Norwegian Coastal Odyssey
An exploration of Norway’s Islands & Fjords aboard the MS Serenissima
- 14 June 2019
- 9 August 2019
Norway is, by anyone’s standards, one of Europe’s most beautiful and awe-inspiring countries. The beautiful panoramas and pristine wilderness promises to delight those with a love for the natural world and time spent discovering some of the country’s most impressive fjords from the deck of the MS Serenissima promises to astound even the most jaded of travellers.
During our summer voyages along the western coast of this remarkable country we will discover a landscape punctuated by picturesque villages, bustling coastal towns, fjords of cinematic grandeur, majestic waterfalls, charming summer resorts and thriving fishing communities.
Our days will be spent on excursions with local guides, on walks with our naturalists and on deck of the MS Serenissima as we cruise amongst the fjords. There will also be ample time to relax and enjoy the summer days independently when in some of the delightful towns such as Lillesand and Kragero, ports which the larger cruise vessels in the region are unable to access. With less than 100 travelling companions, the atmosphere aboard the MS Serenissima is akin to a private yacht trip and, ashore with our local experts we will divide into small groups thereby enjoying a more comprehensive and peaceful experience.
Useful links & Travel Advice
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Serenissima
The charming MS Serenissima began her career as the Harald Jarl, cruising the Norwegian coastline and fjords. Since 2003, when she was extensively renovated, she has been operating as a classic cruise ship. Previously known as the MS Andrea, she was upgraded again in 2013 and started her new life as the MS Serenissima. With her small size she can navigate into small, remote ports inaccessible to the big cruise ships and appears an impressive sight when moored. With her fleet of Zodiacs, she is capable of both destination and expedition cruising.
Tromso to Copenhagen
Day 1 - London to Tromso, Norway.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight. Arrive this afternoon and transfer to the MS Serenissima. Embark and enjoy a Welcome Drink and Dinner as we sail this evening.
Day 2 - Lofoten Islands.
Our first morning of exploration sees us in the Lofoten Archipelago, an enchanting area of picturesque villages with jagged granite mountain peaks forming a dramatic backdrop. We will have a full day tour to explore the villages and see the life of these islands. We will disembark in Svolvaer and drive to the Viking Museum at Borg. The Viking Museum has an exhibition of items found by archaeologists, as well as recreations of Viking homes. After lunch we continue the day with a scenic drive to Vikten, home to a local glassblower’s studio and then to Nusfjord, where we discover why this charming fishing hamlet is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its restored fishing cabins and quaint atmosphere. Our day ends in Reine where the MS Serenissima will have sailed to meet us.
Day 3 - Torghatten & Bronnoysund.
Over breakfast we will cross the Arctic Circle as we pass by the island of Vikingen where we will see the Arctic Circle Monument marking the location. We will continue to cruise through Bronnoysund and in the early afternoon Mount Torghatten will come into view, one of the most famous landmarks on the Norwegian coast. A fairly strenuous walk will take you to the ‘hole’ in the mountain which has been eroded by the sea. For those wishing to have a more relaxing afternoon our naturalists will lead some gentler walks along the water’s edge.
Day 4 - Trondheim.
Founded in AD 997 by Viking King Olav Tryggvason, Trondheim was Norway’s first capital city and we will discover its historical treasures today. We will drive past the old wooden buildings and visit the 11th century Nidaros Cathedral built over the grave of St Olav and richly ornamented in stone with stunning stained-glass windows. We continue to Ringve Manor, a typical manor house of the Trondelag district and home to Norway’s only musical instrument museum, before enjoying a panoramic view of the city from the Sverresli Viewpoint.
Day 5 - Alesund & Runde.
We spend the morning in Alesund, one of the most beautiful towns in Norway. It is a great place to explore the streets with their Art Nouveau buildings. The more active can take a walk-up Mount Aksla taking the 418 steps for magnificent views of the town, islands and Sunnmore Alps. Be on deck this afternoon as we cruise by the bird cliffs at Runde, one of the largest nesting cliffs in Norway and home to half a million birds. More than 240 different species have been observed here including puffins, gannets, razorbills and northern fulmar.
Day 6 - Loen.
Today we leave from the charming village of Loen and take a drive to the Kjenndal valley where we board a small boat to experience the lovely Loen Lake, passing through tall mountains covered by protruding glacier arms. We finally end up at the Kjenndalsbre Fjellstove where we enjoy a short break with homemade Norwegian waffles. We continue our visit to the Kjenndalsbre glacier view point, an arm of the mighty Jostedals Glacier, the largest in mainland Europe. After lunch on board you can choose to enjoy some free time in Loen, or to take a trip on the cable car which rises 1100 metres and offers wonderful views over the fjord below.
