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(Prices correct as of today’s date, are updated daily, are subject to change and represent genuine availability at time of update).

Cruise only holidays are financially protected by ABTA. Fly cruise holidays are financially protected by Holland America Line under ATOL number 6294

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Prices based on 2 people sharing. Cruise only price does not include flights. Fly-cruise price may vary by chosen UK airport.

Itinerary

List Timeline

Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a city that's a long way removed from most people's stereotypical notion of the Netherlands. There are few, if any, canals to be found here nor are there any quaint windmills. There is, however, a thriving modern city which is one of the busiest ports in the entire world.

Shore excursions
Day 1
30 May 2027

Rotterdam

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Day 2
31 May 2027

At Sea

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Day 3
01 June 2027

Scenic Cruising

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Day 3
01 June 2027

Oslo

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Day 4
02 June 2027

Kristiansand

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Day 5
03 June 2027

Sandnes

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Day 6
04 June 2027

Scenic Cruising

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Day 6
04 June 2027

Skjolden

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Day 7
05 June 2027

At Sea

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Day 8
06 June 2027

Rotterdam

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*This holiday is generally suitable for persons with reduced mobility. For customers with reduced mobility or any medical condition that may require special assistance or arrangements to be made, please notify your Cruise Concierge at the time of your enquiry, so that we can provide specific information as to the suitability of the holiday, as well as make suitable arrangements with the Holiday Provider on your behalf.

What's Included with
Holland America Line

Use of swimming pools, hot tubs, fitness centre and leisure facilities where available

Accommodation

Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks in a choice of included dining venues

Entertainment throughout the day and evening

Complimentary shuttle service from ship to port where available

Explore Rotterdam

Rudi's Sel De Mer
The Dining Room
Pinnacle Grill
Canaletto
Tamarind
Dive-In
New York Pizza
Nami Sushi
24-Hour In-Room Dining
Gelato

Rudi's Sel De Mer

Named for Master Chef Rudi Sodamin, Rudi’s Sel de Mer is an intimate brasserie featuring classic French dishes reimagined with contemporary flair. Menu selections include whole Dover sole meunière with shaved pink Himalayan sea salt, oysters on the half shell, fruits de mer, and salt-crust baked branzino, as well as favorites such as steak frites, duck cassoulet and coq au vin. Conclude your dinner with a classic dessert and fine French cheeses.

Meals at Sel de Mer are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Rolling Stone Rock Room
Lincoln Centre Stage
B.B. Kings Blue's Club
Billboard Onboard
Casino Action

Rolling Stone Rock Room

Rock Lives Here

When you’re ready to rock, head to the Rolling Stone Rock Room, the ultimate live music venue on ship. Hear your favs and classic hits, right from Rolling Stone magazine’s top song lists.

Greenhouse Spa & Salon
Pickleball At Sea
Fitness

Greenhouse Spa & Salon

Refresh, Relax and Rejuvenate

During a leisurely day at sea, few places help you refresh, relax and rejuvenate like the Greenhouse Spa & Salon®. This heavenly retreat nurtures every aspect of your well-being with renowned spa rituals and healing touches. In the spa, pamper your skin with facial treatments featuring premium, naturally sourced ingredients. Nurture your body, too, with massage treatments employing time-honoured, hands-on massage techniques gleaned from around the world.

Kids Programs (Ages 3-6)
Tweens Programs (Ages 7-12)
Teens Programs (Ages 13-17)
Port Day Activities
Special Needs

Kids Programs (Ages 3-6)

Highlights for kids ages 3 to 6 include a variety of activities, crafts, games and theme parties, such as “Dino-Mite Night” and “Ships Ahoy Pirate Treasure Hunt Adventure.”

