Norwegian Fjords, Wildlife of Svalbard & the Arctic Circle

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.

Begin your Expedition Voyage in Norway and the World Heritage-listed city of Bergen. This Hanseatic fishing port is almost 1,000 years old and considered one of the prettiest cities in Scandinavia, tucked between majestic mountains and a breathtaking fjord.

This afternoon, you will meet the Captain and crew of your ultra-luxury Scenic Discovery Yacht, Scenic Eclipse. On board, be greeted with a glass of champagne and explore your spacious suite. Meet your fellow guests for a drink at the Sky Bar and toast to the start of an extraordinary voyage as you set sail into the largest fjord in Norway, Sognefjord.

Please book your flight to arrive into Bergen prior to 02:00 PM.

Discover the uninhabited Island of Skjoldungen, surrounded by a stunning fjord. Its stunning landscape brings together mountains, glacial valleys, rocky outcrops, tundra and willow forests, creating an unmissable show. In this pristine landscape is also quite common to see bearded seals, orcas and birds such as the common redpoll, the northern wheatear, or the common raven.

Tucked away at the very end of the Lustrafjord, the longest and deepest branch of the Sognefjord, Skjolden is surrounded by some of Norway’s most striking mountain scenery. Waterfalls cascade from steep valley walls, while glaciers and snow-dusted peaks frame the village in every direction.

Skjolden is a gateway to the Jostedalsbreen National Park, home to mainland Europe’s largest glacier, as well as historic stave churches and scenic walking trails. This peaceful fjord community offers a moment of calm amid Norway’s dramatic landscapes, where still waters, crisp alpine air, and unspoilt scenery define the experience.

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 until close to midnight.

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).

Begin the day with a brief visit to the picturesque village of Hellesylt before sailing into the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Geirangerfjord. Cruise along pristine waters framed by towering cliffs of up to 800 metres and admire the iconic Seven Sisters Waterfall cascading down the mountainside. Visit the charming village of Geiranger to wander its streets, enjoy the local cafés, and take in panoramic views of the fjord before continuing your journey through this breathtaking landscape.

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 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, 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 cruise 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 months, Tromsø welcomes locals enjoying extended daylight hours, 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.

Almost half way between Tromsø and Svalbard is isolated Bear Island – considered the southernmost island of the Svalbard Archipelago. The unglaciated island is an impressive Nature Reserve of steep, high cliffs that are frequented by seabirds, specifically at the southern tip. Brünnich’s Guillemots, Common Guillemots, Black Guillemots, Razorbills, Little Auks, Northern Fulmars, Glaucous Gulls, Black-legged Kittiwakes, and even Atlantic Puffins and Northern Gannets nest along the cliffs south of Sørhamna. Because of the large numbers of birds and the isolated location, Bear Island has been recognized as an Important Bird Area. It was once a hotspot for whaling and walrus hunting, and at one stage even mining. Bear Island received its name because of a polar bear encountered by early explorer Willem Barentsz. Today polar bears rarely visit the island and its only settlement is a meteorological station manned all-year round on the north side.

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 your in-suite binoculars to spot Svalbard rock ptarmigans, puffins, skuas, little auks, kittiwakes, black guillemots and more.

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 Discovery Excursions may 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.

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 in 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.

Scenic Discovery:
You will have the opportunity to enjoy Discovery Excursions such as Zodiac cruises, kayaking and guided nature walks. Explore pristine locations and discover majestic Arctic scenery and tundra landscapes.

Your Scenic 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 learn more about your upcoming expedition experiences.

In the evening, escape to France at Lumière+, complete with a luxurious champagne bar, or savour an intimate dining experience in your suite with an extensive 24-hour menu at your fingertips.

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 your 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 specialists including geologists, historians, ornithologists, marine biologists, and glaciologists, the Discovery Team is at the heart of your Expedition Voyage.

Scenic Discovery:
You will have the opportunity to enjoy Discovery Excursions such as Zodiac cruises, kayaking and guided nature walks. Explore pristine locations and discover majestic Arctic scenery and tundra landscapes.

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 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 breakfast on board Scenic Eclipse 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 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 aboard a Scenic 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 and services at additional cost. Daily activities may be subject to change; please consult your Daily Wonder for updates.
+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.
^Experiences on board our two helicopters and submersible are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather, ice and tidal conditions.
~Kayak and stand-up paddleboard not available in all locations.

Helicopter and submersible not in operation 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. Hotels are indicative and subject to change.