FROM HAMBURG TO LONGYEARBYEN

Set sail for the far north: this route will take you to natural spectacles on both sides of the Arctic Circle. Where Hanseatic ships once exchanged stockfish for flour and textiles, your expedition will begin on the HANSEATIC spirit: in Bergen, old merchant houses recall the historical significance of the port city. Follow in the footsteps of the merchants and visit the popular fish market on a bicycle tour of Bergen¹. Or enjoy pure nature in the Hardangerfjord¹ with fascinating insights into fruit growing in Norway.

The landscape becomes ever more spectacular, reaching its first highlight in the Geirangerfjord. What stories could the thundering waterfalls tell, with names like “Seven Sisters” and “Suitor”? Sensational clear views await you at Dalsnibba and the “Eagle’s Bend”¹. Alternatively, enjoy a hike to the Storseter waterfall¹ where the water tumbling from a height of 35 m (115 ft) is truly exhilarating. With the amazing natural experiences roaring in your memory, you can look forward to even greater experiences on board the HANSEATIC spirit on the other side of the Arctic Circle.

Svolvaer will welcome you to the heart of the Lofoten Islands with its deeply carved coastline set against striking mountain ranges. Travel a thousand years back in time on a scenic tour with a visit to the Viking farm¹. By contrast, an evening stroll through the little streets will show you what modern life is like in the island group. The next morning, scenes from Norwegian mythology come alive as you cruise in the Trollfjord. The fjord has a mouth just 100 m (328 ft) wide and legend has it that trolls live here. Be captivated by the fantastic views from your front-row spot on the spirit Walk or the glass balconies. Tranoy is another stunning part of the Lofoten Islands. Take in the expansive view of the Vestfjord and the lofty mountain peaks by exploring independently or on a hike to the lighthouse with the experts.

The maritime centre of the North Cape region, Honningsvag offers a picturesque contrast between colourful houses and rugged landscapes. Experience the unique atmosphere of the midnight sun, which never sets at this time of year, on the excursion to North Cape¹, the most northerly point on the European mainland. Alternatively, embark on a king crab safari¹ and enjoy some delights cooked over an open fire and served in a typical Sami tent.

With the special explorer’s highlight of cruising off North Cape, the HANSEATIC spirit will set sail for a legendary destination in the Norwegian Sea.

On Spitsbergen, the unspoilt nature will provide an exceptional adventure in which the captain and crew set a course for new discoveries every day, depending on the weather and ice conditions. With a little luck, you will be able to watch seals, whales, walruses or even polar bears, the “kings of the Arctic”, from the deck at a respectful distance. The Zodiacs will also work tirelessly to take you ashore. In isolated Spitsbergen, the HANSEATIC spirit has no fixed schedule, and will follow only the call of the wild and your insatiable expedition spirit. Forge your way along deserted coasts like the great pioneers before you and visit Hornsund, where hundreds of thousands of little auks live on the shores. Remote Ny-Alesund, an international centre for Arctic research, deserves to be immortalised in art. Explorer Roald Amundsen once set out for the North Pole from here. The shimmering blue natural wonder of the 14th July Glacier rises up before you – a sight only likely to be surpassed by the enormous Monacobreen with its edge reaching heights of up to 40 m (131 ft) in the Liefdefjord. The excitement will grow as you find out how far the HANSEATIC spirit can venture. Guided by the spirit of adventure, you can enjoy getting right up close to the ice edge if the conditions allow. The Raudfjord will surprise you with its colourful accents and mountain slopes that shimmer in a striking red. Explore the whaling history of the 17th century on the stony island of Amsterdamoya and in the Smeerenburgfjord against a breathtaking backdrop. The small island of Prins Karls Forland and its large walrus herds is the crowning glory to round off your adventure. This place was one of the first landscapes that Willem Barents discovered in 1596. It is the last destination on your expedition – and one that will also make a polar pioneer of you.