Guest Speaker 
Superior Stateroom
226 ft2
3
Fjords & Spitsbergen
Bergen - Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen
Dates:
19/05/2023
to
30/05/2023
days
nights on board
TRANSFER + FLIGHT LONGYEARBYEN/PARIS
PONANT invites you to an exceptional experience discovering Norway and the immensity of the polar universe. Aboard Le Boréal, set sail for a 12-day cruise to the remote lands of the Norwegian fjords and Spitsbergen.
From Bergen, famous for the Hanseatic wharf that still carries a few traces of the rich historic past of the city founded by the Vikings, you will set sail for Olden. This small and charming village, located a few kilometres from Jostedalsbreen National Park, is home to one of the last ice caps in Europe, and there you will have the opportunity to admire the magnificent Briksdal glacier.
Your ship will then sail towards the Geiranger Fjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Even further north, you will reach the famed Lofoten Islands. This archipelago has landscapes of surreal beauty alternating between sea, mountain slopes and fine sand beaches.
Le Boréal will sail into the magical landscape of Trollfjorden, which legends says is guarded by trolls, before calling at Tromso.
You will also sail by Bear Island, halfway between the North Cape of Norway and the South Cape of Spitsbergen. You will see many seabirds, such as guillemots or Atlantic puffins, which have found refuge in the vast cliffs to the south of the island.
Further north still, you will reach Spitsbergen, the main island of the Svalbard archipelago. In the land at the end of the world, millennial glaciers, steely mountains and spectacular fjords form the backdrop for whales, Arctic foxes, walruses and the kings of their realm, polar bears.
Your cruise will end in Longyearbyen.
Ref : BL295 - BO190523
Your itinerary
UNESCO World Heritage sites: Bryggen, former Hanseatic port of Bergen (embarkation port), the Geiranger Fjord. Possibility of a walk at the foot of the most beautiful glaciers in Europe, the Briksdal, from...
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Your trip in detail
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Included in your cruise
For more peace of mind, PONANT organizes your trip before or after the cruise. This package is included in the price of your cruise.
Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Services provided
- 24h room service
- Inclusive Internet access Wi-Fi (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar included
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Three ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Clothing tips:
INSULATING BASE LAYER AND WATERPROOF OUTER LAYER :
- Water-resistant parka - offered on board (not children sizes ; in case of consecutive cruises, only one complimentary parka) on the dates of these cruises.
- Half calf waterproof rubber boots with non-slip soles (for hikes and visits on unequipped and sometimes unstable terrain).
- Comfortable trousers : classic winter trouser, warm cotton tracksuit or wool legging.
- Waterproof and wind proof over-trousers – MANDATORY.
- Windbreaker
- Winter trousers with waterproof over-trousers are the ideal combination : water-resistance and flexibility of trousers are essential and imperative.
- Pullover, sweat-shirt or fleece jacket.
- Woolen or thermolactyl underwear.
- Woolen or fleece neck-warmer, woolen or fleece ear muffs or warm hat (avoid scarves as they do not stay in place) - MANDATORY
- Wool or silk under gloves, flexible technical and waterproof gloves.
- Thick warm socks (ideally woolen).
- Winter shoes (with a wool lining).
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
INSULATED BASE LAYER:
- Wool or thermolactyl technical underwear
- Polar sweater or sweatshirt
- Winter suit
- Warm hiking socks
- Winter shoes (with a wool lining)
WATERPROOF OUTER LAYER:
- Waterproof over-trousers - Mandatory
- Ski Jacket - Mandatory
- A warm woollen hat covering your ears
- Polar or woollen neck warmer
- Gloves
- Windbreaker
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen
- Lip protection balm
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
ACCESSORIES:
- Highly protective sunglasses
- Binoculars
- Small waterproof backpack
- Swimsuit (for the spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
PONANT activities
Highlights
- UNESCO World Heritage sites: Bryggen, former Hanseatic port of Bergen (embarkation port), the Geiranger Fjord.
- Possibility of a walk at the foot of the most beautiful glaciers in Europe, the Briksdal, from Olden.
- Sail into universally known and recognised West Norwegian Fjords to the ice floe landscapes of Spitsbergen.
- Cross the Arctic Circle.
- Landscape: fjords, vertiginous cliffs, ice floes, jagged mountains, icebergs, ice caps, steep-sided valleys, sheer cliffs, huge glaciers.
- Wildlife: Minke whale, polar bears, Arctic foxes, Svalbard reindeer, Arctic terns, seals, walruses.
Ports of Call & Excursions
19 May 2023 - Bergen
Embarkation 19/05/2023 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 19/05/2023 at 18:30
Located at the end of Byfjord, Bergen was the capital of Norway in the 12th and 13th Centuries and has preserved some very beautiful monuments from the time when it was home to royalty. Wandering through Bergen’s streets means going back in time, in search of the hidden treasures that have been listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. A veritable openair museum, Bergen is home to a thriving artistic community of painters, potters, jewellers. The Bergen cable car offers you a splendid panorama over the port and the surrounding fjords. Do not miss the visit to the old quarter with its narrow streets, a testimony of the power of the hanseatic League that controlled trade in Northern Europe at the end of the Middle Ages.
20 May 2023 - Olden
Arrival 20/05/2023 midday
Departure 20/05/2023 late afternoon
With its two wooden churches, one red and the other white, plus its breathtaking view of the mouth of the river Oldeelva, Olden looks just like a picture post card. Located a few kilometres from the Jostedalsbreen park, home to one of the last glacier polar icecaps, this little village is a definite must for exploring the blue languages of the Briksdal or Kjennalen glaciers. Make sure you find some time to visit the Norwegian Glacier Museum. Absolutely amazing. Another gem is lake Lovatn and its turquoise waters inviting you to quiet contemplation.
21 May 2023 - Geiranger
Arrival 21/05/2023 midday
Departure 21/05/2023 early evening
A must-see stopover in Norway, located halfway between Bergen and Trondheim, Geiranger offers the stunning beauty of a natural decor, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. You will be able to admire the splendour of the sheer cliffs, dark rocks and crystal-clear water that make the place famous, like the majestic and mythical Seven Sisters waterfall. The sides of the fjord offer many possibilities for hiking: the Eagle’s Road takes you up to a steep stretch offering a gorgeous panoramic view. A visit to Geiranger village will immerse you in the rhythm of life in the little local community.
22 May 2023 - At sea
Arrival 22/05/2023
Departure 22/05/2023
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
23 May 2023 - Leknes, Lofoten
Arrival 23/05/2023 early afternoon
Departure 23/05/2023 evening
Way beyond the Arctic Circle, Lofoten Islands are truly considered to be in “another world”. A jewel of nature in its most pristine state, this archipelago with its jagged coastline offers you majestic settings of high alpine summits, sandy beaches, green prairies and fjords of a deep blue, where countless bird colonies make their nests. Whether you visit Å, or Nusjford, listed by UNESCO, enjoy authentic and memorable moments.
24 May 2023 - Sailing in Trollfjorden
Arrival 24/05/2023
Departure 24/05/2023
According to legend, trolls were the guardians of this 2-km long fjord accessible via the Raftsund Strait, between the Vesterålen Archipelago and the Lofoten Islands. Dominated on both sides by vertical rock faces that stand up to 1,000 metres high in parts, Trollfjorden welcomes you in a magical atmosphere which its narrowness helps to create. During this unforgettable journey, you will indeed have the impression that you’re grazing the surrounding mountains and that you’ll never see the end of this marine cul-de-sac. After a delicate U-turn, your ship will finally head back in the opposite direction: this will perhaps be the opportunity to observe, for want of trolls, seals and eagles, which are often present in this site, unique on earth.
