Grand Norwegian Fjords & North Cape Adventure - 30 nights, June 2013

Begin your sightseeing drive of Manhattan and view the Rockefeller Center, Times Square, the Theatre District, the Empire State Building and St Patrick’s Cathedral from the comfort of your air-conditioned coach. You will travel through quintessential New York neighbourhoods such as trendy Greenwich Village, Little Italy, the Financial District and Fifth Avenue with its designer stores and boutiques. You will also see glimpses of Central Park, which covers some 843 acres at the core of this bustling metropolis, and provides the people of the city with a green oasis.

The highlight of your New York exploration will be a visit to St Paul’s Chapel, where President George Washington paused to pray after his inauguration. St Paul’s Chapel is currently the home to exhibits and memorabilia relating to the 9/11 attacks. A short stroll from St Paul’s Chapel will lead you to the 9/11 Memorial Preview Site, where you can learn about the National September 11 Memorial & Museum through models, renderings, films and genuine artefacts.

Following your stop at the 9/11 Memorial Preview Site, you’ll resume your travels on the pulsing streets of the city. With your hunger to discover the ‘Big Apple’ satisfied, you’ll return to your ship.

Guests who are embarking or disembarking the ship in New York should not book a shore excursion for this port.  New York excursions are available for guests visiting New York as a port call.

This excursion will operate by bus and on foot. There will be approximately 30 - 45 minutes of walking during the stop at St Paul’s Chapel and the 9/11 Memorial. Guests should note that the tour duration is heavily dependent on local traffic conditions and may vary. The majority of this tour is spent on the coach. Tour sequence may vary. Depending on traffic or street closures, some sights may not be accessible.

A drive through Tromsø takes you towards the university area, where the northernmost university in the world is situated. You’ll pass the Northern Lights Planetarium, Sandnessund Bridge and the Island of Kvaløy before arriving at the polar environmental centre of Polaria.

The Polaria Centre, a fascinating building resembling huge ice blocks, shows the polar areas and the Barents region through a series of interesting exhibitions, an aquarium and a spectacular film. As you proceed along the ‘Arctic Walkway’, you’ll experience the simulated elements of Arctic nature - a snowstorm, a dozing polar bear, the tundra and the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights). In the aquarium, the main attraction is the arctic bearded seals.

Returning to the city centre, you’ll cross the Tromsø Bridge, linking Troms Island with the mainland for a visit to the Arctic Cathedral.

The ultra-modern architecture of the Arctic Cathedral symbolises the Northern Lights as well as the ‘period of darkness’. The interior is dominated by the beautiful stained glass-window covering the eastern wall, picturing the Return of Christ. The Church was inaugurated in 1965 and is a typical example of a ‘boathouse-church’.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There are some stairs and steps to be negotiated at the Arctic Cathedral and Polaria. Lifts are not available. The Cathedral can close at short notice for religious ceremonies, in which case only an exterior visit will be conducted. The tour involves a tunnel.

Your exploration begins in Old Stavanger, a lively area that hosts well-preserved 18th and 19th century wooden houses, mostly built for seafarers, craftsmen and traders. An important rehabilitation project has meant that this is now northern Europe's largest and best-preserved 'wooden house' settlement.

Your stroll through Stavanger continues to the market square at the head of the harbour bay. A colourful scene greets you where fruit and vegetables, flowers and seafood are laid out on sale with the 12th century Stavanger Cathedral forming an impressive backdrop.

Looking towards the harbour is the statue of the former mayor and well-known writer, Alexander Kielland. The pedestrian street leads you to the Valberg Tower, situated on a small hill and overlooking the central part of the city and harbour. It was once used at a watchtower in case fire broke out in the wooden buildings of Stavanger.


This excursion will operate on foot. The terrain in Old Stavanger is a little uphill and over cobblestoned streets. Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Please note that entrance to the Valberg Tower is not included in the tour. The market may be closed on Sunday calls.

Honningsvåg is often referred to as the capital of the rugged and dramatic Magerøya Island. Embark on a leisurely drive through the little town, past the airstrip and along the Skipsfjord towards the plateau. A stop will be made at the fishing village of Kamøyvær at the head of the narrow fjord-arm. This pretty village is home to the ‘Gallery East of the Sun’, which exhibits arts, handicrafts and books, all inspired by the island and its ever changing seasons. The artist has her workshop inside the Gallery and will be happy to explain her unusual works of art.

