Northern Lights - Sailing from the UK 2023

14 nights ‘Northern Lights Expedition Cruise’ from London

Sailing from the UK offers the unbeatable convenience of no flights, which means your holiday starts the moment you step aboard the MS Maud in London, Tilbury.

The expedition grants you five magical nights above the Arctic Circle, offering exceptional chances to witness the mesmerising Northern Lights.

Not to mention the assortment of activities you can enjoy, from dog sledding to hiking, in some of Norway’s most spectacular coastal destinations.

And let’s not forget the exceptional pricing; such a remarkable experience without the need for a single supplement makes it ideal for couples, single travellers, and even small groups.

FROM £2,195pp

Departure Dates

11th & 25th November 2023
9th December 2023

Or why not Book the Christmas Cruise, 23rd December 2023 from £2,195pp for 13 nights (the itinerary differs), please do call us for more details .

Day-by-Day itinerary

Day 1: Depart from London, Sail to Harwich
Embark on your voyage in London, setting sail in the afternoon for historic Harwich, where you’ll get the opportunity to explore its maritime heritage.

Day 2: Visit Scheveningen, The Dutch Coast
Enjoy a leisurely day visiting Scheveningen, a trendy sea-side resort with a rich history, complete with its own pier and Ferris wheel.

Day 3: Relax Onboard, Attend Science Center Lectures
Take a day to unwind onboard and enrich your voyage by attending intriguing lectures at the Science Center.

Day 4: Explore Bergen, The City of Seven Mountains
Get captivated by Bergen’s historic charm, scenic mountains, and vibrant fish market.

Day 5: Cross the Arctic Circle, Enter Helgeland County
A momentous day as you cross into the Arctic Circle and venture into the stunning landscapes of Helgeland county.

Day 6: Visit Lofoten Islands, Admire the Majestic Peaks
Marvel at the breathtaking scenery as you navigate through the stunning Lofoten Islands, renowned for their steep peaks and red fishermen’s huts.

Day 7: Arrive in Alta, ‘The Northern Lights City’
Alta, fondly called ‘The Northern Lights City,’ welcomes you for a chance to witness the awe-inspiring Aurora Borealis.

Day 8-9: Tromsø, The Arctic Cathedral and More
Take in the sights of Tromsø, home to the striking Arctic Cathedral and rich Sami culture.

Day 10-11: Expedition Days for Off-the-Beaten-Track Experiences
These days are reserved for spontaneous adventures, guided by weather and opportunities for unique experiences.

Day 12: Enjoy Nordfjord and Views from Mount Hoven
Admire the grandeur of Nordfjord and take an optional hike to Mount Hoven for panoramic vistas.

Day 13: Explore Lively Stavanger
Spend your day exploring Stavanger, known for its lively port and the iconic Pulpit Rock nearby.

Day 14: Return to London
As your journey concludes, relish your last moments onboard before disembarking in London.

Whats included

Breakfast, lunch and dinner including beverages* in restaurants Aune and Fredheim
À la carte restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests
Complimentary tea and coffee
Complimentary Wi-Fi on board†
Complimentary reusable water bottle
English-speaking Expedition Team leading activities on board and ashore
Range of included activities
*House beer and wine, sodas, and mineral water
†Please note there is very limited Wi-Fi and phone signal in the remote areas we travel to, and streaming is not supported.
onboard activities

In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team
Full use of our Science Center, extensive library and advanced biological and geological equipment
Citizen Science Programme where you can assist with ongoing scientific research
Photography tips and techniques for capturing landscape and wildlife from our onboard professional photographer
Use of ship’s hot tubs, panoramic sauna and indoor gym
Informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings
landing activities

Escorted landings with small expedition boats
Trekking poles, head lamps and walking poles available if necessary
Complimentary wind- and water-resistant expedition jacket
Expedition photographers on hand to assist you
notes

All planned activities are subject to weather conditions
Excursions and activities are subject to change
Please make sure you meet all entry and boarding requirements
No gratuities expected

Destination & Northern Lights Overview

The Magic of the Arctic Circle
Traverse Norway’s spectacular coast, boasting enchanting fjords, charming towns, and rich culture. This itinerary offers unparalleled natural beauty, complemented by winter activities and opportunities to engage with local communities.

Dance of the Skies: The Northern Lights
This journey places you under the optimal conditions for witnessing the Northern Lights. Between October and March, the nights above the Arctic Circle offer a celestial display unlike any other, etching indelible memories into your travel experiences.

About Hurtigruten Expeditions

Specialising in sustainable expedition travel for over 130 years, Hurtigruten Expeditions has been opening the world to explorers since its first journey to Svalbard in 1896. We’ve designed a fleet of modern expedition vessels to navigate even the most challenging destinations, offering you a perfect blend of comfort, adventure, and learning.

Their expert-led Expedition Team is always on hand to enrich your journey with informative talks, shore landings, kayaking adventures, and much more. Science plays a crucial role in our expeditions, and some of their team members are scientists who are happy to guide you in using the onboard scientific equipment. Their Citizen Science projects also offer an opportunity to contribute to ongoing global research.

Their deep-rooted commitment to sustainability ensures that when you travel with them, you’re also investing in a greener future. Offering a wide array of expeditions to 15 unique global destinations and stopping at more than 230 ports and landing sites, from bustling cities to secluded islands, we empower our guests to unleash their inner explorer.

If you choose to travel with Hurtigruten Expeditions, prepare yourself for unexpected and potentially life-changing experiences. We can’t wait to help you discover your next extraordinary holiday adventure.

About MS Maud

Named in honour of one of the most legendary polar vessels, Roald Amundsen’s ‘Maud’ from 1917, MS Maud is a symbol of nautical legacy. Initially known as MS Midnatsol, this expedition vessel pays homage to the first Queen of modern-day Norway and continues the tradition with its advanced, expedition-ready features. Built in 2003, the ship’s interiors are designed in a classic Art Deco style, with colours inspired by the Midnight Sun to create a constantly warm atmosphere.

For those interested in expanding their knowledge, MS Maud boasts an advanced Science Centre where you can engage in enlightening daily lectures. These lectures can also be streamed directly to your cabin for added convenience. Dine in style with a selection of dishes sourced from local suppliers and enjoy your favourite drink alongside spectacular views in the Explorer Lounge & Bar. For panoramic vistas, head to deck 9’s outdoor Observation Deck. And if it’s wellness you’re after, the ship features a gym and a sauna, each offering stunning views.