Highlights

  • Sail through at stunning fjords and the Lofotens – an Arctic archipelago
  • Pause at idyllic fishing towns, fjord-side cities and Denmark’s icons
  • Indulge with all-included drinks and fine dining
  • Enjoy included concierge service in your ocean-view suite
  • Begin with a pre-departure stay in Norway’s Arctic city – Tromso

This is your chance to enjoy what is one of the world’s great routes aboard the latest in ultra-luxury cruising. On a near-unrivalled ship that’s new for 2023, you’ll be treated to everything from ocean-view suites with round-the-clock complimentary service to open bars that stock fine wines and all-included dining that includes chef’s-kitchen delicacies. And, dipping in and out of Arctic islands and interwoven fjord networks, there’s no better way to experience Norway from top to bottom. After starting with a luxury stay in the Arctic city of Tromsø and island hopping in the Lofotens, historic coastal towns and the ultra-scenic fjords will see you end in Denmark for the seaside idyll of Skagen and the country’s buzzy capital. Travelling during summer, it’s made that bit prettier by the Midnight Sun.


Days 1 – 2

UK to Tromso: the Arctic city

After complimentary AIRPORT lounge access, you’ll be flying north of the Arctic Circle to Tromso. Here, you’ll be welcomed by your private driver for the short drive straight to the harbour and the city’s finest accommodation. Set right among Tromso’s heritage buildings on its fjord itself, you’ll enjoy gorgeous views everywhere from the excellent seafood restaurant and bar stocked with local brews to the Scandi-chic rooms.

Following a sumptuous breakfast the next morning, you’ll have the day to explore the town, found right on the doorstep of your accommodation. After wandering along the waterfront and taking in the 19th-century cathedral or the Polar Museum’s tales of explorers past, perhaps cross the bridge for the ultra-contemporary Arctic Cathedral and the cable car’s city-and-fjord views from its mountaintop perch. For those more adventurous, speak to one of our specialists about organising a hike or fjord kayak trip.

Breakfast included

Tromso cityscape, Norway

Tromso cityscape, Norway

Arctic Cathedral, Tromso

Arctic Cathedral, Tromso


Day 3

Aboard the latest in ultra-luxury cruising

Today, after breakfast at your hotel, spend more time exploring this wonderful Arctic town. This evening, an included private transfer will take you to the dock where you’ll board your world-class luxury ship. You’ll be welcomed aboard with a bottle of champagne and your chosen spirit, left in your ocean-view suite by your concierge. They’ll be on hand 24-hours a day, whether that’s to offer the included in-suite dining or to restock your complimentary minibar. You’ll also be able to enjoy the first of your all-include meals, with dinner at a choice of nine restaurants, ranging from chef’s-kitchen concepts and pan-Asian delicacies to steakhouse or Mediterranean classics. You’ll be able to wash it all down with fine wines and premium labels in the open bars.

Stay: EXPLORA I

Breakfast & Dinner included

EXPLORA I

EXPLORA I


Day 4

At sea

As you map the barren beauty of Norway’s Arctic coastline, you’ll have today to explore your truly remarkable ship. Alongside your ocean-view suite, the sights are often best enjoyed on the outdoor decks, where you’ll find private cabanas, whirlpool hot tubs and a trio of al-fresco pools – the pool-side dining is sure to be a favourite. Back inside, there’s a spectacular spread of wellness facilities, with an included wellbeing and fitness programmes along with an indoor pool and large fitness centre. There’s even a casino, art gallery and collection of boutiques, although it's probably the superlative fine dining and convivial bar lounges that might just impress most.

Stay: EXPLORA I

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

The Conservatory Pool & Bar, EXPLORA I

The Conservatory Pool & Bar, EXPLORA I

Ocean Terrace Suite, EXPLORA I

Ocean Terrace Suite, EXPLORA I


Day 5

The Lofoten Islands – mountains in the sea

Your first port of call will be in Leknes in the Lofotens. This Arctic archipelago is a true natural wonder, with jagged, kilometre-high peaks rising precipitously out of the wild sea to form a picture-perfect string of islands. They play hosts to impossibly scenic villages, where traditional red fishermen’s cabins are stilted out over the waters. Take it all in on everything from horse and helicopter rides to Scuba and boat safaris in search of otters and puffins. You can even surf the world’s most northerly breaks.

Stay: EXPLORA I

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Fishing village in Lofoten Islands

Fishing village in Lofoten Islands

River Otter, Lofoten Islands

River Otter, Lofoten Islands


Day 6

Brønnøysund’s fishing-village charm

Sited on a narrow peninsula jutting away from the mainland, Brønnøysund is a typical Norwegian coastal town, with its delightful marina, fishermen’s boats and surrounding lighthouses. It’s set to gorgeous island and mountain views, one of which has a photo-inducing hole in its peak. Back in town, Brønnøysund is equally charming, with its cute houses built for nesting ducks, and neogothic church bearing remnants that date back to medieval times.

