Day 1 - 2
Helsinki, Finland
Enjoy an overnight and discover more of Helsinki, with a full day to explore the city's sights.
Welcome to Helsinki, where our adventure begins. Depending on when you arrive, there may be time to do a bit of exploration if you feel like it. Your tour manager will be at the hotel to meet and greet you.
Helsinki is a vibrant and charming city blending modern design with a rich history. Its picturesque waterfront, lively squares, and unique architecture create a welcoming atmosphere. Perfect for a stroll, you can enjoy a scenic walk and experience the city's lively spirit, all within a few hours.
In the evening there will be a welcome dinner at the hotel, giving you the perfect chance to get to know your fellow travellers.
We kick off our adventure through Finland by getting to know its charming capital city a little better.
After breakfast you’ll meet with an English-speaking local guide for a sightseeing tour. Learn about local culture, history, and traditions as you pass landmarks such as Helsinki City Hall, Market Square, Senate Square with its Cathedral, and the Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church, entrance included). Weather permitting, we’ll also visit the Sibelius monument, an unusual sculpture commemorating the life of the composer Jean Sibelius.
The tour concludes at the hotel, leaving the afternoon free for further exploration. Why not take the opportunity to try some local dishes, such as silakat (small Baltic herrings) or mustikkapiirakka (blueberry pie).
Day 3
Kemi, Finland
See incredible vistas of forests, lakes, and rugged landscapes as we arrive to Santa Claus Village
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, then take a private transfer to Helsinki Railway Station for your train to Kemi. The scenic journey takes you from Finland’s capital into the Arctic’s wilderness, offering incredible vistas of forests, lakes, and rugged landscapes – with the last section travelling beside the Baltic Sea.
We’ll arrive in Kemi around 15:30. Lunch is at your own expense, with food available on the train. Afterward, transfer privately to your accommodation, where you'll spend the night in a unique Glass Villa at the Experience 365 winter resort. Here, you’ll witness beautiful scenery all around, and with glass ceilings you’ll be able to look up directly into the heavens from your bed!
Day 4
Bothnian Bay, Finland
Board an icebreaker ship and spend the night in a glass igloo
This morning we’ll travel to the Ajos pier located on Bothnian Bay, where the sea freezes over during winter. It’s time to board Sampo, a real-life Icebreaker (conditions permitting) for an incredible adventure. It’s a thrilling experience as the icebreaker ploughs powerfully through the frozen sea. If you’re brave enough, take a refreshing dip in the icy waters while wearing a full-body waterproof survival suit.
After this adventure, you’ll be free to take lunch at your own arrangement in Kemi. A private coach will then collect us and transfer us to our next destination, Levi, via the Santa Claus Village at Rovaniemi.
At Levi, we’ll enjoy two magical nights in private glass igloo accommodation, offering again the chance to marvel at the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed. Located on the outskirts of the resort of Levi, the hotel is far from light pollution, making it an ideal spot for Northern Lights spotting.
Please note: on tours with the following departure dates, the icebreaker ship will not be sailing due to expected sea conditions. Instead, you’ll be given a tour of the ship and will still be able to do the Arctic dip in a survival suit: 25 Sep, 9 Oct, 23 Oct, 6 Nov, 26 Mar, 9 Apr
Day 5
Lapaland
Go aurora chasing in Lapland with a possible husky safari or wagon ride.
Please note, for today there are different possibilities depending on the season or date you are travelling.
For departure dates 18 DEC, 1 JAN, 15 JAN, 29 JAN, 12 FEB, 26 FEB, 12 MAR, 26 MAR, 9 APR: Today, enjoy a 1-hour Husky Safari in the form of a 5km sleigh ride (weather permitting). Driving a team of huskies over the shimmering fells is a must-do in Lapland. The eager dogs run at full speed, gliding effortlessly over the snow. Each sleigh seats two people, including one guest.
The safari takes you on a fast-paced ride through Levi’s untouched forest snow—an unforgettable experience!
Afterwards, the rest of the day is free to try optional activities like reindeer or snowmobile safaris (weather permitting).
