Labyrinth of fjords and the Northern Lights: southbound along Norway’s wintry coast
Northern Lights season: enjoy stunning views on deck
Experiences in the snow1: dog and reindeer sleigh rides, hiking and more
Kirkenes: rarely visited and starting point for exciting outdoor activities1
Experience Tromso, the “gateway to the Arctic Ocean” and its nature in winter on the pre-cruise programme1
1 The shore activities are not included in the cruise price and are in the planning stage. Subject to change without notice
At anchor
Further informations
White landscapes, deep snow and frozen lakes in remote forests – in winter, nature in northern Europe can be experienced in a completely new way and particularly intensively during a wide range of outdoor activities. Come on board the HANSEATIC nature and fulfil your dream of an extraordinary cruise along Norway’s coast. The Northern Lights – which, with a bit of luck, you’ll be able to marvel at from the deck in clear weather – will be a constant reminder of the beauty of nature. As you cruise off the North Cape, let your gaze wander over Norway’s winter landscape in joyful anticipation of your cruise. What a way to start your adventure.
The remotely located old mining town of Kirkenes lies on the wide Pasvik river and it will be your starting point for further fabulous winter experiences. Embark on a king crab safari1 via snowmobile to the fishing baskets of these impressive animals. Alternatively, experience the beautiful nature on a snowshoe hike1 or from a dog sleigh1. The nearby Snowhotel 3651, by contrast, is all about impressive snow architecture, fascinating ice sculptures and atmospheric lighting. And time and again, the many open deck areas of your expedition ship become observation platforms at night when the Northern Lights dance across the sky.
The maritime centre of the North Cape region, Honningsvag, offers a picturesque contrast between colourful houses and rugged landscape. A particular highlight is the ambience at the North Cape1, the most northerly point on the European mainland. The term winter sports will take on a whole new meaning – on a snowshoe hike with ice fishing1.
You will have plenty of time in Alta for extensive explorations of the region: discover the landscape of northern Norway, for example, on a dog sleigh ride1 through enchanted forests or go on an active snowshoe hike1. A fat bike tour1 across the snow and ice or a reindeer sleigh ride1 are also on the programme. On a visit to the Sami1, you can immerse yourself more deeply in their tradition and way of life during a cosy get-together around the campfire. The only way of getting to know the culture even more intensively is by spending the night in a husky camp1. A winter fairy tale will come true when you check into the magical Igloo Hotel1. Incredibly, the bedrooms are carved entirely out of ice.
Wondrous skerry landscape, stockfish archipelago or expeditionary territory – however you choose to describe the Lofoten Islands, they form a contrast of dramatic landscapes and idyllic fishing villages with the main town of Svolvaer. On starry winter nights, there is a good chance of admiring the Northern Lights in the sky. Will the mystical celestial phenomenon make an appearance?
With 370 km2 (143 mi.2), the Svartisen glacier is the second-largest glacier in Norway – a true work of art created by nature. Enjoy the unique scenery with glacial lake and mountains as well as the clear winter air. You will also have the opportunity to hike to the tongue of ice.
Today will be entirely devoted to exploring, with the HANSEATIC nature cruising nimbly through the Norwegian fjords. Be captivated by the changing series of fantastic views of the wintry landscape – from the nature Walk or the many open deck areas, for instance. Maybe you will also spot whales. When thick fog slowly enshrouds the striking mountains, the scenery is bathed in a particularly mystical atmosphere. Perhaps it is precisely in these moments that you can guess why Norway is also called the “land of the trolls”?
The snowy Geirangerfjord is like an amphitheatre of almost vertical rock faces and countless waterfalls. What stories are hidden behind names like “Seven Sisters” and “Suitor”?
In Bergen, old merchant houses recall the historical significance of the port city. Set against a remarkable wintry 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. Follow in the footsteps of the merchants and visit the popular fish market.