Deck 12 - Observation Lounge

Holland America Line Rotterdam Deck 12 Observation Deck.png

  • Crow's Nest/Crow's Nest Cafe
  • The Retreat
  • Game Room
  • Shore Excursions

Deck 11 - Sun Deck

Holland America Line Rotterdam Deck 11 Sun Deck.png

  • Verandah Suites
  • Verandah Staterooms
  • Ocean-View Staterooms
  • Interior Staterooms
  • Sliding Dome Cover
  • Jogging Track
  • Sport Court
  • Sun Deck

Deck 10 - Panorama Deck

Holland America Line Rotterdam Deck 10 Panorama Deck.png

  • Verandah Suites
  • Verandah Staterooms
  • Ocean-View Staterooms
  • Interior Staterooms
  • Spa Rooms
  • Kids' Club
  • New York Deli & Pizza
  • Panorama Bar
  • Sushi Bar
  • Tamarind
  • Tamarind Bar

Deck 9 - Lido Deck

Holland America Line Rotterdam Deck 9 Lido Deck.png
  • Fitness Centre
  • Spa & Salon
  • Hydro Pool
  • Lido Pool
  • Lido Bar
  • Gelato
  • Dive-In
  • Canaletto
  • Lido Market
  • Sea View Bar
  • Sea View Pool

Deck 8 - Navigation Deck

Holland America Line Rotterdam Deck 8 Navigation Deck.png

  • Bridge

  • Verandah Suites

  • Verandah Staterooms
  • Interior Staterooms

Deck 7 - Schubert Deck

Holland America Line Rotterdam Deck 7 Schubert Deck.png

  • Verandah Suites

  • Verandah Staterooms
  • Ocean-View Staterooms
  • Interior Staterooms

Deck 6 - Mozart

Holland America Line Rotterdam Deck 6 Mozart Deck.png

  • Verandah Suites

  • Verandah Staterooms
  • Interior Staterooms

Deck 5 - Gershwin Deck

Holland America Line Rotterdam Deck 5 Gershwin Deck.png

  • Verandah Suites
  • Verandah Staterooms
  • Interior Staterooms

Deck 4 - Beethoven Deck

Holland America Line Rotterdam Deck 4 Beethoven Deck.png

  • Verandah Suites
  • Verandah Staterooms
  • Ocean-View Staterooms
  • Interior Staterooms

Deck 3 - Promenade

Holland America Line Rotterdam Deck 3 Promenade Deck.png

  • World Stage
  • Casino
  • Photo Gallery
  • The Shops
  • Future Cruises
  • Guest Services
  • Internet Center
  • Grand Dutch Café
  • Atrium
  • The Dining Room

Deck 2 - Plaza Deck

Holland America Line Rotterdam Deck 2 Plaza Deck.png
  • World Stage
  • Library
  • Billboard Onboard
  • Rolling Stone Lounge
  • Notes
  • The Shops
  • B.B. King’s Blues Club
  • Pinnacle Grill
  • Rudi's Sel De Mer
  • Ocean Bar
  • Club Orange Dining Room
  • Half Moon Bar
  • Atrium
  • The Dining Room

Deck 1 - Main Deck

Holland America Line Rotterdam Deck 1 Main Deck.png

  • Ocean view Staterooms
  • Interior Staterooms
  • Art Gallery
  • Half Moon
  • Hudson
  • Stuyvesant
  • Atrium

Rotterdam Cabins & Suites

Spa Inside
Inside

Spa Inside

These staterooms feature spa amenities such as yoga mats and an iPod® docking station and include access to spa treatments from the Greenhouse Spa & Salon. There are two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our Signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses.

Approximately 143-225 sq. ft.

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Family Ocean View
Spa Ocean View
Ocean View
Single Ocean View

Family Ocean View

With accommodations for five guests, this stateroom includes two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed and one upper bed—all are our signature Mariner's Dream™ beds with plush Euro-Top mattresses, plus one sofa bed for two persons. There are two bathrooms: one with bathtub, shower, sink and toilet, one with shower and sink.

