In Search of the Northern Lights

The In Search of the Northern Lights is a 14-night Europe cruise aboard Balmoral, operated by Fred Olsen Cruise Lines. Departing Southampton on February 28, 2027, the voyage visits 8 ports.

Length: 14 nights
Departs: Feb 28, 2027
Returns: Mar 14, 2027
Ports of call: 8
Days at sea: 8

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Itinerary

Day 1 Feb 28, 2027 Southampton Cruises from Southampton are part of a storied maritime heritage. Famous ships have sailed from Southampton port and, before commercial air travel, it was the gateway to the world with Hollywood celebrities like Bette Davis and Elizabeth Taylor passing through to board a Southampton cruise. In its atmospheric Old Town, 12th-century churches, cobbled streets, and timber-framed houses like the impressive Tudor House & Garden sit side-by-side, surrounded by one of the most complete Medieval city walls in the UK where the Bargate – the ancient entrance – still stands intact. There are bustling marina-side bars, shiny shopping districts and a vibrant cultural quarter where the Mayflower Theatre puts on West End musicals and the SeaCity Museum catalogues Southampton’s seafaring past. Some of England’s most impressive landmarks are an easy drive away, including the Neolithic wonder Stonehenge, the picturesque spa city Bath or Buckingham Palace, Tate Modern and Tower Bridge in the bustling capital of London. Discover 5,000 years of history and more on a Southampton cruise. Southampton port guide Search cruises visiting Southampton

Day 4 Mar 3, 2027 Alesund Visiting Ålesund on an MSC cruise of Northern Europe means plunging into a fairytale atmosphere. After a devastating fire, the town was rebuilt at the beginning of the 20th century in art Amazing venue on the sea nouveau style. The streets of Ålesund are filled with turrets, spires and splendid decorations that make it truly unique; if you enjoy this style, you should visit the Jugendstilsenteret, the National Art Nouveau Centre. You can admire the centre of Ålesund from above by climbimg up the 418 steps that lead you to the panoramic heights of Mount Aksla with a view of the islands that surround the town and of the Sunnmøre Alps. In alternative you can reach the Sukkertoppen, the “sugar peak”, by taking a walk that starts from Hessa, just above the port where your MSC cruise ship is anchored. To get a closer look at the traditional architecture you should instead go the island of Godøy, where you can visit Alnes, a picturesque fisherman’s village built very close to the beach where you find local crafts and food sold in the courtyards. Book an excursion to the characteristic lighthouse from where you have a wonderful view of the ocean. You cannot claim to have visited Norway on an MSC cruise if you haven’t visited a fjord, so don’t miss an excursion to Geirangerfjord. Dropping from the tall mountains that surround it are wonderful waterfalls like the Brudesløret (the Bride’s Veil) and the De syv søstrene (Seven Sisters) or the Storseterfossen, behind which you can take a walk. And if you like more challenging paths you could climb up the Ørnevegen (the Eagle’s Path), twisting up from sea level to 620 metres above in just 11 hairpin bends! Alesund port guide Search cruises visiting Alesund

Day 6 Mar 5, 2027 Narvik Slap bang in the middle of Norway’s fjords, islands and northern wonders, Narvik, is an ideal base from which to explore this magical region. A city since 1902, it sits on the coast of Ofotfjorden inside the Arctic circle. This northerly latitude means Narvik bathes in the midnight sun during summer's months and is witness to the dazzling displays of the northern lights, which enchant as they spill across the stars. View less Crisp, clear skies make Narvik a prime destination for northern lights viewing, and the natural setting of spiky mountains and soaring fjords generates a truly glorious spectacle amid incredible staging. Gondolas sway up to the slopes of Narvikfjellet ski resort, which can tempt with fantastic skiing, but also provides a prime spot for views of the lights flashing above. Look out over the vast panorama of the town curving along the fjord's banks, the Fagernesfjellet mountain, and - hopefully - the emerald spread of the natural light display. Polar Park Arctic Wildlife Centre grants Norway’s wildest animals - including wolves, bears and lynx - with a protected haven. Elsewhere, a vast railway, which once transported iron ore to the Swedish border, now provides a dramatic rumble through the best of Norway’s mountain scenery and is one of the country’s most mesmerising rail journeys. Narvik was heavily affected by the Second World War, and the city's museum explains north Norway's strategic importance and explores the German occupation here, as well as the decisive battle for the city's liberation.

