Depart from Tromsø

Discover the gateway to the Arctic 

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.  There’s plenty to see, such as the Polar Museum, where you’ll learn about the city’s exploration heritage. And make sure to visit the striking Arctic Cathedral – with its huge stained-glass window. For those who’d like a little extra adventure, why not take a look at our Pre-Programme.  

Discover Norway in miniature

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. 

Here, we’ll visit a local community and experience some warm Scandinavian hospitality. We'll learn about the Sámi culture, and about life in remote villages during the winter months. Some of the time, we’ll be sailing in the dark and at dusk – but this will only enhance our experience, with glittering snowscapes illuminated by the low sun and the starlight.  

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

Vesterålen

Enjoy an exclusive adventure

As we sail towards the Vesterålen, the Expedition Team will seek out the best place for a nature landing, perhaps at one of the many fine beaches likely covered in pristine snow. We may head out in our small expedition boats to explore between remote islands or get out the kayaks.  

Vesterålen awaits us with its beautiful snow-covered landscapes, ideal for expedition activities such as snowshoe hiking, small boat cruising and kayaking. It’s here that we have another bespoke adventure when we spend an evening at the Hurtigruten Museum, where you’ll enjoy an exclusive opening and be served dinner in this very special heritage setting. 

Lofoten

Experience dramatic panoramas

Sailing from Vesterålen to Lofoten, we cruise through the narrow Trollfjord into the Raftsund strait, 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. Discover Svolvaer or relax in a traditional Nordic sauna before taking a thrilling polar plunge – sure to revitalise you! 

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

Svartisen

Discover Norway's second-largest glacier

Today, we'll sail into Holandsfjord off the rugged Helgeland coast, and head towards Svartisen glacier. Covering 230 square miles and with 60 ‘tongues’, this incredible geographical feature is Norway’s second largest glacier after Jostedalsbreen.  

Meaning ‘black ice’, the epic Svartisen is made up of two separate glaciers, Vestisen and the Østisen, which are divided by the 0.6-mile-long Vesterdalen valley. The ice colour can range from turquoise to dark blue, although never quite black.

If conditions allow, your Expedition Team will land at a local jetty and lead you ashore, where we’ll take a hike to get a closer view of this incredible glacier.  

At sea

Relax at sea as we head towards Scotland’s Shetland Islands

As we make our way south through the sheltered fjords, the soul-stirring scenery continues. Passing through the inner waters, see how the soft winter sun casts its magical spell across the snow-dusted landscape and soaring mountains. 

Take some time to relax and enjoy the facilities of your expedition ship. Soak up the scenery out on deck, warm up in the sauna, or join your Expedition Team for fascinating talks and demonstrations in the Science Centre.  

As we get closer to Scotland’s Northern Isles, we’ll enter the waters of the North Sea. 

Lerwick’s past and present

Discover Scotland's most northerly inhabited isles

Today we reach the most northern outpost of the British Isles, docking the capital of Scotland’s Shetland Islands, Lerwick. These islands have a rich heritage, and local people are justifiably proud of it. You’ll see references to monuments and times past wherever you go.  

After our crossing of the Norwegian Sea, find your land legs again walking around this friendly Victorian-influenced fishing town. Wander around the town’s narrow lanes and discover little shops selling locally made products such as whiskies, woollen sweaters and fudge. By the old waterfront you’ll find the Shetland Museum, charting the area's rich history. Nearby you can see Fort Charlotte and the regal-looking Town Hall.

Highlights of Orkney

Learn about Kirkwall's Norse heritage

Today we arrive at the Orkney Islands' largest town, Kirkwall. Explore this vibrant, Viking-influenced island capital, which is still compact enough to cover on foot. 

Visit the regal St Magnus Cathedral, made from distinctive local red sandstone, and the adjacent Earl’s Palace to see the stone ruins of this once-grand Renaissance building. The famous Neolithic settlement of Skara Brae is also only a bus ride away.  

Whisky aficionados will enjoy Kirkwall's Highland Park and Scapa distilleries for their unique single malts. Or if you fancy something a bit different, Orkney Distillery produces gin made from local Orcadian botanicals.  

Glasgow

End your voyage in Scotland's second city

For the last week and a half, we’ve travelled from the wilds of Arctic Norway to the islands of Scotland, and today our expedition comes to an end in Glasgow’s Greenock. If you’re still in explorer mode, Glasgow has plenty of things to offer the curious traveller. 

In the harbour, you'll find the striking Riverside Museum and the beautiful tall ship Glenlee beside it. Glenlee launched in 1896 – making her the same age as HX – and she has circumnavigated the globe several times. In the city, admire the Gothic architecture of Glasgow Cathedral and view the eclectic art and natural history at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. It’s an excellent way to round off your adventure!