Backed by snowy mountains, lively Tromsø is the perfect place from which to set out on an adventure. It was the base for many a historic Arctic expedition, including those of Roald Amundsen, and its situation 250 miles north of the Polar Circle has led to it being called the ‘Gateway to the Arctic’. 

If you arrive early in Tromsø we recommend exploring the city before joining your cruise.  There’s plenty to see, such as the Polar Museum, where you’ll learn about the city’s exploration heritage. And make sure to visit the striking Arctic Cathedral – with its huge stained-glass window.

For the next seven days we’ll be exploring four distinct regions, each with its own outstanding features and unique beauty. The first such region we’re likely to visit is Lyngen.

 The scenic Lyngen area is a landscape of jagged, snowy mountains, and a magnet for winter activities. The Lyngen Fjord is over a hundred miles long, and we’ll spend the day going on a nature landing, with hikes, snowshoe walks and – if conditions allow – kayaking. 

Later, it’s time for a real treat. After our active day we’ll gather on the beach and enjoy the warmth of a bonfire. With hot drinks in hand, Norwegian foods cooked by our onboard chefs, you’ll really feel at one with nature. If we’re lucky, perhaps the Northern Lights will put on a display for us.

Please note, this is an exploration week and the actual route taken may vary from the text above. 

Senja is Norway’s second-largest island, and it’s sometimes called Norway-in-miniature. With its rugged mountains, sandy beaches, dark forests and idyllic fishing villages, you can see how it earned this name. Free-roaming reindeer wander around the island, so keep an eye out for them.

Here, we’ll visit a local community and experience some warm Scandinavian hospitality. We'll learn about the Sámi culture, and about life in remote villages during the winter months. Some of the time, we’ll be sailing in the dark and at dusk – but this will only enhance our experience, with glittering snowscapes illuminated by the low sun and the starlight. 

Please note, this is an exploration week and the actual route taken may vary from the text above.

As we sail towards the Lofoten Islands, the Expedition Team will seek out the best place for a nature landing, perhaps at one of the many fine beaches likely covered in pristine snow. We may head out in our small expedition boats to explore between remote islands or get out the kayaks. 

Approaching the dramatically steep mountains of Lofoten by ship is an experience that’s unforgettable. You’ll be in awe of the landscapes as we sail through this region of windswept islands, sheltered bays, and some of the most beautiful fjords in the world. Look out for Sea Eagles as you admire the exceptional beauty of this stretch of coastline.

Please note, this is an exploration week and the actual route taken may vary from the text above.

In winter, the Lofoten Islands transform into a snow-covered wonderland. Narrow fjords, hidden beached between towering mountains and picturesque fish villages are all ideal for a small ship like MS Spitsbergen. Embark on a fishing trip from Svolvær, or relax in a traditional Nordic sauna before taking a thrilling polar plunge – sure to revitalise you!

You can get a taste of Svolvær when our ship stays overnight here. It’s a small town, but it’s the biggest you’ll find in these islands, and there are a few cosy restaurants and bars here if you fancy trying a Lofoten snack or brew. 

Please note, this is an exploration week and the actual route taken may vary from the text above.

Sailing from Svolvær to Vesterålen, we cruise through the narrow Trollfjord into the Raftsund strait, passing between towering cliffs. As we do so, you’ll enjoy great views from the deck, and we sail so close to the sides it feels like you can almost touch them!

Vesterålen awaits us with its beautiful snow-covered landscapes, ideal for expedition activities such as snowshoe hiking, small boat cruising and kayaking. It’s here that we have another bespoke adventure when we spend an evening at the Hurtigruten Museum, where you’ll enjoy an exclusive opening and be served dinner in this very special heritage setting.

Please note, this is an exploration week and the actual route taken may vary from the text above.

We’ll stay sheltered in the deep fjords as we make our way back towards Tromsø – at each turn there will be a new island or mountain. Along the way we have plenty of time to scout out landing sites in our small expedition boats, and to go on nature walks and take part in other activities. 

The scenery continues to be stunning as we pass through these inner waters, with the winter sun illuminating the landscapes and mountains – and it’s also the area where we’re most likely to see whales. While on board, enjoy the Arctic scenery from the ship, warm up in the sauna or join the Expedition Team to watch talks and see demos in the Science Centre.

Please note, this is an exploration week and the actual route taken may vary from the text above. 

Your expedition cruise ends back in Tromsø. If you didn’t have an opportunity to explore this beautiful town before the cruise, make sure you do now. There’s so much to see and do here.

We’re sure that you will have enjoyed your winter expedition in Arctic Norway.