Viking Oceans Cruises – Into the Midnight Sun (Norway, Scotland, England) 15 Days

Bergen, Norway
Embark your ship and settle into your stateroom. 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.

Take in more of Bergen’s Norwegian charms today. In the city’s Old Town, explore narrow cobblestone lanes and peer into shop windows. You’ll find this Hanseatic haven to be a walker’s delight. You might also spend time on the ship today, perhaps indulging in a treatment at The Spa or settling in with a good book in the Explorers’ Lounge.

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.

Shore Excursions – Bergen on Foot
Duration: 2 hours
Explore Bergen’s historic sights during an invigorating walking excursion. Meet your guide at the pier and set off on foot to Bergenhus Fortress, one of Norway’s best-preserved fortifications. Pass the Rosenkrantz Tower and arrive at Bryygen to admire its picturesque wooden buildings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hear interesting stories from your guide about Bergen’s colorful past as you get acquainted with this Hanseatic town. Formerly the capital of Norway, Norwegian kings once resided here. Bergen owed its wealth and prominence to the fish export trade, which has been at the heart of the town since the Middle Ages. Head to Festplassen to its music pavilion, and continue your walk, pausing to see the old telegraph, the historic post office and to admire the quaint residences. Afterward, walk back to your ship.

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.

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. 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.

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
Witness the unique structures and natural beauty of Tromsø amid its stunning 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. Admire 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, marvel at the northern lights during a breathtaking documentary. Afterward, return to your ship via the Tromsø Bridge.

Shore Excursions – Tromsø on Foot
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Take a walk around Tromsø and enjoy the sights of the “Gateway to the Arctic.” Set off on foot from the harbor and take in the picturesque sites at the water’s edge. Admire the mix of architectural styles, blending old with new, and glimpse the modern facade of the Arctic Cathedral, nicknamed the “Opera House of Norway” due to its resemblance to the Sydney Opera House. Continue to Skansen and view Tromsø’s oldest house, then stroll down Storgata, the city’s pedestrian street, where you can browse the windows of the boutique stores. Pass the iconic Raketten, a quaint establishment that is one of Norway’s smallest bars, and stop to see the statue of the polar explorer Roald Amundsen. On the walk back to your ship, pause to admire the Tromsø Cathedral, Norway’s only wooden cathedral, and stroll past the MS Polstjerna, a historic sealing vessel.

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 Norwegian Sea
The Norwegian Sea is known for the bounty of seafood it has provided since medieval times. Norwegians still catch cod here and serve it fresh and flaky—far more delicious than the dried and preserved fish made by their ancestors. 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.

Shetland Islands (Lerwick), Scotland
The Shetland Islands are characterized by cultural traditions and dramatic landscapes. An incredibly scenic land, this archipelago is one of Scotland’s most remote island outposts. Lerwick is a gateway to some of the Shetland Islands’ most beloved residents—the Shetland pony. These diminutive equines can grow up to 46 inches in height and are distinguished by their short, shiny coat in the summer, and thick double coat in the winter, with a long mane and tail. These delightful ponies can be seen grazing and roaming freely throughout the archipelago.

Shore Excursions – Shetland Panorama & Ponies
Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
Gain insight into the Shetland Islands while learning about Shetland ponies and admiring striking landscapes. Enjoy a photo stop from above Scalloway Castle, overlooking the harbor below, before visiting a Shetland pony breeder and enthusiast. Small ponies have existed in the Shetland Islands for more than 2,000 years; the ponies are thought to have been in domestic use since the Bronze Age. Learn more about how these miniature ponies are bred and used today. Travel north through the Tingwall Valley, with its Norse heritage, before heading through the peat- and heather-covered landscape to Girlsta, with its beautiful freshwater lochs and hillside scenery. Drive through Whiteness on the Atlantic coast to Wormadale for the chance to photograph many of the islands of the Shetland archipelago. Hear more about Shetland culture and heritage on the way back to your ship.

Orkney Islands (Kirkwall), Scotland
The history of the Scottish Orkney Islands dates back millennia. Neolithic remains, including the ancient site of Brodgar, predate Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. The 13th-century Norse Orkneyinga Saga told of Vikings who ruled here. Later, the earls took over, and the French Renaissance palace that remains is a legacy to their grandeur. Another castle, Balfour, stands regally in a stark landscape. While the northern Europeans greatly influenced this hauntingly beautiful archipelago, consider the Italian Chapel, built by the hands of Italian prisoners during wartime.

