late August.
DAY 13 – FLORO, NORWAY
Today marks the final chapter of your Norwegian coastal journey. Last night, you will have called at Ålesund and Torvik, and today begins with breathtaking views of Nordfjord beneath the majestic Jostedal glacier – Europe’s largest. The ship then docks in Florø, offering a chance to admire the charming harbour and marina. As we depart, Stabben Lighthouse comes into view, and crossing the mouth of Sognefjord, Norway’s longest and widest fjord, provides spectacular scenery.
In the afternoon, the voyage concludes in Bergen, navigating through scenic islands and skerries along Hjeltefjord. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a guided tour by bus passing historic sites like St. Mary’s Church and Haakon Hall, exploring the vibrant fish market and the historic Bryggen wharf. The evening offers the chance for a leisurely walk or a scenic ride up Mt. Fløyen for panoramic city views (own arrangements).
DAY 14 – BERGEN, ICELAND
This is the day when you say goodbye to Norway, and hello to Iceland. But there’s no rush, and the morning is at leisure for you to do some more exploring around Bergen, if you wish.
In the afternoon you will fly from the airport in Bergen to Keflavik, which is close to Reykjavík. A transfer will take you to your hotel in the city, and along the way you’ll see for the first time the strange, volcanic terrain that makes up much of Iceland. In fact, it was in this area that lava spewed to the surface recently – so keep a lookout for sign of activity such as smoke and steam.
DAY 15 – REYKJAVIK, ICELAND
Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel, then enjoy a three-hour Reykjavík sightseeing tour. You’ll visit notable landmarks such as City Hall, the National Museum, Höfði house, Harpa Concert Hall, and the Conference Centre. The tour offers insights into Iceland’s rich history and culture.
One highlight is a visit to Hallgrímskirkja Church, Reykjavík’s iconic landmark, known for its stunning architecture and towering presence. Explore the beautifully designed interior, showcasing unique Icelandic artistry and spirituality.
The remainder of the day and evening are yours to explore Reykjavík’s vibrant streets, local cafes, shops, and cultural sites at your own pace, soaking up the city’s laid-back atmosphere.
DAY 16 – SELFOSS, ICELAND
Today you’ll be heading to the famous Blue Lagoon. Relax in the mineral-rich, milky-blue waters, renowned for their supposed healing properties and surreal beauty. The Comfort entrance includes access to silica mud masks at the Mask Bar, a refreshing drink, and towels. Surrounded by rugged lava fields, the lagoon’s warm, mineral-laden waters provide a tranquil oasis and a perfect way to unwind.
Once you’ve soaked away all your cares, it’s time to get dressed and board the bus again as you travel to our next destination – Selfoss. Along the way we’ll stop briefly to admire the colourful geothermal landscapes at Krísuvík, arriving at our hotel in the late afternoon.
Please note: if the Blue Lagoon is not open that day, you’ll instead go to the Sky Lagoon. Here, with the Saman Pass, you’ll get admission, one journey through the Skjól ritual and a towel (but no drink).
DAY 17 – VIK, ICELAND
Today offers a truly captivating tour of Iceland’s amazing south coast. Visit the iconic Seljalandsfoss, a breathtaking waterfall you can walk behind, and nearby Skogafoss, one of the country’s largest and most powerful waterfalls.
Continue to Reynisfjara, a dramatic black sand beach famed for its striking basalt columns and the view of Dyrhólaey, a towering promontory offering panoramic vistas of the coastline.
Later, you’ll explore the LAVA Centre, an engaging exhibition and cinema that brings Iceland’s volcanic activity to life through immersive displays and films. The rest of the afternoon and evening are yours to relax or explore at your leisure, simply enjoying the peaceful beauty and unique atmosphere of this remarkable region.
DAY 18 – REYKJAVIK, ICELAND
After breakfast you’ll head out on the iconic Golden Circle tour. Visit Gullfoss, the powerful two-tiered waterfall, and Geysir, where the famous Strokkur geyser erupts regularly, shooting water high into the air.
Continue to Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the historic site of the original Icelandic parliament, with dramatic rift valleys showcasing the continent’s geological activity.
After a day of exploring these natural and historical wonders, we return to Reykjavík in the late afternoon and check into our hotel.
In the evening, you’ll enjoy a farewell dinner, celebrating the incredible experiences and memories made since we set out. No doubt you’ll have made a few friends since we left Helsinki, so now’s the ideal time to exchange email addresses and make promises to keep in touch.
DAY 19 – REYKJAVIK, ICELAND
Sadly, all good things must come to an end, and today is the day your tour finishes. After breakfast at the hotel, it’s time to check out. If you’re not planning to spend some extra time lingering in Iceland, make your way to the airport for your return flight home.
