Discover the poetry of Norway's heritage as expressed in dress. Learn about the marvelous world of its national and regional folk costumes, with their luxuriant patterns and colors, and how Norwegians have drawn inspiration from abroad, working foreign designs and materials into their homegrown traditional garb. Meet experts on Norwegian folk costumes and enjoy lectures, films, and tailors' workshops. Folk musicians and dancers perform on board, adding to the folkloric atmosphere.

Birthplace of famed Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg, Bergen is the cultural capital of Norway and the gateway to the fjords. Charming Bergen is renowned for Bryggen, its historical Hanseaticera quay and wharves. Concert on board.

Afternoon arrival at Alesund, a town famous for the many Art Nouveau buildings in its picturesque center. Afterward, sail along the coast of More and Romsdal, with its beautiful fjords. Demonstrations and concert on board.

Morning arrival at Trondheim, Norway's medieval Viking capital. Optional excursions to the Nidarosdomen cathedral and Ringve, national museum of music and musical instruments. Cruise north along the coast of Helgeland, passing the peaks known as the the Seven Sisters and the island of Vega, included on UNESCO's World Heritage Site list. Demonstrations and concert on board.

crossing the Arctic Circle early in the morning, arrival at the town of Bodo. In this area lies the famous maelstrom, or tidal whirlpool, of Saltstraumen. Then it's across the Vestfjord to the enchanting islands of Lofoten, where mountains plunge straight into the sea, their peaks reflected in glistening waters, and fishermen's sheds are strung along the edge of the coast like pearls. Arrival at Svolvaer in the late evening. Demonstrations and concert on board.

Arrival at Harstad in the morning. The town of Harstad is located in the northernmost part of Hinnoya, the largest island in Norway. Then it's on to the city of Tromso, which earned its reputation as a gateway to the Arctic thanks to the many important polar expeditions that departed the city in the early 1900's. From Tromso, the itinerary moves on to the Lyngen Alps, a majestic mountain range noted for its strange rock formations, snow-covered peaks and glittering glaciers. Demonstrations and concert on board.

Sailing around the island of Mageroya, to the small town of Honningsvag. The North Cape is located in the northern part of the island. After arrival at Hammerfest, the world's northernmost town, entertainment will include authentic joik-ancient chanting songs of the Sami people-as well as traditional Sami dancing.

The cruise continues eastward from Hammerfest, along the Barents Sea coastline, arriving at the little town of Vadso for a short stop. Then it's across the fjord of Varanger, arriving two hours later at the town of Kirkenes-only 9.3 miles from the Russian border.