Jan 21 - Feb 4, 2025
Norway
Astronomy Above the Arctic Circle: A Journey Along Coastal Norway
Program No. 23067RJ
Starting in culturally rich Bergen, voyage north to colorful fishing towns and unique ecological wonders above the Arctic Circle in search of the northern lights.
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800-454-5768
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DATES & PRICES
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|---|---|
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A cabin with no window, porthole or balcony.
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A cabin with a window or porthole to view the outside.
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Feb 1 - Feb 15, 2025
Feb 12 - Feb 26, 2025
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15 days
14 nights
38 meals
13B 12L 13D
1
In Transit to Program
In Flight
2
Arrive Bergen, Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Bergen, Norway
3
Bergen, Embarkation
At Sea
10
Mehamn-Tromso,Hammerfest
At Sea
14
Alesund-Bergen,Bergen, Disembark
Bergen, Norway
15
Program Concludes
In Flight
At a Glance
Take a front-row seat for nature’s own theater, voyaging above the Arctic Circle to learn about the Arctic night sky and the luminous green curtains of the northern lights, the aurora borealis. With an astronomy expert, sail along Norway’s coast during polar nights when the sun doesn’t make it over the horizon and snow-clad mountains provide a matchless backdrop. Sail through pristine islands, past majestic mountains and go ashore in enchanting towns such as Tromsø, Ålesund and Trondheim on this special adventure discovering science in the skies at the northern tip of Norway.
Activity Level
On Your Feet
Walking up to 2 miles per day over various types of terrain; walking up stairs unassisted, getting in and out of motor coaches.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Sail along the breathtaking and rugged coast of Norway as you hunt for the incomparably beautiful display put on by the aurora borealis.
- Look out across the Arctic Ocean from the North Cape, the northernmost point on the European continent.
- Explore the beauty and history of Bergen with a local expert surrounded by the Seven Mountains.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Don Hladiuk
Don Hladiuk has twice been president of the Calgary chapter of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC). He can be heard on the CBC's "Calgary EyeOpener,” where he shares his passion for space exploration. Don was a lecturer for Road Scholar’s “Astronomy Above the Arctic Circle” program, and has introduced many groups to the beauty of the Aurora Borealis. He has also been a leader on several solar eclipse expeditions, observing 16 total solar eclipses, three annular eclipses, and two rare Venus transits.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Don Hladiuk
View biography
Don Hladiuk has twice been president of the Calgary chapter of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC). He can be heard on the CBC's "Calgary EyeOpener,” where he shares his passion for space exploration. Don was a lecturer for Road Scholar’s “Astronomy Above the Arctic Circle” program, and has introduced many groups to the beauty of the Aurora Borealis. He has also been a leader on several solar eclipse expeditions, observing 16 total solar eclipses, three annular eclipses, and two rare Venus transits.
Suggested Reading List
(17 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Astronomy Above the Arctic Circle: A Journey Along Coastal Norway
Program Number: 23067
Norwegian Folk Tales
This rich collection of stories, interpreted by a leading scholar on ancient traditions and tales, will delight both adults and children.
The Fellowship of Ghosts, Travels in the Land of Midnight Sun
A captivating travel memoir in which novelist Paul Watkins interweaves his own experiences in Norway with those of early eccentric visitors. Along the way, Watkins offers vivid, evocative accounts of the country’s majestic mountains, dramatic landscapes and expansive snowfields.
The Almost Nearly Perfect People, Behind the Myth of the Scandinavian Utopia
Guardian journalist Michael Booth writes with laugh-out-loud humor and brutal candor about the Scandinavians, mixing history and his own experiences in Nordic regions in this searing cultural portrait.
Kitchen of Light: The New Scandinavian Cooking
By a celebrated Norwegian food writer, this handsomely illustrated compendium pairs recipes with an engaging history of Scandinavian cuisine.
A Naturalist's Guide to the Arctic
Our bestselling book on the Arctic, this guide covers the geography and climate, plants, birds and wildlife of the Circumpolar North.
Norway Map
A handsome map of Norway at a scale of 1:1,000,000, with a place index and shaded relief.
Out Stealing Horses
A deliberate and astonishing novel. Looking back on his early childhood in rural Norway, Trond Sander fixates on a fateful summer. In 1948, after the death of a child, his father's decision to abandon the family and the crippling guilt of his best friend, the course of Sander's life would be altered forever.
The Northern Lights, Celestial Performances of the Aurora Borealis
Shot in Alaska, one of the best places to watch the Northern Lights, these images capture the natural phenomenon in all its splendor and majesty. Hall and Pederson’s 160 photographs were taken with ultra-HD cameras during a period of unusually high solar activity.
