After arriving in Tromso, a representative from Aurora Expeditions will greet you and escort you to your group hotel. Once there, stop by the Aurora Expeditions hospitality desk to pick up your luggage cabin tags and consult the ground operations team for any pre-embarkation details or guidance on dining, withdrawing cash, or purchasing any last-minute necessities from a local pharmacy or supermarket.

The rest of the day is yours to spend at your leisure, and all meals will be at your own expense.

This morning, please ensure your cabin luggage is tagged with your name and cabin number. Your luggage will be collected from the hotel, transferred to the port, and delivered to your cabin before you board. Keep personal valuables with you throughout the day.

After breakfast, check out and embark on a fascinating visit to the Tromso Science Center. Experience an immersive journey into the wonders of the Arctic sky, including a Northern Lights show and a presentation by an astronomer explaining the Aurora Borealis.

Settle in the planetarium for a cinematic adventure led by award-winning photographer Ole Salomonsens, showcasing his pursuit of the spectacular Northern Lights across Norway, Finland, and Sweden. The Auroras film combines science, history, and mythology in a breathtaking visual display.

Afterward, enjoy a live presentation on Norse constellations and the Sami mythology of the Hunting Party. Gain a fresh perspective on the northern sky, learning ancient tales and insights.

Take time to explore the Science Center's interactive exhibits, offering hands-on activities that deepen your understanding of the Arctic's natural forces in a fun and educational way.

Later in the afternoon, transfer to the pier for embarkation. Settle into your cabin, attend mandatory safety briefings, and savor the excitement as you sail. Enjoy a Welcome Dinner in the evening with fellow passengers, the expedition team, and the crew, marking the start of your exciting Arctic adventure.

Over the next few days, explore parts of Norway's remarkable 1,000-kilometer (600-mile) coastline. Starting in Torsken, in the very north of the country, you make your way south, stopping in the Lofoten Islands. The spectacular northern lights are a natural phenomenon most commonly seen in the sky above the Arctic Circle between autumn and early spring. As you are near Anderdalen National Park in northern Norway, keep a close watch to witness this dazzling spectacle in the night sky.

Embark on an amble through the quaint village of Torsken, where breathtaking natural beauty provides a captivating backdrop. As you meander along Torsken's narrow lanes, immerse yourself in the village's fascinating history, a rich tapestry woven from centuries of fishing traditions and the enduring spirit of its community. Admire the scenic splendor surrounding you, with the majestic Senja mountains creating a stunning panorama and the tranquil streets lined with colorful houses, each possessing its unique character. En route, you can visit Torsken Church, a cherished local landmark dating back to the 18th century. Before your exploration concludes, indulge your palate with a selection of local delicacies distinctive to this region and emblematic of Norwegian culinary heritage.

Personalize your expedition with the included 'Your Choice' experiences that suit your interests and fitness level.

Option 1: Norwegian Scenic Route
Duration: 3 hours  
Level of difficulty: Easy
Embark on a scenic drive through Norway's second-largest island, Senja, and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of untouched nature. As you wind along the ridge above the charming village of Bergsbotn, you reach a 44-meter-long platform offering a breathtaking panorama of the Bergsfjord and its surrounding peaks and continuing your journey at Tungenes, a dramatic headland nestled between Steinfjord and Ersfjord. Take a stroll along the wooden walkway that extends over the rocks, where you can admire the vast expanse of the North Sea to the west and the imposing Okshornan mountains to the north. Your adventure concludes at Ersfjord Beach, a pristine stretch of white sand framed by the island's iconic jagged peaks.

Option 2: Trek to Ravnfloy 
Duration: 3 hours  
Level of difficulty: Moderate 
Set off on an exhilarating hike to the dramatic summit of Ravnfloy, where the stunning beauty of Senja and Anderdalen National Park unfolds before your eyes. This adventurous trek across rugged terrain promises breathtaking rewards. As you ascend higher, be captivated by the panoramic vistas of Senja's rugged coastline, majestic mountains, and pristine fjords. Halfway through your journey, pause to rejuvenate around a cozy fire pit, savoring local delicacies while taking in the spectacular scenery. Reaching the summit is triumphant as you stand atop the world and capture unforgettable memories and stunning photographs. 
Please note: Dressing in layered clothing and wearing proper hiking boots is recommended. This hike is a 4 km return, with an elevation gain of 548 meters, on a gravel and loose rock path with boulders, some steep and consistent inclines, and a short passage with some exposed areas. Participants should be in good physical condition.
 