25 May 2023 - Tromso
Arrival 25/05/2023 early morning
Departure 25/05/2023 midday
In the north of the Arctic circle you’ll discover Tromsø, a secluded town located in the county of Troms. Norwegians call it the “Paris of the north”. You’ll soon see why when you discover its extensive neoclassical architectural heritage. A stunning example is the Arctic cathedral, a major monument whose stylistic purity echoes the outline of the mountains surrounding the town.
26 May 2023 - Sailing by Bjornoya (Bear Island)
Arrival 26/05/2023
Departure 26/05/2023
Halfway between Norway and Spitsbergen, you will sail not far from the coastlines of Bjørnøya, the southernmost island of Svalbard. From your ship, observe this isolated piece of land discovered in 1596 by the Dutch navigator Willem Barents, then looking for the Northwest Passage. Following a tough fight between a polar bear and the members of the expedition, he dubbed the place Bear Island. Regularly covered by a thick layer of fog, Bjørnøya shelters a meteorological station built in 1923, which is still in operation. Declared a nature reserve in 2002, the island is above all home to an enormous colony of sea birds: skuas, guillemots, puffins, Tridactyl gulls, petrels, gulls and little auks all coexist here.
27 May 2023 - At sea
Arrival 27/05/2023
Departure 27/05/2023
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
28 May 2023 - Hornsund
Arrival 28/05/2023 early morning
Departure 28/05/2023 late afternoon
Nestling between millennial glaciers and carved mountains, and considered to be “the crown of Arctic Norway”, Spitsbergen is a place that never sees the night. Your ship will take you closer to this fascinating archipelago and, more particularly, the Hornsund fjord. Considered to be Svalbard’s southernmost fjord, it is especially reputed to be its most stunning: at the end of its vast bay, 8 great glaciers slowly make their way down to the sea before giving way to the many icebergs elegantly drifting along its cold and mysterious waters.
29 May 2023 - Bellsund, Spitsbergen
Arrival 29/05/2023 early morning
Departure 29/05/2023 late afternoon
You will head to the Bellsund fjord to follow in the footsteps of the first explorers who came from the Norwegian coast, or those of the many fur traders seeking game and trophies. Boasting an astonishingly rich wildlife, the arms of the fjord separate to form two lush valleys. Give free rein to your imagination in the heart of this majestic natural environment where time seems to stand still.
30 May 2023 - Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen
Arrival 30/05/2023 early morning
Disembarkation 30/05/2023 at 07:00
Longyearbyen is the capital of the Norwegian Svalbard archipelago, located on Svalbard’s main island, and is the northernmost territorial capital on the planet. With winter temperatures dropping to below 40°C, the landscapes of this mining town are simply breathtaking. The glaciers, the mountains stretching as far as the eye can see and the untouched nature, make you feel like you’re in completely unexplored territory.
Nordfjord kayaking
The fantastic Nordfjord was created by glaciers, dominated by vikings and now, paddled by you.
Kayaking on a green fjord, in a quiet valley surrounded by steep mountains, waterfalls and blue glaciers, is a memorable experience.
You will start your journey from the old Mølla guest house 5 minutes away by foot from the pier in Olden. Once at the kayak station, you will receive all equipment (kayak, paddle, spray-skirt, safety equipment) and a safety briefing to learn the dos and don’ts of kayaking.
You will be ready to start your tour from the pier, heading out into the fjord. As you follow the contours of the shore, your guide will share their local knowledge about the fjords and glaciers surrounding you. In the distance you will see waterfalls, glaciers and green mountainsides.
After approximately 2 hours of kayak, you will get back to the pier.
- Double kayaks are used. This tour may be cancelled in the case of poor weather conditions. You might get wet, so please bring a change of clothing and footwear with you. Although this tour does not require kayaking experience, participants must be good swimmers and have no fear of water. The fjord water may be very cold.
Total : €90
According to availability, price per passenger.
Briksdal Glacier
Briksdal glacier is a part of the Jostedal glacier ice field, which is the largest glacier on the European mainland. The wild glacier is a fantastic work of Nature. Its slope plunges from a height of 3,937 feet (1,200 m) down to the lush, narrow Briksdal Valley. Briksdalsbreen Glacier lies at the end of enchanting Oldedalen valley.
Board your motor coach and start the tour. The trip through Oldedalen valley to Briksdal glacier is an amazing symphony of scenic splendours. From wild flowers to awe-inspiring mountains that are reflected in crystal clear lake waters, to great waterfalls that cascade from vertical mountainsides.
Your motor coach will stop at the mountain lodge, and from the lodge it is about 1.8 mile (3 km), a 45-minute walk on a gravel road up to the glacier. During your walk, enjoy the view onto the gigantic glacier.
If you don't want to walk that far, another option is to be driven by cars (7 seats in each) from the lodge, up to a parking lot which is a 10-minute walk from the glacier. Please note that you pay directly on the site for the transfer by vehicle. We will not be able to pre-book this service and unfortunately during the high season, vehicles are not always running.
Using the same way to get back to the lodge, you will have some more opportunities to take pictures walking down the path. At the lodge, enjoy a snack including tea, coffee and pastries, and some time at leisure in the well-stocked souvenir shop which will make your trip to Briksdal memorable.
- This moderate excursion involves 1 h 30 of walking (3,1 miles) on uneven and sometimes slippery terrain and gravel paths. We recommend you to wear comfortable good walking shoes, sunhat and sunglasses, a warm jacket and a waterproof layer.
Total : €105
According to availability, price per passenger.
From fjord to sky
From the pier, drive to Stryn Lake. What makes Lovatnet so beautiful is the green color that comes from the melt water from the glaciers that lies on the mountain peaks around. The lake has an area of ??10.4 square kilometers, and is 52 meters above sea level. Lovatnet has multiple streams from the Jostedals glacier and drains at Loelva to the fjord.
After a photostop, continue to Loen. Leaving the buses, board the new cable car (inaugurated 2017) taking you up to mount Hoven, 1011 metres above the sea – around 200 metres above the tree line in this part of Norway.
Enjoy a coffee-break and spectacular views of the fjord and villages below as well as the surrounding mountain scenery. During your stay at Hoven, you have the possibility to enjoy a short walk to soak up the scenery around you.
After some time at leisure, return by cable car to Loen where your bus will be waiting for you to bring you back to the pier in Olden.
- The tour will be run in nearly all weather conditions, even if there might not be a good view from the top station or/and it is raining. In case of strong wind or windfalls, the cable car might be closed on short notice. This tour involves walking over uneven terrain. Flat comfortable shoes and a warm jacket are recommended. Please note the order of the visits may be reversed.
Total : £170
According to availability, price per passenger.
Kayaking on Geiranger Fjord
From the pier, depart by minibus to the kayak base. A guide will meet at the landing stage holding a kayak sign. Then walk approximately 5 minutes to the kayak base, where the kayaks are waiting for you, before receiving safety briefing and paddling instructions.
Since Geiranger is at the end of a long fjord, it means that you will head out of the fjord. You will glide along the steep mountain walls to the Geiranger fjord where the “Preacher’s Pulpit” can be seen. Along the way, your guide will tell you stories about Geiranger and its people.
After approximately 1¾ hours in the kayak, you will return to the base and walk the few meters back to your minibus and then your ship.