In the evening, have dinner at the hotel before embarking on a 3-hour aurora hunting trip by sleigh (weather permitting). Sit comfortably in a heated sleigh pulled by a guide on a snowmobile and venture into the snowy forest and away from any light pollution. Watch out for the Northern Lights, and enjoy hot drinks, cookies, marshmallows and tales by the fire. This is followed by dinner at the hotel.
SEP-NOV departures: Visit a husky farm and enjoy a 20 - 30-minute wagon ride (weather permitting, up to 4 people). Afterwards, relax in a traditional kota enjoying treats such as biscuits and warm berry juice, and listen to stories from the musher. If temperatures exceed 7°C, the activity may be limited to a farm visit only.
Before departure, enjoy dinner at the hotel and an evening of aurora hunting by snowmobile sleigh (weather permitting). Sit in a heated sleigh pulled by snowmobile, venturing into the forest for Northern Lights photography and storytelling by the fire. Warm drinks and thermal clothing are provided.
Note: The Levin Iglut snowmobile sleigh is not heated but includes overalls and blankets.
The rest of SEP-NOV departures: Enjoy a 3-hour evening of aurora hunting in the wilderness (weather permitting). The bus trip heads north, passing Jerisjärvi or Ounasjoki, where Northern Lights are more likely. Stops for photos are made before heading to Lake Äkäslompolo’s shore. Experience the magic of the aurora in a peaceful setting. If conditions are calm, you might even hear the whisper of the skies ...
Note: Northern Lights visibility depends on the weather conditions.
Day 6
Arctic Scandinavia
Touch Three countries in One Day! (Depending on month of travel)
Please note, for today there are different possibilities depending on the season or date you are travelling.
Most departure dates: After breakfast, we’ll transfer to the northwest along the Sweden - Finland border to Kilpisjärvi. Here, you’ll enjoy a 3-hour “Border of Three Countries” trip (weather permitting), visiting Norway, Finland and Sweden all in a single outing. We’ll travel by snowmobile or sleigh over frozen lakes and snowy forests to Koltavuoma, the peaceful border point. The trip includes guiding, thermal gear, photos, hot drink, and pastry.
SEP-NOV departures (25.09.26, 09.10.26, 23.10.26, 06.11.26): The border is inaccessible during this period, only reachable by a long snow hike. Instead, we’ll visit Kilpisjärvi Reindeer to experience Sámi traditions, meet and feed reindeer, and enjoy stories, berry juice, biscuits, and perhaps even grilled reindeer meat in a cosy log cabin.
Day 7
Tromsø
Our land adventure ends, and we explore rest of the journey via sea
Today is the last day of our land trip before we board our ship. The 4.5 hr drive from Kilpisjärvi to Tromsø is a breathtaking journey through the Arctic wilderness, offering some of Norway’s most stunning scenery. Our route winds through snow-covered landscapes, passing frozen lakes and rugged tundra before reaching the majestic Lyngen Alps. These towering peaks, often blanketed in snow, create a dramatic backdrop.
Driving via the Lyngen Alps is subject to weather and road conditions, but if conditions allow the scenic coastal roads, fjords, and charming villages along the way offer perfect photo opportunities. If the weather and road conditions don't allow, we’ll drive directly to Tromsø. As we approach Tromsø, the landscape transitions from remote wilderness to a vibrant city surrounded by mountains and the icy sea.
Before you get settled into your cabin on board, give yourself plenty of time to explore Tromsø. This small city 350km north of the Arctic Circle has everything from trendy restaurants and cafés to boutique shops selling local crafts and produce.
Head to the Polaria centre, an aquarium home to a variety of Arctic marine species, including seals. Across the water from Polaria, you’ll find the Arctic Cathedral, standing out in the cityscape due to its striking design and impressive stained-glass windows.
In the evening, board the waiting ship and continue your journey on sea as we head north.
Day 8
Honningsvåg
Venture out to the dramatic North Cape, try snowshoeing or king crab sampling.
Arriving early in the morning, you’ll have a full day in Honningsvåg. 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 Honningsvåg and served year-round.
