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

The colourful buildings, decorations and turrets of Ålesund, look as though they belong in a fairytale book. The town was entirely rebuilt in this Art Nouveau style, following a devastating fire in 1904. Its extravagantly decorated buildings have been sympathetically preserved to present a townscape like no other. Elaborate façades embellished with dragons, flowers and human forms are topped by a forest of spires and turrets, combining native Norwegian elements with continental Jugend-style.

As you stroll around this truly unique Norwegian town, your guide will provide an interesting commentary and explain the town’s strong maritime traditions. Arriving at the lovely harbour area of Brosundet, you will be able to see examples of the picturesque Jugend-style houses that have made Ålesund famous.

From the harbour, the walk continues uphill to the attractive little park at the foot of Mount Aksla, with its famous viewpoint. Here, exotic trees and plants thrive despite their northerly location. There will be free time to walk up part of Mount Aksla and enjoy the spectacular views over Ålesund and the harbour. Or you may choose to sit or stroll in the park and enjoy the refreshing mountain air before returning to the ship.


This excursion will operate on foot. There is approximately two hours of walking including some steep inclines. Comfortable enclosed, walking shoes and a jacket are recommended. The optional walk up part of Mount Aksla involves 418 steps and is unaccompanied.

Your morning starts with a panoramic tour of Hamburg, where for more than 400 years the Jewish community have influenced the city’s development. En route you will pass by some of the main highlights including City Hall, Germany’s oldest Stock Exchange, and the old warehouse quarter, which was built in Gothic redbrick architecture and houses fine spices, coffee and tea from all over the world. You will also pass through the elegant shopping area of Jungfernstieg.

During your panoramic tour, you will pass by the Jewish Cemetery that dates back to the early 1600’s, as well as the site where the new synagogue stood, until its destruction during World War II. The site is now Hamburg’s Holocaust Memorial, where a voluntary group works towards ‘a world without hate’.

Situated outside Hamburg is the Neuengamme Concentration Camp Memorial. The historical site commemorates over 100,000 people who were imprisoned in the largest concentration camp in north west Germany during World War II. Time permitting, free time will be given at the main exhibition entitled ‘Traces of History: Neuengamme Concentration Camp 1938–1945 and its Post-war History’, which focuses on the history of Neuengamme Concentration Camp and its satellite camps. Before departing a short drive will be made at the Memorial.


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

This tour will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately 1½ hours of walking included over flat paved ground. The advertised itinerary may operate in reverse. Please be advised that the Museum exhibits sensitive material including some graphic images and displays on the atrocities of war.

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.

Trondheim is one of Norway's oldest cities, founded by the Viking King, Olav Tryggvason in 997 AD, situated at the estuary of the River Nid facing the wide Trondheimsfjord.

Travel towards the busy city centre, past the market square with its statue of the Viking King and the Nidaros Cathedral and Archbishopry. This church, dating from the 12th century, is the finest and largest gothic-style church in Scandinavia. As with so many towns in Norway, disastrous fires struck Trondheim’s wooden buildings and the architect, Cicignon, reconstructed the city centre in the late 17th century. Most of the buildings from this period are still standing. Amongst others you’ll see the largest wooden building in Norway - Stiftsgaarden - used by the Royal family when they visit Trondheim.

From a viewpoint above the city you’ll have some lovely sights of the area before returning to the city via one of the many bridges over the River Nid. Admire the old drawbridge and the many colourful warehouses along it. Out in the fjord lies a former fortification on the islet Munkholmen.



This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. All sightseeing is conducted from the comfort of your coach. There is a photograph stop at Nidaros Cathedral, however you can opt to remain on the coach.

The municipality of Giske consists of four islands; Giske, Godøy, Vigra and Valderay, which were the centre of power during the Viking Age and the Middle Ages. It was also the seat of earls, local kings and Viking chieftains. Your journey will take you through a series of tunnels and bridges to the two main islands of Giske and Godøy.