As you continue to the top of the plateau, you’ll be able to see some of the reindeer which roam this area in the summer months. These reindeer belong to the Sami people who bring their livestock out to the coastal islands as soon as the snow disappears. Reaching a height of 984 feet above sea level and providing the weather is clear, you will be able to see the ‘Horn’, a cliff formation protruding from the North Cape cliff in the distance.

Further along is Skarsvåg, the most northerly fishing village in the world, where you’ll stop at the North Cape Christmas and Winter House. This tiny, but cosy cottage contains a craft shop with a wide selection of knitwear, textiles and ceramics, which you may wish to purchase in readiness for December.


This excursion will operate by coach. There are approximately seven steps into the Gallery and Christmas House. Please note that both venues are small so sometimes they can become crowded. Please remember to carry local currency (Norwegian Kroner) for any additional purchases.

Beginning in Midtown, you will be transferred by bus from Manhattan Cruise Terminal to Pier 84 to board a water taxi. Absorb the imposing views of Manhattan as you cruise along the Hudson River, New York Harbour and get an up close view of the Statue of Liberty.

Battery Park is located at the southern tip of Manhattan and is the starting point of your walking tour to the World Trade Center. Around every corner are famous sights and locations like Broadway, and the famous “Charging Bull” Statue which has become the unofficial symbol of Wall Street.

The newly completed 9/11 Memorial consists of two massive pools set within the original footprints of the Twin Towers with 30-foot waterfalls cascading down their sides. Take some time to reflect and pay your respects to those that lost their lives there. A short stop at the Visitors Centre will give you chance to purchase souvenirs and also view the on-going construction of the site which, when finished will be home to New York’s tallest building, One World Trade.

A final walk through the financial district will allow you to see many of the iconic places that New York is so famous for including Wall Street, The NY Stock Exchange and Trinity Church.

Guests who are embarking or disembarking the ship in New York should not book a shore excursion for this port.  New York excursions are available for guests visiting New York as a port call.

This excursion will operate by water taxi, bus and on foot. All guests and baggage are subject to security screening and inspections at the Memorial. No large bags will be permitted onto the Memorial. This is mainly an outside tour so please dress appropriately. The itinerary may be adjusted to ensure that you arrive at the Memorial as scheduled.

Enjoy a scenic boat trip through the Gandsfjord, which is dotted with several picturesque islands. On arrival at the lovely harbour on the private island of Sør Hidle, there is a short walk to the Flor and Fjære Garden which is set in a protected harbour making it a place of peaceful tranquillity, colourful flowers and great sea views.

You will be given a guided walk of the gardens with one of the knowledgeable garden guides before having free time to explore the exotic gardens at your own leisure. See the world’s most northerly plantation of tropical palm trees, bamboo and banana trees; smell the fruit trees and bountiful flowers all set against the backdrop of majestic mountains and deep fjords.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately 1½ hours spent at the Gardens. There are gravel pathways and some inclines in the Garden. Comfortable, non-slip walking shoes are recommended. Please note that in May the garden is newly planted.

As you walk around Honningsvåg your guide will provide a fascinating insight into local life in this small and northerly town. Your first stop will be at the small North Cape Museum, which illustrates various aspects of local history, culture and the environment through interesting exhibitions and displays. Next, you’ll continue on to the quaint 19th century neo-Gothic Honningsvåg Church, which is the town’s oldest building.

The highlight of your walk is a visit to the unique Artico Ice Bar, this modern and elegant bar is re-created every year by a group of aspiring artists. The team go to local lakes every winter to source the most exquisite natural ice to build their cool masterpiece. The ice, snow and 23 degrees Fahrenheit temperature adds a bit of winter magic as you enjoy refreshments of two non-alcoholic drinks (one of which will be served in an ice shot glass). The bar has a seating area covered in warm reindeer skins and if you are feeling adventurous you could experience the novelty of sitting in a cosy igloo. As you leave the bar, there will be time to browse its extensive gift shop which contains Arctic goods, Nordic clothing, reindeer skins, decorations, children’s presents etc.

A leisurely stroll back along the harbour will bring you back to the pier.


This excursion will operate on foot. The walk covers approximately one mile over even surfaces therefore comfortable, enclosed footwear is recommended. A warm poncho and gloves are provided at the Ice Bar. Interior visits to the Church cannot be conducted during religious ceremonies.

Windsor Castle, the largest and oldest inhabited castle in the world, is one of the official residences of Her Majesty The Queen. The Castle's dramatic site encapsulates 900 years of British history and dates back to the time of William the Conqueror.

