Backed by snowy mountains, lively Tromsø is the perfect place from which to set out on an adventure. It was the base for many a historic Arctic expedition, including those of Roald Amundsen, and its situation 250 miles north of the Polar Circle has led to it being called the ‘Gateway to the Arctic’. 

If you arrive early in Tromsø we recommend exploring the city before joining your cruise. This time of year is enchanting, with bustling Christmas markets, cafes serving gløgg (hot mulled wine) and twinkling lights in every window. From the Fjellheisen cable car, you’ll have an amazing view over the snowy city and its festive decorations. Make sure to visit the striking Arctic Cathedral – with its huge stained-glass window.

For the next seven days we’ll be exploring four distinct regions, each with its own outstanding features and unique beauty. The first such region we’re likely to visit is Lyngen. 

The scenic Lyngen area is a landscape of jagged, snowy mountains, and a magnet for winter activities. The Lyngen Fjord is over a hundred miles long, and we’ll spend the day going on a nature landing, with hikes, snowshoe walks and – if conditions allow – kayaking.  

Later, it’s time for a real treat. After our active day we’ll gather on the beach and enjoy the warmth of a bonfire. With hot drinks in hand, Norwegian foods cooked by our onboard chefs, you’ll really feel at one with nature. If we’re lucky, perhaps the Northern Lights will put on a display for us.

Senja is Norway’s second-largest island, and it’s sometimes called Norway-in-miniature. With its rugged mountains, sandy beaches, dark forests and idyllic fishing villages, you can see how it earned this name. Free-roaming reindeer wander around the island, so keep an eye out for them. 

We’ll visit a local community and experience some warm Scandinavian hospitality. Learn about the Sámi culture, and  life in remote villages during the winter months.  

During this Christmas season, we’ll sometimes be sailing in the dark and at dusk during the day – but this will only enhance our experience, with glittering snowscapes illuminated by the low sun and the starlight.  

Please note, this is an exploration week and the actual route taken may vary from the text above. 

Vesterålen awaits us with its beautiful snow-covered landscapes – the perfect place for expedition activities such as snowshoe hiking, small boat cruising and morning kayaking. 

In the afternoon we enjoy another bespoke adventure when we spend an evening at the Hurtigruten Museum. Here, we’ll enjoy an exclusive opening and be served a Christmas themed dinner in this very special heritage setting. 

Please note, this is an exploration week and the actual route taken may vary from the text above. 

Sailing from Vesterålen to Svolvær to, we aim to cruise through the Raftsunde strait to Trollfjord, passing between towering cliffs. As we do so, you’ll enjoy great views from the deck, and we sail so close to the sides it feels like you can almost touch them! 

In winter, the Lofoten Islands transform into a snow-covered wonderland. Narrow fjords, hidden beached between towering mountains and picturesque fish villages are all ideal for a small ship like MS Spitsbergen. Embark on a fishing trip from Svolvær, or relax in a traditional Nordic sauna before taking a thrilling polar plunge – sure to revitalise you!  

Get a taste of Svolvær when our ship stays late into the night here. It’s a small town, but it’s the biggest you’ll find in these islands, and there are a few cosy restaurants and bars here if you fancy trying a Lofoten snack or brew. As Christmas nears, the streets and homes are decorated with beautiful lights – wander around and simply soak up the festive atmosphere. 

Please note, this is an exploration week and the actual route taken may vary from the text above. 

Today is Christmas Day, and we’ll continue to enjoy the uniquely festive onboard atmosphere, but with added adventure. We’ll stay sheltered in the deep fjords as we make our way back towards Tromsø – at each turn there will be a new island or mountain. Along the way we have plenty of time to scout out landing sites in our small expedition boats, and to go on nature walks and take part in other activities.  

The scenery continues to be stunning as we pass through these inner waters, with the magical winter light playing softly on the sea and mountains. We also pass through areas where we’re most likely to see whales. While on board, enjoy the Arctic scenery from the ship, perhaps enjoying another cinnamon bun or mug of hot chocolate as the sublime Arctic scenery glides past. 

Please note, this is an exploration week and the actual route taken may vary from the text above. 

Your Christmas expedition cruise ends back in Tromsø. If you didn’t have an opportunity to explore this beautiful town before the cruise, make sure you do now. There’s so much to see and do here.