Scandinavian Discovery & Arctic Wonders - Cruise & Land Journey

By the 11th century, Copenhagen was already an important trading and fishing centre and today you will find an attractive city which, although the largest in Scandinavia, has managed to retain its low-level skyline. Discover some of the famous attractions including Gefion Fountain and Amalienborg Palace, perhaps cruise the city’s waterways, visit Rosenborg Castle or explore the medieval fishing village of Dragoer. Once the home of Hans Christian Andersen, Copenhagen features many reminders of its fairytale heritage and lives up to the reputation immortalised in the famous song ‘Wonderful Copenhagen’.

Welcome to Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark. Your journey begins with a two-night Special Stay. Learn the city's intriguing history, from humble origins as a fishing village, to its heyday as the glittering capital of the Danish Empire and its current position as one of the world’s premier design capitals. The stories and characters of Copenhagen’s past can be discovered in its sumptuous palaces, copper-roofed town houses and cobbled squares. Soak up the atmosphere of this modern and diverse city.

By the 11th century, Copenhagen was already an important trading and fishing centre and today you will find an attractive city which, although the largest in Scandinavia, has managed to retain its low-level skyline. Discover some of the famous attractions including Gefion Fountain and Amalienborg Palace, perhaps cruise the city’s waterways, visit Rosenborg Castle or explore the medieval fishing village of Dragoer. Once the home of Hans Christian Andersen, Copenhagen features many reminders of its fairytale heritage and lives up to the reputation immortalised in the famous song ‘Wonderful Copenhagen’.

This morning, tour the wonderful Rosenborg Castle, an elegant Renaissance castle built as a country summerhouse in 1606. Rosenborg Castle features 400 years of magnificence, royal art treasures, the Crown Jewels and Royal Regalia. You will also get to see the delightful courtyard of Amalienborg Palace, home to Queen Mary and the Danish Royal Family.

This evening you will savour every morsel at your welcome dinner at one of Copenhagen’s finest restaurants.

Freechoice:
Canal cruise: See the city’s many attractions on a cruise along the famed canals, including Christiansborg Palace, the impressive Black Diamond Library and the Little Mermaid statue.

Tivoli Gardens: Be charmed by the Tivoli Gardens, a glorious public garden and amusement park that has been drawing visitors since the 19th century.

By the 11th century, Copenhagen was already an important trading and fishing centre and today you will find an attractive city which, although the largest in Scandinavia, has managed to retain its low-level skyline. Discover some of the famous attractions including Gefion Fountain and Amalienborg Palace, perhaps cruise the city’s waterways, visit Rosenborg Castle or explore the medieval fishing village of Dragoer. Once the home of Hans Christian Andersen, Copenhagen features many reminders of its fairytale heritage and lives up to the reputation immortalised in the famous song ‘Wonderful Copenhagen’.

Transfer to the airport for your flight to the Swedish capital, Stockholm. Built on 14 islands connected by 57 bridges and looking proudly out onto the Baltic Sea, Stockholm is said to be one of the most beautiful capital cities in the world.

Stockholm is famous for its graceful architecture, greenery, fresh air and proximity to the water. Learn more about this captivating city as you spend the next two nights at your Special Stay hotel.

Stockholm is a city in the flush of its second youth. Since the mid-1990s, Sweden's capital has emerged from its cold, Nordic shadow to take the stage as a truly international city. What started with entry into the European Union in 1995 gained pace with the extraordinary IT boom of the late 1990s, strengthened with the Skype-led IT second wave of 2003, and solidified with the hedge-fund invasion that is still happening today as Stockholm gains even more global confidence. And despite more recent economic turmoil, Stockholm's 1 million or so inhabitants have, almost as one, realized that their city is one to rival Paris, London, New York, or any other great metropolis.With this realization comes change. Stockholm has become a city of design, fashion, innovation, technology, and world-class food, pairing homegrown talent with an international outlook. The streets are flowing with a young and confident population keen to drink in everything the city has to offer. The glittering feeling of optimism, success, and living in the here and now is rampant in Stockholm.Stockholm also has plenty of history. Positioned where the waters of Lake Mälaren rush into the Baltic, it’s been an important trading site and a wealthy international city for centuries. Built on 14 islands joined by bridges crossing open bays and narrow channels, Stockholm boasts the story of its history in its glorious medieval old town, grand palaces, ancient churches, sturdy edifices, public parks, and 19th-century museums—its history is soaked into the very fabric of its airy boulevards, built as a public display of trading glory.

