Northern Norway Whale and Aurora Cruise
Overview
Two natural wonders await the intrepid traveller joining the 8-day whale and aurora sailing adventure. Spotting majestic whales combined with seeing the phenomenal northern lights can only be described as awe-inspiring. The once-in-a-lifetime trip sails the seas in Northern Norway during the winter months.
Highlights
- Look out for orca, humpback and sperm whales
- Explore scenic fjords near Tromso
- Drop anchor in remote locations ideal for viewing the northern lights
- Visit the Arctic city of Tromso
What's Included
- Return flights from Heathrow to Tromso via Oslo
- Accommodation in cabins with private and shared bathroom
- All meals on board the vessel while on voyage
- Shore excursions
Full description
Norway has a spectacular coastline waiting to be explored – its fjords are renowned for their beauty. In the far north, about 300 kilometres above the Arctic Circle, the islands of Kvaloya, Senja and Ringvassoya are located. Around these islands something special happens during winter. Enormous schools of herring from the Barents Sea gather here in the fjords – this abundance of food attracts large numbers of whales, as they feed on it. This voyage is dedicated to meeting these giants of the seas when the days are short and the nights are long in Northern Norway, but during the dark hours you also have the opportunity to see the Northern Lights. This amazing phenomenon can only be seen when it is dark and the sky is clear, with not much light pollution around. The voyage will offer ample opportunities to admire the Aurora Borealis from the remote fishing villages and bays where the ship will be moored for the night.
In January and February the herring, and so the whales, migrate southwards, often to the northwest coast of Senja and Andfjord. The sailing plan will therefore be adapted by the expedition leader according to the best chances to see the whales. In November and December the voyage takes you to the fjords and islands around Kvaloya and Ringvassoya - three days will be spent searching for whales near Kvaloya, the other days sailing under canvas and exploring some of the remote islands on foot.
The expedition will appeal to independent minded travellers from around the world, characterised by a strong interest in exploring and a great camaraderie spirit develops on board, an important part of expedition experience. The itinerary is ship-based, and not physically demanding, however, you should be in good health and be able to walk several hours per day as much time is spent ashore on excursions and getting on/off the ship is along a steep gangway to the zodiacs.
Prices & Dates
Prices in £ per person based on two sharing, unless otherwise stated
| Departure | Duration | Vessel | Twin Inside Cabin or single shared inside | Single Inside Cabin | Twin Porthole or single shared Porthole | Single Porthole |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 Nov 2019 | 7 nights | S/V Rembrandt van Rijn | £2,433 | £3,833 | £2,752 | £4,374 |
| 14 Dec 2019* | 7 nights | S/V Rembrandt van Rijn | £2,024 | n/a | n/a | n/a |
| 07, 14, 21 & 28 Dec 2019 | 7 nights | S/V Rembrandt van Rijn | £2,433 | £3,833 | £2,752 | £4,374 |
| 11 Jan 2020 | 7 nights | S/V Rembrandt van Rijn | £2,524 | £3,988 | £2,843 | £4,529 |
| 01, 08, 15, 22 & 29 Feb 2020 | 7 nights | S/V Rembrandt van Rijn | £2,524 | £3,988 | £2,843 | £4,529 |
| 21 & 28 Nov 2020 | 7 nights | S/V Rembrandt van Rijn | £2,524 | £3,988 | £2,843 | £4,529 |
| 05, 12, 19 & 26 Dec 2020 | 7 nights | S/V Rembrandt van Rijn | £2,524 | £3,988 | £2,843 | £4,529 |
Note - S/V Rembrandt van Rijn has a maximum passenger capacity of 33 guests in 16 Cabins, all with private toilet and shower. There is 1 Triple Cabin with porthole; 6 Inside Twin berth cabins and 9 Twin berth cabins with porthole. Single shared Cabin means single travellers will be sharing with another passenger.
* Special offer price on 14 Dec 2019 departure. Valid only in a Twin Inside Cabin, subject to availability.
