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Experience one of the most unforgettable wonders of the natural world on this exciting cruise along the spectacular Norwegian coastline. Famous for its rugged beauty, you'll sail past dramatic fjords and peaceful islands on this aurora-hunting trip. Plus, you'll be joined by weather presenter Carol Kirkwood as you head north of the Arctic Circle to see the Northern Lights dance across the night skies.
Carol has been fascinated with the aurora borealis for years, and you'll have plenty of opportunities to see the lights on your cruise. Carol will give an exclusive talk and Q&A about her life and career. Alongside the scientific experts onboard, she will also explain what causes this incredible natural phenomenon.
"As a meteorologist, I'm fascinated by the huge range of natural phenomena that weather systems can throw up, from the extraordinarily beautiful to the truly violent. The aurora borealis are among the most stunning displays that can ever be viewed in our skies and I'm thrilled to be returning to see one of the wonders of the natural world."
- Carol Kirkwood
You will be sailing along the Norwegian fjords on the MS Polarlys, an elegant, modern ship that combines Scandinavian style with excellent facilities. You'll discover the magnificent coastline from the UNESCO World Heritage port of Bergen up through the city of Tromsø to the remote and beautiful Lofoten Islands and North Cape, Europe's most northerly point, before sailing back via the ancient Viking trading post of Trondheim. En route, you'll have to option to go on additional Arctic excursions including snowmobiling, husky dog sledding, sea eagle spotting and taking part in a traditional Viking feast.**
What is more, if you book now you will only need to pay a 5% deposit.
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*** Occurrences of the Northern Lights, which can last from between a few minutes to several hours, will be logged by the ship's officers and announced to all passengers on board. Click here for more details on Hurtigruten's Northern Lights promise.
Fly to Bergen, Norway's historic port town, also known as 'the gateway to the fjords'. Here you'll board your fantastic ship, MS Polarlys, and be welcomed with a ttasty dinner buffet made from fresh coastal produce and a talk from Hurtigruten's expert guides.
Discover art-deco Ålesund, the Norwegian city made up of seven islands. Crusising towards the Unesco-listed Geirangerfjord, you'll pass spectacular waterfalls and 800-metre cliffs.
Spend the afternoon admiring Ålesund's famous architecture and taking part in a range of optional excursions.
Journey north and visit the royal city of Trondheim, Norway's first capital, which originally established itself as a Viking trading post.
Crossing the Arctic Circle, you'll be surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Tonight, learn about the legends and the science behind the dancing northern lights.
Explore the attraction town of Tromsø, one of the best places from which to spot the northern lights. Here there are a range of optional activities on offer, such as husky sledding and sea-kayaking.
Today you'll visit the North Cape, getting to know the real Arctic, the most northerly point of Europe. Enjoy a talk and Q&A tonight with meteorologist and Strictly contestant, Carol Kirkwood.
Explore Kirkenes independently today, taking part in optional activities such as husky sledding should you wish!
Today's highlights will include the pretty waterfront buildings of colourful Hammerfest and a brief stop at the old trading post of Skjervøy.
Optional excursions: a midnight concert in Tromso's Arctic Cathedral.
Today you arrive in Harstad, where Carol will join you on the excursion A taste of Vesterålen.
You'll also explore the wild, natural beauty of the Lofoten Islands today, spotting wildlife and visiting deserted Arctic beaches and historic fishing villages.
Sail back across the Arctic Circle, giving yourself another fantastic opportunity to spot the Aurora Borealis dancing in the night sky.
Explore the historic city of Trondheim, soaking up the Viking culture and finding out the myths that may have slipped passed you on your last visit. Tonight you'll enjoy a departing dinner of local delicacies.
Your fantastic journey ends here with a transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Hurtigruten's refurbished MS Polarlys is takes its name from the Norwegian for `polar light´
MS Polarlys was refurbished in 2016 and now features a modern, Arctic-inspired interior. On board are three different restaurants, the Multe bakery and ice cream bar, a sauna and fitness room. Out on deck you can enjoy the view from one of the two hot tubs. There's a comfortable bar at the front of the ship where you can enjoy a nice traditional drink. The vessel also has a large compass area where you find the reception, the expedition team, conference room and shop.
MS Polarlys has her own on-board Expedition Team and serves as a university at sea. Interesting lectures, presentations and activities inside as well as out on the sun deck of the ship make this an exciting and educational journey.
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