Arctic Journey and Northern Lights

Pricing based on departure date: 3 October 2027

Calling all aurora seekers. Cross the Arctic Circle and spend back-to-back overnights in Tromsø and Alta, the “City of Northern Lights.” Explore Norway’s spectacular fjords and remote ports.

ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS

Trondheim, Norway

Although a popular cruise destination, Norway’s Viking capital is often overlooked by other travelers in favor of Oslo and the fjords. Yet Norway’s third-biggest city has plenty to offer those who make the time to explore.

The compact city center, enclosed by the Nidelva River, is easy to get around on foot. Within a couple of hours you can explore the main downtown sights and still have time for a bite to eat. The medieval Gothic grandeur of the Nidaros Cathedral is a must-see, as is the historic riverside Bakklandet neighborhood just a few steps away.

Tromso, Norway (Overnight)

Tromso, the "Gateway to the Arctic," is a vibrant city known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Nestled between fjords and mountains, it offers outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, the Northern Lights, the Arctic Cathedral, and panoramic views from the Fjellheisen cable car. With its arts scene, historic houses, and harbor, Tromso is a must-visit for travelers seeking Arctic magic. .

Alta, Norway (Overnight)

Alta, Norway, is as enchanting as it gets. Nestled on the head of the Alta Fjord, between the mountains and the coast, Alta features lush green valleys, mild temperatures, and a friendly vibe. It is the gateway to the Nordic interior and nicknamed the “City of Northern Lights.” Many flock to Alta during the fall and winter months to hunt the aurora, as it has a lot of clear nights and a location above the Arctic Circle.

Alta is the place where scientists first conducted northern lights research and it’s nicknamed, “City of Northern Lights.” Don’t worry if you’re cruising to Alta outside peak viewing periods. Summer brings a different phenomenon—the Midnight sun and a flurry of outdoor activities. Hike, bike or fish for salmon amid the serene surroundings of Alta River Canyon, Northern Europe’s largest canyon. 

Ships dock in Alta, Norway about 2.5 miles (4 km) outside the town center. There will be courtesy shuttles and taxis available to take you into town. Shop for mementos at Amfi Alta, a spacious shopping mall. Stop into the Northern Lights Cathedral, a church with a unique spiral steeple and concrete walls. 

Leave a few hours in your itinerary to visit the town’s pride, the Alta Museum and World Heritage Rock Art Centre, an 8-minute drive from downtown Alta. The only prehistoric monument in Norway, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Gain insight into life up to 7,000 years ago as you gaze at fascinating paintings and carvings of hunters, gatherers, and animals. The museum features rotating cultural and art exhibitions, and a café with a gorgeous view of the fjord.

Top 3 Things to Do in Alta, Norway

[1] Alta Museum & Rock Art Centre

View captivating rock art from 2,000 to 7,000 years ago.

[2] Alta River Canyon

Hike or bike trails surrounding Northern Europe’s largest canyons. 

[3] Northern Lights Cathedral

Tour a modern church that inspired by the aurora borealis.

Åndalsnes lies at the mouth of the Rauma River by the Romsdalsfjord, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and cascading waterfalls. In Gudbrand Gorge, delight in whirlpools, which flank this plunging stream as it races through a 65-feet-deep gorge between Valldal and the legendary Troll’s Path. The Stigfoss Waterfall plummets 591 feet into the Ister Valley, surrounded by three magnificent peaks. This spectacular scenic region also includes Trollveggan, a renowned climbing destination with a sheer rock face that rises 5,905 feet.

Your ship: Rotterdam

Named Rotterdam, our newest cruise ship makes a dazzling debut in the Caribbean this November.

Rotterdam hits all the right notes: exquisite dining, innovative entertainment, superbly appointed staterooms and suites, the finest service and craftsmanship that reflects nearly 150 years of expertise.

Music is front and center on Rotterdam and the result is a ship that moves—not only through water, but through the hearts of guests. With world-class dining and the best live music at sea, this new cruise ship creates the soundtrack to the discoveries you’ll make each day.

Rotterdam, Alesund, Trondheim, Scenic cruising Trondheimsfjord, Crossing the Arctic Circle, Tromso (Overnight), Alta (Overnight), Crossing the Arctic Circle, Andalsnes, Bergen, Lerwick, Rotterdam

All fares are displayed in NZD, and pricing is per person based on twin share occupancy unless stated otherwise. Although all due care is taken to keep information as up-to-date as possible, pricing and availability are subject to change without notice: due to varying timing schedules of supplier automated update processes; currency fluctuations; fuel surcharges or government tax & fee changes and may not be guaranteed until paid in full. Gratuities may be an additional onboard charge depending on particular cruise line selected. Please ask your cruise consultant for any clarification of Terms & Conditions.