19/01/2025
In Search of the Northern Lights • Prices from £999pp*
Contact us for more information on 01727 221784 or WhatsApp 07309928528
From Portsmouth • 1st Feb 2025 • 14 nights • Borealis • S2502
Itinerary
01 FEB 2025 - 15 FEB 2025
IN SEARCH OF THE NORTHERN LIGHTS
FEB 01
Departure: early evening
PORTSMOUTH
UNITED KINGDOM
2 DAYS SAILING
Some of the best moments of cruising are the days spent at sea where you can relax and enjoy the wonderful programme of events and activities we have planned for you.
FEB 04
Arrival: early morning - Departure: late afternoon
ÅLESUND
NORWAY
A wide view of the Balmoral ship docked in Alesund, Norway
| A wide view of the Balmoral ship docked in Alesund, Norway
Considered by Norwegians to be Norway's most beautiful city, Alesund in winter is perhaps even more breath-taking than in the summer months, as its bathed in dusky shades of orange and pink. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the Art Nouveau town is built on three islands, where panoramic views of the city, archipelago and Sunnmore Alps are best seen from the top of Mount Aksla.
FEB 05
Arrival: late morning - Departure: late morning
CRUISING TORGHATTEN
NORWAY
Torghatten is an iconic mountain shaped by the Scandinavian Ice Age and renowned for the huge hole that punctuates its centre. Sailing alongside this geological spectacle, framed by towering cliffs and rugged coastlines, offers a unique view from the perspective of the sea. In winter, the scene transforms into a picturesque wonderland, with snow dusting the mountain’s peak and the surrounding fjords often partially frozen.
FEB 05
Arrival: early evening - Departure: early evening
CROSSING THE ARCTIC CIRCLE
NORWAY
Embarking on the maritime tradition of crossing the Arctic Circle is a cherished experience for guests and crew alike. This momentous occasion, often announced by our Captain, invites you to venture out on deck and celebrate. You may choose to participate in a ceremonial ritual, complete with optional 'baptisms', where ice-cold water is poured down your back, or simply delight in the atmosphere of excitement and anticipation.
FEB 06 - 07
Arrival: late afternoon - Departure: late afternoon
TROMSØ
NORWAY
Tromsø is renowned as a prime location for seeking out the Northern Lights, and the long, dark winter nights enhance your chances of witnessing this awe-inspiring natural spectacle even further. There will be opportunities to try local delicacies such as reindeer and king crab, to ride the cable car to the top of Mount Storsteinen, and to visit the iceberg-shaped Arctic Cathedral – a masterpiece of modern architecture. You’ll also be ideally placed for joining an exhilarating dog sledding tour through the wintery landscapes, or to meet the local indigenous Sámi community to learn about their fascinating way of life.
Overnight port
FEB 08 - 09
Arrival: early morning - Departure: early morning
ALTA
NORWAY
Alta offers many experiences and sights to savour during the winter months, with the undoubted highlight being the chance to witness the magical Northern Lights. There will be opportunities to partake in thrilling activities, too, such as ice fishing, husky sledding and snowshoeing amidst snow-speckled landscapes, and to visit the Alta Museum. Alternatively, you can immerse yourself in Sámi culture by visiting the local camps, sampling traditional cuisine, and learning about handicrafts and reindeer herding practices.
Overnight port
FEB 10
Arrival: early morning - Departure: late afternoon
SORTLAND
NORWAY
Sortland in winter time, snow capped mountains, Norway
Known as ‘Blue Town’, the unique town of Sortland was given its nickname due to its buildings being almost entirely painted in varying shades of blue, chosen by local artist Bjorn Elvenes, to represent Sortland's maritime and fishing heritage. The surrounding waters of the town are teeming with various species of fish, seabirds, seals and whales; and in the winter months it may also be possible to see the Northern Lights.
1 DAY SAILING
FEB 12
Arrival: early morning - Departure: late afternoon
BERGEN
NORWAY
From its picturesque location, nestled amidst fjords and mountains, to the iconic Bryggen Wharf, featuring colourful timbered houses and cobbled streets, Bergen offers a captivating blend of culture and nature. Views of the city and its surroundings can be seen from atop Mount Fløyen and Mount Ulriken, reached via funicular railway and cable car, respectively, while the vibrant fish market is ideal for sampling fresh seafood and Bergen staples such as warming fish soup.
2 DAYS SAILING
FEB 15
Arrival: early morning
PORTSMOUTH
UNITED KINGDOM