Approximately 222-231 sq. ft

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Spa Verandah
Aft-View Verandah
Verandah
Obstructed Verandah

Spa Verandah

With floor-to-ceiling windows and a private verandah, these light-infused staterooms feature two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our Signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads and thoughtful amenities.

Approximately 228-405 sq. ft. including verandah

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Neptune Spa Suite

These spacious light-filled suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows, a private verandah, large sitting area and bathroom with dual-sink vanity, whirlpool bath and shower, plus an additional shower. They include two lower beds convertible to one king size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and a sofa bed for one.

Approximately 465-502 sq. ft. including verandah

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Other dates available

11 Apr 2027

Holland America Line

7-Day Norwegian Fjords & Sognefjord

from £1381 pp

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08 May 2027

Holland America Line

7-Day Norwegian Fjords & Sognefjord

from £1323 pp

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27 Jun 2027

Holland America Line

7-Day Norwegian Fjords & Sognefjord

from £1535 pp

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24 Jul 2027

Holland America Line

7-Day Norwegian Fjords & Sognefjord

from £1439 pp

More info

01 Aug 2027

Holland America Line

7-Day Norwegian Fjords & Sognefjord

from £1573 pp

More info

05 Sep 2027

Holland America Line

7-Day Norwegian Fjords & Sognefjord

from £1535 pp

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Related Blogs

MS Oosterdam: An older classic enjoying a new lease of life
11June 2025
11 June 2025

