Norwegian Fjords and North Cape Adventure - 16 nights, June 2013

This spectacular scenic drive takes you along the Romsdalsfjord, turning into the Innfjord. The road follows the shoreline through several villages to Tresfjord, where there’ll be a photograph stop before leaving the fjord and continuing up the Skorge Valley to Ørskogfjellet mountain plateau. Descend to the Storfjord and across a mountain pass to the Norddalsfjord and the village of Valldal. There will be a photograph stop at the magnificent Gudbrand Gorge, with its foaming waterfall deep below.

Enter the mountain world as you arrive at Trollstigheimen. Soon after, descend the famous Trollstig Road via a series of 11 hairpin bends to the valley below. From here, you’ll arrive in the small fertile agricultural plain around Åndalsnes. On your return drive, a short detour is made up to the ‘Troll Wall’ the highest perpendicular mountain wall in Europe.

During the tour enjoy a Norwegian buffet luncheon, featuring both hot and cold dishes and including a choice of a low-alcohol beer or soft drink.



This excursion will operate by coach. There is an optional walk to the viewpoint at Trollstigheimen, which includes approximately 138 steps. Please remember to carry local currency (Norwegian Kroner) for any additional purchases. This tour involves several tunnels. This tour also operates from the port of Alesund.

From the port, a short drive will bring you to Ullandshaug Viewpoint for magnificent views of Hafrsfjord and the surrounding area. Hafrsfjord is where the Kingdom of Norway was founded in 872 after the Viking King, Harald Hårfagre, defeated the last of the regional princes and united the 29 small kingdoms under one crown. Nearby at Møllebukta, you’ll stop to see the Three Giant Swords monument which commemorate this battle and symbolise the fight is over.

As Stavanger is considered to be the most important ‘oil city’ in Norway, no visit would be complete without visiting the entertaining state-of-the-art Norwegian Oil Museum. Its unusual architecture has already made it a main landmark in Stavanger. The museum cleverly manages to tell the story of oil and how it is created, discovered and produced, in a very interesting and informative way using audio-visual aids, models, interactive exhibits and an amusing 3D dinosaur movie. Discover how oil is used in our everyday life for more than just fuel and learn the challenges facing the North Sea Divers.

On the return journey, a stop will be made at the quaint old town of Gamle Stavanger (Old Stavanger). You’ll have the option to take a short guided walk along the picturesque narrow cobbled lanes and past the well preserved wooden houses as you listen to tales of the bygone ages.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The Norwegian Oil Museum is wheelchair accessible. Guests who do not wish to participate in the guided walk of Gamle Stavanger can remain on the coach.

Embark on a drive through the breathtaking scenery of the New Forest to Beaulieu, one of England’s top visitor attractions. On the journey, you will pass by a quaint village and glimpse some of the wild ponies and livestock which the New Forest is famous for.

Beaulieu has many highlights including the National Motor Museum, an Ancient Abbey, Palace Manor House and a variety of gardens including a Victorian, kitchen and wilderness garden.

Within the fascinating National Motor Museum you can see some of the earliest examples of motoring from the 1890s through to legendary world-record breakers, such as Campbell’s jet powered Bluebird which broke the world land speed record in 1964. The museum has a 1930s street scene which shows the shops, vehicles and tradesmen of the period which will bring back memories of a bygone era.

During 2013 you'll be able to witness the fascinating BOND IN MOTION exhibition, which houses the world’s largest collection of original James Bond vehicles. Celebrating 50 years of Bond, with 50 vehicles from the films, this exhibition includes iconic on-screen favourites such as Goldfinger’s Rolls-Royce Phantom III, Zao’s Jaguar XKR loaded with weapons from Die Another Day and Bond’s Aston Martin DBS from Quantum of Solace.

Admire the remains of the lovely 13th century Abbey with its timeless beauty and tranquil atmosphere. One of the buildings now houses a monastic exhibition which illustrates the daily life of the Cistercian Monks.

The grand Palace Manor House has been the stately home of the Montagu family since 1538. With its combination of 14th century Gothic and 19th century Scottish Baronial architecture, the House offers an insight into the past with many fascinating family treasures, portraits and photographs.


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 grounds are spread out over a vast area, however there is a monorail which connects the main attractions. There will be approximately three hours of free time to explore the Beaulieu Estate at your own leisure.

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.

Stavanger and the surrounding areas have for centuries played a leading part in Norway's development. As you approach Hafrsfjord you’ll hear how King Harald Haarfagre defeated the regional princes here in 872, thus founding the Kingdom of Norway. Nearby at Møllebukta you’ll pass the monument of three giant swords which commemorate this battle and symbolise the fight is over.

Your leisurely drive will continue along the coast of south west Norway, where you will pass the attractive 12th century Church of Sola, as it sits on the hill overlooking Sola Bay. Hear about life in Stavanger as you pass the long sandy coastal stretches of Jæren and travel by fertile farmland. As you approach Eiganes, you will travel down the narrow road with its pretty villas and past Ledaal Manor, once the home of the writer Alexander Kielland and today the King’s residence when he visits Stavanger.