Shore Excursions – Highlights of Historic Orkney
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Pass through gentle rolling landscapes into the Heart of Neolithic Orkney and visit a charming seaside village. Meet your local guide and embark on a scenic drive to the Ring of Brodgar, the finest known circular stone ring from the early Bronze Age. This ceremonial circle of 27 remaining standing stones is almost 5,000 years old and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After free time to ponder, continue your journey to the quaint village of Stromness; after a brief orientation, spend free time exploring the picturesque harbor and pretty flag-stoned street of this seafaring town. Visit the beautifully refurbished Pier Arts Center, with exhibitions by both local and international artists, or explore the craft shops selling local knitwear, pottery and artwork. Return to your motor coach and continue on this circular route, following the coastline of Scapa Flow.

Edinburgh (New Haven Harbour), Scotland
Edinburgh has been Scotland’s capital since the 15th century, despite the fact that the Union of the Crowns moved it to London in 1603. There is no capital quite like Edinburgh, with its gorgeous setting on green rocky hillocks and splendid views of the sea. Edinburgh Castle, home of the Scottish Crown Jewels and countless medieval treasures, overlooks the city from Castle Rock. The Royal Mile unfurls Edinburgh’s architectural gems in all their finery, from the Canongate to St. Giles’s Cathedral to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Scottish residence of British royalty.

Shore Excursions – Edinburgh Highlights & National Museum of Scotland
Duration: 3 hours
Venture into the heart of Scotland’s capital during a panoramic drive and visit the National Museum. Board your motor coach and set out to discover the city. Travel through the New Town, which originated in the 18th century as a residential district composed of a grid five streets deep and seven streets wide, with grand squares at each end. See its characteristic Georgian architecture as you traverse Princes Street, the main shopping boulevard and heart of the city, and journey along the medieval Royal Mile. One of the most iconic streets in Scotland, the Royal Mile links the famed Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Later, call at the National Museum of Scotland, where you will explore exhibits and displays spanning Scottish history, world cultures, science and technology, nature and more. After, return to your coach for the journey back to your ship.

Shore Excursions – Panoramic Edinburgh & the Forth Bridge
Duration: 3 hours
Embark on a panoramic journey through Edinburgh and view the UNESCO-listed Forth Bridge. Begin your excursion with a scenic drive through Scotland’s capital. Travel through the elegant Georgian-style New Town, once a residential district for Edinburgh’s upper-class and now a cultural hub and thriving commercial district. See the medieval Royal Mile, linking Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, one of the King’s official Scottish residences, and pause for photographs at West Princes Street Gardens. Continue to South Queensferry, set on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth, where you can take in the views of the Forth Bridge. This Victorian cantilever railway bridge was one of the longest in the world at the time of its completion in 1890 and was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015. Enjoy time for photographs, then return to your ship.

Sail the North Sea
Cross the North Sea, where Vikings sailed as they established colonies on Scottish islands, coastal France and beyond. 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.  

London (Greenwich), England
Greenwich, a borough of London, is home to the Royal Observatory. From here, the world’s longitude is measured from the prime meridian, and Greenwich Mean Time sets the global time standard. At the port, the clipper ship Cutty Sark, one of Greenwich’s renowned historic landmarks, is preserved as a fascinating museum. Upriver, London is home to Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. In addition, this major economic and cultural hub boasts a long tradition of arts and architectural innovation—from Shakespeare’s Globe Theater to West End musicals.

Shore Excursions – Royal Greenwich by Foot
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Discover Greenwich’s maritime and royal history by foot. You will join your guide for a walk that will take you past the famous Cutty Sark, the world’s only surviving tea clipper and the fastest sailing ship in the world when it was built in 1869, and the Greenwich Market, an eclectic mix of arts and crafts, and street food. Continue on to St. Alfege Church, dedicated to the archbishop of Canterbury who was killed on this spot in 1012 and where Henry VIII was baptized. Then, stop for photos at the Queen’s House, the first classical building built in England. See the National Maritime Museum, housed in a former royal palace and the world’s largest seafaring museum, and the iconic Old Royal Naval College, the architectural centerpiece of Maritime Greenwich, before returning to your ship.

London (Greenwich), England
Bid farewell to your fellow guests and journey home. Or spend more time exploring, perhaps joining one of our extensions.