MS Oosterdam: An older classic enjoying a new lease of life

MS Oosterdam: An older classic enjoying a new lease of life MS Oosterdam Cruise Deals Holland America Line’s ms Oosterdam was launched in 2003 as the first in the line’s Vista-class ships, it is also reasonably small at 1,964 passengers when compared with today’s industry average of around 3,000-plus among mainstream lines.  However, in common with all Holland America Line ships, the navy hull gives it a smart look which hints at the classic, understated ambience the line is known for. ms Oosterdam isn’t a ship that is prone to flashiness and glitz. As part of a $300 million fleet enhancement programme, it has been refurbished with new venues, facilities and revitalised suites. Further work is due in April (2018) when its Explorations Cafe and Crow’s Nest will be redeveloped to Explorations Central, a new enhanced 'immersion' area that adds to the existing facility with various high-tech gadgets including interactive screens and a 'virtual bridge'. Where to eat Set on two decks, the main Vista restaurant is an elegant venue, though during my stay I felt dinners could be hit and miss with some dishes left standing too long before reaching the table. But overall, food was good. Following the refit, ms Oosterdam’s buffet restaurant has become the Lido Market with different food stations to 'grab on the go' or be made to order. The Pinnacle Grill, offering prime cuts of meat, Alaskan salmon and lobster, is a cut above – but you will pay $35pp to dine here, though it is a quality experience. It’s a similar story for Rudi’s Sel de Mer – the French brasserie-style seafood restaurant which originally debuted on Holland America Line’s newest ship, ms Koningsdam, and appears as a 'pop-up' facility in ms Oosterdam’s Pinnacle Grill with prices charged on an a la carte basis. For Italian fare, Canaletto (housed in a sectioned-off area of the Lido Market) serves up an authentic selection of dishes for a $15pp supplement. Where to sleep ms Oosterdam’s new-look premium suites now come with a host of free benefits that range from binoculars to use during voyages to in-suite espresso and coffee machines and expanded toiletries. Guests in Neptune or Pinnacle suites also enjoy complimentary access to the Neptune Lounge, with its own library and refreshments served during the day. Their stylish decor is in contrast to the more classic tones of navy and gold used in the Verandah, Ocean-View and Interior staterooms where the layout reflects the older age of this ship. For families, some cabins come with a sofa-bed sleeping one and a bunk bed that drops down from the ceiling, though in my experience it came down so low, I kept banging my head on it! What to do The upgrade has given added zest to ms Oosterdam’s entertainment line-up led by the impressive natural history concerts, films and children’s activities brought by Holland America Line’s tie-up with BBC Earth. Young and old cruisers can test their nature knowledge on 'What on Earth?' family game shows, while children can discover amazing animal facts on BBC fact shows that are specially targeted at youngsters. Another significant change has been the tuneful addition of more musical attractions with the 'Music Walk' experience that debuted on ms Koningsdam. This comprises three venues: Lincoln Center Stage featuring live chamber music; Billboard Onboard, with chart-topping favourites; and the B B King’s Blues Club and its distinctive mix of Memphis Blues. Holland America Line was one of the first lines to have show kitchens on its ships for culinary demonstrations and cookery classes and this has been bolstered by a tie-up with the America’s Test Kitchen US TV cooking show. Would-be techie fans can brush up their skills at digital workshops on everything from video-editing techniques to mastering digital photography. ms Oosterdam’s smaller size means there is not space for masses of facilities, but it still has two pools (one with a retractable roof), sports court, fitness centre and spa. Children are well catered for with Club HAL kids’ clubs for three to 17-year-olds offering everything from themed parties to team games. On Alaska voyages, ms Oosterdam’s Club HAL comes into its own with a slew of themed diversions, culminating in a Glacier Bay scavenger hunt around the ship and a Junior Ranger programme whereby a national parks ranger comes aboard to talk to children about the local wildlife. What I loved -The airy Explorations Café and Crow’s Nest, soon to be transformed into Explorations Centre, which are lovely spots to spend time admiring the panoramic views, especially for scenic cruising; flicking through one of the books from the library; or puzzling over the jigsaw with a barista-style coffee. -The Lido Pool which, thanks to its retractable roof, becomes a pleasant conservatory-style area to relax in on rainy days. -The mainly Indonesian crew who, when I was on-board, were among the best I’d encountered, combining efficiency with genuine friendliness. Particularly true of the dining staff. Top Tip Don’t miss one of the scrumptious gourmet burgers from the Dive-In burger bar, especially the vegetarian portabello mushroom burger with delicious fries. And if you are feeling thirsty, make sure you try one of the cool cocktails from the swish new Gallery Bar. Want to experience Holland America Line's ms Oosterdam for yourself? Call our award-winning Cruise Concierge team on 0808 1234 118 to book your perfect voyage.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] MS Oosterdam Cruise Deals

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11 Unusual Cruise Ship Cabins
27March 2025
27 March 2025