Stockholm is a city in the flush of its second youth. Since the mid-1990s, Sweden's capital has emerged from its cold, Nordic shadow to take the stage as a truly international city. What started with entry into the European Union in 1995 gained pace with the extraordinary IT boom of the late 1990s, strengthened with the Skype-led IT second wave of 2003, and solidified with the hedge-fund invasion that is still happening today as Stockholm gains even more global confidence. And despite more recent economic turmoil, Stockholm's 1 million or so inhabitants have, almost as one, realized that their city is one to rival Paris, London, New York, or any other great metropolis.With this realization comes change. Stockholm has become a city of design, fashion, innovation, technology, and world-class food, pairing homegrown talent with an international outlook. The streets are flowing with a young and confident population keen to drink in everything the city has to offer. The glittering feeling of optimism, success, and living in the here and now is rampant in Stockholm.Stockholm also has plenty of history. Positioned where the waters of Lake Mälaren rush into the Baltic, it’s been an important trading site and a wealthy international city for centuries. Built on 14 islands joined by bridges crossing open bays and narrow channels, Stockholm boasts the story of its history in its glorious medieval old town, grand palaces, ancient churches, sturdy edifices, public parks, and 19th-century museums—its history is soaked into the very fabric of its airy boulevards, built as a public display of trading glory.

Your local guide will unveil the city’s most treasured sites today. Discover the City Hall, one of Sweden’s most famous buildings with its iconic spire featuring the golden Three Crowns, as well as Riddarholm Church and the Royal Palace. Then visit the Vasa Ship Museum on the island of Djurgården, where the 17th century warship Vasa is now housed after it tragically sank on its inaugural voyage in 1628.

This evening, enjoy a dinner featuring Swedish cuisine with European influences in a stunning setting.

Stockholm is a city in the flush of its second youth. Since the mid-1990s, Sweden's capital has emerged from its cold, Nordic shadow to take the stage as a truly international city. What started with entry into the European Union in 1995 gained pace with the extraordinary IT boom of the late 1990s, strengthened with the Skype-led IT second wave of 2003, and solidified with the hedge-fund invasion that is still happening today as Stockholm gains even more global confidence. And despite more recent economic turmoil, Stockholm's 1 million or so inhabitants have, almost as one, realized that their city is one to rival Paris, London, New York, or any other great metropolis.With this realization comes change. Stockholm has become a city of design, fashion, innovation, technology, and world-class food, pairing homegrown talent with an international outlook. The streets are flowing with a young and confident population keen to drink in everything the city has to offer. The glittering feeling of optimism, success, and living in the here and now is rampant in Stockholm.Stockholm also has plenty of history. Positioned where the waters of Lake Mälaren rush into the Baltic, it’s been an important trading site and a wealthy international city for centuries. Built on 14 islands joined by bridges crossing open bays and narrow channels, Stockholm boasts the story of its history in its glorious medieval old town, grand palaces, ancient churches, sturdy edifices, public parks, and 19th-century museums—its history is soaked into the very fabric of its airy boulevards, built as a public display of trading glory.

Take a short flight to Oslo, the capital of Norway set on the country’s southern coast. A metropolitan hub surrounded by forests and fjords, Oslo is a modern and diverse city known for its excellent museums and dreamy green spaces.

Check into your hotel for a two-night Special Stay.