Option 3: Hike to Midtertinden 
Duration: 4.5 hours  
Level of difficulty: Strenuous 
Challenge yourself on a strenuous yet immensely rewarding hike through the heart of Anderdalen National Park. Immerse yourself in the untamed wilderness surrounding Senja as you conquer the ascent to Midtertinden, where breathtaking views of the surrounding community, mountains, and fjords await. Your adventure begins in the charming village of Torsken, nestled amidst dramatic fjords and pristine landscapes. As you climb towards the summit of Midtertinden, the trail unfolds to reveal panoramic vistas of the Norwegian Sea, its crystal-clear waters dotted with enchanting islets. Reaching the mountaintop at 623 meters is a triumphant achievement, rewarded with a spectacular 360-degree panorama of Senja's rugged coastline, majestic mountains, and the vast Arctic expanse.  
Note: Dressing in layered clothing and wearing proper hiking boots is recommended. This hike covers approximately 4.4 km return, with an elevation gain of 623 meters, on a gravel and loose rock path with boulders, some steep and consistent inclines, and a short passage with some exposed areas. Participants should be in excellent physical condition.

You go to the stunning Lofoten – meaning puma’s foot – Islands. This is a land scoured by ice and legend, the towering crags with their sharp edges standing in silent protection of the villages below.
 
Personalize your expedition with the included ‘Your Choice’ experiences that suit your interests and fitness level.

Option 1: Guided hike towards Tjeldbergtind
Duration: 3 hours  
Level of difficulty: Moderate-Strenuous
Experience the pristine landscape of Lofoten on this adventurous hike to a mountaintop overlooking the beautiful peaks of the archipelago. After a steep ascent, your reward awaits you: a 360-degree panoramic view of Lofoten’s iconic jagged mountains, picturesque lakes, and peaceful surroundings. You can also have a spectacular view of Svolvaer, Kabelvag, and Vagan; you can see the mainland on a clear day.
Note: Dressing in layered clothing and wearing proper hiking boots is recommended. This hike is approximately 5 km (3.1 mi) on uneven terrain with loose gravel and some steep and consistent inclines. The highest point is 367 meters (1,204 feet). The visibility of sights may be affected by adverse weather conditions. Participants should be in good physical condition.

Option 2: Taste of Lofoten (Limited seats available) 
Duration: 2 hours, including snacks 
Level of difficulty: Easy 
Lofoten lies in the middle of what is often called ”the world’s largest dinner plate,” and the unique commodities the inhabitants of Lofoten have fed on and lived from for centuries are on a large scale. Experience real flavors and an authentic gastronomic experience. 
On the way to the tasting venue, make stops to see the fish racks, and the first taste of Lofoten is served. The stories and delicacies from the north continue when you arrive at the tasting venue. Enjoy dried arctic cod, salmon, Lofoten lamb, tasty cloudberries, and locally produced yogurt from local milk grazing right by the Arctic coast. You can also get a taste of roe/caviar from Arctic cod. 
Note: The tour includes tastings of eight delicacies and should not be considered a full meal. Drinks are not included, and a selection of beverages is available for purchase.

Option 3: Lofoten Fishing Village 
Duration: 2 hours 
Level of difficulty: Easy 
Combine history and culture in the urban fishing village of Svolvaer. Join this cultural walk featuring the history of the fisheries, the historical land-owning fish buyers, and the present-day sights in the center of Svolvaer. During this 3-5 km (up to 3.1 mi) cultural walk, you make several stops of interest, and your local guide welcomes all questions and comments to ensure the best possible experience. Visit the most important current and historical sites, and include a taste of stockfish.

As you traverse the scenic vistas of Lofoten, marvel at majestic mountain peaks and expansive fertile lands that once set the stage for Viking sagas. Your expedition begins in Haukland Beach, a paradisiacal haven with its pearly white sands and sapphire waters, embraced by lush greenery and towering peaks, evoking the essence of an Arctic paradise. Hike from Uttakleiv to Haukland Beach—a gentle stretch over hills and along the coastal path to the pristine white sand beach.