11 Unusual Cruise Ship Cabins

11 Unusual Cruise Ship Cabins View Balcony Cruise Deals A cruise ship cabin is an important factor of your sailing, whether you’re a serial suite booker or a lover of inside staterooms. There are many staterooms to choose from when it comes to booking your cruise, but which are the most unusual? Here are 11 of our favourite places to rest your head which are a little out of the ordinary. Zipline Balcony Oasis of the Seas Featured in Balcony cabins which overlook the Boardwalk neighbourhood on-board Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas, passengers not only get to stay in the industry’s first in-facing balconies but also gain fantastic views of the zipline as fellow cruisers fly nine decks above them! AquaTheater Suite Oasis-Class ships Only available on the Oasis Class ships the AquaTheater Suites offer up to eight guests a large space to unwind. Their key feature, and the reason they are named ‘AquaTheater Suites’, is that they boasts a huge wraparound balcony with views to the AquaTheater and surroundings. MSC Zoe Fleetwide MSC Cruises’ latest addition of Zoe is the first-of-its-kind. Featured in all cabins aboard MSC Bellissima, and soon to be fleetwide, the assistant is able to answer hundreds of questions about life on-board, help with excursion and restaurant reservations, as well as answering a huge range of unique customer queries. So far, she can answer 800 questions in seven languages and 30 different accents across the globe. But she doesn’t stop there. Her artificial intelligence means she is continually expanding her knowledge and offering a more personalised experience for passengers. She can offer instant information about cruise events, entertainment, journey updates or just playing music to get ready to. Virtual Balcony Symphony, Harmony, Spectrum, Anthem, Ovation, Quantum, Navigator, Explorer and Voyager of the Seas Featuring an 80-inch high-definition screen which spans almost floor to ceiling, Royal Caribbean’s Virtual Balconies are a unique and contemporary way to view the world outside without having to book an ocean view or balcony. The staterooms offer a real-time view of the ocean and destinations streamed from either the front or back of the ship, depending on which way your room is facing. There’s even sound added for effect, curtains and a virtual balcony rail to offer a ‘real feel’ to your inside cabin. The whole balcony can be switched off if guests wish, but it adds a great perspective on outside weather and give a new dimension to the cabin. Edge Stateroom with Infinite Balcony Edge-Class ships Offering 27% more space than staterooms on the rest of the fleet, Celebrity Cruises’ innovative Edge Staterooms with Infinite Balcony are one-of-a-kind. The unique factor is the balcony, which has a window operated from a control panel to extend the stateroom and bring the outside in. When the bi-fold doors and window is open, the space is great and really opens up your stateroom within a truly transformational setting. These staterooms are exclusively available on-board Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Apex, and any future Edge-Class ships. Ultimate Family Suite Symphony of the Seas and Spectrum of the Seas Exactly as described, this suite is the ultimate must for families wanting fun memories! Jam-packed with a huge TV, air-hockey table, LEGO wall, hot tub and even a slide that connects the upper level with the ground it’s the perfect place to hang out and enjoy each other’s company while cruising. There’s only two bedrooms, one for the parents and one for kids which sleeps four. There is also a sofa bed in the living room which sleeps two, so the total number to stay in this suite is up to eight. Ben & Jerrys ‘Sweet’ Freedom-Class ships A stateroom that includes free ice cream sounds like a dream, but it’s a reality on-board Royal Caribbean’s Freedom Class ships (Independence, Liberty and Freedom of the Seas). Stateroom 6305 is Promenade Stateroom with a difference, overlooking the Ben & Jerry’s ice cream shop with two cows prominently displayed in the window. Aptly named the Ben & Jerry’s ‘Sweet’, the cruise line plays on the unusual view with perks such as daily complimentary ice cream for each guest; access to the Concierge Lounge; and reservations for the ice show. Within the room décor mirror bovine-themes with cow artwork, trinkets, and cow print soft furnishings for a truly unique stateroom to enjoy! Edge Villa Edge-Class ships Designed for the Edge-Class, these suites offer an exciting new category of staterooms for guests to enjoy. The unusual offering is that the Edge Villa is set across two floors, with private plunge pools and floor-to-ceiling windows as well as an expanse of 739 square feet of space! Though Celebrity Cruises aren’t the first cruise line to offer two-storey suites, the Edge Villas are styled to a contemporary level and include exclusive access to The Retreat; their own butler; a premium beverage package; unlimited speciality dining; and high-speed internet access. Sea Terrace Fleetwide Featured on-board brand-new cruise line, Virgin Voyages, all the staterooms are unique and unusual. However, the Sea Terrace stands out with its Roomy Rainshower and hand-woven terrace hammock as well as plenty other quirky features that you wouldn’t usually find in a typical balcony room. The rain showers offer a spa-like wash while the hammocks are hand-woven by artisans from Yellow Leaf – a social enterprise that fosters women’s empowerment and community transformation in rural Thailand. The stateroom features clever lighting with sensors that auto-adjust according to movements and changes between the day and night and there are PIR presence sensors which automatically switch to energy-saving mode when the cabin is empty. Lanai Stateroom Amsterdam, Zaandam, Rotterdam and Volendam ships The Lanai stateroom offers a roomy cruise experience on-board selected ships in the Holland America Line fleet. What makes these unique is the sliding door which leads directly into the walk-around Lower Promenade Deck, with instant access to reserved deck chairs to enjoy the stunning views at your leisure. Privacy is not compromised either as the glass for the sliding doors is one-way, so no one can peer into your stateroom when passing by. From virtual balconies to digital assistants, cruising offers a great range of places to stay and relax. If you’re looking for something unusual to book for your next cruise, these 11 staterooms are definitely some of our top picks! Have you stayed in any of these cruise ship cabins? Which is the most unique stateroom you’ve booked? Let us know in the comments below!   View Our Balcony Cruise Deals

