Danielle Fear
By Danielle Fear
JULY 09, 2024

Norway Destination Overview

Norway, a former European Capital of Culture, is a fascinating land. To truly appreciate everything it has to offer, you must visit during the winter and summer months. The contrast is significant, with the landscape and activity options changing dramatically between the two.

I’ve visited Norway numerous times and travelled into the Arctic Circle to ports such as Tromso and Alta, and I’m never disappointed. For me, the winter months are the most exciting because I enjoy the outdoor activities that are best and, in some cases, only able to be experienced at this time of year. These include husky sledging through the snow, chasing the Aurora Borealis on a crisp winter night and reindeer sledging across frozen rivers and lakes with the Sami people.

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Map

Norway Map

Norway Port Guides

 

 

When and how to Travel

Spring has sprung, the land is beginning to come back to life with flora and fauna, and daytime temperatures are rising.

Vegetation is blooming and the days longer with daylight hours.

Summer has arrived and these months are ideal for a range of outdoor activities, especially as the sun barely sets.

Summer has arrived and these months are ideal for a range of outdoor activities, especially as the sun barely sets.

Summer is drawing to a close and the temperatures are beginning to fall. Nevertheless, daytime activities can still be enjoyed.

Shorter days are arriving and the landscape is changing.

Temperatures are low and it can be incredibly cold. Winter-based activities are on the rise and chances to spot the Northern Lights are optimal.

Temperatures are low and it can be incredibly cold. Winter-based activities are on the rise and chances to spot the Northern Lights are optimal.

Temperatures are low and it can be incredibly cold, especially at night. Winter-based activities are in full swing and chances to spot the Northern Lights are optimal.

Ships visit Norway almost year-round, and for good reason. The difference between the seasons is vast, and to get the best out of this destination, one must see it during the cold winter months and the warmer summer months. The ideal times to visit would be between May and September when the Midnight Sun is in full swing, the land lush, and the daytime temperatures pleasantly mild. November to late January are perfect for exciting cold weather excursions and the chance to see the Northern Lights, but note that this time of year can be freezing.

Ship types

A wide variety of vessels visit Norway, but to get the very best from your expedition experience, you need to consider the size of your vessel. Ideally, smaller is best. Norway is a land dominated by fjords,; many are only accessible by smaller ships. In addition, from 2026 the Norwegian Government is imposing restrictions on many ships that emit greenhouse gasses. In short, vessels not powered by alternative fuels, such as LNG, will not be permitted to enter many of the country’s fjords, including the impressive World Heritage fjords of Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord.

Activities

The activity options in Norway seem endless, and just like the seasons here, the activities also vary depending on the time of year. Winter is prime for Northern Lights viewing, dog sledging and Zodiac tours. By contrast, the summer months are perfect for exploring the outdoors and enjoying hikes through the beautiful countryside, sea kayaking, birding, and photography. There will also be opportunities to get involved with Citizen Science projects, which are fascinating. During my expedition sailing, I learned a lot about using the Secchi disc, a device that measures water transparency. We also collected water samples to analyse in the onboard lab and distinguish what was in the water that we could only see through a microscope. A geologist joined us and encouraged us to look for interesting rocks and stones.

Expedition cruises also offer something even more unique, visiting areas known for impressive glaciers. I’ll never forget the first time I saw the Svartisen glacier. This is the second largest glacier in Norway after the Jostedal Glacier, and the ice cap occupies around 78 sq. mi. It was mind-blowing. However, the most impressive for me was the Briksdal glacier. The walking trails up to the glacier is lovely, but it is long, and it can be strenuous at times, but persevere, it will be worth it. The Briksdal Glacier is a western arm of the Jostedal Glacier, the biggest glacier in mainland Europe – protected as a national park and was formed approx. 2,500 years ago. Sadly, Briksdal has shrunk significantly over the years.

Wildlife

For wildlife lovers, Norway will satisfy on land and at sea. Home to abundant marine life, birdlife, and land mammals, you can expect to see Arctic foxes, reindeer, puffins, Musk ox, Beluga whales, Ringed seals, and Sperm whales. Of course, if heading to Svalbard, you may also be lucky enough to spot a polar bear or two. Brown bears also inhabit forest areas in some parts of Norway, but these are more elusive.

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What to Pack

Layers

While it’s tempting to pack heaps of bulky sweaters and overcoats, what you need is a solid combo of short and long-sleeved tops (some thermal, some not). Your ship will be pretty toasty, so having layers to peel off when on board (and put back on when heading out on the deck) is smart.

Layering is generally thought of in three stages: your base layer, mid-layer, and outer layer.

Base layers

You will appreciate a thermal base layer on a Norway cruise, and wool or a wool blend is best (the more wool, the warmer you’ll be). Cotton tends not to be as good as a base or mid-layer as it has poor moisture-wicking properties, which means moisture – such as sweat – will sit against your skin and cool your body temperature.

Mid-layers

Go for a poly blend or fleece, and make sure it’s not too fitted so your base layers will all fit snugly underneath. Multiple thin layers over your thermal base (to allow for adjusting to conditions) are better than thicker layers. However, when you’re sitting in a Zodiac, it can get pretty cold, so make sure you have one fleece that you can put on for when it’s really frosty.

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Expert Tips

Danielle Fear
By Danielle Fear
CRUISE EXPERT & TRAVEL WRITER
This is a very photogenic region but having a professional available will help, especially with the wildlife, birding, and marine life opportunities. We therefore advise that you select a ship that has a Pro photographer listed, either as Expedition Team or as a Special Guest. Having a professional at hand is also prime for Northern Lights viewing.

Norway is a very expensive country, so be prepared if you intend to buy any souvenirs to take home. 

The weather in Norway can be unpredictable, even in the summer months, so always pack waterproof and warm clothing and shoes. 

Although with any destination you should remain vigilant, but Norway is considered one of the safest countries in the world.

If you get the opportunity while ashore, definitely try some of the traditional Norwegian dishes such as Brunost (brown cheese), Røkelaks (smoked salmon), and Tørrfisk (dried cod). Reindeer is also a regular menu feature.