Back in Stavanger, you will see the impressive medieval Cathedral, and the characteristic, colourful facades which overlook the harbour. Across the bridges towards Engøy and Buøy, situated in the fjord, there is a fascinating array of architecture – nearly all the houses are built in wood and painted in vivid colours. En route back to the ship, you will pass ‘Old Stavanger’, for a glimpse of its charming, picturesque, wooden houses which date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. This area is considered unique and the city's most important rehabilitation project.


This excursion will operate by coach. All sightseeing is conducted from the comfort of the coach. The itinerary may operate in reverse. The tour will involve some long tunnels.

Lysefjord, Norway's most southern major fjord, stretches 25 miles and was formed more than 10,000 years ago during the last ice age. Experience a leisurely cruise along the scenic Lysefjord, as you pass steep mountains with their cascading waterfalls and the occasional dwelling clinging to its rocky terrain.

There will be a limited commentary providing information about the various points of interest including Preikestolen, better known as the Pulpit Rock. The 'Pulpit Rock' is a famous natural rock formation which protrudes vertically from the mountainside. On a clear day, you will be able to see the rock with its flat plateau proudly jutting out above you.

During the tour, a stop will be made for refreshments of tea or coffee and freshly-made waffles.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Various sized boats will be used for this excursion. There are two flights of stairs between the decks on the boat. Whilst there are sufficient seats for everyone on the boat, we cannot guarantee that you will be able to sit in the area of your choice (either inside or on the open deck). A warm, windproof jacket is recommended. There are steps leading to the refreshment stop. The Pulpit Rock is situated approximately 1,968 feet above sea level and therefore appears smaller when viewed from below. Pre-reservation of this tour is highly recommended due to limited availability.

Once known as the ‘Queen of the Hanseatic League’, Lübeck is steeped in history and tradition and is, quite simply, beautiful. The old town on its oval island is one of the most impressive, intact examples of medieval Gothic architecture.

Upon arrival, enjoy a guided walk of the Altstadt (old city) with the Holsten Gate. Pass by St Marien Church and the Gothic Rathaus, one of the oldest in Germany. Continue past the Heiligen-Geist-Hospital, as well as the Buddenbrooks House, home of the famous writers Heinrich and Thomas Mann, both born in Lübeck. Another fascinating attraction is the Fuechtingshof one of the quaintest of the 82 Wohngaenge (alleyways).

Visit the famous Café Niederegger, where you may enjoy refreshments and Niederegger’s popular marzipan gateau. There will also be time for you to stock up on Niederegger’s large selection of chocolate-coated marzipan.


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 excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Journey time to Lübeck is estimated at 75 to 90 minutes each way. There is approximately two hours of walking included on this tour with steps. Flat, comfortable, walking shoes are recommended. Whilst comfort stops at restaurants are usually free of charge, a donation is common. Please be aware that there is usually a charge of approximately Euro 50 cents at public facilities.

Walk from the pier to Høyden, home to the University of Bergen Library and the Botanical Gardens. View some of the beautiful buildings in Bergen as you head to Grieg Concert Hall, built in the shape of a grand piano and inaugurated in 1978. Enter the city park, where many of the city’s art museums are located and pass the small Lille Lungegaardsvannet Lake and the city’s Town Hall.

Take a look at the fish market and the Byfjord, before reaching the famous Bryggen Hanseatic Quarters. Soak up the atmosphere in the narrow passages between the buildings. Continue past St Mary’s Church, the oldest building in Bergen still in use, and one of the outstanding Romanesque churches in the country.

You’ll soon reach Bergen’s oldest street, Øvregaten Street, to board the funicular for a ride to the top of Mount Fløien. This is one of the most popular recreational areas with spectacular views at 1,050 feet above sea level. You’ll return to the base of Mount Fløien by funicular.

At the end of the tour you can either return to the ship or opt to remain in town to explore further.


This excursion will operate on foot. Long queues may be experienced at the funicular station, due to the popularity of this attraction. The views from Mount Fløien may be affected by adverse weather conditions. Flat, comfortable walking shoes and bottled water are recommended. Please dress according to the weather. The fish market may be closed on Sundays.

Setting off from the beautifully situated village of Åndalsnes, you’ll head along the Rauma River as mountains rise up dramatically on both sides. Mount Romsdalshorn, at 5,000 feet is on one side, with Trolltindane opposite at 5,100 feet on the other. You’ll drive close to the famous ‘Troll Wall’ with its vertical, overhanging wall.

Crossing the Sogge Bridge, you’ll approach the Isterdal Valley, surrounded by impressive mountains with majestic names, such as The King, The Queen and The Bishop. Further up the valley, reach the Trollstig Road (Path of the Trolls), which winds and climbs in a series of 11 hairpin bends to reach the top of the Trollstig Road. A photography stop will be made in the valley to admire the lovely, cascading 590 foot Stigfoss Waterfall, before heading up the pass to Trollstigheimen. From here you’ll be able to enjoy magnificent views over the wild, unspoilt mountains and the Isterdal Valley.

