Norwegian Fjords and North Cape Discovery - 13 nights, August 2013

The line between Flåm and Myrdal is only 12½ miles long but the journey takes up to 50 minutes. As you climb from 16 to 2,845 feet to Myrdal Station, there are 20 tunnels and one stop at the Kjosfoss Waterfall, where you may alight to take photographs before continuing your journey.

Changing trains at Myrdal, pass through the Gravhalsen Tunnel down to the Raundalen mountain valley to Voss, a well known tourist resort in both summer and winter. In Voss, relax over a buffet luncheon.

Have your camera ready - as your journey continues by coach, stopping at the Tvinde Waterfall, which cascades down the mountainside. Passing the Oppheim Lake, you will soon reach the serpentine bends of Stalheimskleivane, the steepest road in Norway, which feature tumbling waterfalls on either side.

Back on the valley floor, the scenic return to will take you along the Nærøy River, through the village of Gudvangen and past Nærøyfjord. Back to Flåm.


This excursion will operate by coach and train. The walk to Flåm station takes five minutes. There are a few steep steps to access the train. The local guide is not permitted to give a commentary onboard the train, however a limited taped commentary will be provided from Myrdal to Flåm. You must remain seated on the train, as the journey can be bumpy. This tour involves several tunnels. The amount of water in the waterfalls varies depending on recent rainfall. There is an optional walk of five minutes to get a closer view of the Tvinde Waterfall.

The Atlantic Sea Park is one of Europe’s largest saltwater aquariums. The facility is built into the coastline and offers views of the coastal islands and the ocean. The exhibition area includes 11 large landscape aquariums, two open touch pools, a penguin park, two activity pools and several smaller aquariums. The largest tank, containing seven million pints of seawater, is the setting for the daily dive shows which can be viewed clearly through its large acrylic observation panels.

Together the aquariums provide a representative view of the underwater life which inhabits the Norwegian coast and the northern Atlantic Ocean. Species from various ocean depths are on display, including marine life from deep water habitats.


This excursion will operate by coach. Atlantic Sea Park is mostly wheelchair accessible with the exception of the amphitheatre, which has four steps to access it. There are toilets, a café and souvenir shop on site. Please remember to take local currency (Norwegian Kroner) or a credit card for any additional purchases.

Your journey will take you to the Northern Norway Science Centre where you’ll be shown to the comfortable Planetarium to watch an amazing ‘Experience the Aurora’ film. This film takes you on a colourful journey of the elusive ‘Aurora Borealis’, more commonly referred to as the Northern Lights. You’ll be able to experience the beauty, majesty and thrill of the Northern Lights as experienced by those who live around the Arctic Circle. Seven months of winter skywatching, thousands of photographs and hundreds of hours of video footage (mostly shot in the Tromsø region), have been condensed into the world's first all dome 360 degree, high resolution movie of this fascinating phenomenon.

After your Northern Lights experience, you’ll visit the interesting Polar Museum situated in the old Custom House. The museum has preserved records from bygone times when Tromsø had rich traditions in hunting and expeditions. The museum also shows a great part of the equipment, skis, tents etc. that the explorer Roald Amundsen used on his South Pole expedition.

Before returning to your ship, embark on a sightseeing drive around the main highlights of Tromsø which includes a stop at the ultra-modern structure of the Arctic Cathedral. The Cathedral’s architecture symbolizes the immense strength of the pack ice in the Arctic Ocean, whilst the interior is dominated by the beautiful stained glass-window picturing the Return of Christ.


This excursion will operate by coach. Museums in Norway do not have information displayed in English. If a religious ceremony is taking place in the Cathedral then only an exterior visit will be possible. Please note it is not possible to see the actual Aurora Borealis as it is only visible during the winter evenings. The Polar Museum is not wheelchair accessible and there are 22 steps to access the first floor.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Old Voss Line is the only preserved railway in Norway where the steam locomotives and teak carriages still run on a main line track. It was originally constructed in 1883 as a narrow gauge line, which formed part of the Bergen to Voss railway. In 1904 the line was upgraded to extend to Oslo and then electrified in 1954. It continued to serve as part of the Bergen to Oslo main line until it closed in 1964 when the Ulriken Tunnel opened.

The railway is now run by volunteers of the local branch of the Norwegian Railway Society. The service operates with a 1913 steam locomotive, which was restored by the society between 1981 and 1993.