There is no experience required; your well-trained guides will teach you all you need to know. This is the perfect adventure for all, families included.
Life jackets are compulsory and will of course be provided for all participants.
- Tour operation is subject to weather conditions. The minimum age to participate is 13 years old and children must be accompanied by a parent. The kayaks are double kayaks. We recommend you to wear comfortable clothing and flat shoes with rubber soles. This tour is conducted in English only. Participants should be in good physical conditions and able to swim. This tour is not recommended for persons suffering from back problems.
Total : €80
According to availability, price per passenger.
Getaway to Dale Farm
From the pier, board your coach for a 1 ¼ hour drive to Dale Farm. At the head of the famous Geirangerfjord, the coach will drive you up the "Eagle's Road". Enjoy a photo stop at the Eagle's Bend, a wide curve from where there is a splendid view to the fjord and the mountain all around. You may see a glimpse of the waterfalls "the Seven Sisters" as well as some abandoned moutain farms clinging to the sheer cliff sides.
Then, you will continue towards the Eiddal Village, passing the highest point of the road at 624 metres above sea level before arriving to the next village called Norddal. Here is established the Dale Farm, producing goat milk and goat cheese. You will be impressed by the scenery before being invited to meet some of the farm animals like the goats and the fjord horse which is a blond pony native to the West coast, sturdy and formerly used as an racehorse.
You will get an introduction to the cheese making of this farm, still using traditional method of production. Here are produced both white and brown goat cheese. You will have the opportunity to taste some of their cheese and caramels.
Reboard the coach and return to Geiranger via the same scenic road.
- Participants must wear warm-thermal, water- and wind-proof clothes and flat shoes. Landscapes can still be snow-covered in the early season. You will have the possibility to purchase local products of the farm. Credit cards are not accepted. Local currency, Euro and US dollars are accepted. This tour is limited to 35 participants.
Total : €120
According to availability, price per passenger.
Geirangerfjord by RIB boat
This excursion starts at the pier where you will be picked up and escorted to the RIB boat (a rigid-hulled inflatable buoyancy).
Your guide will give you winter equipment, both water and wind proof. Following a short introduction and briefing, you will sit astride a comfortable seat allowing everyone to enjoy the views. You will then start your exploration of Geirangerfjord.
While the RIB boat increases its speed, you will feel the sensation of freedom and excitement as the wind blows in your face. But the boat ride is not only about the speed. The driver will slow down below the small mountain farms along the fjord and give a short explanation. You will also see both the Seven Sisters Waterfalls and the Bridal Vail Waterfall at really close range which is an experience you will not easily forget.
After your 45-minutes trip, you will get back to the pier and walk back to your ship.
- Participants must wear warm-thermal clothes and flat sneaker shoes. Both water- and wind-proof winter equipment and eye-glasses will be provided. This tour can be cancelled on short notice by the RIB guide if the weather turns bad, but generally the tour can operate in all weather conditions expect for heavy rain and fog. This tour is not suitable for passengers with back problems or with limited physical abilities. This is a high activity tour that at times can be strenuous and the RIB boat can reach high speeds. Landscapes can still be snow-covered during the early season. This tour is limited to 12 participants.
Total : €100
According to availability, price per passenger.
Fjord centre & Geiranger vistas
The Geirangerfjord is without doubt one of the most beautiful of the Norwegian fjords. Incredible mountain sights, summit vistas and a spectacular slideshow featuring Geiranger’s four seasons make this tour wonderfully intriguing. Geirangerfjord’s crystalline beauty is this panoramic tour’s setting.
See fairyland snow-capped mountains, sparkling streams and dizzying heights while ascending a winding hairpin mountain road. On your way, enjoy beautiful photostops such as Eagle’s Bend viewpoint and Flydal Gorge viewpoint.
At Geiranger Fjord Centre, enjoy a brilliant changing-seasons slideshow, and exhibits featuring fjord life. The centre is meant to be both an information and an experience centre. Visitors can discover exhibitions around various themes such as nature, culture and history. The centre provides an insight into life on the inaccessible farms that cling to the sheer mountainsides around the fjord.
- This excursion involves walking on mostly flat ground with some steps at the Geiranger Fjord Centre. This tour is a panoramic tour, including a 2h40 drive. Order of sights may vary.
Total : €85
According to availability, price per passenger.
Leknes by RIB boat
This excursion starts at the pier where you will be picked up and escorted to the RIB boat (a rigid-hulled inflatable buoyancy).
Your guide will give you winter equipment, both water and wind proof. Following a short introduction and briefing, you will sit astride a comfortable seat allowing everyone to enjoy the views. You will then start your exploration of the tranquil beauty of the Lofoten Islands in search of sea eagles.
As you set off with your experienced helmsman, you will whisk across the sparkling waters, to vertical cliffs rising from the water. You will pass the red fishing huts that line the water of small villages such as Ballstad, Mortsund, Steine and Ure. Then, you will enjoy a photo stop on the water, to observe sea eagles. Possessing a wing span of more than six feet (1.80 m), these birds of prey are an impressive sight. Fish will be used to attract them, to give you the chance to see one.
Afterwards you will return to the pier.
- Participants must wear warm-thermal clothes and flat sneaker shoes. Both water- and wind-proof winter equipment and eye-glasses will be provided. This tour can be cancelled on short notice by the RIB guide if the weather turns bad, but generally the tour can operate in all weather conditions expect for heavy rain and fog. This tour is not suitable for passengers with back problems or with limited physical abilities. This is a high activity tour that at times can be strenuous and the RIB boat can reach high speeds. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. This tour is limited to 12 participants.
Total : €160
According to availability, price per passenger.
Lofoten on horseback
Saddle up for a leisurely horseback ride through the beautiful landscape of northern Norway. Situated in the middle of the Lofoten archipelago, the island of Gimsoya is a stunning mix of mountains, jagged peaks, towering cliffs and white-sand beaches.
From the pier, embark your coach for a 45-minutes drive to a rural horse farm surrounded by white-sand beaches that dominate the island's west coast. Upon arrival, meet your instructor for a safety briefing and information on the trail itself. You will get an helmet and meet your steed before heading out.
During your one-hour and a half horseback adventure you will experience the beauty of the Lofoten, enjoying the horse contact and its natural heat. During your ride, you will pass several historical monuments from ancient times, including a pagan temple, Viking-era graves and the residence of a Viking chieftain from more than 1,000 years ago. This residence is believed to have been the home of Tore Hjort, a Norwegian chieftain from Vågen in Hålogaland who was killed by the famous King Olav Tyrggvason in the late 10th century.
At the conclusion of the trail ride, you will return to the stable, enjoy a coffee break, and depart for your ship.
- All participants will be asked to sign a waiver. Helmets are provided and must be worn. During winter season, you must wear warm-thermal, water- and wind-proof clothes and flat shoes with rubber soles or boots. Ground can be dirty or muddy that is why we recommend you wear clothes that you don't mind getting dirty. Purses and other large or baggy items cannot be carried on the horse as they may restrict your ability to ride. Small cameras are fine to bring as long as they are not hung around your neck. Please ask your guide about the best way to carry your belongings. The trail ride will have one instructor for every four guests for a maximum participation of 14 passengers. This tour is conducted in English only. Children must be at least 12 years old and accompanied by an adult. Participants must weigh less than 110 kgs (243 lbs). Beginners are welcomed. This tour is not suitable for passengers with back problems or with limited physical abilities. This is a high activity tour that at times can be strenuous. Landscapes can be snow-covered during winter season, the lush green becoming totally white.
