NEW! From Iberia to the Northern Lights

Explore Alta’s storied history, from its archaic past to the present, through its native culture. Embark your motor coach for a scenic drive to Alta’s cathedral; a modern architectural landmark, its spiral, titanium clad exterior is designed to reflect the northern lights in motion. After time to admire its main room, continue your tour to the Alta Museum. Upon arrival, step inside to see relics recovered from this prehistoric settlement that lay undiscovered until 1973. Local guides will be on hand to provide insight, as you explore the permanent and temporary exhibitions covering a variety of topics related to local history and nature, including the northern lights, salmon fishing, and local Sami and Christian religions. Enjoy free time to explore the museum independently and perhaps stop at the museum café for light refreshments, before returning to your ship.

Embark on an exciting snowmobile tour and discover the Igloo Hotel at Sorrisniva. Travel by motor coach along the banks of the river with the same name, where you will arrive at the hotel and the starting point of your snowmobile ride. After a thorough safety briefing from your guide, head out on the track through the forest and along the water’s edge atop your own snowmobile while enjoying the fresh Norwegian air. Celebrate your return with a frosty toast at the bar in the Igloo Hotel, an amazing structure completely molded and sculpted out of 250 tons of ice and 25,000 cubic feet of snow. Enjoy a guided tour and marvel at the ice sculptures and expertly carved decorations, including the glasses used to serve your drink. Afterward, you will return to your awaiting ship. Note: Guests must possess a valid driver’s license to participate in this tour. Two passengers per snowmobile.

Sled over the scenic Arctic landscape outside Alta while being pulled by a team of lively huskies. A short drive from your ship brings you to the local farm where the huskies reside. Upon arrival, meet your guides and listen to a short safety briefing before heading out. Relax as your experienced musher guides you and the sled’s team of well-trained dogs through the rugged terrain. Breathe in the fresh air as you journey through the forests and clearings along the Alta River during your 20- to 30-minute outing. At the end of your ride, you will return to the husky farm to warm yourself with a hot beverage while sitting in a traditional Sami lavvu (tent) and listening to your guide’s tales of racing sled dogs. You will have an opportunity to spend time with and photograph the charming huskies before returning to your ship.

Learn about the vibrant culture of indigenous Norwegians during a visit to a local Sami village. The Sami’s roots in Arctic Europe trace back at least 5,000 years. Embark on a scenic journey by motor coach to the small village of Máze, located on the Finnmark Plateau. Upon arrival, you will be warmly greeted by your hosts, members of a reindeer-herding family. You will have an opportunity to climb on board a reindeer-pulled sled for a picturesque ride along a frozen river. Relax as you glide along to the sound of reindeer bells and snow crunching under hooves. After your ride, return to the village, where you will be invited into a large traditional tent called a lavvu. Take a seat next to a roaring fire and enjoy a delicious traditional lunch while your hosts entertain you with stories of Sami traditions and modern life. Later, you will return to your ship.

Discover how World War II affected Alta during a visit to the Tirpitz Museum. During the war, the Altafjord was the Nazis’ largest naval base outside of Germany. Occupied by thousands of soldiers, Alta was destroyed near the end of the war as the Germans instituted a scorched-earth policy in the wake of their retreat. Take a drive to Kåfjord, located a short distance outside of Alta. Here, you will visit a wooden church and the museum named after the German battleship that was anchored here. Browse an array of photographs and artifacts that tell the story of Norway’s struggle against the Germans and take time to watch a film about the Tirpitz. Afterward, you will drive to several relevant sites from the war, including a viewpoint that shows where the Tirpitzhid and was attacked by British bombers and submarines, before returning to your ship.

Experience winter in true Nordic fashion—on cross-country skis. The use of skis has a long, celebrated history in Norway. First used as a necessary means of transportation through the snowy environment, it has evolved into a much-loved sporting pastime for all ages and abilities. Embark on a scenic drive to your staging area. Upon arrival, meet your experienced guide and get outfitted with all the equipment and winter thermal gear that you will need for an enjoyable day of skiing. You will receive a brief training session during which your guide will teach you the correct techniques. Once you are comfortable on your skis, head out through the picturesque landscape surrounding Alta on a short tour. Propel yourself across the snowy tundra, admiring beautiful winter vistas along the way. Afterward, enjoy a panoramic drive back to your ship.

