Astronomy Cruise
About Bergen
September 2019 - March 2020
Witness the Magic
Join us at the height of Norway's northern lights season and learn about the cosmos from an onboard astronomy expert who shares his in-depth knowledge and passion for the Arctic sky. Hear special onboard lectures and join exciting excursions to see the northern lights with your own eyes!
This cruise follows Hurtigruten's 12-day coastal route, except on Day 5, when guests on the Astronomy Cruise are taken on an exclusive guided tour of the planetarium at the science center in Tromsø. Click here for a detailed itinerary and the full description on everything you will experience on this journey.
Northern Lights Promise
We are so confident that the northern lights will occur during your 12-day cruise, that we have made you a Northern Lights Promise. Read more here.
Your Astronomy Lecturers On Board
DR. JOHN MASON, MBE
On the MS Trollfjord departing Bergen on:
- October 03, 2018
- November 05, 2018
- December 30, 2018
- February 01, 2019
- March 28, 2019
An applied physicist, Dr. John Mason's main interests are astronomy, astrophysics, and space technology. He is principal lecturer at the South Downs Planetarium in Chichester, UK, has been a fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society since 1976, and is a full member of the International Astronomical Union.
IAN RIDPATH
On the MS Finnmarken departing Bergen on:
- October 31, 2018
- March 01, 2019
Ian Ridpath is a full-time writer and broadcaster about astronomy and previously worked at the University of London Observatory. He is a fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society, a member of the Society of Authors, and a member of the Association of British Science Writers. He is also the editor of the Oxford Dictionary of Astronomy and Norton's Star Atlas.
GRAHAM BRYANT
On the MS Finnmarken departing Bergen on:
- December 03, 2018
Graham is Chairman of the Clanfield Observatory in Hampshire – the largest amateur observatory in the UK. He is a fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society and a part-time presenter at the South Downs Planetarium. Graham also mentors the final year astronomy module at the University of Portsmouth.
- See the magical northern lights
- Guidance by an experienced astronomer who holds lectures
- Experience the beautiful Norwegian coastline
- Exclusive visit to the planetarium in Tromsø
Price Includes:
- 12-day Bergen - Bergen roundtrip cruise in the cabin grade of your choice on a full-board basis
- English-speaking Tour Leader on board
- Tour Manager and lectures from a renowned astronomer
- Exclusive excursion to the Planetarium in Tromsø
Not Included:
- International flights and transfers - you can book these with Hurtigruten during the booking process
- Optional excursions
- Luggage handling
- Travel insurance
Prices may change at any time before departure date, the applicable price will be quoted at the time of booking.
Please Note:
- All prices are shown in USD ($) per person based on two people traveling together sharing an inside cabin, double occupancy
- Suites are available on request
Itinerary
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The Hunt Begins - Bergen
The adventure begins in Bergen, the cultural gateway to the fjords. Enjoy the relaxed ambiance and take the opportunity to meet your fellow astronomers.
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A Day for Masterpieces - Ålesund
An early arrival at the Art Noveau town of Ålesund gives you an opportunity to go ashore and explore this pretty town.
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The Royal City of Trondheim - Trondheim
Continuing north you head for the medieval city of Trondheim, whose colourful history is reflected in its handsome civic architecture.
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Welcome to the Arctic! - Arctic Circle and Lofoten Islands
Crossing the Arctic Circle you continue to the modern town of Bodø. After crossing the Vestfjord you are amidst the glorious Lofoten Islands and their capital, Svolvær.
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Expand your Northern Lights knowledge - Stokmarknes
A relaxing morning on board precedes your arrival in Tromsø, the Capital of Arctic Norway. Here a visit to the Northern Lights Planetarium is included especially for this tour.
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The Northern Lights and the North Cape - Honningsvåg
Following an early call at Hammerfest you arrive in Honningsvåg, the portal to the wonders of the spectacular North Cape (optional excursion).
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To the top and back again - Kirkenes
The vistas and sea life become more dramatic as you approach Kirkenes, just a few kilometres from the Russian border, and you can join one of our exciting excursions here. As you return south the northbound ports visited by night are now seen by day.
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The Extreme North - Hammerfest and Tromsø
Hammerfest, the world's most northerly town is your first major stop, before continuing to Tromsø.
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Welcome to Lofoten - Vesterålen and Lofoten Islands
Passing through the legendary Lofoten Islands the ship negotiates an intricate network of inlets and isles. This is one of the most beautiful stretches of the Norwegian coast for many it is the most stunning part of your journey south.
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A date with the Seven Sisters - Arctic Circle, Seven Sisters
Cross the Arctic Circle and sail past the famed peaks of the Seven Sisters as you enter a world of legends and folklore.
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The old cities and the sea - Trondheim and Kristiansund
An early morning arrival in Trondheim, where you have time to explore the city.
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The final chapter of the fairytale - Bergen
A few nautical miles are left between you and Bergen today as your Astronomy Voyage draws to a close.