Upon reaching the Viking Museum in Borg, enjoy an exhibition showcasing archaeological discoveries and meticulous recreations of Viking dwellings, gaining a vivid understanding of the daily lives of these seafaring people a millennium ago. The museum endeavors to authentically recreate the Viking village atmosphere with handicrafts, traditional buildings, and era-specific cuisine. As part of this immersive experience, be treated to a soup crafted from an ancient North Norwegian recipe, prepared over an open fire—a culinary journey back in time amid the fascinating history of the Vikings.

Drive through the scenic landscapes of Lofoten to Norway's renowned Sund, where you visit a Blacksmith at the Fishery Museum, famous for his beautiful cormorants made of steel. The decorative wrought iron cormorants are famous worldwide and can be found in the Pentagon, the Kremlin, and the King of Norway's palace.

Continue to the village of Reine, where your ship will be waiting for you. This fishing village is one of the most beautiful in Norway.

Enjoy the crossing to Jan Mayen, accompanied by seabirds, as you search for whales. Enjoy informative talks from the team of experts, get to know your fellow expeditioners, or stay active in the gym. Remember to look to the skies at night and hope for sightings of the northern lights.

The approach to Jan Mayen is spectacular. The huge 2,277-meter (7,470-foot) Beerenberg volcano is the northernmost active volcano in the world, and it last erupted in 1985. The northern part of the island is a great place to look for whales and dolphins and contains impressive glaciers, some of which reach the sea. If the weather is favorable, try to land at Kvalrossbukta, a relatively sheltered bay on the island's west coast. This is one of the landings used to supply the weather station Olonkinbyen, situated on the island's eastern side.

In the coming days, a host of choices are available to you, and depending on ice and weather conditions, the east coast of Greenland is yours to explore. Your experienced Expedition Team members, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to tailor your voyage to suit the day-to-day conditions. This allows you to use the prevailing weather, ice conditions, and any opportunities for wildlife encounters. You generally attempt up to two landings or Zodiac excursions daily, including cruising along spectacular ice cliffs and following whales feeding near the surface. 

Be prepared to experience ice – and lots of it! East Greenland contains some of the Arctic's most impressive scenery. Deep fjords and narrow channels, flanked by sharp ice-clad peaks soaring up to 2,000 meters (6,562 feet) and glaciers birthing gigantic icebergs that drift throughout the fjord system, combine to create breathtaking scenes. 

The tundra landscape is home to musk oxen, arctic hares, and reindeer. There are ancient Thule archaeological sites, historical trappers' huts, and the cabins of present-day Inuit hunters. A highlight is visiting the Inuit village of Ittoqqortoormiit, the region's most isolated and northernmost permanent settlement, with approximately 450 inhabitants. The community has an excellent museum, gift shop, and an abundance of Greenlandic sled dogs, and it provides the opportunity to meet friendly locals. 

Explore Scoresbysund, the world's most extensive fjord system and a favorite hunting ground of the local Inuit. Massive glaciers flow into this fjord, the birthplace of hundreds of majestic Greenland icebergs. It is a spectacular place that must be seen and believed. North of Scoresbysund lies Kong Oskar and Kaiser Franz Josef fjords, two of Greenland's most significant fjord systems, each encompassing several smaller fjords and sounds. The area is rich in wildlife thanks to the fertile volcanic soil and the surrounding mountains offering protection from strong winds. You may spot everything from musk oxen and arctic foxes to mountain hares and even reindeer near the fjord. Look skyward, and you can glimpse birds, including the glaucous gull, black-legged kittiwake, northern fulmar, common raven, and common eider. 

You attempt to enter Kaiser Franz Josef Fjord, a remote and rarely visited fjord system with countless opportunities for exploration located within the Northeast Greenland National Park. Cruising through Kong Oskar Fjord, you marvel at the geological beauty of the mountains. Then, head south along the coast of Liverpool Land, with your passage dependent on ice conditions. 

