Europe’s far north is so near and yet so unknown, especially in winter. Inspired by the pioneering spirit of the Norwegian polar researchers Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen, the HANSEATIC spirit sets course for adventure in the fjords and islands of Norway. The first stop, Bergen, welcomes you with a typical “Hei”. Set against a remarkable mountain backdrop, take a gentle stroll through the Hanseatic quarter of Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to see its colourful houses and narrow streets. It is clear why the city is known as the “gateway to the fjords” when Norway’s Inside Passage begins there and the landscape becomes more and more spectacular.

Famous for its art nouveau architecture, Alesund is spread over multiple islands. Enjoy the stunning views of the fjord on a hike on Mount Aksla*. Alternatively, a scenic tour of Giske and Godoy* will offer you insights into the history of the area. Bronze Age farms have been discovered here, as well as several burial mounds with silver, gold and bronze treasures.

The legend that the rocks are petrified trolls comes to life as you cruise off Torghatten: the hole in the mountain is said to have been made by the troll king’s hat. If you would like to understand the geological background of this unusual formation, our experts on board will be happy to put forward a different theory.

Feed the explorer in you in Tromso with stories of historical expeditions that set out from there, the gateway to the Arctic Ocean. Inspired by the ice floes, the Arctic Cathedral* is a prime example of how strong an influence the Arctic has on the city’s architecture. Alternatively, set off on a relaxed ride in a reindeer sleigh* and enjoy the icy silence of the north.

The term “winter sports” gains a whole new meaning on this cruise. Set out on an exciting quad bike tour* in the snow from Honningsvag, the maritime centre of the North Cape region, as you head into a glittering landscape. After you reach the North Cape* by quad bike or bus, the evening ambience at the most northern point in Europe is a special highlight.

It’s not only in the region around Alta, where the first Northern Lights observatory was built in the 19th century, that you can see the aurora borealis on a clear night. During your cruise, the ship’s deck is the best observation platform if the weather is suitable. In addition, we can offer you an atmospheric visit to a Northern Lights camp* ashore. Take a hands-on approach to the natural scenery as you ride dog sleds through the snow-covered forest*, take a snowshoe hike* or set out on a fat bike tour*.

Today will be entirely devoted to exploring, with the HANSEATIC spirit cruising nimbly through the Norwegian fjords. The time of the cruise is ideal for spotting orcas, humpback whales and perhaps even some fin whales, who are spending the winter in the fjords. Be captivated by the changing series of fantastic views of the landscape from the spirit Walk or the glass balconies.

Wondrous skerry landscape, stockfish archipelago or expeditionary territory – however you choose to describe Lofoten, the islands form a contrast of dramatic landscapes and idyllic fishing villages such as the administrative centre Svolvaer. Although the days are shorter in autumn and winter, you will be enchanted by the different ambiences of light at twilight just after sunset or the mysterious Northern Lights on a clear night.

The Svartisen glacier, the second-largest in Norway, is a snowy work of art consisting of two separate main glaciers – the East Svartisen and West Svartisen icecaps. The name “svartis” means “black ice” and refers to its deep-blue colour. You will even have the opportunity to hike to the tongue of ice.

Hungry for adventure or thirsty for knowledge? Trondheim sates both. The city’s landmark Nidaros Cathedral* will take you back to the Middle Ages. Take a hike along Ladestien* to experience part of the charming coastal trail. Alternatively, you can discover the city with some wintry kayaking on the Nidelva*.

Your small expedition ship will also take you to the famous Geirangerfjord as it hugs the coastline. Enjoy a front-row seat in this amphitheatre of almost vertical rock faces and countless waterfalls, perhaps on the spirit Walk or from the glass balconies.

To round off your cruise, visit the port city of Haugesund in southern Norway. The region boasts impressively diverse scenery and many cultural monuments. Dive into the history of the Vikings with a visit to the island of Karmoy*, once host to the court of Harald Fairhair, the first Norwegian monarch. Alternatively, a helicopter flight over the Lysefjord* will offer unique views of the famous Preikestolen – or Pulpit Rock – and make for an unforgettable final impression of the Norwegian Inside Passage.