FROM HAMBURG TO HAMBURG

The season begins – set course for Norway’s world of islands and fjords with the HANSEATIC spirit. Now, at the beginning of winter, when the days get shorter and the nights longer, the chances are particularly good for experiencing the unforgettable Northern Lights. Your small expedition ship and the many open deck areas will then be front-row seat for the natural spectacle in the clear northern skies. Enjoy the quiet, cosy season for exciting insights into Nordic nature and culture. 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, and admire 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. Stroll through the lanes at your own pace and enjoy the flair. A hike on Mount Aksla* offers stunning views of the fjord.

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. Your team of experts on board will explain the actual story behind the special geological shape.

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 – which you will visit on a city tour* – is a prime example of how strong an influence the Arctic has on the city’s architecture. The cable-car ride up Mount Storsteinen* offers a wonderful panorama of the wintry city. Alternatively, you can visit a husky camp*, if conditions permit, topped off with a dog sled ride.

After cruising off the North Cape, the maritime centre of the region awaits you. Honningsvag offers a picturesque contrast between colourful houses and rugged landscape. A particular highlight is the ambience at the North Cape plateau*, the most northerly point on the European mainland. If snow conditions are favourable, the term winter sports will take on a whole new meaning – perhaps on an exciting quad bike tour* in the snow.

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. Throughout your cruise, the ship’s deck will be the best observation platform when the weather conditions are right. According to the snow conditions, enjoy a hands-on approach to the natural scenery as you ride a dog sled*, take a winter 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. Be captivated by the changing series of fantastic views of the wintry landscape – from the spirit Walk or the many open deck areas, for instance. With a little luck, you might 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”?

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. From the main town of Svolvaer, travel a thousand years back in time on a scenic tour with a visit to the Viking farm*. A fast-paced RIB boat trip in the Trollfjord* promises pure adventure, while a ride* on Icelandic horses allows you to experience the breathtaking Nordic nature at a more relaxed pace. Houses bathed in romantic light, starry skies and, with luck, the magical Northern Lights round off your visit.

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 air. You will also have the opportunity to hike to the tongue of ice.

Hungry for adventure or thirsty for knowledge? Trondheim sates both. On a guided walk* through the old town, you will discover charming wooden houses, small shops and cosy cafes. Take a hike along Ladestien* to experience part of the charming coastal trail. Alternatively, you can discover the city with some winter kayaking on the Nidelva*.

Your small expedition ship will also take you to the famous Geirangerfjord as it hugs the coastline. What stories could the waterfalls tell, with names like “Seven Sisters” and “Suitor”?

Near Stavanger, the Lysefjord* with its peaks of up to 1,000 m (3,281 ft) high makes for a spectacular final impression on the Norwegian Inside Passage – and numerous breathtaking moments and unforgettable images of nature will be in your luggage.