Discover Norway's spectacular fjordland scenery and learn about the Viking history and intriguing myths and legends that surround the fjords on a six-day cruise over the August Bank Holiday.
The first stop will be Ulvik, an area affectionately known as ´the orchard of Norway' due to its cider making with cherries, plums and pear orchards flourishing here.
You'll also visit Haugesund, the burial place of the first Viking King of Norway, and sail through Hardangerfjord, spanning 111 nautical miles through some of the country's most spectacular scenery.
You'll sail on the small ship Balmoral. With two full days at sea, there's plenty of time to relax and make the most of its excellent facilities, with six beautiful restaurants, seven bars and two pools.
There's a packed schedule of evening entertainment, with dance classes, cookery demonstrations, and a series of informative lectures to teach you more about the exquisite Norwegian landscapes you'll be visiting.
In the late afternoon you'll board your luxury ship, Balmoral, in Rosyth. Spend some time getting to know your surroundings on board this well-equipped ship.
On board you'll find six beautiful restaurants, seven bars and lounges, two pools and lovely wide open decks, perfect for taking in the views while Balmoral is cruising.
Today will be spent entirely at sea as you make your way to Norway. Days at sea are a perfect opportunity to relax and forget the stresses of life on shore. Make the most of Balmoral's fabulous facilities including two swimming pools, a spa, and a fitness centre.
In the evening, you can look forward to some top-class onboard entertainment. Join the Show Team in the Neptune Lounge as they put on memorable performances, along with guest comedians, singers and magicians.
You'll sail into beautiful Ulvik today. Located on a scenic arm of the Hardangerfjord, Ulvik is one of Norway's most fertile fruit-growing regions, earning itself the affectionate nickname of 'Orchard of Norway'.
Apples from here are delicious due to the special micro-climate surrounding the fjord, making them just ripe for cider making, which was the fastest-growing product at Vinmonopolet in 2019. Also grown here are cherries, plums and pears.
You'll also cruise along Norway's Hardangerfjord, which spans 111 nautical miles through some of the country's most spectacular scenery, with steep mountains, cascading waterfalls, and lush fruit orchards along its shores.
Home to the fascinating Trolltunga rock formation and the charming village of Eidfjord, the 'Queen of the Fjords' is not to be missed from the decks of Balmoral.
Your first stop today will be Haugesund. Dating back to the Viking Age, it's said that the first Viking King of Norway, Harald Hårfagre, is buried here.
The town has since transformed into a thriving commercial area, while still retaining a small-town charm. Home to an eclectic mix of Jugend, Neogothic, and Neoclassical architecture, the Haraldshaugen Monument, dedicated to King Harald Hårfagre, is located just north of the town centre.
You'll also sail into Karmsund, a narrow 19-mile long waterway separating Karmøy Island from Haugesund, with the impressive Karmsund Bridge stretching across it.
Rich in maritime history, Karmsund Sound was traversed by Vikings in their longships on their way to Avaldsnes, the seat of power for seafaring vessels.
Today is another day spent at sea, giving you time to enjoy Balmoral's facilities before your cruise comes to an end.
After sailing overnight you'll arrive back in Rosyth, Scotland early this morning. Here, you'll disembark your ship as your unforgettable cruise draws to an end.