Total : €250
According to availability, price per passenger.
Hiking tour on Vestvagoy
The Lofoten islands offer some of the most spectacular scenery in all of Norway, and boast some of the richest fishing waters in the world. Leknes is located in Vestvågøy, the second largest island of the Lofoten.
Your hiking tour will start with a 30-minute coach drive to Vendalsfjord. From that point, the first part of the hike will be along a comfortable road with an easy incline until you reach the altitude of 220 metres (650 feet) above sea level. From here, you will have a panoramic view over the western and northern parts of Vestvågøy, the Gimsøy Island and the ocean to the north-west. On very clear days you can also see as far as mainland Norway.
From this highest point on the hiking tour, you will follow a path to Tjønndalen passing some small abandoned farms en route. Continue through Tjønndalen Valley along the road arriving at the Brustranda camping. There will be free time to buy refreshments and use the sanitary facilities.
A one-hour coach transfer will take you back to the pier and your ship.
- This excursion includes around 8 km (5 miles) of walking and some steep inclines. Participants must wear warm-thermal, water- and wind-proof clothes in wintertime and comfortable walking shoes. Depending on the temperatures and amount of snow that falls, the ground may be slippery. Landscapes can be snow-covered during winter season, the lush green becoming totally white. Bring along bottled water.
Total : €140
According to availability, price per passenger.
Henningsvaer & fishing village
From the pier, board your coach and proceed to Henningsvær. You will discover the everyday life of one of the most picturesque fishing villages in the Lofoten Islands, with its backdrop of mountain peaks. Until 1962, when Lofoten fisheries were at their peak, more than 6,000 fishermen used this as their base from January to April. Because of the unique light and beauty of the surrounding nature, artists find inspiration with these islands.
Continue your visit with the Lofotens House Gallery, which have North Norway’s largest collection of paintings from around the turn of the last century, a period considered as the Golden age of North Norwegian art. Here you will find the works of well-known Norwegian artists, like Otto Sinding, Gunnar Bergen, Thorolf Holmbo, etc.
Then, proceed to Borg, and explore the Lofotr Viking Museum at Borg, the site of the ancient Viking farm that was discovered by a farmer plowing his land in the early 1980’s. You will even be able to visit the reconstructed Longhouse. It has been proven that the Lofoten Islands were a centre of power already at the time of the Vikings. You can get a very realistic impression of the living conditions in these bygone times.
- This tour involves a 0.3-mile (500 m) walk on uneven ground with steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes. This tour is not recommended for guests in wheelchairs or with difficulties walking.
Total : €120
According to availability, price per passenger.
Scenic Tromso by RIB boat
This excursion starts at the pier where you will be picked up and escorted to the RIB (rigid-hulled inflatable buoyancy) boat.
Following a short introduction, you will get your equipment (if needed depending on the weather) and briefing, you will sit astride a comfortable seat allowing everyone to enjoy the views. You will then start your exploration of local waterways while admiring stunning seascapes.
You will travel the sheltered waters of Tromso and hear stories from your guide about the history of the city, its people and the creatures native to these parts. You may have the opportunity to spot eagles flying overhead and harbour porpoises in the sea.
- Participants must wear warm-thermal clothes and flat sneaker shoes. This tour can be cancelled on short notice by the RIB guide depending on the weather. This tour is not suitable for passengers with back problems or walking difficulties. This is a high activity tour that at times can be strenuous and the RIB boat can reach high speeds. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. This tour is limited to 22 participants.
Total : €130
According to availability, price per passenger.
Tromso & Mount Storsteinen
From the pier, start your tour with a drive through the city. Tromsø escaped undamaged from World War II and thus is one of the few towns in northern Norway to have preserved its charming old wooden buildings.
Your first visit will be the Tromsø Museum with natural history and ethnographic collections, including a section on the culture of the Sami. The Sami are an indigenous people who form an ethnic minority living in Norway, Sweden and Finland. A small part of the population also lives on Russia's Kola Peninsula. From about the sixteenth century, Sami have inhabited nearly all the areas of the Nordic countries, where they now have permanent settlements.
This northern Norway's largest and oldest museum also offers very comprehensive exhibition on traditional culture and an exquisite collection of ecclesiastical art, and a full-scale Viking long house. Around the museum, you will see several old 18th and 19th century buildings.
Then, proceed to the Arctic Cathedral by crossing the Tromsø bridge linking island to mainland. This amazing building is one of the city's most iconic modern landmarks. Inspired by Norway's absorbing folklore and natural beauty, its simple interior lends prominence to a spectacular triangular stained-glass window that fills an entire wall. A rich mix of native cultures also affords a unique insight into the Arctic's indigenous traditions. Do not miss the stained-glass window depicting "The return of Christ".
Before leaving the city, take a ride with a cable car to Mount Storsteinen, where you will have a beautiful view of Tromsø Island, the sea and the mountains. Your tour will end at the pier.
- For this excursion, we recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes, a wind and waterproof jacket and to take a warm pullover. Arctic cathedral may be closed to visitors due to ecumenical services.
Total : €120
According to availability, price per passenger.
Tromso, Arctic capital
Tromsø, the capital of the North is located on Troms, an island covered with forests. It is also called "the gateway to the Arctic", since it used to be the headquarter of seal and walrus hunters, and the starting point for several Arctic expeditions.
From the pier, board your coach for a tour of this charming city and proceed to the Science Centre of Northern Norway. Here, you will sit and lean back in the comfortable chairs of the planetarium to watch the beautiful film "Experience the Aurora". During the 25-minute show, you will learn everything about the illusive Northern Lights with most of the footage shot in the Tromsø region.
After the visit, depart to the Polar Museum. The museum is located in the old Custom House. It is closely linked with the Arctic Association which aims to preserve records from bygone times, when Tromsø was a major base for hunting and expeditions on a larger scale. The museum also shows a great part of the equipment, skis, tents etc. that the explorer Roald Amundsen used on his South Pole expedition.
Next, re-board your coach and drive to the Arctic Cathedral passing the famous Tromsø Bridge. The ultra-modern architecture of the cathedral symbolizes the immense strength of the ice pack in the Arctic Ocean. The interior is dominated by the beautiful stained glass-window covering the eastern wall, picturing "The Return of Christ". After the visit to the church, head back to the pier.
- This excursion includes some walking on flat ground, and some steps at the museum and the cathedral. We recommend you to wear comfortable walking shoes and to dress in layers. Arctic cathedral may be closed to visitors due to ecumenical services.
Total : €110
According to availability, price per passenger.
Le Boréal
Le Boréal, like its Sisterships L’Austral, Le Soléal and Le Lyrial, epitomises the unique feel and atmosphere of the ships of the PONANT fleet. Subtly combining luxury, intimacy and serene well-being, the ship has been designed to offer passengers both moments of conviviality and spaces conducive to peaceful tranquillity and a sense of escape and getting away from it all. Its exterior and interior lines testify to the ingeniousness and refinement with which the Sisterships have been designed.
Up to 264 Guests
132 staterooms & suites
145 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
TRANSFER + FLIGHT LONGYEARBYEN/PARIS
For your serenity, PONANT selects a flight and organises the transfer between the port and the airport. This package is included in your cruise fare.
Disembarkation Day - Longyearbyen/Paris
Disembarkation.
Meet and greet at the port by our local English-speaking representative.
Transfer to the airport in time for check-in of flight Longyearbyen/Paris selected by PONANT.
Flight Longyearbyen/Paris selected by PONANT.
Approximate flight duration: 4 h 30.