Letters on Sweden, Norway, and Denmark
Groundbreaking feminist Wollstonecraft records her observations of a late 18th-century journey through Scandinavia in this small masterpiece, rich in detail of people and place.
Wildlife of the North Atlantic, A Cruising Guide
This compact, illustrated guide covers the many petrels, ducks, gulls, terns and other seabirds, as well as the rich abundance of life existing under the waves, that populate the vast Atlantic region from the British Isles to Newfoundland.
Penguin Historical Atlas of the Vikings
The history of the Vikings told through a series of innovative maps and excellent photographs. This book traces the routes of the ninth-century Viking merchants and explorers throughout Europe and onto the New World.
Through the Eyes of the Vikings, An Aerial Vision of Arctic Lands
In this captivating collection of oversized aerial photographs, Haas (Through the Eyes of the Gods) reveals the surprising diversity of color and life in the arctic landscape, including Norwegian fjords, Alaskan tundras and Swedish waterscapes.
Cross and Scepter
In his scholarly Scandinavian history from the Vikings to the Reformation, Sverre Bagge spends little time with myths, instead focusing on the development of northern European societies and their rise from the Dark Ages.
Eyewitness Guide Norway
This handsome, illustrated guide covers nature, culture, history and attractions.
In Cod We Trust: Living the Norwegian Dream
A Minnesotan of Norwegian extraction, Dregni writes entertainingly of Norwegian culture and the immigrant experience in this delightful account of a year living with his wife and infant son in Trondheim on a Fulbright scholarship.
A History of Scandinavia: Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Iceland
Scandinavia from prehistory to the present with chapters on the Viking and Lutheran kingdoms, medieval times, monarchies, the World Wars and modern period, emphasizing the common cultural, political and social backgrounds.
The Northern Lights, The True Story of the Man Who Unlocked the Secrets of the Aurora Borealis
The compelling story of Kristian Birkeland, the turn-of-the-century Norwegian scientist who devoted his career to understanding the aurora borealis, this book also covers the science, history, myth and romance of the phenomenon.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
15 days
Program Begins
Bergen, Norway
Program Concludes
Bergen, Norway
Meals
38
| 13B |
12L |
13D |
Activity Level
Take a front-row seat for nature’s own theater, voyaging above the Arctic Circle to learn about the Arctic night sky and the luminous green curtains of the northern lights, the aurora borealis. With an astronomy expert, sail along Norway’s coast during polar nights when the sun doesn’t make it over the horizon and snow-clad mountains provide a matchless backdrop. Sail through pristine islands, past majestic mountains and go ashore in enchanting towns such as Tromsø, Ålesund and Trondheim on this special adventure discovering science in the skies at the northern tip of Norway.)
Best of all, you'll...
- Sail along the breathtaking and rugged coast of Norway as you hunt for the incomparably beautiful display put on by the aurora borealis.
- Look out across the Arctic Ocean from the North Cape, the northernmost point on the European continent.
- Explore the beauty and history of Bergen with a local expert surrounded by the Seven Mountains.
Featured Expert
Don Hladiuk
Don Hladiuk has twice been president of the Calgary chapter of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC). He can be heard on the CBC's "Calgary EyeOpener,” where he shares his passion for space exploration. Don was a lecturer for Road Scholar’s “Astronomy Above the Arctic Circle” program, and has introduced many groups to the beauty of the Aurora Borealis. He has also been a leader on several solar eclipse expeditions, observing 16 total solar eclipses, three annular eclipses, and two rare Venus transits.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Activity Level
On Your Feet
Walking up to 2 miles per day over various types of terrain; walking up stairs unassisted, getting in and out of motor coaches.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List
(17 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call
800-454-5768
All itineraries and excursions are subject to change. Weather and water conditions may affect the progress of the ship, and we may miss ports if it is not safe to dock. The operators reserve the right to change the content and duration of excursions without prior notice and so the cruise itinerary should always be regarded as provisional. Whenever possible, Road Scholar’s published daily schedule will indicate port arrival and departure times. Prior to departure, if there is a major change, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
15 days
14 nights
What's Included
38 meals | 13B | 12L | 13D |
5 expert-led lectures
9 expert-led field trips
An experienced Group Leader
13 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
In Transit to Program
Location:
In Flight
Day
2
Arrive Bergen, Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Bergen, Norway
Meals:
D
Stay:
Radisson Blu Royal Hotel Bergen
Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 3:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
After checking in to the hotel we’ll have some time to relax and settle in before our Orientation meeting at 6:00 p.m. Orientation: The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Day
3
Bergen, Embarkation
Location:
At Sea
