Day 1: Southampton

Embark Spirit of Discovery.

Day 2: At Sea

Day 3: At Sea

Day 4: Kristiansund, Norway

Berth in the cluster of four islands that make up the fantastically colourful Kristiansund. The city is known both as “Opera Town” for its frequent operatic performances and prestigious company and as the “Capital of Clipfish”, as it was once a hub of the fish salting industry. You can visit a museum dedicated to the traditional process of fish salting on the docks or travel out of town on a tour that visits Bremnes, the 14th-century Kvernes Stave Church and navigates the 8.5 kilometre long Atlantic Road. This ocean road that links Averøy to the mainland is simultaneously described as the most beautiful road journey in the world and “Norway’s engineering feat of the century”.

Day 5: At Sea

Day 6: Tromsø, Norway

Visit Tromsø, the “Gateway to the Arctic”. The city has launched many an Arctic expedition and you can share in its adventurous spirit with a dog sledding excursion into the frozen wilds. With its famous Arctic Cathedral, museums such as the Perspektivet Museum, and attractions including the Arctic aquarium, there’s plenty to discover in the city. Spot some of the highlights on an included sightseeing tour.

350 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle and with little light pollution, Tromsø is also an ideal place for observing the incredible Northern Lights, so much so that the city holds a festival in honour of the natural phenomenon. Perhaps head out on deck this evening, with a warm drink, in anticipation of your very own light show as the ship sails away from Tromsø.

Day 7: Honningsvag, Norway

Discover Norway’s northernmost town, a small fishing community that’s home to fewer than 2,500 people and covers little over a square kilometre. Within the town, which was rebuilt after WWII, you’ll find the North Cape Museum with information about the region, as well as an Ice Bar constructed anew each year from natural ice. From here, venture to the ‘top of the world’, the North Cape, on an included tour, where you can watch two oceans collide.

Alternatively, explore the snow-covered scenery of Magerøy Island and learn about winter life here.

Day 8: Alta, Norway

Spirit of Discovery will stay two nights in Alta to increase your odds of witnessing the dazzling aurora borealis. With two full days in Alta you'll also have the opportunity to go dog sledding, or perhaps meet some Sami reindeer herders. Come night fall, venture across the wild tundra on an included excursion.

Gather around a campfire, far from the light pollution, to hunt for the Northern Lights and hopefully spy this celestial light show. We'll even provide you with a complimentary Arctic jacket to keep you cosy and warm!

Day 9: Cross the Arctic Circle

Day 10: Alesund, Norway

Alesund is the largest town on the northwest coast of Norway, built on three islands and with a backdrop of impressive mountain peaks. The town centre was rebuilt after being destroyed by fire in 1904 and today is known for its Art Nouveau style architecture. In addition to the National Art Noveau Centre, the city is also home to galleries, shops and cafes.

Alternatively, perhaps head up to the Mount Aksla viewpoint where, weather permitting, you can appreciate impressive views over the city, surrounding islands and fjords. An optional excursion visits the islands of Giske and Godøy, rich in Viking history.

Day 11: At Sea

Day 12: At Sea

Day 13: Southampton

Disembark Spirit of Discovery after breakfast.