Overview
Prepare to be spellbound in this thrilling adventure across Arctic Norway, embarking on exploratory hikes with snowshoes and kayaking through dramatic fjords, chasing the northern lights at nighttime. Set sail on a small expedition vessel to chart polar waters and their natural surroundings, keeping an eye out for whales, arctic foxes, reindeers and white-tailed eagles. Begin and end your journey in the historic hub of Tromsø.
Venture out on forays by land and sea in search of the northern lights
Hike, snowshoe or kayak to get up-close with arctic nature and wildlife
Sail through fjords on a ship in northern Norway visiting remote fishing villages
- Arrive: Tromsø, Norway
- Depart: Tromsø, Norway
- Duration: 8 Days
- Group Size:
- Minimum Age: 12 Years Old
- Activity Level:
- Level 2
- More About Activity Levels
Itinerary
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- Day01
Arrive to Norway's "Paris of the North"
Begin your journey in Tromsø, Norway's "Paris of the North," a rich cultural hub located above the Arctic Circle, also a renowned destination for viewing the Northern Lights. Immerse yourself in Norse and Sámi history, exploring its historic city center and centuries-old homes. Board your expedition vessel in the evening and set sail through Grøtsundet and Ullsfjorden towards the northeast.
- Accommodation: s/v Rembrandt van Rijn
- Meals: Dinner
- Day02
Set out for Lyngen
Arrive in the Nord-Lenangen fjord, just under the Lyngen Alps. Weather permitting, walk along the scenic coast of the fjord, where nighttime glimpses of the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, may appear. A natural phenomenon caused by eruptions on the sun, the Aurora Borealis may only be seen during nightfall in the northern hemisphere
- Accommodation: s/v Rembrandt van Rijn
- Activity: 1-3 hours walking, snowshoeing, or kayaking
- Transportation: 4-6 hours cruising
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Day03
Sail into the Nordic Fjords
Cruise along the base of the Lyngen Alps and discover Hamnnes, an ancient trade and fishing settlement dating back to the 17th century, notable for its dried cod. During the night, scan the sky overhead for potential sightings of the auroras.
- Accommodation: s/v Rembrandt van Rijn
- Activity: 1-3 hours walking, snowshoeing, or kayaking
- Transportation: 4-6 hours cruising
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Day04
Chase the Northern Lights
Sail farther northeast venturing into the 45-mile long Kvaenangen Fjord. Cross the fjords to spot local flaura and fauna, seeking harbor in any of the region's idyllic fishing villages, including Skjervøy, Seglvik, Reinfjord, or Burfjord for the evening. Continue watch for the Northern Lights as dusk descends.
- Accommodation: s/v Rembrandt van Rijn
- Activity: 1-3 hours walking, snowshoeing, or kayaking
- Transportation: 4-6 hours cruising
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Day05
Explore the Kvaenangen Fjord
Embark on a hike of the Kvaenangen Fjord, or kayak its icy waters while taking in stunning sights of the Norwegian Sea and its surrounding islands and wildlife. Walk Spildra Island, inhabited by 26 people, climbing 788 feet to Staurhammaren for awe-inspiring, panoramic views.
- Accommodation: s/v Rembrandt van Rijn
- Activity: 1-3 hours walking, snowshoeing, or kayaking
- Transportation: 4-6 hours cruising
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Day06
Hike the Burfjord & Head Southwest to Finnkroken
Continue sailing southwest, stopping to hike or kayak the Burfjord enveloped by pristine nature, 31 miles from the northern town of Alta. Overnight at Finnkroken, a tiny hamlet, for another opportunity to spot the Northern Lights.
- Accommodation: s/v Rembrandt van Rijn
- Activity: 1-3 hours walking or snowshoeing, kayaking is available on select departures
- Transportation: 4-6 hours cruising
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Day07
Snowshoe & Return to Tromsø
Set off on a morning hike with snowshoes to Småvasshaugen (1,033'). Sail back to Tromsø and choose your own leisurely adventure, whether visiting the Arctic Cathedral, Arctic aquarium Polaria, or any of the town's sights before boarding for a final night on your expedition vessel.
