The North Cape Line South - Tromso to Oslo

Welcome to Tromso and the start of your voyage!
Before you get settled into your cabin on MS Trollfjord, give yourself plenty of time to explore Tromso. This urban city 350 km north of the Arctic Circle is buzzing with life, with everything from trendy restaurants and cafs to boutique shops selling local crafts and produce, and even high fashion. You can visit the Polar Museum, which chronicles the citys legacy of Arctic hunting and trade. Head to the Polaria centre, an aquarium home to a variety of Arctic marine species, including seals. Across the water from Polaria, youll find the Arctic Cathedral, standing out in the cityscape due to its striking design and impressive stained-glass window. In the evening, youll begin your voyage, leaving Tromso behind to sail around the northernmost point of mainland Europe.

Arriving early in the morning, youll have a full day in Honningsvag. This far north, winters are long and snowfall is high, so get ready for some fantastic winter scenery and activities. Feel the snow crunching under your snowshoes as you hike across the plains with your Expedition Team. On optional excursions, you could try your hand at ice fishing, a beloved winter tradition in the far north. Get a taste of the local delicacy, king crab, which is caught in the waters around Honningsvag and served year-round.

The highlight of any trip to Honningsvag is a visit to the North Cape which looks out over the Barents Sea, also available as an optional excursion. This is one of the northernmost points of mainland Europe, and as were visiting in winter, you can even choose to get there by snowmobile. Having reached the northernmost point of our voyage, well turn around and begin going south as we sail away in the evening.

At 70 degrees north, this town is far above the Arctic Circle. The area is known for particularly good Northern Lights visibility, so keep your camera ready. On an optional excursion, you can find out more about day-to-day life in Alta, see prehistoric rock art and visit the Northern Lights Cathedral, which has an exhibition showing how Alta became the epicentre for ground-breaking research of the aurora borealis between the 19th and 20th centuries.

Increased snowfall in the winter allows for some truly authentic Arctic excursions, like dogsledding. You can try this on wheels if youre here when theres no snow on the ground! The snow and climate of Alta also create the perfect conditions to build and maintain the Igloo Hotel. Located on the banks of river Alta, this is the worlds northernmost ice hotel. Alternatively, join your Expedition Team on a hike to Mount Komsa. The views are mesmerising.

Narvik sits on a peninsula where three beautiful fjords meet. It was originally developed as a year-round, ice-free port for the nearby iron ore mines. Nowadays, its known for its World War II heritage and as a gateway to active pursuits such as skiing, dog sledding, and hiking. Get to know Narvik's past at the Narvik War Museum complete with engaging exhibits that bring to life the towns strategic importance during World War II.

For an impressive panorama of Narvik, the best thing to do is ride the cable car up to Narvikfjellet. At the top, youll be treated to astounding views of the town and the three surrounding fjords.

After Narvik, we head south along the enchanting Norwegian coast. Youll be in awe of windswept islands, sheltered bays, and some of the most beautiful fjords in the world. Its also inhabited by a wide range of wildlife, such as majestic Sea Eagles.

When we started sailing north of the Trondelag region in 1893, much was still unknown about the coastline. But, over the years, weve become experts in these waters. Today, we are among the few with the maritime knowledge and skill to take you through the many skerries, islets and hidden fjords that characterise this stretch of coast.

After docking in the town centre in the morning, you have the chance to explore Andalsnes, a picturesque coastal town located along Isfjord at the end of the Romsdalsfjord.
The literal highlights of ndalsnes are the mountains that tower over the town. They are the reason the town has become Norways go-to destination for hikers, climbers, skiers, and more. The Troll Wall, a 1,000 metre vertical cliff along the Romsdalen valley also attracts adrenaline seekers the world over.

To take in the sights go on a relaxing ride on the Romsdal Gondola, which takes you to the top of Nesaksla Mountain, 708 metres above sea level. There, enjoy a 360-degree view of the mighty Romsdalshorn, Andalsnes town centre below, and the Rauma river.

Surrounded by seven mountains and the sea, the old capital of Bergen is one of Norways most picturesque and historic cities, as well as being its second largest. Stroll through the UNESCO-listed Bryggen district and discover its colourful wooden wharfs dating back to the 14th century. Bergens famous fish market is worth a visit, too. It promises to be a feast for the senses with the sights, sounds, and smells of bountiful, fresh seafood which can be cooked there and then for you.

One of the best-known attractions in Bergen is the Floibanen funicular, which brings you to the top of Mount Floyen. The summit has a wonderful view over the city, the nearby fjord, and the other surrounding peaks.

We spend the last afternoon of your voyage in Kristiansand, Norways fifth largest city, sitting along the southern tip of the country, Kristiansand is on a mission to become the most sustainable port in Europe. Find out more about this admirable quest on an optional excursion that includes a visit to Odderoya Island. Or delve into Kristiansands 20th-century military past on an optional excursion to Batterie Vara. Originally built as a German fort in World War II, it features the worlds second largest cannon ever to be mounted on land.

Back on the boat, well end our voyage on a high note with an end-of-trip farewell dinner. Take this opportunity to trade photo highlights and experiences with your fellow travellers one last time.

Youve sailed on The North Cape Line, getting to know Norways coastal cities and villages all the way to the top of the European continent. During the journey, youll have experienced Norways varied climate, seen majestic mountains and fjords, and maybe gazed up in awe at the Northern Lights once or several times.

We hope youll cherish each of the memories youve made on The North Cape Line. Come sail with us again soon, on another iconic voyage of our spectacular home: the Norwegian coast.