Enrich
Oslo Opera House: Be immersed in the architecture, technology and performances of Oslo’s Opera House on a private backstage tour. Admire rooftop views over a glass of wine.

Oslo is the capital of Norway and is also its largest city, situated at the head of Oslo Fjord and surrounded by hills and forests. Home to some 50 museums and full of galleries, cafés, a sculpture park and the Royal Palace, this vibrant city with its handsome 19th-century buildings and wide streets has much to offer. Its history dates back 1,000 years, and includes a rich seafaring heritage that ranges from the Viking era to Thor Heyerdahl’s Kon Tiki expedition. Discover more about this exciting city on our varied selection of excursions.

Oslo is the capital of Norway and is also its largest city, situated at the head of Oslo Fjord and surrounded by hills and forests. Home to some 50 museums and full of galleries, cafés, a sculpture park and the Royal Palace, this vibrant city with its handsome 19th-century buildings and wide streets has much to offer. Its history dates back 1,000 years, and includes a rich seafaring heritage that ranges from the Viking era to Thor Heyerdahl’s Kon Tiki expedition. Discover more about this exciting city on our varied selection of excursions.

From the eighth to the 11th centuries, the Vikings started their journey across Europe in search of land and trade. Discover their fascinating history and Norway’s nautical traditions during your visit to the Bygdoy Peninsula. Learn about modern seafaring at the Kon-Tiki Museum, dedicated to the epic sea voyages of Thor Heyerdahl, and delve into polar exploration at the Fram Museum, where you can step on board the legendary Fram Polar Ship. Sailing between 1893 and 1912, it is the strongest wooden ship ever built and still holds the records for sailing farthest north and farthest south.  

Enrich
Munch Museum: Join an art specialist to explore one of the most comprehensive one-man museums in the world, home to over half of Edvard Munch’s paintings, including ‘The Scream’.

Oslo is the capital of Norway and is also its largest city, situated at the head of Oslo Fjord and surrounded by hills and forests. Home to some 50 museums and full of galleries, cafés, a sculpture park and the Royal Palace, this vibrant city with its handsome 19th-century buildings and wide streets has much to offer. Its history dates back 1,000 years, and includes a rich seafaring heritage that ranges from the Viking era to Thor Heyerdahl’s Kon Tiki expedition. Discover more about this exciting city on our varied selection of excursions.

Drive through the majestic Hardangervidda, Europe’s highest mountain plateau and home to Norway’s largest herd of wild reindeer. Your destination is the tiny fjord-side village of Lofthus, overlooking the majestic Folgefonna glacier. It’s known as the orchard of Hardanger and in spring the hillsides are covered in white blossoms, while in summer the trees are laden with fruit including the juiciest apples.

Enjoy an overnight Special Stay complete with dramatic fjord views.

Surrounded by mountains and sparkling fjords, the waterside city of Bergen has a spectacular setting. There has been a settlement here since medieval times and the colourful waterfront buildings of the Hanseatic wharf, known as Bryggen, are testament to its fascinating history of trade. As Norway’s best known medieval settlement, the Bryggen is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Our comprehensive selection of excursions allows you to discover the many sides of Bergen, such as the fish market and narrow cobbled streets, as well as stunning views of the city from the summit of Mt Fløyen. Alternatively, those who have visited the city previously may like to experience one of the tours that travel further afield. Just 300 yards from the main piers, you will find the Fortress Museum (Fesningsmuseum), which has an interesting collection of objects related to World War II.

Surrounded by mountains and sparkling fjords, the waterside city of Bergen has a spectacular setting. There has been a settlement here since medieval times and the colourful waterfront buildings of the Hanseatic wharf, known as Bryggen, are testament to its fascinating history of trade. As Norway’s best known medieval settlement, the Bryggen is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Our comprehensive selection of excursions allows you to discover the many sides of Bergen, such as the fish market and narrow cobbled streets, as well as stunning views of the city from the summit of Mt Fløyen. Alternatively, those who have visited the city previously may like to experience one of the tours that travel further afield. Just 300 yards from the main piers, you will find the Fortress Museum (Fesningsmuseum), which has an interesting collection of objects related to World War II.

