Viking Oceans Cruises – Grand Fjords & Iconic Viking Shores (The Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, Svalbard and Jan Mayen Islands, Iceland, Greenland, Canada, United States) 36 Days From Amsterdam to New York City

Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Embark your ship and settle into your stateroom. A city of charming canals, elegant gabled houses, splendid museums and abundant bicycles, the Dutch capital of Amsterdam is a delight to explore. Its patchwork of waterways forms about 90 islands connected by 1,500 bridges. The legacy of the Dutch Golden Age lives on in gilded manses and in the lush paintings of Rembrandt and other Dutch masters that adorn the Rijksmuseum, The Netherlands’ grand repository of art and cultural history. Discovering Amsterdam is a pleasure best pursued on foot; visitors line the tranquil canals and linger over Dutch pancakes, or take a stroopwafel to go.

Sail the North Sea
Cross the North Sea, where Vikings sailed as they established colonies on Scottish islands, coastal France and beyond. Enjoy the amenities of your ship as you sail. Perhaps take a breath of fresh air on a brisk walk around the Promenade or begin your day with a workout in the well-equipped Fitness Center.

Skagen, Denmark
Skagen is a charming old seaside village nestled amid pristine dunes, picturesque moors and long sand beaches. During the Middle Ages, Skagen was known for its herring catch, and remains a major fishing center today. With the introduction of the railway, a group of impressionist painters discovered the area’s seascapes and soft evening light and journeyed here to found the Skagen Painters; their work is showcased at the small Skagens Museum. The lure of Skagen inspired royalty to visit: King Christian X was so taken with the setting that he built a summer residence here.

Shore Excursions – Skagen On Foot & the Museum of Local History
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Visit the small, picturesque fishing village of Skagen, Denmark’s northernmost town. Its origins can be traced back to the 13th century and for hundreds of years, the fishing trade has sustained this small community. Set out on foot from the cruise terminal to discover its treasures, journeying along the waterfront and past traditional fishing boats as your guide shares stories of Skagen’s maritime heritage. At Kystmuseet, the Museum of Local History, uncover more of the village’s past as you explore its exhibits—they offer insight into life in Skagen from the 18th century to the present. See replicas of traditional houses and a historic Hansa cutter boat, built in 1924. After, continue on foot through Skt. Laurentivej and Kappelborgvej, two of Skagen’s main thoroughfares. Return to your ship via shuttle, or spend time exploring more on your own.

Oslo, Norway
Oslo is one of Scandinavia’s most vibrant cities. Situated along the stunning Oslofjord and famed for its rich Viking heritage and maritime industries, it was founded by Norse King Harald III in 1040. The city is centered around the lively waterfront district, featuring a backdrop of forested hills and architectural gems, including the Oslo Opera House and the Munch Museum. Several other notable museums celebrate Oslo’s cultural treasures; perhaps the most renowned, the National Museum, is home to the largest collection of public paintings in Scandinavia.

Shore Excursions – Oslo Highlights & Vigeland Park
Duration: 3 hours
Take in Oslo’s eclectic blend of contemporary flair, rich history and scenic views. Meet your guide, board your motor coach and drive past the medieval Akershus Fortress, built during the 1290s by Norse king Håkon V. Pass by some of Oslo’s notable sites, including the Oslo Opera House, Nobel Peace Center, the Royal Palace and the Parliament building. Arrive at Holmenkollen, home to the world-famous ski jump set atop the city’s most prominent hill. This historic structure dates back to 1892. After time for photos, return to the city and set out to explore Vigeland Park, named after the sculptor whose work adorns this expansive green space. Your guide will accompany you on a stroll along its pathways to view some of the 200-plus stone and bronze sculptures depicting the human life cycle. After, return to your ship.

Kristiansand, Norway
Kristiansand boasts tidy streets, cozy harbors and small-town charm. The town’s Viking past can be traced in the runestones at the Oddernes Church, built in 1040 and dedicated to St. Olaf, patron saint of Norway. In the 17th century, King Christian IV ordered the Christiansholm Fortress to be built to defend the newly founded city. Today, the edifice is adjacent to an inviting harborside boardwalk. The city’s rich traditions are embodied in the old wooden houses of the Old Town and the stunning neo-Gothic cathedral.

Shore Excursions – Kristiansand by Foot
Duration: 2 hours
Explore the major sights and landmarks of charming Kristiansand during a leisurely walking excursion. Meet your guide and stroll through the historic streets as you learn about the town’s past. See interesting sights, such as the modernist Kilden Performing Arts Centre and Kunstilo Art Museum. Continue to Fiskebrygga, a former fish landing that now hosts colorful wooden buildings, restaurants, shops and a fish market. View Christiansholm Fortress, a fortification built in 1672 to defend the harbor; it still displays eight of its bronze cannons from the 17th and 18th centuries. Next, walk through a charming residential area where some of its white-painted houses date back to the 18th century. Pass by Kristiansand Cathedral; completed in 1885, this pale brick and concrete neo-Gothic style building is one of Norway’s largest churches. After, you will walk back to your ship.