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
MS Nordkapp
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach with 4-5 steps up/down
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Today we will enjoy an expert-led field trip in and around Bergen by motorcoach. We will first visit Fantoft Stave Church, a wooden church constructed in medieval Norway’s distinctive stave style in the 12th century. The church was originally located in the village of Fortun, more than 100 miles from its present location; it was saved from demolition in the late 19th century, when maintenance of the ancient building had become too expensive for the villagers, and relocated to Fantoft farm. We’ll then ride through town to Mount Fløyen to take a funicular to the top for beautiful views of the city and harbor.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
After lunch, we will transfer by motorcoach to the ship for embarkation. A safety drill will take place prior to boarding the ship. The rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy shipboard activities. This is a Road Scholar Adventures Afloat program. In addition to lectures and field trips exclusively for our Road Scholar group, you are invited to take advantage of activities and events aboard ship that are separate from the Road Scholar program. The time available in each port is set by the cruise line. Whenever possible, the Road Scholar daily schedule indicates port arrival and departure times (subject to change by the cruise line). This may mean that free time in port is limited. Regardless of the time in port, Road Scholar delivers a robust educational program. All routes, field trips, and excursions are subject to change as weather and sea conditions could affect the progress of the ship, making it run late and/or miss ports if it is not safe to dock. Because of this, the cruise itinerary should always be regarded as provisional. The operators reserve the right to change the content of field trips and excursions without prior notice. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible.
Dinner:
In the dining room aboard ship, we will enjoy a 3-course meal, with a choice of starter, regional favorites for a main course, dessert, with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure. The ship has lounges, a bar, and a gift shop. There may be music, other entertainment, or a guest speaker on one or more evenings. There are observation decks inside for viewing the scenery and landscape of the Norwegian coast as well as the night sky. Our astronomy expert will point out constellations and search for the Northern Lights. The ship will leave Bergen at 8:30 p.m. on our journey from Floro to Molde with a stop in Alesund.
Day
4
Floro- Molde, Alesund & the Fjords
Location:
At Sea
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
MS Nordkapp
Activity Note
Walking approximately 2 hours. Wear comfortable shoes and warm, windproof clothing.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
The ship is scheduled to arrive in Alesund at 9:45 a.m. We will disembark to experience the Art Nouveau beauty of this town’s architecture, sitting on seven islands. We’ll walk the town and learn from a local expert, passing through the fishing port of Brosundet and Apotekertorget Square where a bronze statue of a fisher boy stands proudly. We’ll also visit Jugendstilsenteret, the National Center for Art Nouveau, offering multimedia presentations, original interiors, and more. We’ll then return to the ship on foot.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
We will have free time in port or to enjoy the amenities & activities onboard. We will also be able to attend occasional lectures during free time aboard the ship to expand upon our astronomical observations; exact timings will be decided based on what we have observed. The ship is scheduled to depart Alesund at 8:00 p.m.
Dinner:
In our reserved section of the dining room aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure. Below is the ship's schedule for the day: TIME IN PORT Floro: 2:45 a.m.- 3:00 a.m.-15 minutes Maloy: 5:15 a.m. - 5:30 a.m.- 15 minutes Torvik: 8:20 a.m.- 8:30 a.m.- 10 minutes Alesund 9:45 a.m.- 8:00 p.m.- 10 hours, 15 minutes Molde: 10:35 p.m.- 11:05 p.m.- 30 mintues Itinerary is subject to change as weather, sea, and ice conditions may affect the itinerary.
Day
5
Kristiansund-Rorvik,Trondheim, Road Scholar Lecture
Location:
At Sea
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
MS Nordkapp
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach with 4-5 steps up/down. Walking approximately 3 miles (5 km),wear warm clothing and comfortable shoes.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
The ship is scheduld to arrive in Trondheim at 9:45 a.m. We’ll step ashore to explore Trondheim, Norway’s original capital founded around 997 by King Olav Tryggvason. It is today a modern city with charming remnants of its small town past. We’ll learn about the city and its many features by a local expert as the motorcoach takes us through streets and boroughs, including a short stop at Utsikten (The View) to admire the city from a high elevation. We’ll then proceed to the impressive Nidaros Cathedral, built over the burial place of St. Olav, where we’ll consider the gothic architecture of its exterior as we walk through the grounds. We’ll return to the ship at the conclusion of our outing. The ship is scheduled to depart Trondheim at 12:45 p.m.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture. Later in the afternoon, free time to enjoy the amenities & activities onboard.
