Today, we go right back to where it all began. This town holds a special place in our hearts, being the birthplace of Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express. We’ll dock in the historic town of Stokmarknes. This island chain is the namesake of our very first Coastal Express ship to sail Norway’s rugged coastline in 1893. Spend a full day in Vesterålen, an archipelago just northeast of Lofoten. We’ll cross the Arctic Circle as we continue heading north, commemorating the moment with a little Norwegian ceremony. When it’s time to leave in the evening, take some time to rest onboard and unwind. For a truly authentic experience, step into the age-old shoes of a Norwegian fisherman, and cast a line under the summer sun. With a large population of Sea Eagles, birdwatching is another activity you won’t want to miss. If weather permits, you might be able to enjoy such activities as hiking and biking, or even island hopping. Spend the afternoon in one of Norway’s oldest fishing communities. Some of these ancient relics have been found in a cave on the island of Sanna, which is now used as a venue for an annual music festival. Though small, this archipelago has a long history, with archaeological finds indicating that the islands have been inhabited since the Stone Age. Made up of around 500 islands, islets and skerries, with only four inhabited year-round, Træna is a quiet municipality, with birdlife thriving on the mostly uninhabited isles. Træna is an archipelago that sits at the edge of the Arctic Circle, 33 nautical miles northwest of the mainland. When you see islands rising out of the water in the distance, you’ll know we’re almost at our next destination. We’ll sail along the coast of the Helgeland region in the morning. Whichever activities you choose, this day will bring you the best views of Isfjord and Romsdalsfjord, and the surrounding peaks. Experience the Norwegian concept of friluftsliv – a love of the outdoors – through a variety of activities, such as hiking to Rampestreken viewpoint.įor a more sedate way to take in the sights, sit back for a relaxing ride on the Romsdal Gondola or travel the winding Trollstigen Pass by bus. The literal highlights of Åndalsnes are the mountains that tower over the town. Now, Åndalsnes is a modern town with its own local newspaper, in one of Norway’s most stunning natural locations. After docking in the morning in the town centre, you’ll get the chance to explore this picturesque coastal town, home to about 2,000 people.įrom 1838 until 1964, the village of Åndalsnes served as the administrative centre of the old municipality of Grytten, during which time it had to be completely rebuilt after an attack during World War II. Located along Isfjord at the end of Romsdalsfjord, Åndalsnes is our first port of call. Get acquainted with your shipmates, and take some time to get comfortable in your new home-away-from-home.Įnjoy your first meal aboard the ship, and watch the row of colourful buildings on the seafront get smaller behind you as you sail into the Norwegian Sea. Once we’ve welcomed you aboard, you’ll meet your ship’s Coastal Experience team, who will be your hosts and guides to the Norwegian coastline and Svalbard. You can sample finger-food from our Norway’s Coastal Kitchen or talk to staff about securing a spot on any optional excursions still available. With Bergen being the start point for many Norwegian Coastal Express voyages for generations, the stylish guest lounge at the pier is exclusive for our guests. Across from Bryggen, you’ll find the fish market, which cooks up fresh and delicious seafood dishes to feast on. There, you can wander down charming cobblestone streets and peruse local boutique shops. The historic core of the city is home to the UNESCO-listed Bryggen quarter. If you’ve time before boarding the ship, take the opportunity to explore the city of Bergen.
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