Enjoy an audio tour around the opulent rooms of the Castle including the splendid State Apartments and grand St Georges Hall where the Queen entertains visiting heads of states. The rooms are furnished with some of the finest works of art from the Royal Collection, including paintings by Rembrandt, Reubens and Gainsborough. You will be able to admire the world famous Queen Mary's Dolls' House, which took three years to complete and involved 1,500 craftsmen, artists and authors. The house has electric lighting, hot and cold running water and even flushing lavatories.

One of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in England can be found in St George's Chapel. The chapel contains the tombs of ten sovereigns, including Charles I, Henry VIII and his third wife Jane Seymour. After visiting the Castle, there will be around one hour of free time to explore the town of Windsor with its Georgian shops, houses and inns.


Guests who are embarking or disembarking the ship in Southampton should not book a shore excursion for this port.  Southampton excursions are available for guests visiting Southampton as a port call.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The transfer time to Windsor is 1½ hours. There is a ½ mile walk from the car park to the Castle entrance and two hours walking within the Castle. If the Royal Family is in residence some of the state rooms will be unavailable. St George’s Chapel is closed on Sundays. Queues may be experienced due to the strict security procedures. Luncheon is not included to allow maximum flexibility. Please remember to carry local currency.

Step aboard your boat for a scenic cruise, lasting approximately 1½ hours, along the beautiful fjords. Beginning on the Byford, you’ll travel between the surrounding archipelago of the Bjorøyna, Lerøyna and Tyssøyna islands, under the Askøybridge and along the Lysefjord. After relaxing and soaking up the scenery on board, a coach awaits to take you on a drive through the suburbs and city centre to Bryggen.

Bryggen is a living illustration of the city’s history, with 61 protected Hanseatic buildings. Enjoy a guided walk through the alleyways and colourful, picturesque warehouses lining the street and waterfront. These once housed German merchants belonging to the Hanseatic League who settled in Bergen around 1350.

As you stroll through the narrow passages and along the dark covered balconies, you’ll be transported back through the centuries. Bryggen is not a museum, it is living cultural heritage. Today these buildings, listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, house shops, restaurants, cafés and artists’ workshops.


This excursion will operate by boat and on foot. The guided walk is approximately 30 minutes over level cobbled terrain. There are a few steps and a steep gradient to board the boat.

Enjoy a drive around the lovely Art Nouveau town of Ålesund and admire the unusual architecture and pretty colours of its buildings. Visit the Mount Hessa and Mount Aksla viewpoints for excellent panoramas of the city from two different angles, before continuing along the Borgundfjord, past modern suburbs and the old trading centre of Borgund to Solavågen.

At Solavågen, you will transfer to a private chartered boat for a 20 mile cruise on the Hjørundfjord. The fjord, considered to be one of the most magnificent in Norway, is 1,443 feet deep and surrounded on both sides by a dramatic landscape of mountain peaks. Enjoy refreshments of tea or coffee and waffles on the boat as you sail through Vegsundet and Borgundfjord back to Ålesund.


This excursion will operate by boat. There is a steep gangway to board the boat and 12 steps to reach the outside deck

The Roman City of Bath and the beautiful countryside which surrounds it, has been described as one of England's most beautiful places to visit. Bath is situated within the south west of England and is a 2,000 year old fabulous spa town, built around Britain's only hot mineral springs.

Bath offers a multitude of fantastic places to visit and is very easy to navigate on foot. Designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1987, the city has some of the finest architectural sites in Europe and boasts a unique and diverse range of historic features, which attract people the world over.

Your visit will begin with a panoramic tour of Bath, with your guide bringing the city to life as you pass the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, the Royal Crescent, the Circus and the parks, including Royal Victoria Park. There will be approximately three hours’ free time to explore this historic city at your own leisure. Watch the many street performers, visit the Roman Baths Museum, discover Jane Austen’s connection to the city at the Jane Austen Centre, wander around the fabulous shops or simply sit back and enjoy the bustling atmosphere.


Guests who are embarking or disembarking the ship in Southampton should not book a shore excursion for this port.  Southampton excursions are available for guests visiting Southampton as a port call.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The transfer time to Bath is approximately 1¾ hours. Luncheon is not included to allow maximum flexibility. Please remember to carry local currency (pounds sterling). Any walking is at guests’ own discretion. Bath is relatively flat but some streets are cobbled.

John D Rockefeller first opened the open-air observation deck in 1933 to the amazement of New Yorkers. Designed in homage to ocean liners of the day, it quickly became ‘the’ place to view the city. After renovation caused the observation deck to close in 1986, ‘Top of the Rock’ re-opened in 2005 to a huge fanfare and has reclaimed its status as one of the best places to see some fantastic views of the city.