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Cruising the Norwegian Fjords
23December 2024
23 December 2024

Cruising the Norwegian Fjords

Cruising the Norwegian Fjords View Norwegian Fjords Cruises Few destinations can rival the phenomenal beauty and exhilarating experiences of Norway.  From spectacular waterfalls to magnificent mountains, the stunningly rugged natural scenery is sure to astound anyone who visits. As if the natural landscape isn’t breath-taking enough, the vibrant cities and enchanting villages that make up the ports of Norwegian Fjords Cruises are rich in history, art and culture. If you’re keen to experience the wonders of a cruise to Norway, we have a few handy tips to ensure your time in Europe’s northernmost country is as perfect as possible! Which Cruise Lines offer cruises to Norway? A great cruising experience is made up of two things – a fantastic destination, and an equally fantastic ship. Here are some of the cruise lines with ships offering cruises to Norway. P&O Cruises See Norway with P&O Cruises, where you can chill in oasis spas, enjoy marvellous shows, or enjoy a tipple at an on-board gin distillery. P&O will take your to some of the most popular Fjord destinations including; Olden, where you can see the aqua blue ice of the Jostedal Glacier cascading down the stunning Oldedalen Valley, as you navigate the spindly fjords of Norway! Princess Cruises Experience the magnificence of Norway with all the comforts of modern cruising. Enjoy elegant wine bars, dazzling European-style piazzas, open-air movie nights under the stars, and lively Vegas-style casinos - all designed to elevate your journey through this breathtaking destination. Norwegian Cruise Line For a relaxing visit to Norway, consider a cruise that features amenities like infinity pools and glass-walled saunas for the ultimate in scenic comfort. Many itineraries include breathtaking destinations such as the coastal town of Ålesund, often praised as one of Norway’s most beautiful thanks to its distinctive Art Nouveau architecture. With thoughtfully designed onboard experiences and well-planned routes, these sailings offer an unforgettable way to explore the fjords. Celebrity Cruises Enjoy a Norway cruise with experiences designed for every kind of traveler. Unwind with a refreshing craft beer at a lively social bar, challenge friends to your favorite outdoor games on a real grass lawn, or dance the night away at a fabulous silent disco. You can also take a behind-the-scenes tour of the ship’s galley and kitchens to see where the culinary magic happens. Royal Caribbean If you're after an action-packed cruise to Norway, Royal Caribbean delivers with its Norwegian Fjords itineraries. On board, guests can enjoy thrilling activities like bumper cars, roller skating, skydiving simulators, laser tag, ice skating, and rock climbing. One standout feature is the unique viewing decks - often compared to the London Eye at sea and offering incredible panoramic views of the breathtaking fjords. MSC Cruises Visitors to Norway can enjoy a leisurely stroll beneath a dazzling sky dome on an indoor promenade or sip a delicious drink crafted by a Robot Bartender - all whilst enjoying the comforts of a modern cruise experience with MSC Cruises. Fred Olsen Cruise Lines Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines' smaller vessels are perfectly suited for navigating the narrower fjords of Norway, offering breathtaking views of the rugged landscape from onboard observation areas. Each ship is also equipped with inflatable RIB boats, allowing guests to explore more secluded corners of the Norwegian Fjords up close. Cunard Follow Viking trading routes with Cunard and explore fine art at sea, play a leisurely game of croquet on a ship with classic Art Deco elegance, or stargaze in the only planetarium at sea - all part of the refined experience aboard a Cunard voyage. What is the best time of year for Norwegian Cruises? The peak of the Norwegian Cruise season is between June and August, as this is when the weather is most optimum for hiking