Day 7 Mar 6, 2027 Narvik Slap bang in the middle of Norway’s fjords, islands and northern wonders, Narvik, is an ideal base from which to explore this magical region. A city since 1902, it sits on the coast of Ofotfjorden inside the Arctic circle. This northerly latitude means Narvik bathes in the midnight sun during summer's months and is witness to the dazzling displays of the northern lights, which enchant as they spill across the stars. View less Crisp, clear skies make Narvik a prime destination for northern lights viewing, and the natural setting of spiky mountains and soaring fjords generates a truly glorious spectacle amid incredible staging. Gondolas sway up to the slopes of Narvikfjellet ski resort, which can tempt with fantastic skiing, but also provides a prime spot for views of the lights flashing above. Look out over the vast panorama of the town curving along the fjord's banks, the Fagernesfjellet mountain, and - hopefully - the emerald spread of the natural light display. Polar Park Arctic Wildlife Centre grants Norway’s wildest animals - including wolves, bears and lynx - with a protected haven. Elsewhere, a vast railway, which once transported iron ore to the Swedish border, now provides a dramatic rumble through the best of Norway’s mountain scenery and is one of the country’s most mesmerising rail journeys. Narvik was heavily affected by the Second World War, and the city's museum explains north Norway's strategic importance and explores the German occupation here, as well as the decisive battle for the city's liberation.

Day 8 Mar 7, 2027 Harstad, Norway The port of Harstad is situated on Norways largest coastal island, Hinnøya. The diverse region around Harstad offers stunning coastal mountains, sublime fjords, and the northernmost strawberry farming on the planet. Hiking, fishing and kayaking are all popular local pastimes and the port is a great place to witness both the midnight sun and the Northern Lights.There are historical and military secrets to be found in Hardstad. The 12th century Trondenes Church plus the awesome, German-built Adolfkanonen at Trondenes – one of the largest battleship cannons on land in Europe during WW2 – are both worth uncovering. The port is also the gateway to the Lofoten and Vesterålen Islands. The 70-mile-long mountainous archipelago of the Lofoten island chain is made up of some of the world's oldest rocks. Divided by fjords created during the Ice Age, its sheer cliffs rise from the sea to over 3,000 feet in some places. Harstad, Norway port guide Search cruises visiting Harstad, Norway

Day 9 Mar 8, 2027 Sortland Sortland, the largest town of the beautiful Vesterålen archipelago, is one of Northern Norway’s most unique destinations. Nicknamed ‘Blue Town’, Sortland is almost entirely painted in various shades of blue, thanks to any idea put forward by artist Bjorn Elvenes at the start of the new millennium. Elvenes proposed that – with the help of other local artists and residents – Sortland should become a living 3D painting, and today the town’s mix of architecture, comprising Swiss style wood, concrete and glass structures, is an exhibit of his vision. It’s worth exploring the town to see how the blue colour scheme is developing alone, though there are plenty of attractions such as interesting art exhibitions, a beautiful early 20th century church and the pretty downtown, where you can enjoy ‘Writings on a Field of Blue’. Visiting Sortland offers chances to seek-out Vesterålen's natural treasures, too. Rugged, unspoilt countryside landscapes and miles of gorgeous island coastline are within reach, while the archipelago and its surrounding waters are also home to diverse wildlife, from seals and seabirds to whales. In the summer months it is possible to experience the magical midnight sun here; and in the winter, visitors might be lucky enough to witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights.

Day 11 Mar 10, 2027 Trondheim Founded in 997 by Olaf I of Norway, the Viking proponent of the conversion of Norway to Christianity, Trondheim was the capital of the country for over two hundred years and takes its name from the fjord on the shores of which it was erected. Doing an MSC cruise to Northern Europe, you will be able to visit what remains of the city’s medieval centre and admire the vivacious university life. The imposing Nidarosdomen (Nidaros Cathedral) dates back to the 12th century and was a pilgrimage site throughout the entire Medieval period. It is an impressive Gothic structure of grey-blue rocks with a main façade decorated in minute detail, “protected” one either side by two proud bell towers. What we see today is the result of meticulous restoration lasting one hundred years that was completed in 1970. The Gamle Bybro (the Old Town Bridge), also called the Portal of Luck, was constructed to allow access to the Kristiansten Fortress, which is situated on a hill from where a splendid view can be enjoyed. From the bridge, it is also possible to spot the Bryggen, the characteristic commercial buildings erected between the 18th and 19th centuries along the banks of the Nidelva River. The Ringve Museum with its permanent exhibition dedicated to music and to musical instruments from all over the world is of particular interest. In these rooms, you will be able to learn the history of the pianoforte but also of modern musical genres such as rock and pop. The museum’s botanical gardens, opened all year round, are spectacular. They boast 2000 different plants: medicinal herbs, ornamental flowers, evergreen trees… To get an overview of the city, it is best to take a bus tour, during which you will be able to see the city’s sites of interest and the typical cheerfully coloured buildings facing the blue of the sea while comfortably seated. Trondheim port guide Search cruises visiting Trondheim