Enjoy a nostalgic 45 minute ride on this lovely heritage railway which travels between Garnes and Midttun. The 11 mile journey passes through the Arna Valley towards Haukeland, where the scenery undertakes a change toward a more typical western Norwegian nature.

There will be time at Garnes Old Railway Station to browse the gift shop or explore the museum and railway area.


This excursion will operate by vintage steam train and coach. The journey to the train station is approximately 50 minutes by coach. The walk from the coach to the station is approximately 220 yards and there are three high steps to embark the train. There is no place to store wheelchairs on the train. Guests are reminded that the train is vintage therefore the toilets will be basic and the windows may experience condensation in certain weather. The coach and train journey involves numerous tunnels.

This area of wild mountains and peaceful nature will give you an understanding of how the myths about trolls originated!

Your scenic drive will take you along the picturesque Borgundfjord, passing little villages with charming houses and well-kept gardens, through the valley of Valldal and up the Trollstigen mountain road. A photograph stop will be made at the summit to capture the impressive scenery.

The descent will be along Troll’s Path with its 11 hairpin bends and surrounding mountain peaks, it is one of Norway’s most dramatic and scenic roads. In the valley, a stop will be made to admire the cascading waterfall of Stigrøra, before passing through Åndalsnes to the famous Troll Wall. A stop will be made at this famous vertical mountain face, the highest in Europe, at approximately 3,280 feet high. Your journey continues along the Romsdalsfjord and over the Ørskog mountain plateau; following the fjord once more back to Ålesund.

During the day a delicious Norwegian buffet style luncheon will be served and afterwards there will be time to purchase some souvenirs.


This excursion will operate by coach. Most of the sightseeing is conducted from the comfort of a coach, with regular stops to take photographs. There is an optional walk of 138 steps to an additional viewpoint at Trollstigen. This tour involves several tunnels.This tour also operates from the port of Andalsnes.

The giant King Crab was introduced to the Barents Sea by Russian scientists during the 1960's. The crab thrived in these waters, and spread quite rapidly to the west where it can now be found along the north Norwegian coast. As the number of this species is now into the millions, it naturally consumes a great deal and there is concern that it may have an impact on the local eco-system. Controlled fishing is now allowed. The King Crab can live to 30 years old, measure up to six feet between its claws and weigh as much as 22 pounds. The catch in the crab pots will most likely be smaller, between six and 15 pounds.

After being kitted out in your survival suit and given a safety briefing, the deep-sea raft with a driver/guide will set off towards the Sarnesfjord to inspect the crab pots. The duration of the RIB (rigid inflatable boat) ride will be approximately one hour.


ACTIVITY EXCURSIONS
You and all those in your party should be aware that, in undertaking activity excursions, you will be involved in a degree of physical exertion and/or activity such as hiking, biking, snorkelling, kayaking, diving etc. By booking the excursion you confirm that you and all those in your party are in good physical and mental condition, with no history of conditions such as seizures, dizziness, fainting, heart condition, respiratory problems or back/neck problems (by way of example only). You should also ensure that no one in your party is taking medicine that carries a warning about impairment of physical or mental abilities. If you are pregnant this type of excursion may not be appropriate for you. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are fit and well enough to take part in the activities booked and you are reminded to take care for your own safety. Because of the risks associated with activity excursions, you may be asked by the excursion provider to sign a document which may affect or limit the excursion provider’s liability. Comfortable flat walking shoes are recommended.

LIABILITY
Cunard will arrange for the excursions to be performed by the relevant excursion provider. Cunard does not provide or supply the excursion services. Cunard will exercise reasonable care and skill in the selection of the excursion provider, but will not in any circumstances have a greater liability than the excursion supplier and Cunard shall not be responsible for the negligent acts/omissions of the excursion supplier. Please note that in relation to all excursions Cunard is not responsible or liable for any loss, damage, or injury sustained by you unless such loss, damage or injury arises out of a breach of legal duty of Cunard.

TRAVEL INSURANCE
Before booking any activity excursions it is essential that you ensure your travel insurance extends to cover the specified activity. It is your responsibility to obtain adequate insurance.

This excursion will operate by rigid inflammable boat. This tour is not suitable for those with injuries or conditions, which may be affected by the bumpy ride. Pregnant women and children under ten years old cannot participate. In the case of adverse weather conditions, the tour may be cancelled at short notice. There is a short walk from the ship to the RIB dock.

