Norwegian Fjords & Svalbard Explorer
CRUISE ID # AURORANFS001S
Tromsø TO Oslo
$14,921
WITH SPECIAL SAVINGS APPLIED
FARES SHOWN ARE PER GUEST
Suites & Fares
CHOOSE START DATE
: June 08, 2028
Itinerary
With its centre located on the island of Tromsø, the municipality of Tromsø is more than five times the size of Norway’s capital, Oslo, and is the world’s northernmost university city. Lying 200 miles inside the Arctic Circle, it is known as the 'Gateway to the Arctic' because it was used as a starting point for hunters looking for Arctic foxes, polar bears and seals. In the 19th century it was a base for explorers on Arctic expeditions – a history that is remembered in the city’s Polar Museum, which you can visit on an excursion. Also commemorated in the area is the history of Norway’s indigenous people, the Sami. Visitors can learn about the traditions, heritage and modern preservation of the Sami culture at the Tromsø Museum. Nowadays, Tromsø is a charming mix of old and new, with wooden buildings sitting alongside contemporary architecture such as the impressive glacier-like Arctic Cathedral, which features one of the largest stained glass windows in Europe. Looking down on the city is Mount Storsteinen, and a cable car runs to the top, giving wonderful views over the surrounding countryside of forested peaks and reindeer pastures.
We navigate towards the Lofoten Islands, an extraordinary chain of mountains, sheltered bays and fishing communities rising from the Norwegian Sea. The archipelago’s name is believed to derive from an Old Norse word meaning ‘lynx’s foot’, reflecting the shape of one of its islands. Arriving in Svolvær, Lofoten’s compact capital, choose an included experience that reveals the region through its landscapes, flavours or centuries-old fishing traditions.
Personalise your expedition with an included ‘Your Choice’ experience suited to your interests and level of fitness.
Option 1: Guided hike towards Tjeldbergtind
Duration: 3 hours
Level of difficulty: Active
Terrain: Approximately 5 km (3.1 mi) over uneven ground and loose gravel, with sustained steep sections. The highest point is 367 metres (1,204 feet). Layered clothing and sturdy hiking boots are essential. Participants should be in good physical condition.
Climb through Lofoten’s pristine mountain landscape towards Tjeldbergtind. The steady ascent is rewarded with sweeping views across jagged peaks, lakes and sheltered waterways, with Svolvær, Kabelvåg and the Norwegian mainland visible when conditions are clear.
Option 2: Taste of Lofoten
Duration: 2 hours, including tastings
Level of difficulty: Leisurely (Limited seats available)
Note: Eight small tastings are included and do not constitute a full meal. Drinks are not included; a selection is available for purchase.
Discover why Lofoten is sometimes described as sitting within ‘the world’s largest pantry’. For generations, the sea, mountains and short Arctic growing season have shaped what islanders catch, raise and preserve.
See traditional fish-drying racks before continuing to a local venue for stories and tastings. Sample regional flavours that may include dried Arctic cod, salmon, Lofoten lamb, cloudberries, locally produced yoghurt and cod roe—an edible introduction to life on the northern coast.
Option 3: Lofoten fishing village
Duration: 2 hours
Level of difficulty: Moderately paced
Terrain: Approximately 3–5 km (up to 3.1 mi) return on mostly level urban paths.
Explore Svolvær on foot with a local guide and trace the development of an urban fishing community. Learn how fisheries, landowning fish buyers and the stockfish trade shaped the town, stopping at significant historic and present-day sites. The walk concludes with a taste of stockfish, one of Lofoten’s most enduring culinary traditions.
Lofoten Islands are considered to be in “another world” and for good reason. The archipelago with its jagged coastline is a majestic setting of high alpine summits, sandy beaches, green prairies and spectacular fjords. Many of the fjords are UNESCO listed, so whichever you manage to see will be a treat. Reine is a picture-perfect village surrounded by blue waters, lush greenery and speckled colour from the fishermen’s cottages. Enjoy hiking, whale-watching and birdwatching from this idyllic setting.
Blessed with some of the most spectacular scenery in Norway (and goodness only know that this is land blessed with rolling hills, soaring peaks, valleys, tranquil fjords and white sandy beaches, so the competition is high!), Leknes is what Norway is meant to be. Pretty red houses lay dotted on the green covered hills, and the midnight sun is rises above the horizon from 26th May to 17th July, (while in winter the sun does not rise from 9th December to 4th January). Part of the stunning Lofoten islands, this pretty port offers much in the way of recreation, although understandably most of this is outdoor based. Take a boat ride around the archipelago, try your hand at some deep sea fishing, or simply stroll thought the city centre, perhaps rent a bicycle and discover the hinterland at your own pace. Bikes can be easily rented and note that hybrid and electric bikes are a great option for those who might be a bit out of practice with their pedal power. Gastronomes with a sweet tooth will be rewarded with one simple pleasure: a fresh-from-the-oven skillingsbolle – or big, fluffy cinnamon rolls, fit for indulging in if all the fresh air has made you hungry! Look out for the quirky coffee shops, settle down for some Norwegian kos, say takk for maten and enjoy!