Day 7 - Bergen.
We arrive this morning in the lovely fjord capital of Bergen. A guided excursion will include King Hakon’s Hall, the Rosenkrantz Tower, the Bergen Theatre and St. Mary’s Church which was built around 1170 and is one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in Norway. A funicular will take us approximately 300 metres above sea level, from where we can enjoy a panoramic view over the town centre. There will be some free time to enjoy a stroll before returning back to the MS Serenissima. After lunch on board enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore at your own pace. We sail late this evening for anyone who wishes to enjoy dinner ashore or an evening stroll.
Day 8 - Rosendal.
Sail this morning into Hardangerfjord, the third largest fjord in the world. We anchor off Rosendal, from where we drive along the fjord towards the small part of the Hardangerfjord called Maurangerfjord, experiencing the idyllic scenery and farms on the way and viewing the magnificent Langfoss waterfall. When we arrive at the small village of Sunndal we will walk to Bondhus Lake which is surrounded by a fascinating landscape of fjords and mountains. After lunch on board we have free time to explore the town, maybe visit the 12th century Kvinnherad church or see the gardens at Barony Rosendal.
Day 9 - Lysefjord & Stavanger.
This morning we will cruise Lysefjord, measuring 23 miles end to end. We will pass by Preikestolen (Priest Rock) and Kjerag Mountain, both towering above the fjord. This afternoon we arrive in Stavanger and have the chance to stroll in the small harbour with its multi-coloured traditional wood buildings. Old Stavangar is a cluster of 173 small white wooden houses built in the 19th century which house craft shops, galleries and museums.
Day 10 - Lillesand.
Enjoy a relaxing morning cruising before we arrive at one of Norway’s best kept secrets, the charming summer resort of Lillesand. Using our small ship, we navigate the small islands and skerries which dot the coastline making the approach to the town from the sea a truly memorable sight. We will enjoy a few hours ashore in Lillesand exploring the old town with its old white clapboard houses, beautiful gardens and the local shipping museum whilst enjoying the unique atmosphere of a Norwegian summer resort.
Day 11 - Kragero.
Surrounded by nearly 500 islands and skerries, Kragero is a charming town in the region of Telemark and a popular summer retreat. This morning we head inland to the Telemark Canal. When completed in 1892, after five years of construction, it was described as the ‘eighth wonder of the world’. We will join one of the local nostalgic boats as they transit the 18 locks, lifting the ship 72 metres above sea level and enjoy the changing scenery as we travel from the sea to the mountains. The afternoon is free to explore the town at your own pace. Take a walk through the narrow streets and alleyways amongst the old wooden houses.
Day 12 - Aalborg, Denmark.
Aalborg was founded by the Vikings in the late 10th century across the Limfjord and prospered from the fishing and sea trade on the fjord. On a morning excursion we will explore the ancient Viking site of Lindholm Hoje, one of the most important ancient monuments in Scandinavia which was dug out from a thick layer of sand. We will visit the burial site of 700 graves, scattered on a hilltop with a beautiful view of the fjord. Continue to the onsite museum that contains a fascinating exhibition on the Viking settlements found close to the burial ground. Our tour will end with the chance to enjoy authentic Viking cuisine with some small dishes prepared using traditional recipes. After lunch on board choose to enjoy the afternoon at leisure or alternatively, for anyone interested in sampling the local beers there will be the opportunity to join a guided walk of the old town including a tasting of the local specialities.
Day 13 - Copenhagen to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for your scheduled flight to London.
Copenhagen to Tromso
Day 1 - London to Copenhagen, Denmark.
Fly by scheduled flight. Arrive in Copenhagen and transfer to the MS Serenissima. Enjoy Welcome Drinks and Dinner as we sail this evening.
Day 2 - Aalborg.
Aalborg was founded by the Vikings in the late 10th century across the Limfjord and prospered from the fishing and sea trade on the fjord. On a morning excursion we will explore the ancient Viking site of Lindholm Hoje, one of the most important ancient monuments in Scandinavia which was dug out from a thick layer of sand. We will visit the burial site of 700 graves, scattered on a hilltop with a beautiful view of the fjord. Continue to the onsite museum that contains a fascinating exhibition on the Viking settlements found close to the burial ground. Our tour will end with the chance to enjoy authentic Viking cuisine with some small dishes prepared using traditional recipes. After lunch on board choose to enjoy the afternoon at leisure or alternatively, for anyone interested in sampling the local beers there will be the opportunity to join a guided walk of the old town including a tasting of the local specialities.