Stretch your legs on hikes across the tundra in search of ancient graveyards and summer villages occupied 3,000 years ago by the Inuit. You may see musk oxen, arctic hares, and reindeer grazing. The maze of calm, interconnecting waterways in this area provides excellent opportunities for sea kayaking. See ring seals, perhaps glimpse the elusive narwhal, and maybe even a polar bear hunting on pack ice.

Over the coming days, explore the Westfjords region, which features outstanding landscapes with jaw-dropping views of dramatic fjords carved by ancient glaciers, sheer, table-top mountains that plunge into the sea, and pristine North Atlantic vegetation. The region features attractive towns such as Isafjordur, which is surrounded by sheer mountains and steeped in history. It is evident in its preserved wooden architecture—delight in its lively cultural scene and abundant outdoor activities. 

On Vigur Island, birdwatchers can try to tick a few species on their list, while others can enjoy walks and hikes of varying difficulty levels, soaking in the stunning surroundings. The island's unique ecosystem is a haven for birdlife, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Stroll along the coastline, watch for puffins and other seabirds, or venture deeper into the island to discover hidden gems. With its rolling hills, picturesque landscapes, and fresh sea air, Vigur offers an unforgettable experience.

Thingeyri, a quaint village on a slender strip of land, graces the shores of one of Iceland's most picturesque fjords, Dyrafjordur. Much like many other coastal settlements in Iceland, the village's culture and industry have been intricately woven with the influence of the sea over centuries. The surrounding landscape is adorned with towering mountains, lending a distinctive charm to the scenic expanse that envelops Thingeyri. This idyllic region is often called the "Alps of the Westfjords," especially the highland area between the majestic fjords of Dyrafjordur and Arnarfjordur. The beauty of Thingeyri lies in its coastal simplicity and the dramatic backdrop of high mountains that paints a captivating portrait of this Icelandic village.

Personalize your expedition with your included 'Your Choice' experiences that suit your interests and fitness level.

Option 1 - That Viking Thing Experience  
Duration: 2 hours + free time 
Level of difficulty: Easy 
Step back in time and learn about the Viking ways and how the hardy Norse people lived off the land. Walk through a recreated Viking area, learning about what is fact and what is fiction in the many stories you've heard about the famous Vikings. A short hike brings you to the old ruins of the Viking meeting place called a Thing - the closest translation in English is 'parliament.' Step inside the interactive Viking Museum for a chance to dress up in authentic hand-sewn Viking clothing, take photographs, drink Icelandic Viking beer, bake your own Viking bread, and explore the museum - all part of learning more about Viking ways.

Option 2 - Sandafell Mountain Hike  
Duration: 3 hours 
Level of difficulty: Moderate-Difficult (dependent on fitness level)
For avid explorers, Iceland is littered with hidden gems, and possibly the best-kept secret of all is the Westfjords. Lying in the most north-westerly area of the island, this sprawling area of natural beauty is truly a hiker's paradise. Rocky peaks, deep crevices, and charming Icelandic towns all add to the appeal of the Westfjords, not to mention the various hiking trails snaking across the unusual countryside. Hike Sandafell, offering gorgeous views over the town, surrounding mountains, and the water below.

Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the afternoon as you cruise southward, taking in breathtaking landscapes and keeping a watchful eye for whales. Later, embark on a Zodiac landing to witness the awe-inspiring power of Dynjandi waterfall.

Grundafjordur is the starting point of your adventures on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, the gateway to Snaefellsjokull National Park. Snaefellsnes Peninsula is an area of diverse landscapes characterized by lava fields and glistening fjords and is home to a vast array of birdlife. The area is crowned by the magnificent, ice-capped Snaefellsjokull volcano, a 700,000-year-old dormant subglacial volcano, visible from Reykjavik on a clear day and immortalized in Jules Verne's Journey to the Centre of the Earth.

Personalize your expedition with the included 'Your Choice' experiences that suit your interests and fitness level.