Stavanger, Norway
Stavanger, set on Norway’s southwest coast, boasts a rich history dating to the end of the last ice age. Known as one of Europe’s most interesting old towns, Gamle Stavanger’s cobblestone streets are adorned with a collection of wooden buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries. Norway’s fourth largest city, it flourished early on, thanks to its strategic location and bountiful fjords. More recently, it has experienced an economic boom from offshore drilling, transforming from a tranquil town into a vibrant city, culminating in the European Capital of Culture honor in 2008.

Shore Excursions – Stavanger Walking Tour & Oil Museum
Duration: 2 hours
Get well acquainted with Stavanger and its beautifully preserved old town on this included tour. From our berth right in the heart of town, you can walk with ease to Gamle Stavanger, or Old Stavanger. In this attractive pedestrian district, stroll cobblestone streets among close to 250 buildings protected by a conservancy. They range in date from the 18th to the early 20th centuries and are considered the best kept wooden houses in Northern Europe. Destined for demolition during the 1950s, they were saved largely by the city’s architect, Einar Hedén. You will also visit the Norwegian Petroleum Museum. Browse its fascinating exhibits about geology, technology and harnessing the power of oil. You will learn about life on board oilrigs and the drama of everyday life at sea. After, linger in Stavanger at your leisure and return the short distance to your ship on your own.

Shore Excursions – Panoramic Stavanger
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Discover historic landmarks around Stavanger during a scenic drive, then learn about Norway’s petroleum industry. Your panoramic journey will take you past Ledaal Manor, the king’s residence when he visits the city, and into Hafrsfjord. Here, King Harald Fairhair defeated the regional princes to found the Kingdom of Norway in 872 AD; view the Swords in Rock monument, which commemorates this battle. See the 12th-century Sola Church and the famous Jåttåvågen Leaning Tower before stopping to admire Stavanger Cathedral’s impressive mix of Romanesque and Gothic flourishes. Cap your tour with a visit to the Norwegian Petroleum Museum. Browse its exhibits on geology, technology and harnessing the power of oil. Learn what it is like to live on an oil rig and the drama of everyday life at sea. Afterward, pass the charming Old Town and glimpse its picturesque wooden houses en route to your ship.

Flåm, Norway
The charming village of Flåm sits eight hours inland through the breathtaking Aurlandsfjord. It is world-renowned as one of the world’s most spectacularly scenic places and the gateway to sprawling green valleys dwarfed by towering peaks. These primeval mountains, glacial lakes and glorious waterfalls were sculpted during the Ice Age. The landscape around Flåm is dramatically steep and the town is the starting point of the world-renowned Flåm Railway, which chugs through the magnificent scenery of Norway, past roaring waterfalls and breathtaking vistas.

Shore Excursions – The Surroundings of Flåm
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Marvel at the stunning landscape of a Norwegian fjord from a viewpoint high above the Aurlandsfjord. Take a drive along the waterway, enjoying views of this narrow fjord’s steep mountains—some reaching nearly 6,000 feet—and deep waters. Stop at a church in the original village of Flåm and learn about the local history. After taking a switchback, you will reach Stegastein Viewpoint. Set between Aurland and Laerdal, the viewpoint is a 100-foot-long laminated wood ramp that sits more than 2,000 feet above the fjord. Its design expresses a desire to lift visitors out into open space and enhance their experience. Breathe in the fresh air and admire the panoramic views of the fjord and the village of Aurland beneath you. After time for photos, descend to Aurland, a charming village nestled between the shores of the fjord and towering mountains, before returning to your ship.

Bergen, Norway
Bergen is home to the Hanseatic League’s only kontor (trading enclave) still in existence. Bryggen wharf, a row of timbered Hanseatic warehouses along a quaint quay, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Narrow wooden walkways are flanked by parallel rows of small, vibrantly painted buildings overlooking the picturesque Vågen Harbor. This is perhaps the most charming district of Bergen and a delight to explore, from its tight-knit community of workshops where artisans sell their wares to its cafés where freshly prepared smørbrød, or open-faced sandwiches, are on the menu. Bid farewell to your fellow guests and journey home. Or spend more time exploring, perhaps joining one of our extensions.