Set against the steep mountains and deep fjords of western Senja, Torsken is a small fishing community with immediate access to some of northern Norway’s most compelling landscapes. Choose a relaxed village discovery or take to the trails for elevated views across this rugged island.
Personalise your expedition with an included ‘Your Choice’ experience suited to your interests and level of fitness.
Option 1: Torsken village walk
Duration: 3 hours
Level of difficulty: Easy
Stroll through Torsken’s quiet lanes with a local guide and discover how fishing has shaped the village over many generations. Colourful homes sit between the waterfront and the mountains, creating a vivid sense of life on Senja’s exposed western coast. Visit the 18th-century Torsken Church and conclude with a taste of local delicacies that reflect the region’s coastal heritage.
Option 2: Trek to Ravnfløy
Duration: 3 hours
Level of difficulty: Moderate
Hike into the rugged terrain above Torsken towards Ravnfløy. As the trail gains height, the view opens across Senja’s indented coastline, mountain ridges and surrounding fjords. Pause beside a fire pit to enjoy local tastes before continuing towards the high point, where expansive panoramas reward the climb.
Note: Approximately 4 km return with an elevation gain of 548 metres, over gravel, loose rock and boulders. The route includes sustained steep sections and a short exposed passage. Layered clothing and sturdy hiking boots are essential; participants should be in good physical condition.
Option 3: Hike to Midtertinden
Duration: 4.5 hours
Level of difficulty: Strenuous
Take on a demanding ascent through the wild landscapes above Torsken. The trail climbs towards Midtertinden, revealing ever-wider views across the Norwegian Sea, offshore islands, fjords and Senja’s serrated mountains. Reaching the 623-metre summit is a rewarding achievement, with a striking 360-degree Arctic panorama.
Note: Approximately 4.4 km return with an elevation gain of 623 metres, over gravel, loose rock and boulders. The route includes sustained steep sections and a short exposed passage. Layered clothing and sturdy hiking boots are essential; participants should be in excellent physical condition.
Over the next five days, Spitsbergen offers a thrilling introduction to true Arctic expedition travel. There is no fixed schedule: the Expedition Team will shape each day around weather, sea ice, wildlife and the latest local information, choosing the strongest available opportunities for Zodiac cruising, shore landings and guided walks.
Early in the season, lingering snow and sea ice transform the fjords into striking polar landscapes. We may explore the glacier-filled west coast or sail north towards the pack-ice edge, always guided by conditions. Zodiac cruises can take us beneath sculpted glacier fronts and among drifting ice, while landings may reveal snow-fringed beaches, historic remains and the first tundra emerging from winter.
This is an important time for returning birdlife. Guillemots, kittiwakes, puffins and little auks gather around cliffs and scree slopes to breed, while walrus and seals may be encountered near coastal haul-outs or ice. Svalbard reindeer and Arctic foxes leave tracks across the thawing ground. Polar bears can occur anywhere in the archipelago and, if encountered, are observed from a safe distance without influencing their behaviour.
If you have selected an optional activity such as kayaking, we will aim to offer it whenever conditions allow. Guided walks, Zodiac excursions, time on deck and the possibility of a polar plunge create an active and varied introduction to the High Arctic.
Longyearbyen is the biggest settlement in Svalbard. Seat of the Norwegian administration, it also has the best services and infrastructure in the archipelago. Located deep in the Adventfjord, a sidearm of the Isfjorden (Icefjord), Longyearbyen’s airport can be used all-year round, but its harbor is blocked by ice in winter. Most shops, hotels, restaurants and a hospital are within easy walking distance of the port. One of the most prominent buildings in town is the UNIS center, where several Norwegian universities have joined forces to operate and offer the northernmost higher education to both Norwegian and international students. Adjacent to UNIS, and well worth a visit, is the Svalbard Museum, covering the natural history and exploitation of Svalbard. Remnants of the former mining activity can be seen all around Longyearbyen and even in town.
Oslo is the capital of Norway and is also its largest city, situated at the head of Oslo Fjord and surrounded by hills and forests. Home to some 50 museums and full of galleries, cafés, a sculpture park and the Royal Palace, this vibrant city with its handsome 19th-century buildings and wide streets has much to offer. Its history dates back 1,000 years, and includes a rich seafaring heritage that ranges from the Viking era to Thor Heyerdahl’s Kon Tiki expedition. Discover more about this exciting city on our varied selection of excursions.
About the Ship
Name
Sylvia Earle
Operator
Aurora Expeditions
A floating ambassador for the planet.
On our small purpose-built ship, the Sylvia Earle, connect with like-minded travellers in a meaningful way on perspective-altering voyages to some of the most remote, unique and spectacular places on the planet. Featuring the Ulstein X-BOW® design, it cuts through the swell for a smoother transit through waves while minimising its environmental impact.
Loading...
