Tromso to Longyearbyen

Not only will you witness magnificent fjords and glaciers throughout Tromsø, Norway, but you will also immerse yourself in a sophisticated cultural life and architectural delights. A superb example of blending the built environment with the natural setting is the Arctic Cathedral, an architectural marvel made up of aluminum-coated concrete panels, making it a stunning façade resembling an iceberg. To see the real icebergs, all you have to do is take the Fjellheisen cable car 1,525 feet above sea level for incredible views of the Norwegian fjords. You can also stroll around the Arctic-Alpine Botanical Garden, visit the Science Centre of Northern Norway or gain new knowledge at the city’s museums including the Polar Museum, Tromsø University Museum, and Perspektivet Museum.

Grab your camera and binoculars and find your favorite spot aboard World Navigator, because you are in for an unforgettable scenic navigation of this less-traveled fjord. While the western fjords are known for their size, Trollfjord is only a mile long and extremely narrow, especially at its entrance. Your captain will expertly position the ship at the perfect angles to maximize your viewing pleasure. Perhaps even close enough to the waterfalls for you to feel the mist. Look up and you may catch sight of the white-tailed eagles soaring overhead. In addition to the feathered variety of wildlife, you might also see various species of whales, porpoises, basking sharks and seals in the water.

The small fishing town of Leknes amid the breathtaking Lofoten Islands offers an unexpected culinary adventure. From the commonly found stockfish to wine varieties made from blueberries and mountain fruits, there’s a unique flavor for every foodie profile. Venturing to the outskirts of town on the fjord shores, find local wooden crafts, paintings and hand-spun textiles for an authentic memento to take home. About eight miles north of Leknes discover Norwegian history at the Lofotr Viking Museum, including a replica of a Viking chieftain’s longhouse.

Traversing the waterways throughout the famous fjords, you come across Norway’s Inside Passage. Rocky landscapes on the horizon with an endless sea of grass greet you as you look to the horizon. Pick a place on Water’s Edge Lookout aboard World Navigator to catch a closer glimpse of the Inside Passage water line as you enjoy the scenery.

Hammerfest

Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore

Even in one of the most isolated regions of the Arctic, there is still the captivating history of a pioneering past. Our expedition leaders, along with the captain and onboard pilot, will determine possible landings each day for all-out explorations. Wildlife abounds throughout the archipelago of Svalbard, such as puffins, reindeer, Arctic terns and foxes. An expert photographer will help you look out for the perfect photo opportunity of these animals, but especially for the elusive polar bear. As Zodiac cruises may bring you closer to glaciers, keep your eyes on the water for whale fins.
CAPTAIN’S CHOICE – Captain’s Choice ports of call add to the sense of adventure and an element of surprise. Your ship’s captain will sail around changing weather conditions as needed and take you to the best areas for wildlife viewing.

Longyearbyen is in a valley on the shores of the idyllic Adventfjord, surrounded by steep mountains and several glaciers. There are only around 25 miles of roads in this village, which is divided into several neighborhoods, including the town center and Nybyen (New Town), which consists of charming miners’ barracks constructed after the war, as well as guest houses, a restaurant and gallery, and not to mention beautiful views of the landmark mountain, Hiorthfjellet. Be sure to visit the Svalbard museum as a break between the plethora of activities like summer dogsledding or cruising to the abandoned Russian city of Pyramiden