Shore Excursions – Panoramic Bergen
Duration: 2 hours
Discover the main sights of Bergen during a panoramic drive and a leisurely walk. Founded in 1070 AD, Bergen features many historic sites, including the medieval King Haakon’s Hall, the Rosenkrantz Tower, the bustling fish market and the Nordnes Peninsula, with its 19th-century white painted wooden houses. During a scenic drive, see these and more, pausing to take a photo stop at Nordnes to admire the views over Bergen Harbor. At the National Stage, disembark your motor coach and walk downhill to Festplassen, passing the statue of Ole Bull before arriving in Bryggen. Hear interesting stories from your guide about Bergen’s colorful past as you admire the picturesque wooden buildings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afterward, you may return to your ship via motor coach, or explore the district and return independently on your own.

Bergen, Norway
Bergen, an ancient city with deep Viking roots, is located in the heart of western Norway, nestled between seven gargantuan mountain peaks. It is also the gateway to the country’s magnificent fjords, including the Hardangerfjord and Sognefjord. Founded in 1070 on what was a Viking settlement, Bergen was Norway’s capital during the 13th century; today, it is the second-largest city in Norway. Not to be missed is a stroll through the picturesque outdoor fish market, Fisketorget, where the fresh catch of the sea awaits—from cod and prawns to local caviar and icy oysters.

Shore Excursions – Panoramic Bergen
Duration: 2 hours
Discover the main sights of Bergen during a panoramic drive and a leisurely walk. Founded in 1070 AD, Bergen features many historic sites, including the medieval King Haakon’s Hall, the Rosenkrantz Tower, the bustling fish market and the Nordnes Peninsula, with its 19th-century white painted wooden houses. During a scenic drive, see these and more, pausing to take a photo stop at Nordnes to admire the views over Bergen Harbor. At the National Stage, disembark your motor coach and walk downhill to Festplassen, passing the statue of Ole Bull before arriving in Bryggen. Hear interesting stories from your guide about Bergen’s colorful past as you admire the picturesque wooden buildings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afterward, you may return to your ship via motor coach, or explore the district and return independently on your own.

Geiranger, Norway
Geiranger is the gateway to some of coastal Norway’s most magnificent natural treasures. Nearby, the Seven Sisters Waterfall tumbles 1,000 feet into the fjord’s water, while directly across the fjord, the Suitor Waterfall also plunges down a steep face. The overlook known as Eagle’s Bend towers 2,000 feet above the village, accessed via a winding mountain road with 11 hairpin turns. The Norwegian Fjord Center puts all this natural splendor into perspective with fascinating exhibits.

Shore Excursions – Eagle’s Bend Overlook & Panoramic Drive
Duration: 3 hours
Witness Geiranger’s pristine majesty as you ascend to the heights of Geirangerfjord on a magnificent drive. You will meet your guide at the berth and drive up a winding road to Eagle’s Bend viewpoint, passing through 11 breathtaking hairpin turns. At the road’s pinnacle, you will witness the spectacular scenery that has earned Geirangerfjord status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Later, you will drive to Flydalsjuvet viewpoint for more impressive views. After a photo stop, continue into the green Flydal Valley to the high mountain plateau at Djupvatn Lake. Its gorgeous waters shimmer in the Norwegian sun. Afterward, you will return to your ship.

Scenic Sailing: Norwegian Inside Passage
The Norwegian Inside Passage is a protected shipping lane that runs from Norway’s capital of Oslo, down the Skagerrak coast and around the country’s southern tip. It continues north along the coastline of the Norwegian Sea, before eventually terminating in the Russian waters of Siberia. It has been used by mariners for centuries, its channels protected from the dangers of the open water by countless skerries and the rugged coastline presenting opportunities for shelter in its many natural bays and inlets.

Narvik, Norway
Narvik is situated on the innermost shores of the Ofotfjorden, within the Arctic Circle. The small town enjoys a dramatic backdrop, encircled by mountains and a glacier that spills right to the water’s edge. The town served as a port city for the early Viking settlers. Much later, the discovery of iron ore in the nearby Swedish town of Kiruna forever shaped Narvik. Kiruna needed a year-round ice-free port from which to ship its new discovery, and so a rail link was built directly to the water. Still today, Narvik is a major exporter.

Shore Excursions – Panoramic Skjomen
Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
Gaze upon the stunning sights of Skjomen during a panoramic drive to see some of its most dramatic landscapes. Meet your guide, board your motor coach and set off to trace the scenic coastline of the vast Ofotfjord, admiring its impressive mountains. The calm waters of the fjord, framed by lush green slopes, were the location for many of the naval conflicts during the Battles of Narvik in World War II; some of the sunken ships remain on its seabed. Next, turn into Skjomen, an inlet that hosts towering mountains—reaching up to 5,600 feet—and the imposing Frostisen glacier; popular with skiers and hikers, it is renowned for its beautiful yet challenging environment. Drive up to Reinneset, an outlook that allows for a breathtaking view of the sweeping landscapes that surround you. After time for photos, reboard your coach and return to your awaiting ship.

