Depart from Bergen, the cultural gateway to the fjords, enjoy the relaxed ambience of life onboard and an opportunity to meet fellow passengers as you take in the spectacular landscapes.

An early arrival at the Art Nouveau town of Ålesund affords an opportunity to go ashore and explore this pretty town. Departures between 14 April and 14 September will sail into the UNESCO site of Geirangerfjord.

Continuing north you head for the medieval city of Trondheim, whose colourful history is reflected in its handsome civic architecture. Excursions include the medieval Nidaros Cathedral or the enthralling Ringve Music Museum. Evening departure towards the land of the Midnight Sun.

Crossing the Arctic Circle you continue to the modern town of Bodø, from where you can join our Saltstraumen Safari and witness the world’s strongest maelstrom. Day’s end sees you amidst the glorious Lofoten Islands and their stylish capital, Svolvær.

A relaxing morning at sea precedes our arrival in Tromsø, the capital of the Arctic. Modern shops and cafés provide a vibrant contrast to the stunning stained glass of the Arctic Cathedral, whilst the Polaria centre explores Arctic life.

Following an early call at Hammerfest you arrive in Honningsvåg, the portal to the wonders of the spectacular North Cape.

The vistas and sea life become more dramatic as you approach Kirkenes, just a few kilometres from the Russian border and the Sami communities of Northern Finland. Here you bid farewell to our northbound passengers and welcome those joining the southbound voyage. As you turn south the northbound ports visited by night are now seen by day, each season bringing its own beauty to the journey, as spring and summer flowers give way to autumn and the glaciers reflect the dazzling rays of the sun.

Hammerfest, the world’s most northerly town is our first major stop, before continuing to Tromsø and a chance to enjoy the midnight summer concert in the Arctic Cathedral.

Passing through the Lofoten Islands the ship negotiates a stunning network of inlets and isles. It is possible to opt for an overland excursion to Harstad, rejoining the ship in Sortland, before moving on to what is the highlight of the voyage for many, a detour into the spectacular and dramatic Trollfjord. This remarkable day is completed with an evening return to Svolvær and a farewell to the islands at Stamsund.

Crossing the Arctic Circle and sailing past the famed peaks of the Seven Sisters you enter a world of legend and folklore, before a chance to enjoy the award-winning maritime museum at Rørvik.

Disembark in Trondheim in the morning or take the recommended extension to Oslo.

Transfer to your centrally located hotel where you will stay one night. You have the afternoon free to explore this medieval city, where most attractions are within walking distance of your hotel.

Leave Trondheim in the morning by train for Oslo. Arrive in Oslo mid–afternoon for two night stay.

Free time to explore the capital city of Norway. Return flight to the UK on day 14.