Dinner:
In our reserved section of the dining room aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure. Below is the ship's schedule for the day: TIME IN PORT Kristiansund: 2:45 a.m.-3:00 a.m.-15 minutes Trondheim: 9:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m.-3 hours Rorvik: 9:40 p.m.-10:00 p.m.-20 minutes Itinerary is subject to change as weather, sea, and ice conditions may affect the itinerary.
Day
6
Bronnoysund-Svolvaer,Arctic Circle & Lofoten Islands
Location:
At Sea
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
MS Nordkapp
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach with 4-5 steps up/down. Tonight’s special excursion will replace the dinner on the ship and lasts 3 hours. Warm clothing and comfortable shoes highly recommended.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
Today is the day we pass into the Arctic Circle, celebrating with our cruise’s traditional Arctic Circle “baptism” on deck. We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
After crossing the Arctic Circle, the ship will continue to the modern town of Bodo for a brief stop to explore the town on our own. The ship is scheduled to arrive in Bodo at 1:05 p.m. and depart at 3:20 p.m. Then, after passing through the Vestfjord, we will be amidst the Lofoten Islands and the capital of Svolvaer.We will gather at an appointed time and place for our ride to dinner. We will disembark the ship for our evening Field Trip in Stamsund around 7:15 p.m.
Dinner:
Late dinner at the museum.
Evening:
We will transfer via motorcoach to the Lofotr Viking Museum where you can visit a reconstruction of the longest longhouse ever found from the Viking Age. The first longhouse was built around 500 AD. NOK The chieftain’s home at Borg was inhabited until around 1000 AD. The smell of tar and bonfire greet you as you step over the threshold. Flickering light from oil lamps illuminates the beautiful craftsmanship, ornamentation and architecture of the chieftain’s home. The chieftain and his wife invite us to an authentic Viking meal. Watch as the Vikings make a sacrifice to the Old Norse gods, pray for good health, prosperity and for the sun to return to avoid Ragnarok, or Armageddon. After enjoying the Viking meal, which is served with mead – the drink of the gods – you’ll be able to look around the longhouse before we depart by motorcoach to Svolvær and you return to the ship. The ship is scheduled to depart Svolvaer at 10:15 p.m. Below is the ship's schedule for the day: TIME IN PORT Bronnoysund:1:35 a.m.-1:45 a.m.-10 minutes Sandnessjoen: 4:35 a.m.- 4:50 a.m.-15 minutes Nesna: 6:00 a.m.-6:10 a.m.-10 minutes Ornes: 10 a.m.-10:10 a.m.-10 minutes Bodo: 1:05 p.m.-3:20 p.m.- 2 hours, 15 minutes Stamsund: 7:15 p.m.-7:40 p.m.- 25 minutes Svolvaer: 9:20 p.m.-10:15 p.m.-55 minutes Itinerary is subject to change as weather, sea, and ice conditions may affect the itinerary.
Day
7
Stokmarknes-Skjervoy, Road Scholar Lecture, Tromsø
Location:
At Sea
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
MS Nordkapp
Activity Note
Walking along the dockside from the ship to the Polar Museum. Wear warm clothing and comfortable shoes.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
We will gather with our lecturer for a Road Scholar exclusive lecture. Later in the morning, free time to enjoy the amenities & activities onboard.
Lunch:
Aboard ship
Afternoon:
The ship is scheduled to arrive in Tromso at 2:15 p.m. Tromsø has been the starting point of many polar expeditions, lending it the epithet "Gateway to the Arctic." Join us on a walk through Tromsø where we will learn about the city's history by a local expert. We will meet our expert at the pier where the ship is docked and walk along the shore to the Polar Museum. On the way, we will pass the statue of famed Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen, a hunting monument, and the market square which offers a clear view of the Arctic Cathedral. The Polar Museum has made its home in an old customs house from the 1830s, featuring exhibits and artifacts that chronicle Norway’s proud polar history and the many expeditions that ventured north to explore the Arctic. Continue along the main street to Mack Brewery and Ølhallen, Tromsø’s oldest pub. This used to be a popular meeting place for fishermen, hunters, and polar explorers. Taste beer from the world’s northernmost brewery while one of the locals regales you with stories about the old days. Return to the ship in Tromso where it is scheduled to depart at 6:15 p.m.
Dinner:
In our reserved section of the dining room aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure. Below is the ship's schedule for the day: TIME IN PORT Stokmarknes: 1:30 a.m.-1:40 a.m.-10 minutes Sortland:2:55 a.m.-3:10 a.m.-15 minutes Risoyhamn: 4:35 a.m.-4:50 a.m.- 15 minutes Harstad: 7:10 a.m.-7:45 a.m.-35 minutes Finnsnes: 11:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m.-30 minutes Tromso:2:15 p.m.-6:15 p.m. -4 hours Skjervoy: 10:10 p.m.-10:25 p.m. -15 minutes Itinerary is subject to change as weather, sea, and ice conditions may affect the itinerary.