Freechoice: During the Middle Ages, Bergen was Norway’s major seaport as well as its capital, a proud legacy that can still be seen today. Today you will have the opportunity to explore the city and drive to Troldhaugen, the former home of Edvard Grieg, Norway’s most celebrated composer and pianist.   

Freechoice:
Mount Fløyen: Journey 320 metres up the funicular railway to Mount Fløyen for a spectacular view of the city and fjord.

Fantoft Stave Church: Take the tram to explore the Fantoft Stave Church, an exquisite reconstruction of a 12th century church in a style that is unique to Norway.

Surrounded by mountains and sparkling fjords, the waterside city of Bergen has a spectacular setting. There has been a settlement here since medieval times and the colourful waterfront buildings of the Hanseatic wharf, known as Bryggen, are testament to its fascinating history of trade. As Norway’s best known medieval settlement, the Bryggen is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Our comprehensive selection of excursions allows you to discover the many sides of Bergen, such as the fish market and narrow cobbled streets, as well as stunning views of the city from the summit of Mt Fløyen. Alternatively, those who have visited the city previously may like to experience one of the tours that travel further afield. Just 300 yards from the main piers, you will find the Fortress Museum (Fesningsmuseum), which has an interesting collection of objects related to World War II.

Your handcrafted land journey may be over, but the voyage of a lifetime is just beginning. After breakfast, you’ll board your 6-star ultra-luxury yacht, Scenic Eclipse. Upon boarding, meet the world-class crew and settle into your luxury suite before sharing a Champagne toast on the Observation Deck as you set sail on the stunning Sognefjord, the longest and deepest in Norway, en route to Flam.

Surrounded by mountains and sparkling fjords, the waterside city of Bergen has a spectacular setting. There has been a settlement here since medieval times and the colourful waterfront buildings of the Hanseatic wharf, known as Bryggen, are testament to its fascinating history of trade. As Norway’s best known medieval settlement, the Bryggen is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Our comprehensive selection of excursions allows you to discover the many sides of Bergen, such as the fish market and narrow cobbled streets, as well as stunning views of the city from the summit of Mt Fløyen. Alternatively, those who have visited the city previously may like to experience one of the tours that travel further afield. Just 300 yards from the main piers, you will find the Fortress Museum (Fesningsmuseum), which has an interesting collection of objects related to World War II.

Nestled at the heart of Sognefjord and flanked by steep mountains, the tiny village of Flam is one of Norway’s most popular destinations. Here you can take one of the world’s most spectacular railway journeys, the 20km Flam Railway, which offers views of the valley as it winds gently through the peaks towards town.  

Depart after lunch for an awe-inspiring scenic cruise through the majestic Nærøyfjord. This World Heritage-listed site is the most wild and beautiful arm of Sognefjord, with its towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Later, be immersed in the charming village of Gudvangen, nestled amidst dramatic landscapes.  

On an arm of Sognefjord, Gudvangen is at the foot of steep cliffs soaring 5,500 feet above the water's surface and plunging deep to form one of the region's deepest fjord basins. Snow-capped mountains, green cliffs, and veils of tumbling waterfalls characterize the vertical landscape on the approach to Gudvangen. The fjord is so narrow in places that during winter the sun can't reach the valley floor. Mystical Gudvangen is the site of white caves and medieval stave churches. Standing sentinel over the ornate entrances to the venerable wooden sanctuaries are visages of fierce trolls and dragons, carved by long-dead Viking craftsman from the region.