We highly recommend you stay one night in Paris after this flight.
This programme includes:
- Flight Longyearbyen/Paris selected by PONANT in economy class.
- Transfer as mentioned in the programme.
- English-speaking assistance.
This programme does not include:
- Personal expenses.
- Any other service not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
- Due to limited local transportation resources, waiting might be generated.
- Flight included in the programme is as of today, operated in economy class, on a European airline.
- For passengers in transit in Paris, we recommend staying one night in Paris after this flight.
- Programme and flight schedule are subject to change without prior notice.
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, an English-speaking lecturer will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, and stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or on your shore visits, this expert will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
30/05/2023 - COMFORT PACKAGE: TRANSFER AIRPORT/HOTEL + NIGHT IN PARIS CDG AIRPORT
£160
Find out moreDISCOVER BERGEN
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between the airport and your port of embarkation.
Bergen
Meet at Bergen airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
You will be driven towards Bergen to enjoy lunch in a local restaurant.
Continue your day with a walking tour or Bryggen, a district composed of old Hanseatic merchant buildings which had been damaged in 1702, when a disastrous fire struck the area. After the fire, they were rebuilt to look as they had during the Middle Ages. The whole area is now protected and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The guided tour will lead you up one of the narrow alleyways running between the rows of houses. Today, artists and craftsmen have moved in.
You will then be transferred to the pier to embark on your ship.
Your programme includes :
- Transfer, visits and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
- Services of a local English-speaking guide.
- Lunch, including a beverage package.
Your programme does not include :
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Personal expenses
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : £170
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
DISCOVER BERGEN (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 – Bergen
Meet at Bergen Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel Bergen 4*.
End of the day at leisure.
Dinner on your own.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Bergen
Breakfast.
Free time in the morning to rest or to wander around the centre of Bergen at your own pace. This former Hanseatic trading town beckons travellers with its cultural wealth and its position in the heart of a stunning natural site, wedged between sea and mountain.
Once you have checked out of your hotel, you will be taken to lunch at a local restaurant.
You will then set off on a guided walking tour of Bergen’s historic district. You will learn more about the history of Bryggen, which, behind its picture-postcard decor, offers a unique glimpse into the Hansa organisation that dominated Northern Europe from the 12th century to the 17th. This emblematic district is indeed dotted with old Hanseatic mercantile buildings, damaged in 1702 by a devastating fire that tore through the area. After the fire, they were rebuilt in the same style as those from the Middle Ages. The place is now entirely protected, and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The guided walking tour will lead you to one of the narrow streets winding its way through the rows of houses now occupied by artists and artisans.
You will also stop in front of some other institutions of the Hanseatic city: the fish market, the Bergenhus Fortress, and the Fløyen funicular.
You will then be transferred to the Port of Antalya to board your ship.
Your hotel:
Located in the historic district of Bryggen, the 4* Radisson Blu Royal Hotel Bergen is a modern establishment with a contemporary atmosphere. It is the ideal departure point for discovering the history of Bergen and the city’s museums, and for admiring the magical views over the Norwegian fjords from the top of Mount Fløyen. Settle in to a Superior room offering a simple yet elegant interior and a view of the city. Treat yourself to a sauna session before making your way to the hotel’s restaurant, 26th North, where the cuisine celebrates the regional products of Norway.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
- 1-night accommodation in Superior City View room at Radisson Blu Royal Hotel Bergen 4* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
- Meals as mentioned in the programme.
- Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine or 1 local beer and 1 coffee or tea).
- Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
- The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Dinner on day 1.
- Personal expenses.
- Visa if necessary.
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
- Early check-in and/or late check-out.
Please note:
- It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
- This programme is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
- Official check-in is at 15: 00.
- Official check-out is at 12: 00.
Contact of your hotel:
Radisson Blu Royal Hotel Bergen
Dreggsallmenningen 1, 5003 Bergen,
Norvège
Téléphone : +47 55 54 30 00
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : £620
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
NORWEGIAN RAILWAY ADVENTURE : FROM OSLO TO BERGEN (3 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Enjoy spending four days discovering Norwegian landscapes, traditions and culture along the Bergensbanen railway from Oslo to Bergen.
Day 1 - Oslo
Meet at Oslo Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to Amerikalinjen Hotel 4*.
Check-in.
The end of the day and the dinner are at leisure.
Day 2 – Oslo/Voss
After breakfast, you will walk from the hotel to Olso train station to begin your marvellous Bergen Railway journey to Voss, often described as the most beautiful train ride in the world.
You will ascend to over 4,000 feet above sea level as you cross the Hardangervidda plateau, which boasts breath-taking views. Upon your arrival in Voss, there is just a five-minute walk to the Fleischer’s Hotel where you will settle in. The village is one of West Norway's finest agricultural areas and is a well-known tourist resort and crossroads between the Sognefjord and the Hardangerfjord.
Lunch at the hotel.
After lunch, the excursion will continue by coach.
You will make your way through Norway’s sheer natural beauty to the Hardanger Juice and Cider Factory, located in the innermost part of the Hardanger Fjord at the Lekve fruit farm in Ulvik. Here you will have a guided tour of everything the farm offers. They make apple juice and cider, which has played an important role in the farm’s production since 2004. In 2009, it also began producing apple brandy. Hardanger Cider, the fairy-tale drink, is also on the menu and is still being made according to the old recipe, just using modern tools. You will get a chance to taste the produce as part of your visit.
Afterwards, you will return to the hotel for dinner.
Day 3 – Voss/Flåm/Bergen
Breakfast at the hotel and check-out.
You will leave the hotel in the morning by coach for a second day of exploration.
On leaving the Voss area, you will travel across several landscapes to reach Flåm. You will stop at the beautiful Tvindefoss waterfall, and also at Gudvangen at the head of the Næroyfjord, listed by UNESCO as the most beautiful fjord in the world. Flåm is 2 meters above sea level, situated in the Aurlandsfjord, a branch of the Sognefjord, and is 90 sea miles away from the North Sea. You will have some leisure time in this quiet village, before lunch in a local restaurant.
After lunch, your journey continues with the famous Flåm railway. The Flåm railway is one of the most interesting pieces of engineering in Norway. Only 20 kilometres long, it runs from sea-level Flåm station up to Myrdal with an altitude of 867 metres. Enjoy the unique and impressive views up the steep valley between towering mountains and the Kjosfossen waterfall where the water cascades between dark cliffs and the splendid panoramic views that unfold before your eyes.
Upon arrival at Myrdal station, situated on a ridge above the Flåm valley, you will change trains for a scenic trip down the Bergen Railway taking you through the beautiful West Norwegian countryside. You will pass through the Graqvhalstunnel and the picturesque Raundal Valley before reaching the beautiful Vangs Lake at Voss. You will continue on along the Voss River, well-known for its salmon fishing, and down to the Bolstadfjord to the industrial centre of Dale, followed by the narrow Sørfjord, finally arriving in Bergen.
You will be transferred to the Opus XVI Hotel 4* for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 3 – Bergen
Breakfast at the hotel and leisure time, followed by check-out.
In Bergen, which was founded in 1070 AD, you will start your guided tour of the city with a local guide at the fish market where you will enjoy lunch, and see the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bryggen, the picturesque wharf that helped put Bergen at the centre of the Hanseatic League. Explore King Haakon’s Hall, which was built between 1247 and 1261 as a royal residence and feasting hall.
For a wider view of this beautiful city, ascend Mt. Fløien via the funicular railway. From the summit, some 984 feet above sea level, enjoy spectacular views of Bergen’s seaside setting.