Day
8
Oksfjord-Berlevag,Honningsvag & the North Cape
Location:
At Sea
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
MS Nordkapp
Activity Note
Today’s exploration is approximately 3 hours. Getting on/off a motorcoach with 4-5 steps up/down. Wear warm, windproof clothing and comfortable shoes. Minimal walking.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
We’ll have an early call at Hammerfest at 5:05 a.m, one of the northernmost towns in the world. The ship will then proceed to Honningsvåg, scheduled to arrive at 10:55 a.m., gateway to the wonders of the spectacular North Cape. Upon arrival We’ll set out on an expert-led field trip by motorcoach from Honningsvåg to the North Cape, the northernmost point on the European continent, passing through vast frozen plains, shores, and mountains. The North Cape plateau rises more than 1,000 feet in a steep cliff from the Arctic Ocean. A sculpture of the globe has become a symbol of the North Cape and a popular site for pictures. We will also visit the North Cape Hall, a modern visitor center, and watch a panoramic film about the area and its seasonal changes. We will return to the ship. The ship is scheduled to depart Honningsvag at 2:30 p.m.
Lunch:
Late lunch aboard ship.
Afternoon:
Free time to enjoy the amenities & activities onboard.
Dinner:
In our reserved section of the dining room aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure. Below is the ship's schedule for the day: TIME IN PORT Oksfjord:1:50 a.m.-2:00 a.m.-10 minutes Hammerfest:5:05 a.m.-5:45 a.m.-40 minutes Havoysund: 8:30 a.m.-8:45 a.m.-15 minutes Honningsvag:10:55 a.m.-2:30 p.m.-3 hours, 30 minutes Kjollefjord:4:40 p.m.-5:00 p.m.-20 minutes Mehamn:6:55 p.m.-7:15 p.m.-20 minutes Berlevag:10:00 p.m.-10:10 p.m.-10 minutes Itinerary is subject to change as weather, sea, and ice conditions may affect the itinerary.
Day
9
Batsfjord-Berlevag, Kirkenes, Road Scholar Lecture
Location:
At Sea
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
MS Nordkapp
Activity Note
Today’s adventure by motorcoach is approximately 3 hours. Getting on/off a motorcoach with 4-5 steps up/down. Wear warm clothing and comfortable shoes.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
The ship is scheduled to arrive in Kirkenes at 9:00 a.m. Upon arrival in port, we’ll venture by motorcoach from Kirkenes to the nearby Norwegian-Russian Border at Storskog. Along the way, learn about the eventful history shared by both countries. Flanked by the scenery of the Siberian Taiga, a vast forest that extends across eastern Europe for thousands of square miles, our motorcoach drives across the calm Pasvik River and through the beautiful Pasvikdalen Valley. Rich with flora and fauna, the valley is home to Norway’s biggest population of brown bears. Stopping at Storskog, stand at one of the most guarded crossings in Europe. Although not permitted to cross over the boundary, we are allowed take pictures. From here, we travel to Andersgrotta, Kirkenes’ largest WWII bomb shelter. Watch a fascinating film about the experiences of locals during that tumultuous period. Before boarding our ship back in Kirkenes, ascend the Prestfjellet Mountain for a wonderful view of the town and surrounding landscape. The ship is scheduled to depart Kirkenes at 12:30 p.m.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
Later in the afternoon, free time to enjoy the amenities & activities onboard.
Dinner:
In our reserved section of the dining room aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure. Below is the ship's schedule for the day: TIME IN PORT Batsfjord:12:00 a.m.-12:30 a.m.-30 minutes Vardo:3:30 a.m.-3:45 a.m.-15 minutes Vadso:6:55 a.m.-7:10 a.m.-15 minutes Kirkenes:9:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.-3 hours, 30 minutes Vardo:4:05 p.m.-5:00 p.m.-55 minutes Batsfjord:8:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m.-30 minutes Berlevag:10:25 p.m.-10:35 p.m.-10 minutes Itinerary is subject to change as weather, sea, and ice conditions may affect the itinerary.