Leaving the port your drive will take you past the medieval King Håkon's Hall and Rosenkrantz Tower. The route then continues along Bryggen, the hanseatic quarter of Bergen, with its old, picturesque wooden buildings to the funicular station of Fløibanen.

The funicular will take you on a short journey to the top of Mount Fløien, one of the seven hills that surround Bergen and stands at a height of around 1,050 feet. There will be around 15 minutes at the summit to purchase souvenirs or to just sit and enjoy the bird’s eye view of Bergen and the fjord, before taking the funicular back to the bottom.

Back on board your coach, you will head past the famous fish market and on towards the peninsula of Nordnes, with its typical 19th century, white-painted wooden houses and splendid views on both sides of the port.



This excursion will operate by coach and funicular. The walk from the coach to the funicular is approximately 100 yards up a slight incline. 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. If the ship is berthed at Dokken or Jekteviken Pier, the route will include a tunnel.

Leaving Flåm behind, you’ll head through the mountains, passing the village of Gudvangen. Gudvangen is situated at the head of the dazzling Nærøyfjord, another branch of the mighty Sognefjord, and as you continue up the Nærøy Valley you’ll be following the well-known salmon river of the same name.

Pass the beautiful Oppheim Lake and then head through woodland and green farmland to view the spectacular Tvinde Waterfall that cascades down the mountainside. After a optional short stroll to the waterfall, you’ll return to the Stalheim Hotel, perched on a cliff overlooking the Nærøy Valley, for refreshments.

After the stop at the hotel, you’ll drive down the 13 steep curves of the impressive Stalheimskleivane (Norway’s steepest road), with waterfalls on both sides. Reaching the valley floor, you’ll follow the Nærøy-River back passing Gudvangen and then through the tunnels to Flåm.


This excursion will operate by coach. The walk to the Tvinde Waterfall is optional and the amount of water in the waterfall varies depending on whether it is early or late in the summer. This tour involves several tunnels. There is a charge to use the toilets at the Tvinde Waterfall, therefore we recommend you carry local currency (Norwegian Krone).

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.

Driving through the city centre, you’ll head towards Sverresli to enjoy views of the fjord and wood clad hills before reaching Bymarka. This is an area of natural landscapes with contrasting scenery and a haven for the people of Trondheim in both winter and summer months.

Your nature hike will take you through scenic forestland, passing small lakes and open landscape. The highest point is Gråkallen Hill, some 1,700 feet above sea level; from here you can enjoy a spectacular view towards the fjords. On a clear day you can sometimes see in the distance the mountain chain which forms the border between Sweden and Norway.

Following your hike, you’ll rejoin your coach for the return drive to Trondheim.


ACTIVITY EXCURSIONS
You and all those in your party should be aware that, in undertaking activity excursions, you will be involved in a degree of physical exertion and/or activity such as hiking, biking, snorkelling, kayaking, diving etc. By booking the excursion you confirm that you and all those in your party are in good physical and mental condition, with no history of conditions such as seizures, dizziness, fainting, heart condition, respiratory problems or back/neck problems (by way of example only). You should also ensure that no one in your party is taking medicine that carries a warning about impairment of physical or mental abilities. If you are pregnant this type of excursion may not be appropriate for you. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are fit and well enough to take part in the activities booked and you are reminded to take care for your own safety. Because of the risks associated with activity excursions, you may be asked by the excursion provider to sign a document which may affect or limit the excursion provider’s liability. Comfortable flat walking shoes are recommended.

LIABILITY
Cunard will arrange for the excursions to be performed by the relevant excursion provider. Cunard does not provide or supply the excursion services. Cunard will exercise reasonable care and skill in the selection of the excursion provider, but will not in any circumstances have a greater liability than the excursion supplier and Cunard shall not be responsible for the negligent acts/omissions of the excursion supplier. Please note that in relation to all excursions Cunard is not responsible or liable for any loss, damage, or injury sustained by you unless such loss, damage or injury arises out of a breach of legal duty of Cunard.

TRAVEL INSURANCE
Before booking any activity excursions it is essential that you ensure your travel insurance extends to cover the specified activity. It is your responsibility to obtain adequate insurance.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately two hours of walking over uneven ground and many steep inclines, so a good level of fitness is required. Comfortable, flat and enclosed walking shoes are essential. Please dress according to the weather. It is advisable to carry sun protection and a bottle of water. This tour is not suitable for children under eight years old.

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.