The tour will end at the pier for embarkation.
Your hotels:
Amerikalinjen 4*, Oslo
This is where the journey began for thousands of hopeful Norwegians, who set off for the land of opportunity with Amerikalinjen (Norwegian America Line). The headquarters of the company opened in 1919 and the iconic building was reborn 100 years later as a vibrant boutique hotel, designed for the modern explorer.
Fleischer’s Hotel 4*, Voss
In the mountains of Western Norway, in the centre of the Voss, you will find a modern hotel, with many traditions, which was built in 1889 in the popular Swiss style. Fleischer's Hotel is known for its venerable atmosphere, grand dining room and attentive host. The hotel has been serving tourists in Western Norway for more than 150 years and has thus helped build Voss as a tourist destination. It is also environmentally committed and obtained the Eco-Lighthouse Ecolabel for the first time in 2013. Its owners are passionate about sustainability and they work systematically to limit their environmental footprint.
Opus XVI Hotel 4*, Bergen
The family name of the owners, Grieg, will surely ring a bell. They are relatives of the very famous composer and pianist Edvard Grieg, who was born and died in Bergen, in 1907. The hotel has unique architecture, with the main hall and its airy appearance, solid granite walls and Ionic columns in polished marble. The building was designed by the architect Herman Schirmer and was later extended in two phases. Architect Schak Bull – who also designed the home of Edvard Grieg – was responsible for the last expansion in 1918. Wonderful beds, an excellent location and attentive service: here, you will enjoy a unique atmosphere, based on the rich heritage of Grieg and with the historic Vågsallmenningen 16 as a backdrop.
Your programme includes:
- 1-night accommodation in Amerikalinjen hotel 4*, local standards (or similar) including breakfast.
- 1-night accommodation in Fleischer’s hotel 4*, local standards (or similar) including breakfast.
- 1-night accommodation in Opus XVI hotel 4*, local standards (or similar) including breakfast.
- Meals as mentioned in the programme.
- Beverages package during meals (mineral water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer + 1 coffee or tea).
- Train tickets, transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
- The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Personal expenses.
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
- It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
Contact of your hotels:
Amerikalinjen hotel
Jernbanetorget 2
0154 Oslo
Norway
Telephone number: +47 21 40 59 00
Fleischer’s hotel
Evangervegen 13
5704 Voss
Norway
Telephone number: +47 56 52 05 00
Opus XVI hotel
Vågsallmenningen 16
5014 Bergen
Norway
Telephone number: +47 53 01 22 00
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : £2,380
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
Nordfjord kayaking
The fantastic Nordfjord was created by glaciers, dominated by vikings and now, paddled by you.
Kayaking on a green fjord, in a quiet valley surrounded by steep mountains, waterfalls and blue glaciers, is a memorable experience.
You will start your journey from the old Mølla guest house 5 minutes away by foot from the pier in Olden. Once at the kayak station, you will receive all equipment (kayak, paddle, spray-skirt, safety equipment) and a safety briefing to learn the dos and don’ts of kayaking.
You will be ready to start your tour from the pier, heading out into the fjord. As you follow the contours of the shore, your guide will share their local knowledge about the fjords and glaciers surrounding you. In the distance you will see waterfalls, glaciers and green mountainsides.
After approximately 2 hours of kayak, you will get back to the pier.
- Double kayaks are used. This tour may be cancelled in the case of poor weather conditions. You might get wet, so please bring a change of clothing and footwear with you. Although this tour does not require kayaking experience, participants must be good swimmers and have no fear of water. The fjord water may be very cold.
Total : €90
According to availability, price per passenger.
Briksdal Glacier
Briksdal glacier is a part of the Jostedal glacier ice field, which is the largest glacier on the European mainland. The wild glacier is a fantastic work of Nature. Its slope plunges from a height of 3,937 feet (1,200 m) down to the lush, narrow Briksdal Valley. Briksdalsbreen Glacier lies at the end of enchanting Oldedalen valley.
Board your motor coach and start the tour. The trip through Oldedalen valley to Briksdal glacier is an amazing symphony of scenic splendours. From wild flowers to awe-inspiring mountains that are reflected in crystal clear lake waters, to great waterfalls that cascade from vertical mountainsides.
Your motor coach will stop at the mountain lodge, and from the lodge it is about 1.8 mile (3 km), a 45-minute walk on a gravel road up to the glacier. During your walk, enjoy the view onto the gigantic glacier.
If you don't want to walk that far, another option is to be driven by cars (7 seats in each) from the lodge, up to a parking lot which is a 10-minute walk from the glacier. Please note that you pay directly on the site for the transfer by vehicle. We will not be able to pre-book this service and unfortunately during the high season, vehicles are not always running.
Using the same way to get back to the lodge, you will have some more opportunities to take pictures walking down the path. At the lodge, enjoy a snack including tea, coffee and pastries, and some time at leisure in the well-stocked souvenir shop which will make your trip to Briksdal memorable.
- This moderate excursion involves 1 h 30 of walking (3,1 miles) on uneven and sometimes slippery terrain and gravel paths. We recommend you to wear comfortable good walking shoes, sunhat and sunglasses, a warm jacket and a waterproof layer.
Total : €105
According to availability, price per passenger.
From fjord to sky
From the pier, drive to Stryn Lake. What makes Lovatnet so beautiful is the green color that comes from the melt water from the glaciers that lies on the mountain peaks around. The lake has an area of ??10.4 square kilometers, and is 52 meters above sea level. Lovatnet has multiple streams from the Jostedals glacier and drains at Loelva to the fjord.
After a photostop, continue to Loen. Leaving the buses, board the new cable car (inaugurated 2017) taking you up to mount Hoven, 1011 metres above the sea – around 200 metres above the tree line in this part of Norway.
Enjoy a coffee-break and spectacular views of the fjord and villages below as well as the surrounding mountain scenery. During your stay at Hoven, you have the possibility to enjoy a short walk to soak up the scenery around you.
After some time at leisure, return by cable car to Loen where your bus will be waiting for you to bring you back to the pier in Olden.
- The tour will be run in nearly all weather conditions, even if there might not be a good view from the top station or/and it is raining. In case of strong wind or windfalls, the cable car might be closed on short notice. This tour involves walking over uneven terrain. Flat comfortable shoes and a warm jacket are recommended. Please note the order of the visits may be reversed.
Total : £170
According to availability, price per passenger.
Kayaking on Geiranger Fjord
From the pier, depart by minibus to the kayak base. A guide will meet at the landing stage holding a kayak sign. Then walk approximately 5 minutes to the kayak base, where the kayaks are waiting for you, before receiving safety briefing and paddling instructions.
Since Geiranger is at the end of a long fjord, it means that you will head out of the fjord. You will glide along the steep mountain walls to the Geiranger fjord where the “Preacher’s Pulpit” can be seen. Along the way, your guide will tell you stories about Geiranger and its people.
After approximately 1¾ hours in the kayak, you will return to the base and walk the few meters back to your minibus and then your ship.
There is no experience required; your well-trained guides will teach you all you need to know. This is the perfect adventure for all, families included.
Life jackets are compulsory and will of course be provided for all participants.
- Tour operation is subject to weather conditions. The minimum age to participate is 13 years old and children must be accompanied by a parent. The kayaks are double kayaks. We recommend you to wear comfortable clothing and flat shoes with rubber soles. This tour is conducted in English only. Participants should be in good physical conditions and able to swim. This tour is not recommended for persons suffering from back problems.