The coastal town of Ålesund is the commercial capital of the Møre og Romsdal district. But more important, it is noted for its characteristic Jugendstil (Art Nouveau) buildings, which some claim make Ålesund one of the most beautiful towns in Norway. This Art Nouveau style emerged when the town was completely rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1904 destroyed nearly 800 buildings and left 10,000 residents homeless. It is said that the fire started by a tipped oil lamp. Rebuilding was carried out with the help of many young, foreign architects who added their own flourishes to the architectural blend of German Jugendstil and Viking roots. Today, narrow streets are crammed with buildings topped with turrets, spires and gables that bear decorations of dragonheads and curlicues. As one of the few remaining Art Nouveau towns in the world, in 1998 Ålesund was awarded the coveted Houens National Memorial Prize for the preservation of its unique architecture.

An Art Nouveau gem at the entrance to Geirangerfjord, Ålesund is one of Norway’s most beautiful cities. It was completely reborn after a devastating fire in 1904, and its gorgeous architecture acts like a living time capsule.

Wander the streets lined with some of the best period architecture in Europe or learn about the city’s unique history at the Art Nouveau Centre & the Art Museum KUBE. A late departure lets you experience the vibrant nightlife in a place where the sun does not set. 

People have been trekking through Hellesylt since the end of the last ice age, but tourists began staying overnight only in 1875, when the village's first hotel was built. Hellesylt was the inspiration for Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen's long play in verse, Brand (1865). Despite more than 200,000 tourists and 100 cruise ships visiting annually, there's not much to see here besides the waterfall in the village center, oddly wedged between two bridges. A handful of tourists visit for the mountain walks, climbing, boating, and fishing in the region. But by far, most cruise-ship passengers use Hellesylt as the point of embarkation for a highway journey to Geiranger (while others remain onboard the ship to cruise into the fjord).

Make a short stop this morning in the small village of Hellesylt. Then you’ll cruise into the World Heritage-listed Geirangerfjord, sailing over sparkling waters beneath 800-metre cliffs. Look out for the jaw-dropping Seven Sisters Waterfall. Perhaps join the Discovery Team on kayaking excursions or other discovery experiences.For more information, don´t miss the evening recaps hosted by the Discovery Team. 

The Geirangerfjord, which made the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2005, is Norway's most spectacular and perhaps best-known fjord. The 16-km-long (10-mile-long), 960-foot-deep Geirangerfjord's most stunning attractions are its roaring waterfalls—the Seven Sisters, the Bridal Veil, and the Suitor. Perched on mountain ledges along the fjord, deserted farms at Skageflå and Knivsflå are being restored and maintained by local enthusiasts.The village of Geiranger, at the end of the fjord, is home to fewer than 300 year-round residents, but in spring and summer its population swells to 5,000 due to visitors traveling from Hellesylt to the east. In winter, snow on the mountain roads often makes the village isolated.

Blessed with some of the most spectacular scenery in Norway (and goodness only know that this is land blessed with rolling hills, soaring peaks, valleys, tranquil fjords and white sandy beaches, so the competition is high!), Leknes is what Norway is meant to be. Pretty red houses lay dotted on the green covered hills, and the midnight sun is rises above the horizon from 26th May to 17th July, (while in winter the sun does not rise from 9th December to 4th January). Part of the stunning Lofoten islands, this pretty port offers much in the way of recreation, although understandably most of this is outdoor based. Take a boat ride around the archipelago, try your hand at some deep sea fishing, or simply stroll thought the city centre, perhaps rent a bicycle and discover the hinterland at your own pace. Bikes can be easily rented and note that hybrid and electric bikes are a great option for those who might be a bit out of practice with their pedal power. Gastronomes with a sweet tooth will be rewarded with one simple pleasure: a fresh-from-the-oven skillingsbolle – or big, fluffy cinnamon rolls, fit for indulging in if all the fresh air has made you hungry! Look out for the quirky coffee shops, settle down for some Norwegian kos, say takk for maten and enjoy!

This morning, head to your private verandah or join the other guests on the Observation Terrace and prepare to be amazed as you sail into the breathtaking Lofoten Islands. Rising dramatically from the sea, these tall, craggy outcrops with impossibly blue water, sheltered coves and pristine beaches are a must-see.Leknes is the gateway to the islands’ outdoor adventures with sea kayaking, hiking and surfing available nearby.  