Prices in £ per person based on two sharing, unless otherwise stated
| Departure | Duration | Vessel | Twin Cabin | Single Private Cabin | Single shared Cabin |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 Feb 2020 | 7 nights | S/V Noorderlicht | £2,252 | £3,524 | £2,252 |
| 22 Feb 2020 | 7 nights | S/V Noorderlicht | £2,252 | £3,524 | £2,252 |
| 29 Feb 2020 | 7 nights | S/V Noorderlicht | £2,252 | £3,524 | £2,252 |
| 07 Mar 2020 | 7 nights | S/V Noorderlicht | £2,252 | £3,524 | £2,252 |
| 14 Mar 2020 | 7 nights | S/V Noorderlicht | £2,252 | £3,524 | £2,252 |
| 31 Oct 2020 | 7 nights | S/V Noorderlicht | £2,252 | £3,524 | £2,252 |
| 07 Nov 2020 | 7 nights | S/V Noorderlicht | £2,252 | £3,524 | £2,252 |
| 14 Nov 2020 | 7 nights | S/V Noorderlicht | £2,252 | £3,524 | £2,252 |
| 21 Nov 2020 | 7 nights | S/V Noorderlicht | £2,252 | £3,524 | £2,252 |
| 26 Dec 2020 | 7 nights | S/V Noorderlicht | £2,252 | £3,524 | £2,252 |
Note - S/V Noorderlicht has a maximum passenger capacity of 20 guests in 10 Cabins, all with shared facilities using 4 showers and 5 toilets. Each cabin has a wash basin. Single shared Cabin means single travellers will be sharing with another passenger.
What's Included
- Return flights from London Heathrow to Tromso via Oslo
- Accommodation in cabins with shared or private bathroom
- All meals (starting with dinner on first evening of tour, ending with breakfast on day 8) - drinks not included
- Shore excursions
- English speaking guide
- 24 hour emergency assistance from our team during your holiday
- No surcharge guarantee
- Full financial protection »
The embarkation time on day 1 is between 17.00-18.00 hours on the Noorderlicht or by 17.00 on Rembrandt, so please take this into consideration when planning the flight arrival. It is recommended to spend a night or two first in Tromso, a fantastic city to explore and experience the Arctic conditions.
Itinerary & Accommodation
Itinerary & Accommodation
Day 1: arrive in Tromso
On arrival at Tromso airport make you way to the city centre either by the regular Flybus coach service, stopping at Scandic Ishavshotel or directly by taxi to the harbour (not included - payable locally). If travelling on the 100 year old two mast schooner Noorderlicht, guests are asked to embark between 17.00 and 18.00 hours, with time to get settled in your cabin accommodation. Dinner will be served at about 19.00, where you will meet your fellow passengers. Afterwards, take an evening walk in the town and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this Arctic city. If travelling on the three mast Rembrandt van Rijn you are asked to board by 17.00 as the vessel departs in the evening on day 1.
Day 2: set sail for Senja
Early in the morning the Noorderlicht will leave Tromso. The Rembrandt van Rijn will already be at sea. The exact itinerary depends largely on the weather conditions, the amount of daylight during the voyage and the location of the whales. The route may take you clockwise or counter clockwise around the mountainous island Senja. The distance travelled each day can vary depending on the conditions and where the whales take you.
Day 3-6: Whale Safari and Aurora Cruise
The next few days will be spent around the north coast of Senja and in Andfjorden, where whales have been gathering in recent years. Besides orca and humpback whales, there are also chances to see sperm whale. Near Andenes, along the edge of the Continental Shelf, these large whales dive into the depths of the ocean where they feed on giant squid. Furthermore, there are good chances to spot White-tailed eagle, as they also want a share of the herring frenzy. This magnificent bird of prey is one of the largest birds of Europe and a resident in Northern Norway. In the afternoon, before it gets too dark, the captain will find a place for the night in one of the scenic fishing villages such as Skrolsvik, Andenes and Gryllefjorden. When the sun sets, you can take small hikes along the coast and hope for some clear sky so you can see the aurora. The journey continues with the circumnavigation of Senja, heading north to the small island of Sammarøy.
Day 7: return to Tromso
The morning is spent exploring the lovely island of Sammaroy with its small bays and white beaches and try to climb to the top of the 211 metre high Mount Hillesoya. From here there are excellent panoramic views of the rugged coastline. Sail back to Tromso, arriving about midday where the last night is spent on board the vessel.
Day 8: depart Tromso
After breakfast say goodbye to your fellow travellers, perhaps venturing into the city if you decide to extend your stay. Or make your way to the airport by taxi or Flybus coach service for your flight home (not included - payable locally).
S/V Noorderlicht
Multi-destination
Type: Sailing Ship
Originally built in Germany in 1910, this two-masted schooner rig sails the Norwegian coast and Svalbard archipelago
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