and for experiencing the midnight sun in the far north. However, for cruisers desperate to enjoy the spectacle of the world-famous Northern Lights, we advise travelling during arctic winter which takes place from late September to early March. This time of year is also ideal if you’re hoping to experience Norway’s snowier activities like dogsled rides and skiing. What are the top Norwegian Cruise destinations? Every port in Norway offers something unique and interesting. Here are some of the most iconic and unmissable spots: Bergen No Norwegian Cruise would be complete without a trip to beautiful Bergen, the Gateway to the Fjords. Nestled among seven hills, with the spectacular Mount Floyen as its backdrop, this exquisite cocktail of old and new architecture is full of things to see and do. Shop at the traditional Norwegian fish market, where flowers and handicrafts can be found alongside the seafood stalls. Or take a stroll through historic Bryggen, the city’s old wharf. This UNESCO world heritage site contains a museum where you can learn the fascinating details of life in medieval Bergen. Visit the Hanseatic Museum, housed in a 300-year-old cod liver oil warehouse. Or perhaps you’d rather take a trip to the 800-year-old Rosenkrantz tower, one time home of King Eirik Magnusson, or the medieval royal residence of Haakon’s hall. For more recent history, World War buffs shouldn’t skip the Bergenhus fortress. Music lovers, on the other hand, should see the home of Edvard Grieg, Norway’s most iconic pianist and composer. Oslo Whilst not all Cruises to Norway stop in the Capital, it’s worth finding one that does. Oslo is a dream city for art fanatics, housing the Edvard Munch museum (the artist best known for The Scream) as well as the Vigeland and Ekeberparken sculpture parks. Plus, with the amount of incredible street art on display, the whole city is like a giant open-air gallery. The city is also full of amazing museums, including the Nobel Peace centre, the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, and the Kon-Tiki museum. Ålesund Architecture enthusiasts will love the folklore-inspired Art Nouveau style of this vibrant port. Kayak through the Brosundet canal to view the city’s fantastical buildings. Or learn about their construction at the Art Nouveau centre of architecture. If you want to work up a sweat, you can hike 418 steps to the Mount Aksla viewpoint. Or to gaze over Ålesund’s heavenly landscape in a more relaxed manner you can access the same spot via the Bytoget city train. Other notable spots include the Sunmøre Open Air museum, the exceptional artwork of the KUBE art museum, or Northern Europe’s largest saltwater aquarium- the Atlanterhavsparken. Molde Named the ‘Town of Roses’ in honour of the delightful rose gardens that cover the port, Molde is one of the prettiest and best-smelling places in Norway. Admire 222 mountain peaks from the town’s Varden viewpoint or pay a visit to the fascinating Romsdal folk museum. For those taking Norwegian Cruises in July, you may get to experience Moldejazz- Europe’s second oldest jazz festival. The church above the city is also well worth hiking up to, as it was decorated by Norway’s leading artists. And if that isn’t enough art for you, you can also visit the Møre and Romsdal art centre. Tromsø Tromsø is sure to be a favourite port if you like a drink, with more pubs per capita than anywhere else in Norway! However, it’s not just great for bars. Gaze on the magnificent iceberg shaped Cathedral, learn about arctic expeditions at the Polar Museum, or climb the 12,000 step Sherpa staircase up Mount Storsteinen. Honningsvåg Only 21 miles from Europe’s northernmost point, Honningsvåg is one of the best locations for experiencing either the Northern lights or Midnight Sun, depending on the time of year. That isn’t the only draw of this wonderful town though. It also boasts a fabulous pine forest, and you can sip delicious beverages at the Artico ice bar. Honningsvåg is yet another port that art lovers should not miss, as it is home to the Nordkappmuseet, Once Upon a