Tonight, under the glow of the midnight sun, Scenic Eclipse will sail through the majestic Trollfjord.  

With its centre located on the island of Tromsø, the municipality of Tromsø is more than five times the size of Norway’s capital, Oslo, and is the world’s northernmost university city. Lying 200 miles inside the Arctic Circle, it is known as the 'Gateway to the Arctic' because it was used as a starting point for hunters looking for Arctic foxes, polar bears and seals. In the 19th century it was a base for explorers on Arctic expeditions – a history that is remembered in the city’s Polar Museum, which you can visit on an excursion. Also commemorated in the area is the history of Norway’s indigenous people, the Sami. Visitors can learn about the traditions, heritage and modern preservation of the Sami culture at the Tromsø Museum. Nowadays, Tromsø is a charming mix of old and new, with wooden buildings sitting alongside contemporary architecture such as the impressive glacier-like Arctic Cathedral, which features one of the largest stained glass windows in Europe. Looking down on the city is Mount Storsteinen, and a cable car runs to the top, giving wonderful views over the surrounding countryside of forested peaks and reindeer pastures.

Known as the cultural hub of the Arctic, Tromsø sits 400 kilometres above the Arctic Circle. Surprisingly cosmopolitan for its remote location, during the summer Tromsø is full of locals basking in the endless sunlight, tucking into fresh seafood on the docks, enjoying a drink at the world’s northernmost brewery or taking a dip in the refreshing waters of the local beach. 

Tromsø has been the point of origin for many Arctic expeditions over the past two centuries, and you can follow in the footsteps of legendary explorers through the town or learn their stories at the museum. 

A flexible itinerary allows us to take advantage of favorable ice and weather conditions to travel through the northern stretches of Svalbard to points visited by famous polar explorers such as Andrée, Amundsen and Nobile. Destinations might include the narrow waterways and striking mountains of Krossfjord and Raudfjord. The ship may visit the historic settings of Ny Alesund, Ny London or Amsterdamoya. And of course, we hope to see distinctly Arctic wildlife from walrus hauled out in noisy groups on remote shorelines, to reindeer grazing alpine slopes, and from ptarmigan in their camouflaged hiding places, to mighty polar bears striding the shores in search of their next meal.

Welcome to the Svalbard Archipelago, a dramatic polar desert surrounded by rugged glaciers, frozen tundra, and craggy mountain peaks. Bear Island, or Bjørnøya in Norwegian, is the southernmost island in the archipelago. It is home to the largest seabird colony in the northern hemisphere with around 1.5 million nesting birds – use the binoculars in your suite to spot Svalbard rock ptarmigans, puffins, skuas, little auks, kittiwakes, black guillemots and more. 

Discovery:
If conditions allow, join a Zodiac tour to explore spectacular sea caves and tunnels or step ashore on an island where the only inhabitants work at a meteorological station. 

A flexible itinerary allows us to take advantage of favorable ice and weather conditions to travel through the northern stretches of Svalbard to points visited by famous polar explorers such as Andrée, Amundsen and Nobile. Destinations might include the narrow waterways and striking mountains of Krossfjord and Raudfjord. The ship may visit the historic settings of Ny Alesund, Ny London or Amsterdamoya. And of course, we hope to see distinctly Arctic wildlife from walrus hauled out in noisy groups on remote shorelines, to reindeer grazing alpine slopes, and from ptarmigan in their camouflaged hiding places, to mighty polar bears striding the shores in search of their next meal.

Due to the extraordinary nature of Svalbard, your itinerary will be flexible over the next five days. Your experienced Captain and Discovery Leader will use their expertise to design this section of your voyage from day to day, making the most of the long hours, weather, and ice conditions to give you the best experience possible in this extraordinary part of the world.