The highlight of any trip to Honningsvåg 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 we’re visiting in winter, you can expect snow landscapes and dramatic views.
Having reached the northernmost point of our voyage, we’ll turn around and begin going south as we sail away in the evening.
Day 9
Alta
Well-known for its Northern Lights, rock art, the iconic Cathedral, dogsledding, or the famed ice hotel.
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-today 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 you’re here when there’s 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 and made from 250 tonnes of ice, this is the world's northernmost ice hotel, decorated with ice sculptures and wall carvings.
Day 10
Narvik
Explore wartime history at the museum or ride the cable car for sweeping views over the fjords.
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, it’s known for its World War II heritage and as a gateway to active pursuits such as skiing, dog sledding and hiking.
On optional excursions, you can dive into Narvik's intriguing past at the Narvik War Museum, where the town's World War II history comes to life with engaging exhibits and narratives.
For panoramic views of Narvik from above, ride the cable car to the top of Narvikfjellet.
Day 11
At sea
Sail along the scenic inner coastal route with countless fjords, islands, and possible sightings of sea eagles
After Narvik, we head south along the enchanting Norwegian coast. You’ll be in awe of windswept islands, sheltered bays, and some of the most beautiful fjords in the world. It’s also inhabited by a wide range of wildlife, such as majestic Sea Eagles.
When we started sailing north of the Trøndelag region in 1893, much was still unknown about the coastline. But, over the years, we’ve 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.
Day 12
Åndalsnes
Take in towering alpine terrain, the Troll Wall, or ride the Romsdal Gondola for dramatic fjord views
After docking in the town centre in the morning, you have the chance to explore Åndalsnes, a picturesque coastal town located along Isfjord at the end of Romsdalsfjord.
The literal highlights of Åndalsnes are the mountains that tower over the town. They are the reason the town has become Norway’s go-to destination for hikers, climbers, skiers, and more. The Troll Wall, a 1,000-m vertical cliff along the Romsdalen valley also attracts adrenaline seekers the world over.
Take in the sights with a city walk and 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, Åndalsnes town centre below, and the Rauma river. For those who love train rides, don’t miss the opportunity to join an excursion riding the Golden Train, which has been called “the most scenic railway journey in Europe” by Lonely Planet.
Day 13
Bergen
Stroll the UNESCO-listed Bryggen, browse the fish market, and take in views via Fløibanen funicular.
Surrounded by seven mountains and the sea, the old capital of Bergen is one of Norway’s 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. Bergen’s 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 Fløibanen funicular, which brings you to the top of Mount Fløyen. The summit has a wonderful view over the city, the nearby fjord, and the other surrounding peaks.
Another option is to join an excursion by cable car to Mount Ulriken, the tallest of the city’s seven mountains. On this tour you’ll also get to visit Fantoft stave church, a beautiful replica of the 12th century Viking church which stood nearby.
Day 14
Kristiansand
Get a little warm in sunny Kristiansand, known for its warm southern charm and coastal architecture
We spend the last afternoon of your voyage in Kristiansand, Norway’s 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 Odderøya Island.
Or delve into Kristiansand’s 20th-century military past on an optional excursion to Batterie Vara. Originally built as a German fort in World War II, it features the world’s second largest cannon ever to be mounted on land.
Back on the boat, we’ll 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.
Day 15
Oslo, Norway
Return to Oslo, completing your circular winter voyage through Norway’s dramatic coast
From the south to the north, and back to the south, reflect on your journey as you watch our return to our first – and now last – port of the voyage, Oslo, in the early morning. Say your goodbyes to the crew and disembark the ship, marking the end of your travels with us.
You’ve sailed on The North Cape Express, getting to know Norway’s coastal cities and villages all the way to the top of the European continent. During the journey, you’ll have experienced Norway’s varied climate, seen majestic mountains and fjords, and maybe gazed up in awe at the Northern Lights once or several times.
We hope you’ll cherish each of the memories of this journey that you’ll take home with you. Come sail with us again soon, on another iconic expedition
Arctic