Stay: EXPLORA I

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Bronnoysund coastline

Bronnoysund coastline


Day 7

At sea

Your last full day at sea will see you follow the coast south; keep your eyes out as scenic coastal islands drift past. As always, you’ll be served by one of the highest staff-to-guest ratios, enjoyed whether you’re in the whisky bar and cigar room or indulging with one of the treatments from the extensive spa menu. Speaking of wellness, there are even bespoke nutrition and sleep programmes available, along with a panoramic running track on deck and an indoor pool with retractable roof. Thermal spa access as well as fitness and wellbeing programmes are all included.

Stay: EXPLORA I

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Pool & adults only lounge, Explora I

Pool & adults only lounge, Explora I

Lounge area on board Explora I

Lounge area on board Explora I


Day 8

Flåm: into the fjords

Sailing into Norway’s mesmerising fjord network, you’ll be beset by towering mountains as you wind through narrow valleys to the pretty village of Flåm. After taking in its wooden Stave Church, whose centuries-old multi-tiered design is a unique delight, you’ll have some time to explore. Whether hiking, cycling, hopping on a RIB or enjoying what is often described as the world’s most beautiful train journey, you’ll be brought through a world of fjords and farmlands interspersed by stunning waterfalls and flowing green contours. For quieter enjoyment, there’s also fishing or visits to local craft breweries. 

Stay: EXPLORA I

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Flam, Norway

Flam, Norway


Day 9

Second-city Bergen

Norway’s second-largest city is beautifully positioned between seven mountains and the mighty Hardangerfjord and Sognefjord – Norway’s biggest fjord. It’s all best-appreciated with views from the top of Mt. Fløyen. Reached by a scenic funicular ride or a flightseeing trip, it offers spectacular panoramas over the city and its fjord setting, along with bike and hiking trails. Then, descend to take in the city’s UNESCO-listed Bryggen, its wharf-side district dotted with colourful, historic timber storehouse today given over to boutiques and galleries. For those more active, explore the surrounding fjords by raft and kayak or try your hand at crab fishing before visiting a local farm. Otherwise, there’s piano recitals of music by the city’s favourite son, Edvard Grieg, along with the chance to taste your way through the delicacies at the historic fish market.

Stay: EXPLORA I

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Waterside view of Bergen

Waterside view of Bergen

Ulriken cable car, Bergen

Ulriken cable car, Bergen


Day 10

Old-town Stavanger

This coastal town is home to some of Norway’s best-preserved wooden buildings. Largely dating back to the 18th century, expect quiet laneways lined with whitewashed clapboard houses and cutesy cafés that spill out onto pavements, all pointing towards a pretty harbourfront. It’s also a perfect gateway for enjoying what is arguably Norway’s most iconic hike – Preikestolen. Otherwise known as ‘Pulpit Rock’, you’ll know it for the dramatic jut of rock that stretches out precipitously over Lysefjorden’s stunning fjord setting.

Stay: EXPLORA I

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Stavanger old town

Stavanger old town

Tropical gardens, Stavanger

Tropical gardens, Stavanger

Stavanger harbour

Stavanger harbour


Day 11

Artists’ Skagen

You’ll be welcomed into Denmark’s northern-most region with Skagen, an enchanting seaside town of white-sand beaches, yellow houses and red fishermen’s huts. Unsurprisingly, it’s long been celebrated by artists as one of the country’s most beautiful destinations, not least for the quality of the light. And, there are various masterpieces showcased in its galleries to prove it. More tangibly, Renaissance-era manors, WWII vestiges and a sand-marooned church add further intrigue.

Stay: EXPLORA I

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Beach in Skagen, Denmark

Beach in Skagen, Denmark

Coastal houses in Skagen, Denmark

Coastal houses in Skagen, Denmark


Day 12

Conclusions in Copenhagen

Your journey ends in the Danish capital. Here, the Scandi cool of its cutting-edge restaurants and design houses sit side-by-side with neoclassical mansions, 18th-century palaces and historically colourful waterfronts. Speak to one of our experts about extending your time in Copenhagen, or simply enjoy the private transfer to the airport for your flight home.


Breakfast included

Harbour in Copenhagen, Denmark

Harbour in Copenhagen, Denmark


About the itinerary

"Without doubt, this revolutionary voyage on board Explora I presents the fjords and Arctic from a new angle. For me, the perfect combination of stunning ports with a state-of-the-art on-board experience is the ultimate fusion of rustic Scandinavian charm and contemporary luxury cruising - this really is a game changing way to experience the Nordics."

David Warne

Destination Specialist

Pricing information

Guide price from £5,425 pp

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