From Alesund, you will travel across the Giske Bridge to the saga island of Giske, the birthplace of the Viking chieftain, Rollo. The municipality was named after this small island because of its historical importance. Giske is fairly flat and fertile with some settlements dating back to the early Bronze Age. A stop will be made to photograph the exterior of the quaint 12th century white marble Giske Church, which was originally the private chapel of a local influential family.

Travelling through a tunnel will bring you to the island of Godøy and the picturesque fishing village of Alnes. There will be a stop at Alnes Lighthouse where, on a clear day, there is a lovely view of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding islands. Refreshments of tea, coffee and Norwegian pancakes will be served in the lighthouse café.

Before returning to Ålesund, a stop will be made at a vantage point on Mount Aksla to enjoy breathtaking views.


This excursion will operate by coach. There is a five minute walk over uneven, rocky ground to reach the lighthouse and two steps to enter the refreshment venue. There is an optional climb to the top of the lighthouse, via 87 steps with limited hand railings.

Located around 1 - 1½ hours drive from New York in Central Valley is Woodbury Common, one of the most popular premium outlets with named brands offering savings of up to 25% - 65%. It is said to be one of the world’s largest collection of designer outlets.

Upon arrival, you’ll have around 3½ - 4 hours to ‘shop till you drop’. Stroll through the charming Colonial American village setting and visit more than 220 outlet stores which include names such as Diesel, Giorgio Armani, Gap, Miss Sixty, Nike Factory Store, Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store, Versace, Adidas, and many more.

During your visit, you may also choose to enjoy the outdoor areas and entertainment centres. There are numerous restaurants and eateries available in the complex for you to purchase luncheon and refreshments.

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. This tour is unguided but will be accompanied by a local escort. The level of walking is at guests’ discretion; however guests must be able to negotiate steps on to and off the bus. There are 10 steps to negotiate at the entrance of the Woodbury Common. Please remember to take US Dollars for purchases. Credit and Debit cards are also accepted for purchases.

Hamburg is one of Europe’s biggest ports. Elegant and cosmopolitan it is a city of palatial office buildings, magnificent promenades, international musicals and extravagant shopping malls as well as the famous Reeperbahn. Hamburg is also Germany’s greenest city with many spacious lawns and lovely parks.

Enjoy a panoramic tour showing you the highlights of this bustling city, such as the City Hall, Germany’s oldest Stock Exchange; the Speicherstadt; as well as the Jungfernstieg, one of the elegant and luxury shopping areas. Travel around the Aussen-Alster, which is one of the top addresses in Hamburg.

Continue your journey along the world famous Reeperbahn, where at the beginning of the 17th century, the Reepers made rigs. Nowadays this street, together with the Grosse Freiheit and Herbert Strasse, are referred to as ‘the mile of sin’.

Visit St Michael’s Church, also known as the ‘Michel’ by the locals. This is the largest north German Baroque church and Hamburg’s main landmark. St Michael’s has four organs, one of which is said to be the largest in the world inside a church. During your visit, you will be treated to a wonderful organ recital to appreciate the excellent acoustics of the church.

Before returning to the ship you will take a leisurely stroll through the Krameramtsstuben, which was an earlier form of widow housing.


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

This tour will operate by coach and on foot. This tour is mainly panoramic, with only an estimated 30 minutes of walking, including a few steps at the Church.

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.

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.

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.

Head to St Olav Street in the city centre, where you'll board a vintage Gråkall-banen, the only tram line left in Trondheim. The 5½ mile tram line, originally opened in 1924, runs downhill from the town centre, through the outskirts, passing green parks and picturesque old wooden houses painted in vivid colours to Lian, the recreation area of Trondheim.

The tram has been a familiar part of everyday life in Trondheim and as you trundle along you’ll have the opportunity to see how the local people live. You'll also pass the old fortifications dating back to the 16th century, before climbing Byåsen Hill for splendid views of the calm River Nid, Nidaros Cathedral, fjord and neighbouring fertile valleys.