Day
10
Mehamn-Tromso,Hammerfest
Location:
At Sea
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
MS Nordkapp
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach with 4-5 steps up/down. Wear warm clothing and comfortable shoes.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
The ship will make several stops before reaching Hammerfest at 11:00 a.m. Upon arrival in Hammerfest, we will spend the rest of the morning on an exploration of one of the world’s northernmost towns and find out about the historical events that have shaped it. The motorcoach will take us to the Museum of Reconstruction for Finnmark and Northern Troms. Here, come to appreciate the massive efforts that were made to rebuild the region of Northern Norway after WWII. We’ll then head over to the Meridian Column, Hammerfest’s UNESCO World Heritage site. This monument marks the northernmost measuring point of the Struve Geodetic Arc, a chain of survey triangulations that established the exact size and shape of the Earth. Stop at Mount Salen, on the way up the mountain, we will get a chance to learn more about Hammerfest’s unique history from our local expert. From the top, enjoy gorgeous views of the town below. Return to Hammerfest, the ship is scheduled to depart at 12:45 p.m.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
Free time to enjoy the amenities & activities on board.
Dinner:
In our reserved section of the dining room aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure. Below is the ship's schedule for the day: TIME IN PORT Mehamn: 1:20 a.m.-1:30 a.m.-10 minutes Kjollefjord:3:25 a.m.-3:35 a.m.-10 minutes Honningsvag:5:45 a.m.-6:00 a.m.-15 minutes Havoysund:8:00 a.m.-8:15 a.m.-15 minutes Hammerfest: 11:00 a.m.-12:45 p.m.-1 hour, 45 minutes Oksfjord: 3:50 p.m.-4:05 p.m.-15 minutes Skjervoy: 7:30 p.m.-7:45 p.m.-15 minutes Tromso: 11:45 p.m.-1:30 a.m.-1 hour, 45 minutes Itinerary is subject to change as weather, sea, and ice conditions may affect the itinerary.
Day
11
Finnsnes-Stamsund,Vesteralen
Location:
At Sea
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
MS Nordkapp
Activity Note
Today’s day trip is over 4 hours. Getting on/off a motorcoach with 4-5 steps up/down. Wear warm and windproof clothing and comfortable shoes.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
The ship is scheduled to arrive in Harstad at 8:00 a.m. Our Field Trip this morning will begin in Harstad and we will get back on the ship in Sortland. We’ll begin our excursion with a short exploration of the streets of Harstad. This is the third largest community in Northern Norway with a history connected to herring fishing, the military, and in more recent times, offshore oil. On a clear day, you should be able to spot Trondenes peninsula to the north of the town. Here, visit a white 13th century medieval stone church, the northernmost of its kind in the world. We’ll drop in at the Trondenes Historical Centre which displays objects discovered in the region throughout history, from the early Stone Age through to Viking times, the Middle Ages, and the present day. The museum also has a reconstructed farmstead dating from around 1200 with a granary, forge and stave church. From Trondenes, the motorcoach will take us for a scenic drive across Hinnøya Island to meet our ferry at Gullesfjord. On board, enjoy a hot drink and freshly made waffles and lefse along with the views. Continue by motorcoach along Sigerfjord to Sortland where we will rejoin the ship. The ship is scheduled to depart Sortland at 1:00 p.m.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
Free time to enjoy the amenities & activities on board.
Dinner:
In our reserved section of the dining room aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure. Below is the ship's schedule for the day: TIME IN PORT Finnsnes: 4:20 a.m.-4:40 a.m.-20 minutes Harstad:8:00 a.m.-8:30 a.m.-30 minutes Risoyhamn:10:45 a.m.-11:00 a.m.-15 minutes Sortland:12:30 p.m.-1:00 p.m.-30 minutes Stokmarknes: 2:15 p.m.-3:15 p.m.-1 hour Svolvaer:6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.-2 hours Stamsund: 10:15 p.m.-10:30 p.m.-15 minutes Itinerary is subject to change as weather, sea, and ice conditions may affect the itinerary.
Day
12
Bodo-Rorvik, Full Day On Board, Road Scholar Lecture
Location:
At Sea
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
MS Nordkapp
Activity Note
Full day on board.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
We’ll cross the Arctic Circle and sail past the famed peaks of the Seven Sisters overlooking the shipping channel as we enter a world of legends and folklore. We’ll gather with one of our experts for a lecture on astronomy and the Northern Lights.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
Free time to enjoy the amenities & activities on board.
Dinner:
In our reserved section of the dining room aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure. Below is the ship's schedule for the day: TIME IN PORT Bodo:2:30 a.m.-3:30 a.m.-1 hour Ornes: 6:25 a.m.-6:35 a.m.-10 minutes Nesna:10:25 a.m.-10:35 a.m.-10 minutes Sandnessjoen:11:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m.-30 minutes Bronnoysund:3:00 p.m.-5:25 p.m.-2 hours, 25 minutes Rorvik: 9:00 p.m.-9:30 p.m.-30 minutes Itinerary is subject to change as weather, sea, and ice conditions may affect the itinerary.