Lofoten (Leknes), Norway
The Lofoten Islands stretch 118 miles into the Norwegian Sea from Norway’s coast. Ships in the archipelago’s cozy fishing harbors are dwarfed by the hulking massifs rising from the waters. The setting was ideal for Norse settlements in the early Viking Age. Cod has long been harvested from these waters as they come here to spawn. More recently, the fish have been caught from traditional rorbus, charming cottages that hover above the waters on stilts. The Lofoten Islands are beautiful any time of year, but the summertime midnight sun illuminates their magnificent glory.

Shore Excursions – Scenic Lofoten & Seafood Visitor Center
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Learn about modern fishing practices with Lofoten’s stunning mountains as a backdrop. Travel through this beautiful landscape of towering mountains and fishing villages to arrive at the Lofoten Seafood Center. Meet your guide and walk to the Stockfish house to learn about this ancient food preservation technique and see how the fish are dried using only cold air and wind. Stroll by the drying racks to get an up-close look at the final product before returning to the center, where you will enjoy free time to explore the main exhibit that focuses on salmon farming, from the hatchery to the supermarket. After, return to your motor coach and drive to Haukland Beach, where you can admire the stunning views of the mountains that rise up out of the sea before returning to your awaiting ship.

Tromsø, Norway
Tromsø is Norway’s most northerly city and has long been considered the gateway to the Arctic. During the summer months, pretty wooden houses exude an air of sophistication as they bask beneath the glow of the midnight sun. Winter brings pristine landscapes surrounded by snowcapped peaks and the aurora borealis, whose magical lights dance across the nighttime skies. World-renowned explorers have set sail from Tromsø’s shores; Roald Amundsen, Norway’s first son and the first explorer to reach both poles, is commemorated with a bronze statue in the city.

Shore Excursions – Panoramic Tromsø
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Take in the sights of Tromsø’s natural beauty and unique structures amid its island setting and winter landscapes. Meet your local guide and drive through the city known as the “Gateway to the Arctic”—a starting point for many Arctic expeditions. Tromsø boasts the largest concentration of wooden houses in northern Norway, built here until 1904 at which point wood construction was banned for fear of fire. Throughout the city, you will see classic architecture mingling with modern buildings, including the stunning Arctic Cathedral. With its soaring white roofline, it has been compared to the Sydney Opera House. View its triangular interior, a stunning vision in white and icy blue, then continue to the Science Centre of Northern Norway. Here, in the darkened planetarium, you will see the northern lights during a breathtaking documentary before returning to your awaiting ship.

Honningsvåg, Norway
Honningsvåg overlooks a pristine bay of the Barents Sea on Magerøya Island. This unassuming enclave grew mainly on the fishing industry, like so many in this remote region. Honningsvåg has ample charms, including a rich Sami culture and a deep love of the birdlife that lives here. But it is the surrounding beauty that draws visitors: starkly beautiful tundra dotted with mountain birch trees, distant rocky islands and rolling slopes that ascend into mountains. One of Europe’s most stunning natural sights, Nordkapp, or North Cape, rises on the island’s rugged northern coast.

Shore Excursions – Drive to North Cape
Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes
Take in glorious vistas along Europe’s far northern shores and enjoy an independent visit at Nordkapp (North Cape). You will meet your motor coach at our berth and transfer approximately one hour to one of Europe’s most stunning natural sights. Located on the reaches of Magerøya Island where the Norwegian and Barents Seas meet, the cliffs of Nordkapp rise more than 1,000 feet from the sea waters and are topped by a large, flat plateau. Upon arrival, you will have time to take in its spectacular vista of barren tundra. You will have a chance to visit the North Cape Hall, which chronicles the history of the region. Spend time on your own, perhaps visiting the small ecumenical St. John’s Chapel. An excellent film at the visitors’ center depicts the region through the seasons. If you prefer, simply find yourself the perfect overlook and ponder your journey.

Sail the Barents Sea
Named for 16th-century Dutch navigator and polar explorer Willem Barentsz, the Barents Sea is the gateway to the Arctic from the northernmost shores of Europe and home to an astonishing diversity of marine life. As you sail, take advantage of the array of delicious cuisine offered on board. You may visit Mamsen’s, our casual gourmet deli, any time from early morning to late at night for a taste of traditional Norwegian fare. Or, dine at Manfredi’s and savor an authentic Italian meal, with options ranging from Milanese risotto to Tuscan inspired classics.  