Dream and West of the Moon art galleries. Flåm The quaint village of Flåm is most well-known for its railway. Trains departing from Flåm offer a glorious ride through the nearby scenery, which includes the breath-taking Kjoffossen waterfall and the Aurlandsdalen (Norway’s Grand Canyon). Near to Flåm is Njardarheimr, a living Viking village where you can learn Norse history from incredible Viking tour guides. Stavanger If you like museums that are on the quirkier side, Stavanger is the port for you. Pay a visit to the Norwegian Canning Museum or the Norwegian Petroleum Museum to learn the history of two of Norway’s biggest industries. Stavanger isn’t only known for its unusual museums though. Another claim to fame is the rainbow-hued houses of the old town. No visit to Stavanger would be complete without a stroll down Øvre Holmegate- the Colour Street. Another key Stavanger location to visit is Pulpit Rock, named one of the nation’s most remarkable sights by Lonely Planet. Olden This charming port is best known for the nearby majestic Birksdal Glacier. However, the Glacier is not the only attraction. Take the Loen sky lift up to Mount Hoven to bask in stunning panoramic views. Or pay a visit to Olden’s quaint wooden church. Åndalsnes The mountaineering capital of Norway is wonderful for hikers young and old. There are a number of excellent trails to follow, from climbing Mount Neskalska to the easier and more child-friendly Litlefjellet hike. One major attraction of Åndalsnes is the awe-inspiring Trollsveggen mountain wall (Troll Wall)- Europe’s tallest vertical rock face. Kristiansand A port packed with activity, Kristiansand has something for everyone. The zoo and theme park are fantastic for families, whilst thrill seekers will love the Aquarama waterpark. If you want to immerse yourself in Norwegian history, you can visit the open-air museum comprised of over thirty historic houses, or instead pay a trip to the Cannon Museum at Møvik fortress. Art lovers can wander around the SKMU art museum. Those looking to relax can take a calming and scenic train ride along the Setesdalsbanen railway line, on a train that is over a century old. And, on a sunny day, you can chill on the white sands of the Bystranda beach. What to pack for a Cruise to Norway? On top of the usual items packed for a Cruise (toiletries, formal wear, etc) there are a few important items to bring on Norwegian Fjords cruises in particular. Layers: Norway is a cold country. Even if you visit in the summer months it’s handy to have plenty of cardigans, hoodies, jackets and thermals to layer up with. Hiking boots: With plenty of Norwegian Fjords cruises offering hiking-based and other outdoorsy excursions, you’ll want the appropriate footwear. Waterproofs: With Bergen being the rain capital of Europe, you’ll want to make sure you have raincoats and umbrellas in your luggage Knitwear: If you’re taking a cruise to Norway from September to March, or if you are travelling into the Far North at any time of year, you’ll need to pack jumpers, woolly hats, earmuffs, scarves and gloves. Swimwear: To enjoy the pools on-board the ship, and to partake in the many water-based excursions of Norwegian Cruises such as Kayaking you’ll need a swimming costume. You can also bring your own wetsuit if you’d rather not wear a rental.   Binoculars: So you don’t miss a single detail of those fabulous views. Preparing for Norwegian Fjords Cruises Once you’ve booked your cruise to Norway, you’ll need to look through the cruise itinerary to plan your dream trip. Book excursions in advance to avoid disappointment and research the ports you will be visiting to plan the sights you want to see. Booking your Norwegian Fjords Cruise Now you have an overview of the amazing options of ships and destinations available for Norwegian Cruises, you’ll have a good idea of which vessel you’d like to call ‘home’ and which exciting ports you want to stop at. Thanks to our article, you already know how to pack and prepare.View Our Norwegian Fjords Cruises

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