Immerse yourself in Alta’s rich history in the slate industry and meet a third-generation slate miner. Quartzite slate—a flat gray mineral that is prized for its hardness, durability and polished shine—has been quarried in the area since the mid-19th century. Travel to Paeskatun, a quarry located near the top of one of several slate mountains rising out of the landscape to the south of Alta. Upon arrival, receive a warm welcome from your host, whose family has worked the quarry for generations. Listen as he shares stories about his craft and Alta’s slate-cutting industry, from its inception to the present day. Take the opportunity to explore the museum of small cabins that illustrates the often brutal work and living conditions once endured by slate miners. Browse the many beautiful, handmade slate items for sale, and take in sweeping views of the Alta River valley and city.

Delve into the mystery of the aurora borealis as you watch the night skies from atop Mt. Pæska. At the mountain camp you will meet your host, who will introduce you to the various activities you can enjoy. Learn about the science behind this natural phenomenon through a series of visual presentations and films. Get cozy around a campfire in a Sami tent, called a lavvu, or take a seat in one of the slate cottages and warm up over a hot beverage and a slice of cake. There is no guarantee that the unpredictable northern lights will be visible, but with a little luck, clear nighttime skies and sufficient solar activity will prevail and you will be rewarded with a glimpse of this majestic wonder. Camp guides will be on hand to offer tips on capturing the special moment on camera, and a gift shop is available where you may purchase locally made handicrafts.

Feel the wind in your hair as you ride across the Arctic terrain in search of the northern lights on a snowmobile. Meet your guide and head to the world’s northernmost ice hotel for a tour through its frozen corridors followed by a nonalcoholic refreshment at the ice bar. Afterward, receive a safety briefing, then don warm, weatherproof clothing before following your guide to your vehicle. Traveling on a track prepared for snowmobiles, you will put your lesson into practice as you guide your snowmobile along. Under a star-filled sky, take in the wondrous nature that surrounds you; if conditions permit, you may be lucky enough to witness the northern lights dancing across the sky. Take a break and sit to warm yourself by a bonfire, where you can exchange tales of your experience with your fellow guests before returning to the ice hotel by snowmobile and transferring to your ship.

Enjoy a dogsled ride beneath the stars capped with an evening of fine dining at a local farm. Board your motor coach and set out to into a forested valley by the Alta River. Upon arrival, head out into the night to meet your four-legged furry friends, patiently waiting in their kennels where your dogsled awaits. Climb on board, wrap up and hold on tight for the exciting ride. Led by your dog musher, your sled and team of dogs will pull you across the icy terrain as you marvel at the clear skies above, keeping your eyes peeled for a glimpse of the northern lights above you. Return to the farm to meet homeowner and award-winning chef Johnny Trasti, nationally renowned for his flair and innovative approach to food, who will proudly present a delightful evening meal prepared using locally sourced ingredients. With dinner complete, you will return to your awaiting ship.

Explore the Arctic landscape of the Finnmark Plateau during an invigorating ride by snowmobile. Embark on a scenic journey by motor coach through the rugged Norwegian wilderness to the Gargia Mountain Lodge. Upon arrival, you will meet your guide and be fitted with a snowsuit, gloves and helmet. After receiving your safety instructions, hop on board your snowmobile and head for the countryside. Breathe in the fresh air, admiring the picturesque views of the Alta Valley and how the winter light plays across the landscape. Follow a trail through the forest and up to the expansive snow-covered plateau. Also, keep watch for possible wildlife sightings, such as mouse, fox and lynx. After your ride, enjoy a warming beverage and a snack before returning to your ship.