Day
13
Trondheim-Molde,Free Time in Trondheim & Kristiansund
Location:
At Sea
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
MS Nordkapp
Activity Note
Wear warm clothing and comfortable shoes.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
The ship is scheduled to arrive in Trondheim at 6:30 a.m. and depart at 9:30 a.m. Free time to stroll around Trondheim in the early morning as the city wakes. Later in the morning, we’ll gather for another lecture on astronomy.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
Free time to enjoy the amenities & activities on board. later in the afternoon enjoy some free time in Kristiansund. The ship is scheduled to arrive Kristiansund at 4:30 p.m and depart at 5:30 p.m.
Dinner:
In our reserved section of the dining room aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure. Below is the ship's schedule for the day: TIME IN PORT Trondheim:6:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m.-3 hours Kristiansund:4:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m.-1 hour Molde:9:15 p.m.-9:45 p.m.-30 minutes Itinerary is subject to change as weather, sea, and ice conditions may affect the itinerary.
Day
14
Alesund-Bergen,Bergen, Disembark
Location:
Bergen, Norway
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Radisson Blu Royal Hotel Bergen
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach with 4-5 steps up/down. Minimal walking.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
The ship will make its final leg of the journey back to Bergen where our study cruise originated.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
The ship is scheduled to arrive in Bergen at 2:45 p.m. Upon arrival, we’ll complete disembarkation procedures and transfer to our hotel by motorcoach. The remainder of the afternoon is free.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure. Below is the ship's schedule for the day: TIME IN PORT Alesund:12:30 a.m.-1:20 a.m.-50 minutes Torvik:2:35 a.m.-2:45 a.m.-10 minutes Maloy:5:45 a.m.-6:00 a.m.-15 minutes Floro:8:15 a.m.-8:30 a.m.-15 minutes Bergen: 2:45 p.m.-Disembark Itinerary is subject to change as weather, sea, and ice conditions may affect the itinerary. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Day
15
Program Concludes
Location:
In Flight
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Hotel check-out by 12:00 p.m. See your program's travel information regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
This concludes our program. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Please join our Facebook page and share photos of your program. Visit us at www.facebook.com/rsadventures. Best wishes for all your journeys!
MEALS
38 Meals
13 Breakfasts
12 Lunches
13 Dinners
LODGING
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Participant Reviews
Based on 15 Reviews
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I have Norwegian ancestry and I am fascinated by the Aurora so I had hoped to be able to explore more about each. I am happy to say that I now better understand where my people are from and just how beautiful and enthralling the night sky and the Aurora can be. We didn’t see the Aurora every night but when we did it was spectacular. I was also amazed by the role Norway played in World War II. Such amazing history of a people who endured so much. The local experts who traveled with us were stellar. They love their country and really want to share it’s beauty and history.
— Review left April 1, 2024
What a program! After looking at the Hurtegruten brochures, I was so impressed with the program Road Scholar put together for us I imediately sighed up and wasn't disappointed. Our trip leader David and Ron our educational leader both so enthusiastically shared their love of Astronomy and Norway with us. Ron kept us updated on potential Aurora sightings and a couple Star Walks when the clouds parted. It can be complex trying to coordinate our program with that of the ship and David did a great job keeping us posted on changes as well as being an overall cheerful leader. I enjoyed getting to know the others and the overall congeniality we had within our group. I'm so glad I was introduced to Norway through this trip.
— Review left March 5, 2024
Great trip! David and Ron made the whole thing work and I would recommend to anyone who wants to travel to Norway in the winter.
PS:There is no guarntee of seeing the Northern Lights on the dates you schedule.
— Review left March 3, 2024
The Astronomy Cruise above the Arctic Circle was wonderful. Beautiful scenery, a better understanding and admiration for Norway, and some Aurora!
— Review left March 8, 2020
Wonderful scenic trip with one caveat. Time off ship is determined solely by the commercial needs of the ship and there will be many times when you will be disappointed by the time available to you off ship.
— Review left March 5, 2020
The experience of being on the ship with all of its educational talks and the Road Scholar education were the best. Leader great and attended to every need. Course Director was passionate about his topic and could be found on the deck when the Northern lights showed up for more detailed information.
The scenery was gorgeous and awesome!
— Review left March 5, 2020
My wife and I completed the Northern Lights trip on the Hurtigruten ship Finnmarken in October, 2019. For us the trip was a success even with only limited sightings of the Northern Lights. The ship, the views from the ship, the shore excursions, the shipboard accommodations and meals, the Road Scholar staff, and our fellow-travellers all together made this one of our most memorable trips. I could not recommend the trip more highly.