Option 1 - Highlights of Snaefellsness
Duration: 8 hours, including lunch 
Level of difficulty: Easy-Moderate (dependent on fitness) 
Your first stop will be the iconic Mount Kirkjufell, a favorite among photographers and known to many as a filming location for the TV show "Game of Thrones." Not far from this majestic mountain is a waterfall that completes the picturesque scene. Next, visit Snaefellsjokull National Park, which encompasses a large area of Snaefellsnes Peninsula's western tip. For the more active, explore some incredible hiking trails, or enjoy your drive through the park and take in the beauty that surrounds you. Continue to the dramatic black pebble beach of Djupalonssandur, where you can marvel at the black sands, colossal rock formations, volcanic landscapes, and remains of a 1948 shipwreck. Following lunch, rejoin the coach to travel to Budir, a picturesque hamlet surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Stop to admire Budakirkja, the 19th-century church, and explore the area before embarking on the ship in Arnarstapi.

Option 2 - Natural Wonders of Snaefellsnes  
Duration: 8 hours, including lunch 
Level of difficulty: Moderate 
Upon disembarkation, stop at the iconic Mount Kirkjufell, a favorite among photographers and known to many as a filming location for the TV show "Game of Thrones." Not far from this majestic mountain is a waterfall that completes the picturesque scene. Next, step into the 8,000-year-old Vatnshellir Cave, replete with stunning geology, fascinating rock formations, and colorful volcanic rock. Meet at the base near the cave, where your friendly guide will provide you with all the necessary equipment, including a helmet and headlamp (wearing comfortable and sturdy footwear is strongly recommended, as the volcanic rock can be quite difficult to traverse). Then, your friendly guide will give you a brief safety talk before you descend the spiral staircase into this underground wonderland. The tour meanders through the path of the lava flow around 200 meters into a large cave that lies around 35 meters beneath the Earth's surface, where some rainbow-colored volcanic rocks and incredible petrified lava formations will greet you. The cave is a fairly easy walk, although it will involve a degree of climbing. Following lunch, rejoin the coach, travel to Arnarstapi, and hike the coastal trail connecting the two villages of Arnarstapi and Hellnar. Now a National Reserve, this easy-level hike encompasses geology, wildlife, fantastic photo opportunities, folklore, and adventure. This old trail takes you along the wild shoreline with a view of the ocean, extraordinary columnar basalt and lava cliff formations on one side, and stunning mountains and Snaefellsjokull Glacier. The cliffs are alive with many bird species, such as the Arctic Tern, the kittiwakes, gulls, and fulmars.

Option 3 - Snaefellsnes Adventure 
Duration: 8 hours, including lunch 
Level of difficulty: Moderate-Difficult 
The Land of Fire and Ice is well-known for its incredible landscapes and contrasting terrains, including several natural and geological wonders rarely found anywhere else on Earth. The unique geological history of Snaefellsnes will draw you in, where you can explore sites revealing Iceland's unique geological history up close. Your first stop is at Eldborg Crater, located on a short volcanic rift, just 200 meters in diameter and 50 meters deep. It is the largest crater on this rift and was created in an eruption between 5000 and 6000 years ago. Unlike many of Iceland's volcanoes, it has a classic shape, smooth sloping sides, and a definite crater. A marked hiking path leads through a shrub-covered lava field to the top of the crater, offering incredible views of Snaefellsnes National Park. You continue to the symmetrical, hexagonal-shaped basalt columns at Gerduberg Cliffs. Stand in awe at these impressive cliffs, a natural marvel that spans 500 meters. To enjoy the best view, take a walk by the structures. Climbing up the cliff is possible, but to soak in the views of this geological structure, it's best to enjoy a walk alongside the cliffs. Following an early lunch, rejoin the coach and head for the Pufubjarg bird cliff, home of nesting puffins and fulmars. From here, hike along the rugged coastline to witness the stunning Londrangar basalt cliffs, a geologic wonder that looks like a huge rock castle. Many local birds here are a noisy bunch—puffins, but especially fulmars, nest in the cavities in the two pillars. From here, you hike across a pretty lava field covered in moss to Malarrif, where you can see the lighthouse and explore the beach.

During the early morning, you cruise into Reykjavik and disembark at approximately 8.00 am. Farewell to your Expedition Team and fellow passengers as you continue your journeys. Transfer to Keflavik airport.

Note: After the voyage, booking flights departing after 12.00 pm on the day of disembarkation is recommended in case of delays.