After you come back down to Earth, continue your tour with a drive through the financial district to visit St Paul’s Chapel and the 9/11 Memorial Preview Site. St. Paul’s Chapel is currently the home to exhibits and memorabilia relating to the 9/11 attacks. A short stroll from the Chapel will lead to the 9/11 Memorial Preview Site, here you can learn about the National September 11 Memorial & Museum through models, renderings, films and genuine artifacts.

Seaport, New York’s original working seaport, now features a museum, a collection of antique sailing ships and inspiring views of Brooklyn Bridge. Here, you will have time to sightsee and purchase some luncheon.

The tour then takes in such highlights as Harlem, Central Park, Greenwich Village and Soho. A wonderful day out to see what this amazing city has to offer.

Please note the order of the tour may vary due to traffic in the city. We recommend you take US$ for luncheon at Seaport. There is approximately 2½ hours of walking on this tour.

Your drive will take you through the lovely ‘Art Nouveau’ style town centre of Ålesund, along the Borgundfjord, to the old trading centre of Borgund.

Borgund’s beautiful natural surroundings are the setting for Sunnmøre Open-Air Museum. The site has an outdoor display of 50 old and distinct houses. As you stroll between the picturesque houses you’ll feel as if you have stepped back in time, and on entering the houses you’ll get a feel of how Norwegian people lived centuries ago. There is also a vast boat collection, including replicas of Viking ships, whilst the main building showcases an archaeology and culture exhibition. The museum provides a unique and fascinating insight into the life of the people who have inhabited this area for several thousand years.

On the return journey, enjoy a drive around the Ålesund’s highlights before heading up Mount Aksla for a stop to absorb the magnificent views over this lovely Art Nouveau town and its surrounding areas.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately 45 minutes of walking at Sunnmøre over gravel and some uneven ground. Some of the houses have stairs and low doorways, therefore guests should take extra care on entering. Please remember to carry local currency (Norwegian Kroner) if you wish to purchase refreshments or souvenirs. Comfortable walking shoes are advisable. This tour involves a drive through one long tunnel.

As you travel out of Åndalsnes you’ll pass the villages of Isfjorden, known for its many small clothing and woodworking factories, Torvikeidet and Leirheim before reaching the ancient, medieval stave church of Rødven.

The Rødven Stave Church, now the property of the Society for the Preservation of Ancient Norwegian Monuments, dates back to 1300 and is still located on its original site. The wooden stave churches of Norway are the most famous and characteristic achievements of medieval Norwegian architecture. The distinguishing feature of their construction is the inner and outer frame of wooden columns or ‘staves’ supporting the weight of the many steep roofs one above the other. In the 14th century, it is believed that there were more than 1,000 stave churches in Norway. When the country was depopulated by plague most of them fell into decay and later were demolished because they were too small for growing congregations. You’ll have the opportunity to discover the unique architecture and atmosphere of this pretty church, which is one of only 30 surviving stave churches in Norway.

Before heading back to the port, you’ll drive up close to Trollveggen (Troll Wall), with its 3,300 foot vertical and overhanging wall it is Europe's highest perpendicular rock face.


This excursion will operate by coach. There is a walk of 50 yards from the car park to the church. Flash photography is not permitted inside the church.

See the old medieval city, including the 13th-century King Håkon's Hall, the 16th-century Rosenkrantz Tower, and Bryggen, a major trading centre for the medieval Hanseatic League. Pass the open-air fish market at Torget and Grieg Hall, the city's concert hall. Enjoy the surrounding sights of green slopes and ragged mountains as you drive through suburbs, with well kept houses and gardens, to Troldhaugen.

Troldhaugen, beautifully situated at the Nordås Lake, was home to the late Edvard Grieg. Grieg (1843-1907) was a composer, pianist and conductor with his first piano debut being at the age of 18. Norwegian folk music, nature and the delightful scenery of Norway inspired him to create the most beautiful pieces of music.

A special piano recital in the ‘Troldsal’, a unique style concert hall with turf roof, will immerse you in the exquisite sounds of Grieg's music. After the recital, there will be a guided tour of Grieg’s house and gardens where you will see many of the original furnishings including a Steinway grand piano, which was an anniversary gift in 1892. Before departing Troldhaugen, there will be the opportunity to visit the information centre which sells books, CD’s and other Grieg memorabilia.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is a total of 30 minutes' walking with some steps and gravel terrain. Photography is not permitted inside the house. If the ship is berthed at Dokken or Jekteviken Pier the journey will include a tunnel.