- Accommodation: s/v Rembrandt van Rijn
- Activity: 1-3 hours walking, snowshoeing, or kayaking
- Transportation: 4-6 hours cruising
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Day08
Depart
After breakfast, disembark with indelible Arctic memories from Northern Norway and depart.
- Meals: Breakfast
Contact our Regional Specialists for more travel ideas!
Upcoming Departures
- AvailableMar 12 - 19, 2022
- AvailableMar 19 - 26, 2022
Got Questions?
Speak with an expert.
Erick Malver
MT Sobek Regional Specialist
Please fill out your name and email and a Regional Specialist will be in touch shortly.
North Norway, Aurora Borealis, Hike & Kayak & Sail Map
Open MapWhy take this trip with us?
Reason #01
True to MT Sobek style, this trip incorporates kayaking, hiking, snowshoeing and cruising for the ultimate Arctic adventure.
Reason #02
This MT Sobek itinerary features the world's best spots to seek out the iconic Northern Lights by land and sea.
Reason #03
Experience the very best of arctic Norway's great outdoors with expert guides on this specially crafted winter adventure.
Meet Our Guides
Our expert guides and trip leaders are truly the key to our trips' success. Many are locals who live in-country year-round; others have made it their second home—all are passionate, enthusiastic and endlessly knowledgeable. Meet a few of the guides that might be on your trip.
Arjen Drost
Eduardo Rubio Herrera
What To Expect
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Activities
Cruising the Nordic fjords, wildlife watching, kayaking, hiking, snowshoeing, chasing the Northern Lights and touring historical towns.
-
Lodging
Stay aboard a small expedition vessel specially designed to tour remote islands and navigate arctic waters.
-
Climate
Northern Norway extends above the Arctic Circle. Temps can drop down to -40°F. Expect cold and snowy conditions and pack accordingly.
FAQ
When is the best time to see the Northern Lights?
While there are never any guarantees, the best time to see the Northern Lights is from November through March. During this time, there will be longer stretches of darkness to increase the chances of seeing the aurora.
Will there be opportunities to snowshoe and kayak?
All activities are dependent upon the weather and snow levels.
You will have the opportunity to go snowshoeing at no additional charge. The gear will be provided and it requires no previous experience.
A special Kayak Skills Progression Camp program is offered on select departures for an additional fee. Participants will be split into two groups of four people, and each group will have one 1-2 hour outing per day for up to five days. Check with our Regional Specialists to inquire about kayaking availability.Are transfers and pre-/post- arrangements included?
No, transfers to/from the airport and vessel and pre-/post- arrangements are not included with the trip.
You'll need to make your way to the vessel on Day 1 for a 5:00 pm embarkation. You will disembark on Day 8 at approximately 9:00 am.
Instructions to reach the ship will be provided to you by our Adventure Coordinating team.What cabin types are available?
The s/v Rembrandt van Rijn rooms are configured in a triple twin layout with both upper and lower beds, private showers and toilet, and ample storage space. Voyage pricing varies based on cabin type.
Dates & Pricing
Pricing DatesScheduled Dates
- AvailableMar 12 - 19, 2022
- AvailableMar 19 - 26, 2022
Customize Your Trip
Make any of our trips a custom adventure or start from scratch. Take two itineraries and match them up to create a unique third. Add extras and extensions and more...if you can imagine it, we can make it happen!
Price Includes
- 2022 pricing based on double occupancy in a Twin Porthole Cabin
- Accommodations as noted in the itinerary
- Expert leadership from experienced adventure guides
- Meals as noted in the daily itinerary
- Potable water and snacks throughout
- All necessary snowshoeing and kayaking gear
- All group entrance fees, activities, and ground transportation
Price Does Not Include
- International airfare, any airport taxes, or excess baggage charges
- Optional tips to your ship staff and expedition team
- Personal expenses such as medical immunizations, phone calls, laundry, or souvenirs
- Transfers to/from the airport and vessel
- Optional travel protection
- Optional sea kayaking (booking must be made at time of reservation)
Testimonials
"I have traveled extensively around the world. The experience with MT Sobek was by far the best I have ever had. Thank you for such excellence."
Marianne W.
MT Sobek Guest
"Traveling with MT Sobek is like gaining a new set of close friends that have shared an incredible experience together."
Mark N.
MT Sobek Guest