Changing transportation back to a coach, you’ll drive through new and old Trondheim and pass the Market Square's impressive statue of Viking King Olav Tryggvason, before stopping at the Sverresli Viewpoint to absorb the surrounding panorama of the city and the harbour.


This excursion will operate by coach and tram. Belongings should not be left on the coach, as it may not be the same vehicle that is used to collect you after the tram ride. There are steps to negotiate onto and off the tram. There may be a short wait to board the tram depending on local traffic conditions. Guests who wish to remain in the centre of Trondheim at the end of the tour will be responsible for making their own way back to the ship.

Embark on a panoramic train journey full of sights and dramatic scenery. The railway follows the Rauma River, where you can enjoy views of Mount Romsdalshorn, the Trolltindane and the ‘Troll Wall’. The Rauma River descends from the Lesjaskog Lake and forms many attractive waterfalls along the way. Crossing over the Kylling Bridge there is a dramatic view of the foaming river down in the canyon. This bridge is an impressive work of engineering, only natural stone is used, with each piece fitting together perfectly.

At Bjorli Station your mode of transport changes. A coach drive will take you through what is considered to be one of Norway’s most beautiful valleys, with impressive peaks rising straight up from the valley floor. A photograph stop is made at the Slettafossen Waterfall viewpoint and the ‘Troll Wall’, the highest vertical and overhanging wall in Europe.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There are three steep steps to embark the train. Foldable wheelchairs can be stored on board. Depending on the train schedule it is possible that there could be a wait of up to 45 minutes at Bjorli Station before boarding your transport. The train journey is a scheduled service on a one-track railway line, delays may occur if the train has to wait for an on-coming train to pass. There are basic toilet facilities on the train and on the platform. The journey involves several tunnels.

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.

Bergen is known as the city between seven mountains, and Mount Ulriken is the highest and most spectacular of these. At 2,109 feet above sea level, the view from the top offers a magnificent panorama of the city, coastal landscape, fjords and mountains.

As you take a leisurely drive through Bergen to the cable car, your guide will point out the interesting landmarks such as the Grieghallen, fish market, Bryggen and the Nordes Peninsula.

At the cable car station you will board your gondola for the seven minute ride to reach the top. As you ascend you will be able to see views of Norway's second largest city stretching out below you. On arrival at the summit of Mount Ulriken, refreshments of coffee or tea and a slice of cake will be served in the stylish new restaurant, whilst you relax and enjoy the panoramic views.


This excursion will operate by cable car and coach. There is a walk of approximately 200 yards over uneven terrain and 20 steps at the cable car station. There is standing room only in the gondolas, and each one will accommodate up to 25 people. The views may be affected by certain weather conditions, however the tour will still operate except when the cable car closes due to strong winds. There are 15 steps to access the toilets in the restaurant. If the ship is berthed at Dokken or Jekteviken Pier, the journey will include a tunnel.

Your walking tour begins at the quayside, from where you will walk towards the city centre. Crossing Market Square with its colourful stalls, the statue of the Viking King who founded the city looks down on you from a great height. Heading up Munk Street, you will see the old, narrow lanes lined with wooden buildings, as you make your way towards Nidaros Cathedral, the largest in Scandinavia. Next to the Cathedral is the Archbishop's Palace, also dating back to the Middle Ages (entrance not included).

You will then stroll through the park leading to the River Nid and cross over the Elgeseter Bridge. The walk continues through the old part of the city called Bakklandet, where you are able to admire the many picturesque, wooden houses painted in vivid colours. Reaching the old drawbridge, painted in bright red, you head down the street following the River Nid.

From Bakklandet, the route goes through the newly-restored area of Solsiden (the sunny side) before crossing the Blomsterbrua (Flower Bridge) over the River on the way back to the ship.


This excursion will operate on foot. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended and you should dress according to the weather. This tour includes some uphill walking. It is advisable to take sun protection and a bottle of water.