Total : €80
According to availability, price per passenger.
Getaway to Dale Farm
From the pier, board your coach for a 1 ¼ hour drive to Dale Farm. At the head of the famous Geirangerfjord, the coach will drive you up the "Eagle's Road". Enjoy a photo stop at the Eagle's Bend, a wide curve from where there is a splendid view to the fjord and the mountain all around. You may see a glimpse of the waterfalls "the Seven Sisters" as well as some abandoned moutain farms clinging to the sheer cliff sides.
Then, you will continue towards the Eiddal Village, passing the highest point of the road at 624 metres above sea level before arriving to the next village called Norddal. Here is established the Dale Farm, producing goat milk and goat cheese. You will be impressed by the scenery before being invited to meet some of the farm animals like the goats and the fjord horse which is a blond pony native to the West coast, sturdy and formerly used as an racehorse.
You will get an introduction to the cheese making of this farm, still using traditional method of production. Here are produced both white and brown goat cheese. You will have the opportunity to taste some of their cheese and caramels.
Reboard the coach and return to Geiranger via the same scenic road.
- Participants must wear warm-thermal, water- and wind-proof clothes and flat shoes. Landscapes can still be snow-covered in the early season. You will have the possibility to purchase local products of the farm. Credit cards are not accepted. Local currency, Euro and US dollars are accepted. This tour is limited to 35 participants.
Total : €120
According to availability, price per passenger.
Geirangerfjord by RIB boat
This excursion starts at the pier where you will be picked up and escorted to the RIB boat (a rigid-hulled inflatable buoyancy).
Your guide will give you winter equipment, both water and wind proof. Following a short introduction and briefing, you will sit astride a comfortable seat allowing everyone to enjoy the views. You will then start your exploration of Geirangerfjord.
While the RIB boat increases its speed, you will feel the sensation of freedom and excitement as the wind blows in your face. But the boat ride is not only about the speed. The driver will slow down below the small mountain farms along the fjord and give a short explanation. You will also see both the Seven Sisters Waterfalls and the Bridal Vail Waterfall at really close range which is an experience you will not easily forget.
After your 45-minutes trip, you will get back to the pier and walk back to your ship.
- Participants must wear warm-thermal clothes and flat sneaker shoes. Both water- and wind-proof winter equipment and eye-glasses will be provided. This tour can be cancelled on short notice by the RIB guide if the weather turns bad, but generally the tour can operate in all weather conditions expect for heavy rain and fog. This tour is not suitable for passengers with back problems or with limited physical abilities. This is a high activity tour that at times can be strenuous and the RIB boat can reach high speeds. Landscapes can still be snow-covered during the early season. This tour is limited to 12 participants.
Total : €100
According to availability, price per passenger.
Fjord centre & Geiranger vistas
The Geirangerfjord is without doubt one of the most beautiful of the Norwegian fjords. Incredible mountain sights, summit vistas and a spectacular slideshow featuring Geiranger’s four seasons make this tour wonderfully intriguing. Geirangerfjord’s crystalline beauty is this panoramic tour’s setting.
See fairyland snow-capped mountains, sparkling streams and dizzying heights while ascending a winding hairpin mountain road. On your way, enjoy beautiful photostops such as Eagle’s Bend viewpoint and Flydal Gorge viewpoint.
At Geiranger Fjord Centre, enjoy a brilliant changing-seasons slideshow, and exhibits featuring fjord life. The centre is meant to be both an information and an experience centre. Visitors can discover exhibitions around various themes such as nature, culture and history. The centre provides an insight into life on the inaccessible farms that cling to the sheer mountainsides around the fjord.
- This excursion involves walking on mostly flat ground with some steps at the Geiranger Fjord Centre. This tour is a panoramic tour, including a 2h40 drive. Order of sights may vary.
Total : €85
According to availability, price per passenger.
Leknes by RIB boat
This excursion starts at the pier where you will be picked up and escorted to the RIB boat (a rigid-hulled inflatable buoyancy).
Your guide will give you winter equipment, both water and wind proof. Following a short introduction and briefing, you will sit astride a comfortable seat allowing everyone to enjoy the views. You will then start your exploration of the tranquil beauty of the Lofoten Islands in search of sea eagles.
As you set off with your experienced helmsman, you will whisk across the sparkling waters, to vertical cliffs rising from the water. You will pass the red fishing huts that line the water of small villages such as Ballstad, Mortsund, Steine and Ure. Then, you will enjoy a photo stop on the water, to observe sea eagles. Possessing a wing span of more than six feet (1.80 m), these birds of prey are an impressive sight. Fish will be used to attract them, to give you the chance to see one.
Afterwards you will return to the pier.
- Participants must wear warm-thermal clothes and flat sneaker shoes. Both water- and wind-proof winter equipment and eye-glasses will be provided. This tour can be cancelled on short notice by the RIB guide if the weather turns bad, but generally the tour can operate in all weather conditions expect for heavy rain and fog. This tour is not suitable for passengers with back problems or with limited physical abilities. This is a high activity tour that at times can be strenuous and the RIB boat can reach high speeds. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. This tour is limited to 12 participants.
Total : €160
According to availability, price per passenger.
Lofoten on horseback
Saddle up for a leisurely horseback ride through the beautiful landscape of northern Norway. Situated in the middle of the Lofoten archipelago, the island of Gimsoya is a stunning mix of mountains, jagged peaks, towering cliffs and white-sand beaches.
From the pier, embark your coach for a 45-minutes drive to a rural horse farm surrounded by white-sand beaches that dominate the island's west coast. Upon arrival, meet your instructor for a safety briefing and information on the trail itself. You will get an helmet and meet your steed before heading out.
During your one-hour and a half horseback adventure you will experience the beauty of the Lofoten, enjoying the horse contact and its natural heat. During your ride, you will pass several historical monuments from ancient times, including a pagan temple, Viking-era graves and the residence of a Viking chieftain from more than 1,000 years ago. This residence is believed to have been the home of Tore Hjort, a Norwegian chieftain from Vågen in Hålogaland who was killed by the famous King Olav Tyrggvason in the late 10th century.
At the conclusion of the trail ride, you will return to the stable, enjoy a coffee break, and depart for your ship.
- All participants will be asked to sign a waiver. Helmets are provided and must be worn. During winter season, you must wear warm-thermal, water- and wind-proof clothes and flat shoes with rubber soles or boots. Ground can be dirty or muddy that is why we recommend you wear clothes that you don't mind getting dirty. Purses and other large or baggy items cannot be carried on the horse as they may restrict your ability to ride. Small cameras are fine to bring as long as they are not hung around your neck. Please ask your guide about the best way to carry your belongings. The trail ride will have one instructor for every four guests for a maximum participation of 14 passengers. This tour is conducted in English only. Children must be at least 12 years old and accompanied by an adult. Participants must weigh less than 110 kgs (243 lbs). Beginners are welcomed. This tour is not suitable for passengers with back problems or with limited physical abilities. This is a high activity tour that at times can be strenuous. Landscapes can be snow-covered during winter season, the lush green becoming totally white.
Total : €250
According to availability, price per passenger.
Hiking tour on Vestvagoy
The Lofoten islands offer some of the most spectacular scenery in all of Norway, and boast some of the richest fishing waters in the world. Leknes is located in Vestvågøy, the second largest island of the Lofoten.
