Venture into the magical and mysterious lands along the coast of the Norwegian Sea to the Scottish Isles for close encounters with glaciers and gorgeous fjordscapes. Perfect for explorers with worldly ambitions, this 13-day expedition brings you to important sites of Norway’s ancient history, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and some of the most incredible nature you’ll ever see. The tail end of the trip takes you through some of Scotland's beautiful islands before you disembark in Edinburgh. This journey will leave you full of wonder for years to come.
Witness the spectacular wildlife and scenery of the Norwegian Fjords
Visit UNESCO-protected site such as Standing Stones of Stenness
Discover unique mix of Scotland Scandinavian culture on the Shetland Island
Enjoy breathtaking views of the mountain scenery and coastline.
Itinerary in Brief:
Day 1: Tromso
Day 2: Nordkapp
Day 3: At Sea
Day 4: Trollfjord/Lofoten Islands
Day 5: Svartisen/Vikingen/Lovund
Day 6: Vega/Torghatten
Day 7: Trondheim
Day 8: Eresfjord/Andalsnes
Day 9: Geirangerfjord
Day 10: Alesund
Day 11: Shetland Islands
Day 12: Orkney Islands
Day 13: Edinburgh
Day 1: Tromso
Welcome to Tromsø, the capital of northern Norway, known as the "Gateway to the Arctic". Embark in the afternoon. Consider arriving early to explore Tromsø.
Day 2: Nordkapp
Explore one of the most northern points in Europe. A popular spot to watch the midnight sun during the summer months, as the sun never sets between the middle of May to late August, this cape is the location where the Atlantic and Arctic oceans meet. Explore the barren landscape, quaint fishing villages, and stop by the Northern Cape Plateau standing 307 m above the sea.
Day 3: At Sea
Enjoy a day at sea, taking in the stunning scenery of the Arctic. Keep a sharp eye while on deck to try and spot marine wildlife.
Day 4: Trollfjord/Lofoten Islands
Spend the early morning at the short, yet dramatic Trollfjord. Try to spot the mythical creatures along the cliffs. Head ashore in Svolvaer to explore the Lofoten Islands by coach. Stop in Henningsvær for time to see local art or explore the quaint fishing village. After, visit Nusfjord, one of Norway's oldest and best-preserved fishing villages for lunch at a local restaurant, before visiting the Tørrfiskmuseum to learn about traditional work of the islands. End the day in the town of Å.
Day 5: Svartisen/Viking/Lovund
Visit Svartisen, Lovund and Vikingen, for beautiful glaciers and a globe sculpture which marks Vikingen as a point directly on the Arctic Circle.
Day 6: Vega/Torghatten
The rugged coastline of central Norway features some of the world’s most beautiful scenery. Head to the quaint and picturesque Vega Island, a UNESCO site. Wander the fishing villages, go on a guided nature hike, and appreciate the slow pace of life. In the afternoon, hike up to the famous hole in the mountain, with fantastic views of the region. Keep an eye out for Norway's mythical trolls.
Day 7: Trondheim
Continue on to Trondheim. Choose between hiking in Bymarka Nature Reserve before visiting the Sverresborg Folk Museum, or enjoying a city tour including the Folk Museum and the elaborate Nidaros Cathedral, built between 1070 and 1300. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore the area on your own.
Day 8: Eresfjord/Andalsnes
Spend the morning exploring the town of Eresfjord or join an optional hike for amazing views. In the afternoon, board the Rauma Railway taking you into the dramatic scenes of the Romsdalen mountains.
Day 9: Geirangerfjord
Sail deep into one of Norway's most beautiful, and most visited fjords, Geirangerfjord. Enjoy a coach tour to Dalsnibba, soaking in the views at this UNESCO World Heritage site. For the more adventurous, opt for a 10km mountain hike exploring the area and taking in amazing views of the fjord from above. If possible, the Expedition ship will cruise around this scenic area.
Day 10: Alesund
Spend the morning exploring the beautiful Art Nouveau district of Ålesund, or take the 418 steps up to Fjellstua for the views of the city, islands and bay. Opt to visit the Ålesund Museum and learn about the culture and history of the town, including the fire which destroyed the city in 1904. If you are feeling more active, try one of the local hikes for unbeatable views.
Day 11: Shetland Islands
Continue southwards to the remote Shetland Islands. Opt to visit Jarlshof or join the Puffin Bus to focus on puffins and seabird photography at Sumbrugh Head (weather dependent). Enjoy additional time to explore Lerwick.
Day 12: Orkney Islands
Visit historic and mystical sites by coach on this remote island. Explore the Standing Stones of Stenness, the intriguing Ring of Brodgar, and the village of Skara Brae.
Day 13: Edinburgh
Cruise overnight to Edinburgh's Port of Leith, then disembark the G Expedition in the morning. It's highly recommended to book extra time to visit Edinburgh.