Daily Scenic discovery excursions include Zodiac cruises, kayak tours and nature walks where you can discover majestic Arctic scenery, native wildlife, and marine life. Then join the Discovery Team for insightful lectures in the state-of-the-art theatre. 

A flexible itinerary allows us to take advantage of favorable ice and weather conditions to travel through the northern stretches of Svalbard to points visited by famous polar explorers such as Andrée, Amundsen and Nobile. Destinations might include the narrow waterways and striking mountains of Krossfjord and Raudfjord. The ship may visit the historic settings of Ny Alesund, Ny London or Amsterdamoya. And of course, we hope to see distinctly Arctic wildlife from walrus hauled out in noisy groups on remote shorelines, to reindeer grazing alpine slopes, and from ptarmigan in their camouflaged hiding places, to mighty polar bears striding the shores in search of their next meal.

As we continue sailing around the islands of Svalbard, there may be opportunities to see whales, Arctic foxes, seals, and seabirds, along with sightings of Svalbard reindeer, wolverines, and Arctic rabbits. Be sure to keep the binoculars provided in your suite with you or use the Swarovski telescopes on the Observation Lounge for a closer look at the Arctic wildlife. Listen out for the loud crack of a glacier calving as you soak in the scenery and keep your eyes peeled for movement on the ice and in the water. 

Discovery:
You will enjoy Discovery excursions by Zodiac, kayaking and nature walks. Explore pristine locations and discover majestic Arctic scenery and tundra landscapes. 

A flexible itinerary allows us to take advantage of favorable ice and weather conditions to travel through the northern stretches of Svalbard to points visited by famous polar explorers such as Andrée, Amundsen and Nobile. Destinations might include the narrow waterways and striking mountains of Krossfjord and Raudfjord. The ship may visit the historic settings of Ny Alesund, Ny London or Amsterdamoya. And of course, we hope to see distinctly Arctic wildlife from walrus hauled out in noisy groups on remote shorelines, to reindeer grazing alpine slopes, and from ptarmigan in their camouflaged hiding places, to mighty polar bears striding the shores in search of their next meal.

Your Discovery Yacht’s Open Bridge policy offers a unique opportunity to observe the Captain’s expert navigation firsthand. Enjoy some of the best views on board and discover how decisions adapt to ever-changing ice and weather conditions in the Polar regions. The unpredictability of an Arctic voyage is all part of the journey and adds to the excitement.  

Weather permitting, more Discovery excursions will be available today, taking you further into these spectacular landscapes. Meet up with the Discovery Team to answer any questions you may have and to help plan your upcoming expedition experiences. 

In the evening, escape to France at Lumière (available by reservation), complete with a luxurious champagne bar, or savor an intimate dining experience in your suite with an extensive 24-hour menu at your fingertips. 

A flexible itinerary allows us to take advantage of favorable ice and weather conditions to travel through the northern stretches of Svalbard to points visited by famous polar explorers such as Andrée, Amundsen and Nobile. Destinations might include the narrow waterways and striking mountains of Krossfjord and Raudfjord. The ship may visit the historic settings of Ny Alesund, Ny London or Amsterdamoya. And of course, we hope to see distinctly Arctic wildlife from walrus hauled out in noisy groups on remote shorelines, to reindeer grazing alpine slopes, and from ptarmigan in their camouflaged hiding places, to mighty polar bears striding the shores in search of their next meal.

Every day brings a new magical vista, from magnificent glaciers in iceberg dotted waters to jagged snow topped mountains towering over slopes of tundra.  

Continue cruising around the spectacular Svalbard Archipelago. As you immerse yourself in daily Discovery excursions, take the opportunity to seek photography tips and expert guidance from our Discovery Team, ensuring you capture every moment perfectly. They will help you immortalise incredible moments while cruising on the Zodiacs and kayaking around impressive ice formations.  

With up to 20 members including geologists, historians, ornithologists, marine biologists, and glaciologists, the Discovery Team is at the heart of your Expedition Voyage. 