Experience the beauty of the Arctic while waiting to catch a glimpse of the mesmerizing northern lights. Leave the light pollution of the city behind as you travel into rural Norway to the Gargia Lodge, a charming, rustic mountain lodge nestled in the woods. Upon arrival, enjoy snacks and spend your time engaged in a range of activities while you wait for the elusive aurora borealis to appear. Tour the upstairs gallery that chronicles the region’s history with artifacts and photos or pet the friendly resident huskies. Alternatively, explore the grounds on snowshoes or just relax on a reindeer skin and take in the silence. On a clear night, the northern lights may manifest themselves as faint wisps of color or shimmering curtains of bright, neon light over the Arctic landscape. With any luck, you will see her dancing lights grace the night sky before returning to Alta.

Learn about the vibrant culture of Indigenous Norwegians during a visit to a local Sami village. The Sami’s roots in Arctic Europe trace back at least 5,000 years. Embark on a scenic journey by motor coach to the small village of Máze, located on the Finnmark Plateau. Upon arrival, you will be warmly greeted by your hosts, members of a reindeer-herding family. You will have an opportunity to climb on board a reindeer-pulled sled for a picturesque ride along a frozen river. Relax as you glide along to the sound of reindeer bells and snow crunching under hooves. After your ride, you will be invited into a large traditional tent called a lavvu. Take a seat next to a roaring fire and enjoy a delicious traditional dinner while your hosts entertain you with stories of Sami traditions and modern life. Later, you will return to your ship.

Visit a family-run farm for chef-prepared local cuisine and go dogsledding in pristine Arctic nature. Board your mini-van and head out to meet your hosts in a forested valley by the Alta River. Upon arrival, you will meet your four-legged furry friends, patiently waiting in their kennels where your dogsled awaits. Climb on board, wrap up and hold on tight for the exciting ride. Led by your dog musher, your sled and team of dogs will pull you across the icy terrain as you marvel at the nature all around you. Return to base to meet homeowner and award-winning chef Johnny Trasti, nationally renowned for his flair and innovative approach to food, where he will proudly present a delightful lunch prepared using locally sourced ingredients. Your appetite sated, you will return to your awaiting ship.

Immerse yourself in local culture and cuisine as our Executive Chef leads you on an interactive culinary adventure. Journey by mini-coach to the local market to handpick ingredients under the guidance of our Chef. Later this evening, you will dine on regional dishes prepared by our experienced culinary team, using produce from the market. As you and your fellow guests enjoy this delicious creation at The Kitchen Table, you will also observe the art of plating with each dish. From fresh market fare to cooking techniques and elegant presentation, experience firsthand how your ship’s world-class culinary staff brings distinct, local flavors from the market to your taste buds. It is an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind opportunity to shop, interact and dine with the masters.

Embark on a leisurely whale-watching journey across the Altafjord. Depart on foot to the floating pier, where you will board your vessel and have a short safety briefing. Then, set sail across the deep blue waters of the fjord in search of orcas and humpback whales. Your captain will plan your route to afford the best chance of seeing these majestic marine mammals, who are attracted to the area by the arrival of migrating herring. Sip on a complimentary tea or coffee as you relax in the heated cabin, or take in the views of the fjord from the outer decks as you navigate the icy waters. Your guide will be on hand to share insights with you about your surroundings and any marine life that you encounter. Afterward, return to the pier for the walk back to your ship.

Sail to Storekorsnes to gain insight into the lives of local fishermen and the king crabs that they catch. Stroll to the floating pier, where you will board your vessel and receive a safety briefing before venturing onto the waters of the Altafjord. Your captain will set course for Storekorsnes, a hidden gem nestled on the eastern side of the fjord. As you journey toward this small fishing village, your guide will share stories and insights about the surrounding area. Stay alert for sightings of wildlife, including dolphins and eagles. Upon arrival at Storekorsnes, you will meet a local fisherman and have an up-close experience with king crab. Learn about the history of this species in Norway and the techniques used by local fisherman to catch them. Following a tasting of freshly prepared king crab on polar bread and a bowl of soup, return to the pier and your awaiting ship.