Day 3 - Kragero.
Surrounded by nearly 500 islands and skerries, Kragero is a charming town in the region of Telemark and a popular summer retreat. This morning we head inland to the Telemark Canal. When completed in 1892, after five years of construction, it was described as the ‘eighth wonder of the world’. We will join one of the local nostalgic boats as they transit the 18 locks, lifting the ship 72 metres above sea level and enjoy the changing scenery as we travel from the sea to the mountains. The afternoon is free to explore the town at your own leisure. Take a walk through the narrow streets and alleyways amongst the old wooden houses.
Day 4 - Lillesand.
This morning we arrive at one of Norway’s best kept secrets, the charming summer resort of Lillesand. We enjoy a few hours ashore in Lillesand exploring the old town with its old white clapboard houses, beautiful gardens and the local shipping museum whilst enjoying the unique atmosphere of a Norwegian summer resort.
Day 5 - Lysefjord & Stavanger.
This morning we will cruise Lysefjord, measuring 23 miles end to end. We will pass by Preikestolen (Priest Rock) and Kjerag Mountain, both towering above the fjord. This afternoon we arrive in Stavanger and have the chance to stroll in the small harbour with its multi-coloured traditional wood buildings. Old Stavangar is a cluster of 173 small white wooden houses built in the 19th century which house craft shops, galleries and museums.
Day 6 - Rosendal.
Sail this morning into Hardangerfjord, the third largest fjord in the world. We anchor off Rosendal, from where we drive along the fjord towards the small part of the Hardangerfjord called Maurangerfjord, experiencing the idyllic scenery and farms on the way and viewing the magnificent Langfoss waterfall. When we arrive at the small village of Sunndal we will walk to Bondhus Lake which is surrounded by a fascinating landscape of fjords and mountains. After lunch on board we have free time to explore the town, maybe visit the 12th century Kvinnherad church or see the gardens at Barony Rosendal.
Day 7 - Bergen.
We arrive this morning in the lovely fjord capital of Bergen. A guided excursion will include King Hakon’s Hall, the Rosenkrantz Tower, the Bergen Theatre and St. Mary’s Church which was built around 1170 and is one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in Norway. A funicular will take us approximately 300 metres above sea level, from where we can enjoy panoramic view over the town center. There will be some free time to enjoy a stroll and scenery before returning back to the MS Serenissima. After lunch on board you can enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore at your own pace. We sail late this evening for anyone who wishes to enjoy dinner ashore or an evening stroll.
Day 8 - Loen.
Leave the charming village of Loen and take a drive to the Kjenndal valley where we board a small boat to experience the lovely Loen Lake, passing through tall mountains covered by protruding glacier arms. We finally end up at the Kjenndalsbre Fjellstove where we enjoy a short break with homemade Norwegian waffles. We continue our visit to the Kjenndalsbre glacier view point, an arm of the mighty Jostedals Glacier, the largest in mainland Europe. After lunch on board you can choose to enjoy some free time in Loen, or to take a trip on the cable car which rises 1100 metres and offers wonderful views over the fjord below.
Day 9 - Runde & Alesund.
Be on deck early this morning as we cruise by the bird cliffs at Runde, one of the largest nesting cliffs in Norway and home to half a million birds. More than 240 different species have been observed here including puffins, gannets, razorbills and Northern Fulmar. We continue to Alesund, one of the most beautiful towns in Norway. It is a great place to spend an afternoon exploring the streets with their Art Nouveau buildings. The more active can take a walk-up Mount Aksla taking the 418 steps for magnificent views of the town, islands and Sunnmore Alps.
Day 10 - Trondheim.
Founded in AD 997 by Viking King Olav Tryggvason, Trondheim was Norway’s first capital city and we will discover its historical treasures today. We will drive past the old wooden buildings and visit the 11th century Nidaros Cathedral built over the grave of St Olav and richly ornamented in stone with stunning stained-glass windows. We continue to Ringve Manor, a typical manor house of the Trondelag district and home to Norway’s only musical instrument museum, before enjoying a panoramic view of the city from the Sverresli Viewpoint.
Day 11 - Torghatten & Bronnoysund.
This morning Mount Torghatten will come into view, one of the most famous landmarks on the Norwegian coast. A fairly strenuous walk will take you to the ‘hole’ in the mountain which has been eroded by the sea and, for those wishing to have a more relaxing morning, our naturalists will lead some gentler walks along the water’s edge. During lunch we sail through Bronnoysund and later this evening we cross the Arctic Circle by the island of Vikingen.
