Norway is known for its dramatic fjords, remote islands and charming towns and you'll discover it all on this week-long cruise, which crosses the Arctic Circle.
From Tromsø, head north to Honningsvåg, gateway to the North Cape and where you can take in several optional excursions. From here, you'll travel southbound, calling at Alta, the town famed for its Northern Lights cathedral; scenic Åndalsnes; and historic Bergen with its UNESCO-listed city centre. There will also be the opportunity to dive into Narvik's intriguing history and Kristiansand's 20th-century military past at Batterie Vara.
The highlight of your cruise, however, will be the company of top chef and TV presenter James Martin. James will be joining you on board, where he'll host a cooking demonstration, give a talk on his life and career and host a Q&A session for guests.
You'll be cruising on board MS Trollfjord, on an all-inclusive basis. From the choice of on board restaurants, taste Norway's Coastal Kitchen - with produce sourced along the coast - and look forward to drinks available throughout the day too. You'll also be joined by a larger expedition team, who will offer their insights and host lectures on a number of subjects.
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Before gracing UK televisions, James Martin travelled throughout France working in the kitchens of French châteaux. At 21, he opened the Hotel and Bistro du Vin in Winchester as Head Chef, where he changed the menu daily. James' TV shows include British favourite Saturday Morning. He can be found at James Martin Manchester and The Kitchen at Chewton Glen.
Fly from London to Tromsø (regional flights may be available on request). Upon arrival, transfer to the port and embark MS Trollfjord for your eight-night signature voyage of Norway's coast.
If you have time to explore Tromsø, visit the Polar Museum, which chronicles the city's legacy of Arctic hunting and trade. Head to the Polaria centre, an aquarium home to a variety of Arctic marine species, or visit the Arctic Cathedral, standing out in the cityscape due to its striking design and impressive stained-glass window.
Arriving early in the morning, you'll have a full day in Honningsvåg. Feel the snow crunching under your snowshoes as you hike across the plains with your Expedition Team. On optional excursions, you could try your hand at ice fishing, a beloved winter tradition in the far north. Get a taste of the local delicacy, king crab, which is caught in the waters around Honningsvåg and served year-round.
The highlight of any trip to Honningsvåg is a visit to the North Cape which looks out over the Barents Sea, also available as an optional excursion. This is one of the northernmost points of mainland Europe, and as we're visiting in winter, you can even choose to get there by snowmobile.
Having reached the northernmost point of our voyage, we'll turn around and begin going south as we sail away in the evening.
At 70 degrees north, this town is far above the Arctic Circle. The area is known for particularly good Northern Lights visibility, so keep your camera ready.
On an optional excursion, you can find out more about day-to-day life in Alta, see prehistoric rock art and visit the Northern Lights Cathedral, which has an exhibition showing how Alta became the epicentre for ground-breaking research of the aurora borealis between the 19th and 20th centuries.
Increased snowfall in the winter allows for some truly authentic Arctic excursions, like dogsledding. The snow and climate of Alta also create the perfect conditions to build and maintain the Igloo Hotel. Located on the banks of river Alta, this is the world's northernmost ice hotel. Alternatively, join your Expedition Team on a hike to Mount Komsa. The views are mesmerising.
Narvik sits on a peninsula where three beautiful fjords meet. It was originally developed as a year-round, ice-free port for the nearby iron ore mines. Nowadays, it's known for its World War II heritage and as a gateway to active pursuits such as skiing, dog sledding, and hiking.
Get to know Narvik's past at the Narvik War Museum complete with engaging exhibits that bring to life the town's strategic importance during World War II. For an impressive panorama of Narvik, the best thing to do is ride the cable car up to Narvikfjellet. At the top, you'll be treated to astounding views of the town and the three surrounding fjords.
After Narvik, head south along the enchanting Norwegian coast. Cruise the inner coastal route, among fjords, islets and skerries, a path few ships can navigate. You will be in awe of windswept islands, sheltered bays, and some of the most beautiful fjords in the world. It's also inhabited by a wide range of wildlife, such as majestic Sea Eagles.
After docking in the town centre in the morning, you have the chance to explore Åndalsnes, a picturesque coastal town located along Isfjord at the end of the Romsdalsfjord.
The highlights of Åndalsnes are the mountains that tower over the town. They are the reason the town has become Norway's go-to destination for hikers, climbers, skiers, and more. The Troll Wall, a 1,000 metre vertical cliff along the Romsdalen valley also attracts adrenaline seekers the world over.
To take in the sights go on a relaxing ride on the Romsdal Gondola, which takes you to the top of Nesaksla Mountain, 708 metres above sea level. There, enjoy a 360-degree view of the mighty Romsdalshorn, Åndalsnes town centre below, and the Rauma river.
Surrounded by seven mountains and the sea, the old capital of Bergen is one of Norway's most picturesque and historic cities, as well as being its second largest. Stroll through the UNESCO-listed Bryggen district and discover its colourful wooden wharfs dating back to the 14th century. Bergen's famous fish market is worth a visit, too. It promises to be a feast for the senses with the sights, sounds, and smells of bountiful, fresh seafood which can be cooked there and then for you.
One of the best-known attractions in Bergen is the Fløibanen funicular, which brings you to the top of Mount Fløyen. The summit has a wonderful view over the city, the nearby fjord, and the other surrounding peaks.
Spend the last afternoon of your voyage in Kristiansand, Norway's fifth largest city, sitting along the southern tip of the country. Kristiansand is on a mission to become the most sustainable port in Europe. Find out more about this admirable quest on an optional excursion that includes a visit to Odderøya Island. Delve into Kristiansand's 20th-century military past on an optional excursion to Batterie Vara. Originally built as a German fort in World War II, it features the world's second largest cannon ever to be mounted on land.
Back on board, we'll end our voyage on a high with an end-of-trip farewell dinner. Take this opportunity to trade photo highlights and experiences with your fellow travellers one last time.
You've sailed on The North Cape Line, getting to know Norway's coastal cities and villages all the way to the top of the European continent. During the journey, you'll have experienced Norway's varied climate, seen majestic mountains and fjords, and maybe gazed up in awe at the Northern Lights once or several times.
Disembark and transfer to the airport for your return flight home.
MS Trollfjord is an homage both to Norwegian nature and a 130-year heritage sailing the Norwegian coast.
MS Trollfjord takes its name from a small but spectacular fjord in the Vesterålen archipelago. Locally sourced natural materials such as wood and stone feature prominently throughout the ship's furnishings, reflecting the beauty of the fjords you'll sail through. The style of décor is classic, timeless, and unique. You'll notice details and flourishes that evoke a sense of nostalgia, harking back to a golden era of exclusive small-ship sailing.
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* From price is per person, based on two people sharing a polar inside cabin, subject to availability. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. No single supplement is subject to availability. 5% discount is subject to availability and applicable to Arctic Superior (U2D grade) Cabins only. Deposit: 30%. Local charges such as tourist tax may apply. On board credit offer equals 1500NOK, subject to availability. GBP may fluctuate due to exchange rate. Offers are not valid in conjunction with any other offers or promotions. In the case of unforeseen circumstances, expert(s) may be substituted, and any expert-led events may be subject to change. Expert(s) will not join you for your full trip duration unless otherwise stated. Travel insurance is not included and should be taken out at time of booking. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of Hurtigruten (ABTA-bonded and all trips are ATOL-protected) and TS Travel Ltd (ATOL bonded). Calls are made at local rates. All tours featured are operated by the partner specified, a company wholly independent of Telegraph Media Group Holdings Ltd. Please refer to the Data Protection Notice in today's Personal Column or telegraph.co.uk/privacypolicy.