Your hiking tour will start with a 30-minute coach drive to Vendalsfjord. From that point, the first part of the hike will be along a comfortable road with an easy incline until you reach the altitude of 220 metres (650 feet) above sea level. From here, you will have a panoramic view over the western and northern parts of Vestvågøy, the Gimsøy Island and the ocean to the north-west. On very clear days you can also see as far as mainland Norway.
From this highest point on the hiking tour, you will follow a path to Tjønndalen passing some small abandoned farms en route. Continue through Tjønndalen Valley along the road arriving at the Brustranda camping. There will be free time to buy refreshments and use the sanitary facilities.
A one-hour coach transfer will take you back to the pier and your ship.
- This excursion includes around 8 km (5 miles) of walking and some steep inclines. Participants must wear warm-thermal, water- and wind-proof clothes in wintertime and comfortable walking shoes. Depending on the temperatures and amount of snow that falls, the ground may be slippery. Landscapes can be snow-covered during winter season, the lush green becoming totally white. Bring along bottled water.
Total : €140
According to availability, price per passenger.
Henningsvaer & fishing village
From the pier, board your coach and proceed to Henningsvær. You will discover the everyday life of one of the most picturesque fishing villages in the Lofoten Islands, with its backdrop of mountain peaks. Until 1962, when Lofoten fisheries were at their peak, more than 6,000 fishermen used this as their base from January to April. Because of the unique light and beauty of the surrounding nature, artists find inspiration with these islands.
Continue your visit with the Lofotens House Gallery, which have North Norway’s largest collection of paintings from around the turn of the last century, a period considered as the Golden age of North Norwegian art. Here you will find the works of well-known Norwegian artists, like Otto Sinding, Gunnar Bergen, Thorolf Holmbo, etc.
Then, proceed to Borg, and explore the Lofotr Viking Museum at Borg, the site of the ancient Viking farm that was discovered by a farmer plowing his land in the early 1980’s. You will even be able to visit the reconstructed Longhouse. It has been proven that the Lofoten Islands were a centre of power already at the time of the Vikings. You can get a very realistic impression of the living conditions in these bygone times.
- This tour involves a 0.3-mile (500 m) walk on uneven ground with steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes. This tour is not recommended for guests in wheelchairs or with difficulties walking.
Total : €120
According to availability, price per passenger.
Scenic Tromso by RIB boat
This excursion starts at the pier where you will be picked up and escorted to the RIB (rigid-hulled inflatable buoyancy) boat.
Following a short introduction, you will get your equipment (if needed depending on the weather) and briefing, you will sit astride a comfortable seat allowing everyone to enjoy the views. You will then start your exploration of local waterways while admiring stunning seascapes.
You will travel the sheltered waters of Tromso and hear stories from your guide about the history of the city, its people and the creatures native to these parts. You may have the opportunity to spot eagles flying overhead and harbour porpoises in the sea.
- Participants must wear warm-thermal clothes and flat sneaker shoes. This tour can be cancelled on short notice by the RIB guide depending on the weather. This tour is not suitable for passengers with back problems or walking difficulties. This is a high activity tour that at times can be strenuous and the RIB boat can reach high speeds. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. This tour is limited to 22 participants.
Total : €130
According to availability, price per passenger.
Tromso & Mount Storsteinen
From the pier, start your tour with a drive through the city. Tromsø escaped undamaged from World War II and thus is one of the few towns in northern Norway to have preserved its charming old wooden buildings.
Your first visit will be the Tromsø Museum with natural history and ethnographic collections, including a section on the culture of the Sami. The Sami are an indigenous people who form an ethnic minority living in Norway, Sweden and Finland. A small part of the population also lives on Russia's Kola Peninsula. From about the sixteenth century, Sami have inhabited nearly all the areas of the Nordic countries, where they now have permanent settlements.
This northern Norway's largest and oldest museum also offers very comprehensive exhibition on traditional culture and an exquisite collection of ecclesiastical art, and a full-scale Viking long house. Around the museum, you will see several old 18th and 19th century buildings.
Then, proceed to the Arctic Cathedral by crossing the Tromsø bridge linking island to mainland. This amazing building is one of the city's most iconic modern landmarks. Inspired by Norway's absorbing folklore and natural beauty, its simple interior lends prominence to a spectacular triangular stained-glass window that fills an entire wall. A rich mix of native cultures also affords a unique insight into the Arctic's indigenous traditions. Do not miss the stained-glass window depicting "The return of Christ".
Before leaving the city, take a ride with a cable car to Mount Storsteinen, where you will have a beautiful view of Tromsø Island, the sea and the mountains. Your tour will end at the pier.
- For this excursion, we recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes, a wind and waterproof jacket and to take a warm pullover. Arctic cathedral may be closed to visitors due to ecumenical services.
Total : €120
According to availability, price per passenger.
Tromso, Arctic capital
Tromsø, the capital of the North is located on Troms, an island covered with forests. It is also called "the gateway to the Arctic", since it used to be the headquarter of seal and walrus hunters, and the starting point for several Arctic expeditions.
From the pier, board your coach for a tour of this charming city and proceed to the Science Centre of Northern Norway. Here, you will sit and lean back in the comfortable chairs of the planetarium to watch the beautiful film "Experience the Aurora". During the 25-minute show, you will learn everything about the illusive Northern Lights with most of the footage shot in the Tromsø region.
After the visit, depart to the Polar Museum. The museum is located in the old Custom House. It is closely linked with the Arctic Association which aims to preserve records from bygone times, when Tromsø was a major base for hunting and expeditions on a larger scale. The museum also shows a great part of the equipment, skis, tents etc. that the explorer Roald Amundsen used on his South Pole expedition.
Next, re-board your coach and drive to the Arctic Cathedral passing the famous Tromsø Bridge. The ultra-modern architecture of the cathedral symbolizes the immense strength of the ice pack in the Arctic Ocean. The interior is dominated by the beautiful stained glass-window covering the eastern wall, picturing "The Return of Christ". After the visit to the church, head back to the pier.
- This excursion includes some walking on flat ground, and some steps at the museum and the cathedral. We recommend you to wear comfortable walking shoes and to dress in layers. Arctic cathedral may be closed to visitors due to ecumenical services.
Total : €110
According to availability, price per passenger.
COMFORT PACKAGE: TRANSFER AIRPORT/HOTEL + NIGHT IN PARIS CDG AIRPORT
For your serenity, PONANT organises your transfer and select for you an ideally located hotel.
Day 1 - Disembarkation Day
After landing of your flight selected by PONANT in Paris, meet and greet at the airport and transfer to the Pullman Roissy CDG hotel.
Check-in in your room.
Evening and dinner at leisure.
Day 2 – Roissy CDG
Breakfast on your own followed by check-out.
Your hotel:
The Pullman Roissy CDG hotel is a four stars property located in Roissy. Located at 2 minutes walking from Roissypole, RER and CDGVal station, you will easily be able to join it.
This programme includes:
- Transfer mentionned in the programme.
- 1-night accomodation in Classic Room at the Pullman Roissy CDG 4*.
- A soft welcome drink, upon arrival at the hotel.
This programme does not include:
- Dinner of day 1.
- Breakfast of day 2.
- Tips and gratuities.
- All personal expenses (meals and drinks, sightseeing, etc.)
- Early check-in, late check-out and other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
- Official hotel check-in time is 4:00 p.m
- Official hotel check-out time is 12:00 p.m
- Late check-out might be available depending on availability and on a supplement basis.
Contact of your hotel:
Pullman Roissy CDG Airport
3 Bis Rue de la Haye
93290
Roissy-en-France
Phone: +33 01 70 03 11 63
Total : £160
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.