Whatever adventures the day holds, you will be fuelled-up with hearty meals and delicious morning and afternoon teas cooked by our onboard chefs.
Meals are a great time to soak up the expedition camaraderie in our open seating dining area. Share stories with your fellow travellers and ask our expedition team questions that may have come up during the day.
Tea, coffee, and snacks are available 24 hours a day, and our chefs offer dif....
When you’re relaxing during a sea day or you have a little downtime on the ship between excursions, what is there to do onboard the Sylvia Earle? Plenty!
The Sylvia Earle is also decked out with other facilities for your enjoyment. There is a library on Deck 5 with books and maps and a Wellness Centre complete with gym equipment, sauna and spa. Feeling a little sore after walking around all day? Treat yourself to a massage at the Wellness Centre and feels the aches disappear!
Let's face it – you don't want windowless rooms when travelling around some of the most beautiful locations around the world. This is why the Sylvia Earle is designed with plenty of dedicated observation spaces – ideal for keen bird spotters, wildlife watchers and those wanting to watch the scenery go past.
From the indoor 180-degree lounge and outdoor 360-degree open deck, both on deck 8, to the 270-degree open sundeck on level 7, there....
Communal meeting areas have always played a major role in fostering the warm camaraderie on board our ships. They are the heart of the expedition, where people meet to share tales from the day, swap photos, keep an eye out for wildlife and watch the sun go down.
The bars and lounges on board are refined yet inviting places to gather, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views, and of course friendly bartenders to shoot the bre....
With floor-to-ceiling windows, the library is a peaceful sanctuary where you can find non-fiction books to read up on the day’s destinations, plug in and organise your photos or play board games with newfound friends.
Choose from our range of informative non-fiction titles, wildlife guidebooks, travel journals, novels and a selection of children’s books and board games.
Wildlife guides, books and binoculars can also be found on the....
There is a Wellness Centre complete with gym equipment, sauna and spa. Feeling a little sore after walking around all day? Treat yourself to a massage∘ at the Wellness Centre and feels the aches disappear!
One of the great benefits of travelling with AE Expeditions is the number of optional activities that you can participate in. From kayaking and skiing to diving and climbing, these are one-in-a-lifetime opportunities that you need to take advantage of.
Aboard the Sylvia Earle there is a specially designed launching platform for all activities, a concept overseen by our activity experts. This area also includes individual lockers in the expansive mudroom and rapid drying areas for wetsuits so you can quickly get warm after exploring in the elements!
Loading...
Travel is always the best educator and we offer the chance to enrich your curiosity and expand your knowledge and understanding of the places we travel to. There is no better learning opportunity than being in the field with subject matter experts.
Our Citizen Science Program is designed to be an interactive forum of like-minded travellers to share new discoveries and deepen their connection to the natural world in a relaxed, informal an....
Although the ship is fun, the real enjoyment comes from the many shore excursions that are available. Depending on weather conditions, it may be possible for multiple landings, taking a look at everything from rock formations and ancient ruins to cute groups of penguins. We know time is of the essence in these wild locations, so the Sylvia Earle has been designed to carry 15 Zodiacs, which means you can maximise your time on shore.
From ....
Zodiacs are a vital part of getting up close and personal on your adventure – sneaking into areas that the Sylvia Earle can't reach. On this new ship, there are specially designed launching platforms that enables us to load Zodiacs easily and quickly, allowing you to spend more time exploring on the two to three daily landings.
There are 15 Zodiacs that are boarded from either side of Deck 3 (sea level), perfect for when there is a group....
There are no dedicated children's facilities onboard the Sylvia Earle.
Shipboard clothing is informal and casual Jeans, jumpers and long-sleeved shirts are ideal for indoors in the polar regions; however be sure to keep your jacket close for unexpected wildlife sightings! Some people∘ like to take a nicer outfit for the captain's welcome and farewell drinks but formal clothing is not necessary. For health and safety reasons, we do request you wear enclosed shoes in public areas while on board the ship. AE Expedit....
Medical Form
It is compulsory for each passenger to return a signed medical from their general practitioner. Your Medical Form is required to be signed by your general practitioner and returned to AE Expeditions no later than three months and no earlier than six months before your voyage departure date.
If you become aware of any change in your health and fitness that may be likely to affect your participation on the trip (e....
Standard Inclusions
We offer a number of standard inclusions on our voyages. Please see full list below:
- Fully-serviced accommodation in your chosen stateroom or suite
- Daily shore excursions, guided walks, Zodiac cruises and some activities^
- Entry fees to historic or tourist sites
- An experienced team of destination specialists, activity leaders, and local guides*
- An informative and entert....
When packing for your holiday, do you have trouble deciding between what to take versus leave at home? If so, you’re certainly not alone – it can be tricky deciding what makes the cut into your luggage.
Of course, what often helps is knowing the environment that you’re entering into. With Antarctica and the Arctic – known as the coldest, most isolated and remote landscapes in the world – there might be a tendency to pack your suitcase wi....