Refreshments of coffee, tea and cakes will be served during the journey.


This excursion will operate by coach. The sights and scenery are seen from the comfort of your coach. There is an optional walk of 138 steps to an additional viewpoint located by the Trollstigheimen Mountain Lodge.

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.

Embark on a journey around the main city sights as your guide provides an interesting commentary on the local history and how it has affected the residents daily life. A photograph stop will be provided at a hillside viewpoint, for lovely views over the city, before visiting the Trøndelag Folk Museum.

Trøndelag Folk Museum is one of the largest cultural history museums in Norway. This fascinating open-air museum has more than 60 vintage buildings, from the 18th and 19th century, which show the local building traditions, including Sami huts, country houses and a 12th century stave church. In the ‘Old Town’, you can visit buildings moved from Trondheim centre, including an old-fashioned grocer's selling traditional sweets, the old dentist's office and ateliers for local handicrafts.

Rejoining your coach, there will be a photograph stop at the 12th century Gothic style Nidaros Cathedral, which has become one of Europe's most important pilgrimage churches, before returning to the port.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There are some inclines and uneven terrain at the Trøndelag Folk Museum.

Begin your panoramic discovery of the ‘Capital of the North’ with a drive towards the centre of town, a charming blend of old and new. Modest wooden houses sit alongside the modern architecture of this university city. You will pass Tromsø Church, one of the largest wooden churches in the north. Continuing around the forest-clad island, which is five times the size of Oslo, reach the 4,002 foot long Sandnessund Bridge, which connects Troms Island with Kvaløya (Whale Island). Here you will find Tromsø’s most modern suburb set against a backdrop of impressive mountain peaks.

Returning to Troms Island, the university will come into view. This is the world’s northernmost university, with students from all over Norway and abroad. The next landmark is the Northern Lights Planetarium.

Just over the Tromsø Sound lies the beautiful Tromsdalen Parish Church, also known as the Arctic Cathedral. During this tour you will pass many homes and gardens, with a great variety of colourful flowers, which you may be surprised to see at this latitude.


This excursion will operate by coach. All sightseeing will be done from the coach with no stops being made. Guests who opt to remain in town at the end of the tour will be responsible for making their own way back to the ship.

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.

Enjoy an orientation drive of Hamburg including many of the city sights before transferring to Lüneburg.

Lüneburg city is rich in tradition and historically connected with salt – the ‘white gold’ of the Middle Ages. The salt mines made Lüneburg a rich and powerful town and an important member of the Hanseatic League. To fully appreciate the beauty, take a tour of the Old Town on foot. The many important historical buildings testify to the prosperity of the city in the Middle Ages. Even today, salt plays an important role in Lüneburg’s status as a spa town; many illnesses are treated through salt and water therapies.

During your walk through the city and small cobbled alleyways, you will see buildings such as the historical town hall Rathaus, which was built around 1240.

Enjoy some free time, exploring the medieval, quaint town centre with its numerous shops.


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 excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Journey time to Luneburg is estimated at 45 - 60 minutes each way. The orientation drive will be around 45 minutes. There is approximately two hours of walking included on this tour with steps. Flat, comfortable, walking shoes are recommended. Whilst comfort stops at restaurants are usually free of charge, a donation is common. Please be aware that there is usually a charge of approximately Euro 50 cents at public facilities.

Titanic pulled away from the White Star dock in Southampton at the start of her maiden voyage on 10th April 1912. Five days later in the early hours of 15th April she sank after striking an iceberg. The disaster made headlines across the world and had a devastating effect on the people of Southampton. Of the 724 crew which lived within in the area - only 175 returned home.

Your interesting walking tour commences at Ocean Terminal, which is located adjacent to the site of the original White Star dock. A leisurely stroll will take you through Queen’s Park and past the luxury flats which used to be the old South Western Hotel. This hotel was where the First Class passengers stayed before embarking on the majestic liner. Close by are the old White Star offices where Southampton residents gathered in their hundreds, waiting day after day for news of loved ones.

A walk along Oxford Street will take you past some of the drinking establishments used by the ill fated crew including The Grapes pub, which is where filming took place for the famous ‘Titanic’ movie. At the end of the street are the ruins of Holyrood Church where a memorial to the Titanic crew stands. As you wander past the ancient Southampton walls and through the main shopping precinct, with its eclectic mix of shops, you’ll hear poignant tales of the Titanic heroes and survivors.

The highlight of the tour is a visit to the SeaCity Museum. This interactive Museum is filled with information and interesting memorabilia of the fateful disaster and illustrates the impact the liner has had on the city.


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 operates on foot. There is two hours walking on mostly flat ground with some slight inclines. The return journey will be by shuttle bus. Guests can opt to remain in the city centre and make their own way back to the berth by shuttle bus at their own convenience. This excursion only operates when the ship is berthed at Ocean Terminal.