Longyearbyen, Svalbard and Jan Mayen Islands
Svalbard’s setting is marked by stunning fjords, mountain peaks and thick glaciers that have formed over millennia, while Alkhornet mountain and its looming cliffs date back more than one billion years. Wildlife flock to this stark landscape during the summer—puffins, polar guillemot and kittiwake descend en masse each year. The Svalbard Museum showcases the vast array of special plant and animal life that reside here, as well as everyday life for its human residents, from the arrival of the whalers during the 17th century to present-day miners.

Shore Excursions – Highlights of Longyearbyen
Duration: 2 hours
Discover what life in the Arctic is like during a drive through Longyearbyen and a visit to the Svalbard Museum. Founded by American businessman John Longyear as a mining town, the capital city of the Svalbard archipelago is now home to approximately 1,800 residents—many of whom are still employed by the mining industry. Get an impression of everyday life in this unforgiving environment as you travel past residential homes, schools and the hospital en route to the museum. Dedicated to showcasing the interplay between people and nature in the Arctic, the museum is a repository of natural and cultural history. Through models, reconstructed environments and authentic artifacts, gain insight into the story of Svalbard, from 17th-century whalers to present-day mining, research and tourism. After time to view the exhibits you will return to your ship.

Longyearbyen, Svalbard and Jan Mayen Islands
Explore the stunning beauty of the Svalbard archipelago, hundreds of Norwegian islands halfway between Norway and the North Pole. Stunning panoramas unfold here—dramatic fjords lead into glimmering bays surrounded by massive glaciers and rugged peaks cloaked in snow. The austere tundra unfolds to an Arctic desert where polar bear, Arctic fox and reindeer roam. Many regions have been designated Important Bird Areas by BirdLife International for the countless winged creatures that breed and hunt along the coast. Its endless wonders can be explored by zodiac, kayak and land.

Shore Excursions – Highlights of Longyearbyen
Duration: 2 hours
Discover what life in the Arctic is like during a drive through Longyearbyen and a visit to the Svalbard Museum. Founded by American businessman John Longyear as a mining town, the capital city of the Svalbard archipelago is now home to approximately 1,800 residents—many of whom are still employed by the mining industry. Get an impression of everyday life in this unforgiving environment as you travel past residential homes, schools and the hospital en route to the museum. Dedicated to showcasing the interplay between people and nature in the Arctic, the museum is a repository of natural and cultural history. Through models, reconstructed environments and authentic artifacts, gain insight into the story of Svalbard, from 17th-century whalers to present-day mining, research and tourism. After time to view the exhibits you will return to your ship.

Sail the Norwegian Sea
Journey to what was once believed to be the “end of the world,” where sea monsters lurked and ships were lost on treacherous waters. As you sail today, savor a range of international cuisine on board. Choose from a variety of international flavors at the World Café, enjoy al fresco dining on the Aquavit Terrace, or regional specialties in The Restaurant.

ĺsafjördur, Iceland
ĺsafjördur was founded in the 9th century by the Viking Helgi Magri Hrólfsson. Foreign merchants arrived in the 16th century and set up trading posts here. Today, ĺsafjördur is home to one of the largest fisheries in Iceland and, despite its remote locale, boasts a cultural scene rich in music and drama. The oldest house in Iceland is here, built in 1734, as is the country’s largest concentration of old timber-frame homes. Many visitors explore farther afield, delving into the surrounding wilderness of Hornstrandir or discover the fishing heritage of charming coastal towns.

Shore Excursions – Ísafjördur & Bolungarvík Village
Duration: 2 hours
Discover the wild beauty of Iceland’s northwest corner, and the culture and history of the region’s small towns. Embark on a scenic drive around Ísafjördur, the principal town of the Westfjords peninsula. Surrounded by mountains that offer endless opportunities to enjoy nature and wilderness during all seasons of the year, the town is also known throughout the country for its rich cultural life. The fishing industry, however, has traditionally been the mainstay of the town and surrounding municipality, known as Ísafjardarbaer. Visit the Ósvör Maritime Museum, a fascinating replica of an old fishing outpost that offers a glimpse of how life treated the Icelandic fishermen until the beginning of the 20th century. Continue to Bolungarvík and enjoy a guided tour of the village before returning to Ísafjördur.

Reykjavík, Iceland
Reykjavík is the world’s northernmost capital city yet captures the distinctive feel of a fishing village. The Kentucky-sized island is Europe’s westernmost nation and one of the wildest places on earth. It is also lauded as one of the cleanest and most civilized countries, committed to finding the perfect balance between day-to-day living and harnessing its natural resources with eco-friendly practices. Vikings landed on this pristine land during the 9th century; their arrival is well chronicled in the medieval Sagas preserved at the Culture House.