— Review left November 27, 2019
I knew this was going to be a great trip, but it exceeded my expectations! Medea Muller and Murray Strankay were prepared to immediately help us as individuals any time of day. Their knowledge and skills were unsurpassed, and their utterly delightful personalities were contagious. I appreciated Medea's patience with me as I was constantly veering off with my camera to capture the amazing scenery. In addition to being so efficient, she was smiling and cheerful 100 percent of the time. Murray was a huge help in assisting me attach my little tripod to the railing of the ship to photograph the northern lights. His help in getting the right camera settings was invaluable. He's an outstanding astronomer! Both of them wanted this to be a trip to remember, and I loved it enough to want to go back!
The scenery was spectacular, and often times I felt I was on a different planet. Seeing Nordkapp, the northernmost point in Europe, was a highlight along with seeing the stunning display of the aurora and a surprise winter wonderland snowstorm. The service on the ship was stellar. The friendly staff went out of their way to please us in a most genuine way.
I loved the Norwegian people, and the local "experts" were excellent. It was obvious they liked sharing their love of their country.
5 Stars!! Marnie of Richmond, VA
— Review left November 22, 2019
This was our first experience with Road Scholar and certainly will not be our last. Everything exceeded our expectations, from the planning, to the beautiful trip, the delicious food and mostly to the care of Road Scholar guide Carole and astronony educator Ron (Starman). We look forward to our next adventure. Peggy and Glenn
— Review left November 21, 2019
This program and all my new experiences were fabulous! It more than met my expectations.
I really wanted to see more of Norway, to learn about everyday life, especially in the part of the country above the Arctic Circle. Hurtigruten is the lifeline for so many people in this country!
One thing I found fascinating was the many other boats/ships we saw. Upon research I found that many vessels contribute to the research and service/support necessary to maintain Norway's economic livelihood, particularly fishing and oil.
— Review left November 15, 2019
This was one of the best road scholar programs ever! The group leader was excellent (and had a delightful sense of humor). The instructor was very knowledgeable and now we all know a lot more about astronomy, the northern lights, and the sun, moon and stars. The trip itself was spectacular.
— Review left November 9, 2019
This is a great program, so much to see and learn. The biggest condition to realize is that the weather is a big factor in this program in what you will see, how comfortable you will be on and off the ship. We had ideal weather the entire trip.
— Review left October 21, 2019
We chose this trip thinking we would be able to see the colorful Northern Lights, when much to our surprise we found out at our first onboard lecture that wasn't possible with the naked eye. Some color is possible, but nothing like you see in photographs. Unfortunately, this wasn't mentioned until Page 8 of the final information packet, after we had paid for the trip and our airfare. Our astronomer, Alan Dyer, did provide some great lectures. We enjoyed seeing some beautiful country, and were very pleased with the excursions.
— Review left March 10, 2019
On the one hand, I wish I had brought more than an iPhone and and a simple camera. On the other hand, seeing the Aurora dance around in color with my naked eye on multiple evenings was almost more than I could have hoped for. Our resident astronomer managed education and expectations expertly. Problem solving and sheepdog skills of the tour leader ensured more than just an astronomy event. Shipboard food okay, for the most part, but it seemed that no left-over was to be wasted. Great value for the money, learning about Norway and bathing in the Aurora. Suggestions:
- provide English-language interpretive materials in advance for excursions for the Norwegian language challenged
- provide links to photographic apps in advance of trip
- set realistic expectations of and where aurora may even be seen, i.e., above the Arctic Circle. It cannot even be seen on most evenings aboard. Except for lectures and excursions, you spend a lot of time just waiting/traveling. The sights, though, if, indeed, you do see them, are more than worth the wait
- set more realistic expectations of what it is like to eat like a Norwegian
As an amateur astronomer. I have put up with my share of discomfort and frustration. I have not always been able to see what I set out to see on a given evening. My viewing on this trip was more due to wind chill. You will enjoy this trip even if you know virtually nothing about astronomy if the odds turn out in your favor. Hope for the best but be prepared for the worst. We lucked out on the aurora but the previous group got blanked.
— Review left March 8, 2019
The program was interesting and informative, and enjoyable despite the weather. We did not see the Northern Lights, although they did appear briefly and weakly one night after we had returned to our stateroom. The program was about much more than the lights, though, and we learned a lot about astronomy and the history and culture of Norway and enjoyed the midnight concert in Tromso. As usual we enjoyed meeting so many interesting and engaged people -- always a plus on a Road Scholar program.
— Review left February 26, 2019
