A land of wonder
Picture it: you’re surrounded by towering mountains, and lush, emerald green forests. You breathe in crisp, clean air, and notice the scent of pine and damp earth. Long shadows dance around you, as the roar of a nearby waterfall echoes through the stillness. You hear the whisper of ancient times, tales of glaciers carving valleys and shaping the land, and experience nature’s raw, tranquil beauty like never before… Join us on an expedition cruise to Norway, and you’ll get to see all this and much more! Imagine a voyage where you get to hike through unforgettable wilderness, glide through majestic fjords, and discover captivating culture and traditions. Your unforgettable fjords cruise with Swan Hellenic will be a voyage of discovery, as you explore a land of adventure, extraordinary natural beauty and breathtaking scenery.
Fascinating fjords
Renowned for the remarkable midnight sun in summer, and the awe-inspiring beauty of the Northern Lights in winter, Norway is also famous for having over a thousand beautiful fjords, and your trip here wouldn’t be complete without experiencing these magnificent natural wonders…
At 179 kilometers long, Hardangerfjord is Norway’s second-longest fjord. Sail along this mighty waterway and be captivated by its glistening waters, soaring waterfalls and mesmerizing Trolltunga rock formation.
With its 100m-wide entrance, Trollfjorden is a narrow hidden fjord with near-vertical mountainous sides, towering up to 1,100m high. The passage slices through Austvågøya, on the edge of the Lofoten Islands, and has an unforgettably calm atmosphere. At the end of the two-kilometer-long fjord, your ship turns, offering a magical final view.
Nordfjord embodies the essence of Norway's amazing dramatic landscapes. At one end, you'll find Norway's westernmost point, Vestkapp, which offers panoramic views of the open sea and the Sunnmøre Alps. Then, as you venture deeper into the fjord, you’ll discover lush valleys and towering mountains. The inner end of the Nordfjord is covered by the Jostedalsbreen, Europe's largest mainland glacier.
Must-see destinations
As well as natural beauty, Norway is also home to some truly enchanting places. Here’s a taste of some of the places you might visit on your Norwegian trip…
Svolvær is a Norwegian fishing port, tucked away on Austvågøya in the Lofoten Islands. With its jumble of white and red clapboard houses, bays and craggy inlets, Svolvær has stunning views of the surrounding mountains and fjords.
Brønnøysund is a beautiful coastal town, which sits halfway up Norway's coast. Discover Torghatten, a granite mountain on Torget island, famous for having a natural hole through it. Take in the Norwegian Aquaculture Centre, with its fascinating insights into salmon farming.
Trondheim is a Viking city founded in the 11th century, found in the hills of Trondheim fjord. Visit Nidaros Cathedral, the burial site of Viking king St Olav (c. 995 – 29 July 1030), a 17th-century fortress, and Stiftsgården, the Norwegian royal residence, which is thought to be one of the largest wooden buildings in northern Europe.
Delve deep into the pages of history in the World Heritage City of Bergen, an atmospheric medieval port surrounded by mountains. Investigate Bryggen’s seafront maze of ancient timber buildings, travel to the top of Mount Fløyen on the modern Fløibanen Funicular, and immerse yourself in culture in the art-packed KODE museum.
The Eidsfjorden village of Nordfjordeid offers both natural beauty and cultural experiences. Explore the small wooden houses in the old town Eidsgata, which leads to an old church from 1849. Visit the Sagastad Viking Center to learn about Viking history, explore Nordfjordeid during the Viking Age, and see a craftsman-built replica of Myklebust, Norway's largest known Viking ship. Head to the Norwegian Fjord Horse Center, and discover this interesting breed, which has deep roots in the region.
Useful information and tips for a cruise in Norway
Considering a voyage to Norway? These handy tips will help you get the most out of your trip!
When packing for your cruise, prepare for unpredictable weather by layering your clothing. Even in summer, it's best to pack waterproof gear and sturdy footwear, and be sure to bring a camera to capture Norway’s stunning landscapes. Don't forget comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, and sunscreen too!
Ensure you don't miss out by booking your excursions in advance, especially popular ones with limited availability. Detailed information on available excursions can be found in your pre-trip documentation.
Norway has some of the world's most fantastic scenery, so be sure to make the most of every moment. You might want to wake up early to experience the sights and sounds as your ship approaches port, particularly if you have a balcony. It’s worth finding your favorite viewing spots onboard too.