Heimaey, Iceland
Heimaey is the only populated island in the Westman Islands. The scenery is stunning with its volcanic landscapes, moss-covered clifftops and picturesque homes with brightly colored rooftops. A number of breathtaking natural sights are a result of the volcanic eruption that took place here in 1973, which saw the evacuation of all 5,000 residents to the mainland. Each summer, millions of puffins pay a visit and countless other species migrate here to feed and breed. Several efforts are underway to protect the wealth of wildlife, from puffins to the gentle giants of the sea.

Shore Excursions – Heimaey On Foot
Duration: 2 hours
Get a deeper understanding of the geology of Heimaey and visit the Eldheimar Museum. Meet your guide at the pier and set off on foot as you explore the island’s nature. During your walk, your guide will explain the recent volcanic activity, including the story of the last eruption that took place in 1973 less than a mile from the town of Heimaey. On this eventful night, all 5,000 inhabitants had to evacuate the island and escape to the mainland. Hear the story of how the local townspeople rebuilt their island from the ground up and witness the result of their efforts. Stop at the Eldheimar Museum and view the moving collection of photographs that showcase the memories of the people from Heimaey. After your tour, return to your awaiting ship.

Shore Excursions – Snapshots of Heimaey
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Enjoy a panoramic tour of the island of Heimaey and visit the Eldheimar Museum. Embark on a scenic drive with your guide and see the main sights. Marvel at the towering cliffs—home to multitudes of puffin, fulmar and guillemot, and the natural harbor below. Fishing has played an integral role in the lives of local residents since their arrival on this isle; today you will learn about how they continue to make their living from the sea. Stop at the Eldheimar Museum and learn about the volcanic eruption that struck the island on January 23, 1973. View the exhibits that showcase the events that took place and hear the story of how the local townspeople rebuilt their community. After your tour return to your awaiting ship.

Djúpivogur, Iceland
Djúpivogur lies on Iceland’s east coast and has been a trading center since the 16th century. The town is presided over by the towering Búlandstindur; a mountain famed in local folklore for its ability to grant wishes during the summer solstice. Dotted around the town, several cultural sights can be explored, including The Tank and the Eggs of Merry Bay. Residents here favor embracing a slower pace of life. The town has adopted the cultural trend known as “Cittaslow” which is dedicated to the promotion of sustainable living, improving the quality of life for its residents.

Shore Excursions – Cultural Sights of Djúpivogur
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Explore the cultural sights of Djúpivogur and its local displays of art. See the famous Eggs of Merry Bay, a set of sculptures that showcase the eggs of 34 bird species that nest along the coastlines of Iceland. Continue your stroll to The Tank, a disused storage facility that once held locally produced fish liver oil. Now, it is a celebrated cultural venue that supports local musicians and artists, and boasts unique acoustic features—step inside the tank and exercise your vocal cords to see for yourself. Pass one of the town’s art galleries, Bones, Sticks and Stones, where collections of stones and minerals are used to create wonderful handicrafts. You will also walk past Langabúð; now the town’s heritage museum, it is the oldest building in the village, built in 1790. After your tour, return to your awaiting ship.

Seydisfjördur, Iceland
Seydisfjördur enjoys a mountainous setting at the end of a fjord. It traces its origins to the early days of Viking settlements. Though the town is tiny, it boasts an impressive history. It hosted the world’s first modern whaling station and pioneered international communications when it welcomed the first telegraph cable, linking Iceland to Europe. Colorful wooden homes line the streets, overseen by starkly picturesque slopes and the soaring summits of Mounts Bjólfur and Strandartindur.

Shore Excursions – Seydisfjördur on Foot & Viking Festival
Duration: 2 hours
Venture out on foot during a stroll around picturesque Seydisfjördur and enjoy the Viking Festival. Meet your knowledgeable guide at the pier where you will set out for a leisurely walk. Stroll amid colorful streets and view the striking Blue Church as your guide explains more about the town’s culture. Brimming with creativity and rich in history, the town boasts a flourishing arts scene. Gain insight during a visit to the Herðubreið Community Center, where you will enjoy a musical performance of traditional Icelandic songs. You will also admire art exhibits showcasing works by local artists; various display pieces are available to for you to purchase, should you wish. Cap your tour with a tasting of typical Icelandic cuisine, before returning to your awaiting ship.