Day 12 - Lofoten Islands.
Our morning of exploration sees us in the Lofoten Archipelago, an enchanting area of picturesque villages with jagged granite mountain peaks forming a dramatic backdrop. We will have a full day tour to explore the villages and see the life of these islands. We will disembark in Reine and drive to the Viking Museum at Borg. The Viking Museum has an exhibition of items found by archaeologists, as well as recreations of Viking homes. Enjoy lunch before we continue the day with a scenic drive to Vikten, home to a local glassblower’s studio. We make our way to Nusfjord, where we discover why this charming fishing hamlet is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its restored fishing cabins and quaint atmosphere. Our day ends in Svolvaer where the MS Serenissima will have sailed to meet us.
Day 13 - Tromso to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for your scheduled indirect flight to London.
Dates and Prices
Tromso to Copenhagen
Prices per person based on double occupancy14 to 26 June 2019 | ||
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Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
2 Standard Stateroom | £5195 | £4995 |
3 Classic Stateroom | £5395 | £5195 |
4 Superior Stateroom | £5495 | £5295 |
5 Deluxe Stateroom | £5895 | £5695 |
6 Junior Suite | £6295 | £6095 |
7 Owner’s Suite | £6995 | £6795 |
8 Serenissima Suite | £7495 | £7295 |
10 Standard Single | £6295 | £6095 |
Copenhagen to Tromso
Prices per person based on double occupancy9 to 21 August 2019 | ||
---|---|---|
Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
2 Standard Stateroom | £5195 | £4995 |
3 Classic Stateroom | £5395 | £5195 |
4 Superior Stateroom | £5495 | £5295 |
5 Deluxe Stateroom | £5895 | £5695 |
6 Junior Suite | £6295 | £6095 |
7 Owner’s Suite | £6995 | £6795 |
8 Serenissima Suite | £7495 | £7295 |
10 Standard Single | £6295 | £6095 |
Tour Reference Code: SCSE140619/SCSE090819
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • 12 nights aboard the MS Serenissima on a full board basis • House wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board • Noble Caledonia onboard team including Guest Speaker • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
SHIP TO SHORE
This cruise is not classified as an expedition cruise; however, Zodiac landing crafts are integral to the operation of the voyage due to the small ports we will be visiting where we will be at anchor and will utilise the Zodiacs to transport guests ashore.
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Deckplan
Serenissima
The charming MS Serenissima began her career as the Harald Jarl, cruising the Norwegian coastline and fjords. Since 2003, when she was extensively renovated, she has been operating as a classic cruise ship. Previously known as the MS Andrea, she was upgraded again in 2013 and started her new life as the MS Serenissima. With her small size she can navigate into small, remote ports inaccessible to the big cruise ships and appears an impressive sight when moored. With her fleet of Zodiacs, she is capable of both destination and expedition cruising.
Video Library
Travelling with You
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Dr Alan Borg
Alan began his career teaching history of art at Indiana and Princeton Universities. Returning to Britain in 1970, he became Assistant Keeper in the Royal Armouries in the Tower of London. In 1982 he became Director General of the Imperial War Museum, where he was responsible for the complete refurbishment and reinterpretation of the Museum, the opening of the Cabinet War Rooms, the preservation of HMS Belfast and the development of Duxford Airfield as a major aviation museum. Appointed Director of the V&A in 1996, he undertook the redisplay of the entire sequence of British Galleries. He retired in 2001 and is currently Vice President of the Foundling Museum, and Librarian of the Priory of England and the Islands, the Venerable Order of St John. Awarded the CBE in 1991, he is also a Knight of the Order of St John. His publications include books on Romanesque art, the history of Arms and Armour, War Memorials and A History of Vauxhall Gardens.
Dr Alan Borg will be on the following tour dates: 9 to 21 August 2019
Tour Extensions
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26th to 28th June & 7th to 9th August 2019
If you would like to spend some time in Copenhagen, we are offering a two night extension. Our stay will include a city tour of the Danish capital, exploring its 850 years of recorded history. Our guided excursion includes passing by the City Hall, Glyptotek Art Museum and Christiansborg Palace, home of the Danish Parliament and the Queen’s Reception Rooms. We also visit the colourful canal area of Nyhavn and pass by the royal winter residence of Amalienborg. The remainder of the time will be at leisure for you to explore independently.
Copenhagen
Prices per person based on double occupancy
26th to 28th June 2019 Category Price Twin £495 Single £795 7th to 9th August 2019 Category Price Twin £495 Single £795 Price Includes: Two nights hotel accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis, city tour, Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000