Trondheim photo — Day 11 Mar 10, 2027 Trondheim Founded in 997 by Olaf I of Norway, the Viking proponent of the conversion of Norway to Christianity, Trondheim was the capital of the country for over two hundred years and takes its name from the fjord on the shores of which it was erected. Doing an MSC cruise to Northern Europe, you will be able to visit what remains of the city’s medieval centre and admire the vivacious university life. The imposing Nidarosdomen (Nidaros Cathedral) dates back to the 12th century and was a pilgrimage site throughout the entire Medieval period. It is an impressive Gothic structure of grey-blue rocks with a main façade decorated in minute detail, “protected” one either side by two proud bell towers. What we see today is the result of meticulous restoration lasting one hundred years that was completed in 1970. The Gamle Bybro (the Old Town Bridge), also called the Portal of Luck, was constructed to allow access to the Kristiansten Fortress, which is situated on a hill from where a splendid view can be enjoyed. From the bridge, it is also possible to spot the Bryggen, the characteristic commercial buildings erected between the 18th and 19th centuries along the banks of the Nidelva River. The Ringve Museum with its permanent exhibition dedicated to music and to musical instruments from all over the world is of particular interest. In these rooms, you will be able to learn the history of the pianoforte but also of modern musical genres such as rock and pop. The museum’s botanical gardens, opened all year round, are spectacular. They boast 2000 different plants: medicinal herbs, ornamental flowers, evergreen trees… To get an overview of the city, it is best to take a bus tour, during which you will be able to see the city’s sites of interest and the typical cheerfully coloured buildings facing the blue of the sea while comfortably seated. Trondheim port guide Search cruises visiting Trondheim

Day 12 Mar 11, 2027 Molde, Norway Picturesque Molde, dating back to 1742, is situated on the northern bank of Molde's fjord, sheltered from the Norwegian Sea. Molde enjoys, as a beautiful backdrop, the mighty range of the snow-capped Romsdal Mountains. These peaks provide for an unusually temperate climate, in fact mild enough to have earned Molde the title of “City of Roses.” This climate, warmed by the distant Gulf Stream, also accounts for Molde's popularity as a tourist destination for the last 100 years. Apart from this gorgeous setting, Molde offers attractive parks and gardens. This city suffered from severe bombing raids during World War II and when reconstruction took place, city planners left more than adequate open space. Gardens sprang up everywhere, including on the rooftops of new government buildings! There's enough jazz in Molde to brighten even the darkest winter nights. This music is highlighted during the annual Molde Jazz Festival when musicians come from far and wide to jam. Nearby points of interest include such destinations as the Romsdal Museum with its notable collection of old timbered dwellings. A superb view over the area can be had from 1,300-foot-high Varden Hill. On a clear day, from this vantage point, you can see some 87 mountain peaks--or so claim the local townspeople. In town, favorite attractions include the 1960s Town Hall and the Molde Cathedral which was constructed in the 1950s. Some famous former citizens of Molde include the Norwegian dramatist, Henrik Ibsen. He was considered probably the country's most influential figure in modern theater. Bjørnstjerne Bjørnsone was also a citizen of Molde. Though most famous in Scandinavia, this Norwegian writer is revered around the world as the seminal figure of 19th-century Norwegian literature. Your day ashore should be quite delightful. Have your cameras at the ready. Molde, Norway port guide Search cruises visiting Molde, Norway

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Show all 48 cabin grades

Name	Supplier code	Type
Superior Balcony Cabin	BA	Balcony
Balcony Cabin	BC	Balcony
Superior Balcony	LBA	Balcony
Balcony Cabin	LBC	Balcony
Wheelchair Adapted	BD	CABIN
Wheelchair Adapted	BJD	CABIN
Wheelchair Adapted	GD	CABIN
Standard Cabin	GLH	CABIN
Superior Interior	G	Inside
Guaranteed Interior Higher	GTYIH	Inside
Guaranteed Interior Lower	GTYIL	Inside
Interior Cabin	H	Inside
Interior Cabin	I	Inside
Interior Cabin	IS	Inside
Interior Lower Grade	LIL	Inside
Interior Higher	LIU	Inside
2 Bedded Room	LLH	Inside
Superior Single Inside Cabin	M	Inside
Single Interior Room	N	Inside
Single Interior	SI	Inside
Superior Ocean View Cabin	A	Oceanview
Superior Ocean View Cabin	B	Oceanview
Superior Ocean View Cabin	C	Oceanview
Superior Ocean View Fully Restricted	CO	Oceanview
Picture Window Ocean View Cabin	D	Oceanview
Picture Window Ocean View Cabin	E	Oceanview
Porthole Ocean View Cabin	F	Oceanview
Guaranteed Ocean View Higher	GTYOH	Oceanview
Guaranteed Ocean View Lower	GTYOL	Oceanview
Superior Ocean View Single Cabin	J	Oceanview
Single Ocean View Cabin	K	Oceanview
Single Ocean View Cabin	L	Oceanview
Ocean View Lower	LOL	Oceanview
Ocean View HIgher	LOU	Oceanview
Ocean View Cabin	OS	Oceanview
Single Ocean View	SO	Oceanview
Superior Ocean View	SOS	Oceanview
Balcony Junior Suite	BJ	Suite
Junior Suite	GBJ	Suite
Single Balcony Suite	JB	Suite
Balcony Junior Suite	LBJ	Suite
Marquee Suite	LMS	Suite
Premier Suite	LPS	Suite
Superior Suite	LSS	Suite
Marquee Suite	MS	Suite
Owner's Suite	OW	Suite
Premier Suite	PS	Suite
Superior Suite	SS	Suite