Discovery:
You will enjoy Discovery excursions by Zodiac, kayaking, and nature walks. Explore pristine locations and discover majestic Arctic scenery and tundra landscapes. 

A flexible itinerary allows us to take advantage of favorable ice and weather conditions to travel through the northern stretches of Svalbard to points visited by famous polar explorers such as Andrée, Amundsen and Nobile. Destinations might include the narrow waterways and striking mountains of Krossfjord and Raudfjord. The ship may visit the historic settings of Ny Alesund, Ny London or Amsterdamoya. And of course, we hope to see distinctly Arctic wildlife from walrus hauled out in noisy groups on remote shorelines, to reindeer grazing alpine slopes, and from ptarmigan in their camouflaged hiding places, to mighty polar bears striding the shores in search of their next meal.

Mark your final day in Svalbard with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. For many, the polar plunge is an exhilarating rite of passage and, while the day may change, your Discovery Team will always look for a special place to set up the Discovery Yacht’s marina so that you can don your swimsuit and leap into the icy water below. After the plunge, warm up with a drink of your choice, from a specialty tea to aged whiskey, or head to the infrared saunas in the Senses Spa# for some relaxation.  

Longyearbyen is the biggest settlement in Svalbard. Seat of the Norwegian administration, it also has the best services and infrastructure in the archipelago. Located deep in the Adventfjord, a sidearm of the Isfjorden (Icefjord), Longyearbyen’s airport can be used all-year round, but its harbor is blocked by ice in winter. Most shops, hotels, restaurants and a hospital are within easy walking distance of the port. One of the most prominent buildings in town is the UNIS center, where several Norwegian universities have joined forces to operate and offer the northernmost higher education to both Norwegian and international students. Adjacent to UNIS, and well worth a visit, is the Svalbard Museum, covering the natural history and exploitation of Svalbard. Remnants of the former mining activity can be seen all around Longyearbyen and even in town.

Savour one last luxurious breakfast on board your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht before saying farewell to the crew who have shared this once-in-a-lifetime journey with you. As you disembark, share the highlights of your Expedition Voyage in this spectacular part of the world with your new friends, knowing you have created memories to last a lifetime. You will be transferred to Oslo for an overnight stay, the final part of your journey.  

Oslo is the capital of Norway and is also its largest city, situated at the head of Oslo Fjord and surrounded by hills and forests. Home to some 50 museums and full of galleries, cafés, a sculpture park and the Royal Palace, this vibrant city with its handsome 19th-century buildings and wide streets has much to offer. Its history dates back 1,000 years, and includes a rich seafaring heritage that ranges from the Viking era to Thor Heyerdahl’s Kon Tiki expedition. Discover more about this exciting city on our varied selection of excursions.

Oslo is the capital of Norway and is also its largest city, situated at the head of Oslo Fjord and surrounded by hills and forests. Home to some 50 museums and full of galleries, cafés, a sculpture park and the Royal Palace, this vibrant city with its handsome 19th-century buildings and wide streets has much to offer. Its history dates back 1,000 years, and includes a rich seafaring heritage that ranges from the Viking era to Thor Heyerdahl’s Kon Tiki expedition. Discover more about this exciting city on our varied selection of excursions.

After breakfast in your hotel, take the time to say goodbye to your fellow Arctic travellers. 
As you fly out of Norway, treasure all the memories made on your voyage on board The World’s First Discovery Yacht. 

For those looking to explore even more of Scandinavia, consider joining our pre-cruise land tour from Copenhagen to Bergen, an unforgettable journey through charming cities, and rich Nordic culture before embarking on your ocean voyage. Inquire today for more details on this exclusive opportunity. 

#Spa treatments at additional cost. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine, and vintage wines, Champagnes, and spirits. Specialty restaurants require a reservation, enquire on board. ^Flights on board our two helicopters and submersible experiences are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather, ice and tidal conditions.

Helicopter and Submersible not operational in Svalbard.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.