Akureyri, Iceland
Nicknamed the “Capital of the North,” Akureyri is set at the end of the Eyjafjördur and enjoys a mild climate, unusual for a northern city just 62 miles from the Arctic Circle. Folk culture is robust in Akureyri; the Vefarinn dance was invented here to celebrate the harvest. Other points of pride include the Public Park and Botanic Garden, where some 2,000 plant species grow, and the hilltop Akureyrarkirkja, the local church that is home to a stained glass window that originated in a church in London, England, prior to World War II.

Shore Excursions – Panoramic Akureyri
Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
Enjoy the fjord setting and alpine backdrop of Akureyri, one of the most attractive Icelandic towns. You will be welcomed at the dock by your knowledgeable local guide to Iceland’s undisputed “Capital of the North.” Influences of its Danish trading past prevail, evident in the many contrasts in the town’s varied architecture. Pass by Akureyri Church; one of the town’s proud symbols, which houses many interesting artifacts including a stained glass window above the altar that was part of a set originating in England before being brought to Akureyri for safekeeping during World War II. Explore the historic midtown area and continue to Akureyri’s Public Park and Botanic Garden; the excellent botanical garden was opened within the park’s grounds in 1957. Two thousand species of local and foreign flowers grow here thanks to Akureyri’s warm microclimate.

ĺsafjördur, Iceland
Ísafjördur, nestled at the foot of dramatic mountain slopes, is the capital and largest settlement on the Westfjords, a large peninsula in northwestern Iceland that is connected to the mainland by a wide isthmus. This rugged, unspoiled region is home to landscapes of breathtaking natural beauty, from jagged mountain peaks, to red- and gold-sand beaches, cascading waterfalls and Drangajökull, Iceland’s only expanding glacier. The Westfjords teem with birdlife; Látrabjarg, located on the peninsula’s western shores, is the site of one of Europe’s largest bird cliffs.

Shore Excursions – Ísafjördur & Bolungarvík Village
Duration: 2 hours
Discover the wild beauty of Iceland’s northwest corner, and the culture and history of the region’s small towns. Embark on a scenic drive around Ísafjördur, the principal town of the Westfjords peninsula. Surrounded by mountains that offer endless opportunities to enjoy nature and wilderness during all seasons of the year, the town is also known throughout the country for its rich cultural life. The fishing industry, however, has traditionally been the mainstay of the town and surrounding municipality, known as Ísafjardarbaer. Visit the Ósvör Maritime Museum, a fascinating replica of an old fishing outpost that offers a glimpse of how life treated the Icelandic fishermen until the beginning of the 20th century. Continue to Bolungarvík and enjoy a guided tour of the village before returning to Ísafjördur.

Sail the Atlantic Ocean
Sail the Atlantic Ocean, divided in half, north to south, by the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Longer than the Rockies, the Himalayas and the Andes combined, this underwater mountain range is the longest on Earth. As you sail, explore our well-curated Library, tucked in a private alcove of the Living Room, and select from a broad range of titles. Read a book by the Main Pool, a calming oasis in any weather with its retractable roof, allowing for year-round swimming.

Nanortalik, Greenland
Nanortalik is nestled on an island near the mouth of a fjord on the southwestern shores of Greenland. It was established in 1770, though a small group of Vikings led by Erik the Red first arrived in the 10th century and called it “Grœnland,” or Greenland, in hopes of attracting more settlers. Today, the Inuit people dominate this austere and picturesque landscape and hold fast to their long Inuit traditions by fishing for crab, hunting hooded seals and welcoming visitors with a festive kaffe–mik, a coffee party with plenty of their famed Greenlandic cake.

Shore Excursions – Nanortalik & Its Fascinating Museum
Duration: 2 hours
Experience the tranquil setting of Nanortalik at your leisure, and visit the open air Nanortalik Museum. You will disembark amid starkly beautiful vistas, a treeless landscape near the mouth of the Tasermiut Fjord overlooked by the dramatic contours of towering peaks. Stroll through the charming streets at your own pace and step inside the quaint wooden Nanortalik Church for a choir performance that captures the warmth and spirit of the local community. In the old colonial port, visit the open air Nanortalik Museum, one of the most interesting museums in Greenland. As you walk among old trade buildings on the harbor, observe the simplicity of life in the Danish colony that thrived here during the 19th and 20th centuries. You will also enjoy tales of exploration and a performance of traditional drum dancing, that brings Inuit heritage to life.

Qaqortoq, Greenland
Qaqortoq is a repository of Viking, Inuit and Danish history. Greenland’s largest and best-preserved Viking settlement lies 12 miles out of town at Hvalsey, established by Erik the Red’s uncle in the 10th century. The Inuit soon followed, and left behind many artifacts from their early days. The Danish colonial era, too, is finely reflected in historic buildings, including an 1804 blacksmith’s shop and the harborside 1797 black tar log building. Qaqortoq lends itself to leisurely strolls and its spectacular setting attracts outdoor enthusiasts.