Stavanger welcomes you with its historic harbour before you bid farewell to the wintery dream panoramas of an unforgettable adventure while cruising in the Lysefjord surrounded by 1,000 m (3,281 ft) high peaks.
The itinerary depends on the weather conditions. The natural experiences and Northern Lights sightings described are possibilities on this cruise and are not guaranteed. The use of on-board Zodiacs is currently not permitted on this cruise. When the ship is at anchor, the ship’s tender boats will be used.
1 The shore activities are not included in the cruise price and are in the planning stage. Subject to change.
At anchor
When the ship is anchored, there is no pier and the ship anchors in open water. The transfer to land is carried out using tender boats or zodiacs.
Golf
You head for the best and most beautiful greens in the world and are looked after by a PGA golf professional
Zodiac
Where even our small and few ships can't get any further, you can continue your adventures safely in robust inflatable boats (weather permitting).
Music
In an almost private atmosphere you can experience artists up close on the high seas or in front of the most beautiful places in the world.
Arrival and departure options
Wed, 04.03.2026
Scheduled flight from Germany to Tromso
Optionally bookable
Extend your trip
Our popular before and after programs include a wide range of excursions and are usually accompanied by experienced Hapag-Lloyd Cruises tour guides. Recommended for travelers who like to share their experiences with a group of like-minded people. Experience selected highlights of your holiday destination and enjoy the amenities of a group trip - we take care of transfers, excursions and overnight stays.
Our travel concierge will be happy to put together tailor-made travel arrangements for you according to your wishes. From design hotels to luxurious beach resorts to ticket reservations for theater visits or restaurant recommendations for the most exciting cities. The Travel Concierge is available to you before your trip and of course on board.
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Along wintry coasts, with many outdoor activities in the glistening snow in Swedish and Finnish Lapland and while exploring enchantingly illuminated cities, you will experience unique moments of wonder. In the narrow archipelago and fjord landscapes of Norway, your small expedition ship shows off its strengths to perfection, while you marvel at the mystical Northern Lights from the many open deck areas.
Price special
Attractive combination discount
Extend your stay with the subsequent cruise NAT2606 and save € 900 per person (applies to Categories 1 – 10).
Included Services
Expedition and information
All landings and rides in the ship’s own Zodiacs (Use of the Zodiacs depends on the destination and on official permits)
Experienced experts from various disciplines accompany every cruise, give presentations and multimedia lectures, provide well-informed answers to questions about the cruising area and take part in the Zodiac landings/rides and hikes from/to ship
Use of the interactive Ocean Academy with individual knowledge formats
Comprehensive information before the cruise – for example about the Arctic, Antarctic, the South Seas and the Amazon, as well as expedition maps
Cabin
In every cabin: champagne to welcome you, mini bar restocked daily with non-alcoholic beverages (additional selection in Grand Suites and Junior Suites), coffee machine (tea on request), 24-hour cabin service
Equipment for loan: one pair of binoculars and two sets of Nordic Walking poles in the cabin itself, furthermore warm parkas, rubber boots, snorkelling equipment
Flat-screen TV with information and entertainment programme, personal email account and Internet access via Wi-Fi (free of charge for one hour per guest and day, satellite-dependent especially in polar areas)
Information about harbours and destinations (where available) in the cabin
Restaurants
International gourmet cuisine – full board: breakfast (early-bird and late riser breakfast), bouillon, afternoon coffee/tea time, lunch and dinner (three restaurants to choose from in the evening with flexible opening hours)
All around carefree
German ship and expedition management as well as a mostly German-speaking service crew
Harbour and airport fees
Cancellation fee insurance (20% excess) in the fares PLATINUM and GOLD
Spa and fitness
Extensive sports programme: fitness area with ocean view, course programme, additional sports activities on shore depending on the destination (Personal training for an additional charge)
OCEAN SPA with Finnish sauna with an ocean view, steam sauna, indoor and outdoor relaxation area (spa treatments and hairdresser at a surcharge)