Venture across the Altafjord in search of the elusive northern lights. Walk to the floating pier, where you will climb aboard your vessel. After a short safety briefing, set out across the waters of the Altafjord for a narrated cruise as you set out in search of the northern lights. You can choose to settle into the warmth of the indoor seating area, or linger on the deck as you scan the skies for a glimpse of the auroras. Your captain will consider all conditions and navigate to the best vantage points—if the night sky is clear, you may be lucky enough to enjoy the sight of this natural phenomenon. In Storekorsnes, step ashore and meet a local fisherman for an engaging conversation, then set out to a local restaurant for dinner, overlooking the fjord. Your appetite sated, return to your awaiting ship.

Travel to a Sami camp to learn about traditional handicrafts or duodji, and try your hand at making your own. Historically, duodji were produced with an important utilitarian aspect—everything was created with a function, influenced by the Sami’s nomadic nature and the need to survive harsh Arctic conditions. Traditionally, men used wood, antlers and bones to create knives, cups and drums, while women worked primarily with leather and roots to make clothing, shoes and purses. Depart the pier by minibus and drive to Sami Siida, where you will meet your Sami guides and learn about this cultural practice. With their guidance, create your own duodji, a small bag made of reindeer skin, which you can take home as a memento of your trip. Cap your day at the reindeer enclosure, where you will see the reindeer up close, have time for photographs and perhaps even feed them if you are lucky.

Dine, relax and sleep in a hotel made entirely out of ice and snow during this overnight excursion. Experience traditional cuisine and a Nordic sauna during an overnight stay at the world’s northernmost igloo hotel. Please note: sites on this program are not accessible and cannot accommodate guests who rely on a walker, wheelchair or motorized scooter/wheelchair.

Day 1 – Alta, Norway

This afternoon, depart your ship and transfer by motor coach to the Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel, set on the snow-covered banks of the Alta River. Upon arrival, explore the hotel with a guide, glimpsing its frozen sculptures, the ice bar and the ice chapel, all rebuilt each winter from snow and ice by experienced artists and builders. Following a welcome drink at the ice bar, continue to a cozy cabin and settle in by the fireside to watch as your dinner, a traditional three-course Norwegian meal, is prepared by the chef. Hear stories about local ingredients and food traditions as you observe, then enjoy your meal as the flames crackle beside you. After dinner, head back to the Igloo Hotel to spend the night on reindeer hides in one of five handcrafted, themed ice suites. (D)

Day 2 – Alta, Norway

This morning, after waking in the comfort of your hand-carved ice suite, you will have the opportunity to visit the sauna for a traditional Nordic wellness experience. Afterward, you will have a buffet-style breakfast before boarding your motor coach to return to your awaiting ship. (B) 

Visit a cozy lodge in the heart of Alta for a taste of traditional Norwegian aquavit. Disembark your ship and board your minibus for the short drive to Trasti & Trine. Upon arrival, step into the warmth of the timber-framed lounge and listen as your host shares insights about this cozy lodge. Then, take a seat at the bar for a tasting of five varieties of aquavit, a traditional Scandinavian spirit with roots dating to the 15th century and a distinctive flavor achieved with spices and herbs. Each variety will be paired with a bite-sized snack chosen to complement the flavors of the aquavit and prepared with ingredients from the surrounding fjords, forests and plains. As you sip, you will hear stories of polar life and the centuries-old ritual of sharing a toast in the far north. After your tasting, return to your minibus for the drive back to your ship.

Join an experienced dog musher for a sled ride pulled by world-class huskies and hear stories of Arctic life. Board your motor coach for the short drive to Holmen Husky Lodge, an Arctic retreat located just outside Alta. Here, you will receive a warm welcome from your hosts, who will teach you about the beginnings of this family-run kennel. Set out for a sled ride with one of the lodge’s mushers before stepping inside a traditional laavo, a tent-like dwelling that holds deep significance for the Sami people. Join your fellow guests around a crackling fire, sip on a warm drink and enjoy a local treat as you hear stories about life in the Arctic and the deep bond shared between mushers and their dogs. Meet some of the dogs firsthand during a guided tour of the dog yard, and cap your visit with a viewing of an award-winning documentary about Europe’s longest and toughest sled dog race.