Shore Excursions – Qaqortoq On Your Own
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Explore the history, culture and lifestyle of coastal Greenland during a self-guided walking tour. Map in hand, you will explore this tiny town, meeting local guides at various points. From your ship, walk to the Old Church, or “Annaasisup Oqaluffia,” built in 1832. Inside, admire paintings from the mid-19th-century. Pause by the town’s fountain, where a local guide will share insight on lnuit culture as you stroll past recreations of the stone-and-peat houses. Reach your next guide by the “Stone and Man” sculptures; around 30 are dotted around the town, each carved by local artists. At the community hall, learn about Norse history and modern Greenland’s evolution. Two museums will offer the opportunity to delve deeper into this fascinating region and its heritage: the Qaqortoq Museum and the Viking Museum. Visit both at your leisure, before returning to your ship.

Sail the Labrador Sea
Follow in the footsteps of intrepid Viking Leif Eriksson who famously crossed this stretch of water to become the first European to land on North American shores. Meet fellow guests and listen to the soothing sounds of classical music in the Living Room, an ideal setting for relaxation. Enjoy a cup of coffee or sip on a refreshing cocktail. 

L’Anse aux Meadows, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
L’Anse aux Meadows is the site of the first Norse settlement in the Americas. Leif Eriksson’s voyage from Greenland in the late 10th century predated Columbus by 500 years. Proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978, the ancient village Eriksson founded provides fascinating insight into the day-to-day lives of Vikings. Each of its dwellings was constructed of a wood frame covered in sod. The site was uncovered in 1960, when a village local pointed out a series of mounds in the earth that he and his neighbors had always believed to be an ancient Native American camp.

Shore Excursions – Viking Experience
Duration: 3 hours
Visit the remarkable ancient settlement founded by Vikings more than 1,000 years ago. Here, at L’Anse aux Meadows, Leif Eriksson, son of Erik the Red, was the first European to set foot on American soil. The Viking originally called his discovery “Vinland,” which many believe translates from Old Norse into “land of meadows.” Enjoy a self-guided visit of this finely restored village, gaining immeasurable insight into what life was like for the continent’s first Norse explorers. Park’s Canada representatives will be located throughout the site to answer your questions as you view sod houses, constructed of soil packed over wooden frames, and see evidence of carpentry and ironsmith workshops. En route back to your ship, stop to visit the recreated Viking village of Norstead to learn more about life in these northern reaches one millennium ago.

Sail the Gulf of St. Lawrence
Follow in the footsteps of 10th-century Vikings and sail the vast Gulf of St. Lawrence, an outlet for the North American Great Lakes into the Atlantic Ocean via the St. Lawrence Seaway. As you sail today, attend an informative lecture or watch a film in our state-of-the-art theater. A range of insightful TED Talks and destination-inspired seminars are offered daily.

Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
Halifax exudes a fine European air and lies along the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors by sea are greeted by the 1758 Sambro Island Lighthouse, the oldest surviving beacon in North America. In the harborside Historic Properties district, grand and charming stone buildings built in the 18th and 19th centuries grace the cobblestone streets. The city grew up around Citadel Hill, where Fort George protected the harbor. The fortress, along with the adjacent stately Halifax Town Clock, has been gloriously restored and preserved.

Shore Excursions – Sightseeing Hop-On/Hop-Off by Double-Decker
Duration: 1 hour
See historic treasures of Halifax on a hop-on/hop-off tour that lets you explore the sights that most interest you. You will meet one of the city’s distinctive double-decker tour buses at our berth. Its 60-minute loop takes you around the city, stopping at top attractions including the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site and the Public Gardens. Along the way, you will learn about Halifax’s fascinating history and culture from onboard local guides. Stay onboard for the full narrated loop, or alight your bus as you please to explore further. You might choose to peruse the excellent exhibits at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, or stop at the Fairview Lawn Cemetery to learn about the final resting place of more than 100 victims of the RMS Titanic. Admission costs to the city’s various venues is not included. At the end of your excursion, you will return to your awaiting ship.

Sail the Atlantic Ocean
Sail legendary waters, where medieval Europeans believed “there be dragons” beyond the ocean’s horizon. Renew your body, mind and spirit in our Scandinavian-inspired Spa, a Nordic sanctuary of holistic wellness, today while at sea. Whether you unwind in the Sauna, refresh in the Snow Grotto or take a dip in the Thermal Pool, you will feel recharged and revitalized.

New York City, New York, United States
Bid farewell to your fellow guests and journey home. Or spend more time exploring, perhaps joining one of our extensions.