Norwegian Fjords & Polar Bears
Edinburgh (Leith) to Longyearbyen
Expeditions aboard M.S. Expedition
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- 15 days 15 - 29 Jun 2012
- 15 days 28 may - 11 Jun 2013
Take part in a mystical north Atlantic journey and explore the various medieval towns of the Norwegian coast before heading north among the icebergs of Spitsbergen. This is your once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to ply the Norwegian Sea, keeping your eyes open for unique wildlife while searching for the elusive polar bear.
Day 1
Arrive Edinburgh, Leith
Our expedition begins near Scotland's incomparable capital city. The royal capital of Scotland since the 11th century, Edinburgh, is home to an extraordinary range of architectural contrast. From dark, medieval 16th century block towers to classical Georgian and Victorian masterpieces. A World Heritage Site Edinburgh is home to over 16,000 buildings that are listed as being historically or architecturally important. We board the expedition ship this afternoon in the suburb of Leith, to embark on our voyage to the Arctic. Ship departs in the evening.
Day 2
Kirkwall
There are few places in the world that offer as much as the Orkneys. Only six miles off the coast of Scotland the islands are famous for their abundant marine bird life and dramatic coastal scenery. Our excursions for today will focus not only on this but also on many of the mystical historical sites of the area. These excursions will include coach visits to the Ring of Brodgar, standing stones of Stennes and the 4500 year old village of Skara Brae. You will also see a famous Italian chapel and St. Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall.
Day 3
Lerwick
We continue northwards to the remote Shetland Islands. The islands were under Norse rule until 1469, when they were given to Scotland as part of a Danish princesses dowry. The Shetlands are a engaging mix of Scotland and Scandinavia, with spectacular coastlines, varied and abundant bird life and a number of archaeological sites that date back thousands of years. We will stop at the ancient sites of Jarlshof and Scatness via Zodiac, where we will learn more about the Bronze-age, Iron-age, Pictish, Vikings and Medieval history. In the afternoon we will enjoy a guided coach tour of the largest town on Mainland Shetland, Lerwick. There we will see Scalloway Castle, Clickimin Broch, and the Shetland Museum.
Day 4
Nordfjorden
Depending on time, we may stop in Olden for a short bus ride to the Birksdal area and a walk to a glacier. There is a trolly-like car available for people who are unable to walk the full distance.
Day 5
Geiranger
Sail deep into one of Norway's most beautiful fjords, deep towards the mainland. The fjord is one of Norway's most visited tourist sites and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 6
Monks Island & Austratt
Today you will sail towards Monks Island which is just off the shore of Trondheim. The Benedictine monks built a monastery in the 11th century. Today it is a recreational area. Later we visit Austratt, which has been a residence for many noblemen and noblewomen who played a significant role in Norway's developement.
Day 7
Torghatten & Alstahaug
The rugged coastline of central Norway features some of the world’s most beautiful nature. The mountain scenery and coastline offer breathtaking scenery and our Captain will negotiate with local Norwegian pilots to determine our best Zodiac shore landing options. Our goal is to visit Torghatten one of the most bizarre rock formations in Norway and a significant local landmark. We will also try to move towards the Treana archipelago that is comprised of over 1000 islands.
Day 8
Svartisen & Vikingen
Svartisen has a beautiful walk to a glacier with the chance of an easy walk along a road. It also has a more demanding walk all the way around a lake below the glacier. Vikingen has the globe marking the Arctic Circle.
Day 9
Lofoten Islands, Svolvaer & Trollfjord
The Lofoten Archipelago is an enchanting area of picturesque villages by the sea backed with jagged peaks. Today we go ashore via coach on the island of Aa, where cod fishing is still a major part of the economy. In the evening be sure to be on deck as we cruise into one of the most famous fjords in Norway, the short yet dramatic Trollfjord, and search the cliffs for Norway's mythical beings: trolls.
Day 10
Bleiksøya & Andenes
The morning we will try to have a Zodiac cruise to one of the biggest bird colonies in Norway. Be on the lookout for White-tailed Eagles. In the afternoon we sail through an area known for whale watching and then visit the whale museum and other exhibits at Andenes.
Day 11
Tromso
Tromsø, the capital of northern Norway, is known as the "Gateway to the Arctic" since so many Arctic expeditions originated from here. We will spend the whole day learning about the history of past expeditions and exploring Norway's largest northern city. We will enjoy a coach tour to some of the major sites including the Polar and Tromsø Museums and weather permitting enjoy a stunning view from a cable car. We will also visit the Arctic Cathedral, whose unique architecture is evocative of snow and icebergs. Its stained glass windows are among the largest in Europe.
Day 12
Bear Island
Explore around mist-shrouded Bear Island (Bjørnøya), populated by thousands of fulmars, kittiwakes, guillemost and gulls; this is a birdwatcher's paradise and the views are spectacular. We also plan a landing to see take in the views from shore.
Days 13-14
Hornsund and Bellsund
Svalbard is an archipelago of deep fjords, high mountains and massive glaciers. Our focus during our time here is searching for walruses, seals, reindeer, arctic foxes and, of course, the polar bear. Our flexible itinerary and experience here allow us to take the best advantage of ice and weather conditions. Each season we attempt to discover new landing sites to explore to enhance your expedition experience. Shore walks and Zodiac adventures bring us up close to mystical landscapes, icebergs, and wildlife.
Day 15
Longyearbyen
Disembarkation will take place after breakfast. A transfer will take you into the center of the town where you are free to enjoy a walk around town. Longyearbyen boasts an outstanding Arctic museum, an art gallery and a number of other cultural attractions for you to enjoy. Do not book any flights departing Longyearbyen earlier than the afternoon of disembarkation day.
