10-day Special Norwegian Fjords

SHORE EXCURSIONS (Dover-Oslo)
April 9-18, 2010

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STAVANGER

April 11, 2010

Norwegian Petroleum Museum and Stavanger City Tour

Code: E-SVG1
Duration: approx. 3.5 hrs
Price: $115
Our tour starts with a walk through Gamle Stavanger, the old part of Stavanger, - Europe's best preserved wooden house settlement, consisting of more than 150 houses. The houses were built at the end of the 17th and early 18th century and are now protected by a special preservation law. We'll visit to the Stavanger Cathedral, which was built of stone in the 12th century. This cathedral was erected by Bishop Reinald from Winchester, England in 1125, after King Sigurd Jorsalfar (the Crusader) made Stavanger to a cathedral town. It was originally erected in Anglo-Norman style, but after a fire in 1272, the vestibule was rebuilt in Gothic style. We'll then drive to the outskirts of Stavanger. On the way to Ullandhaug we make a short stop at Hafrsfjord, where a historical sea battle was fought in the age of the Vikings 1,100 years ago. From Ullandhaug Tower you will get a bird's-eye view over the city and the Ryfylke Fjords. From here we will drive back to the city to visit the Norwegian Petroleum Museum. The unusual architecture has made the museum a landmark in the Port of Stavanger. At this museum you will be able to study the oil industry's technology and geology and experience the dramatic excitment onboard an oil rig. Plus there is a thrilling movie presentation you will never forget.
Note: The tour involves substantial walking over cobblestone and uneven surfaces. Not recommended for guests with difficulty walking. Wheelchairs are not recommended.

Utstein Monastary & Iron Age Farm

Code: E-SVG2
Duration: approx. 4 hrs
Price: $118
After boarding the coach at the pier, the first stop will be at the Farmstead from the Migration Period (350-550 AD). Enjoya guided tour of Jernaldergarden, the reconstructed farm stead from the Iron Age. These long houses have been reconstructed on the original sites, with the same building materials and techniques used by our forefathers 1,500 years ago. After the visit the tour continues to Mosteroy Island and the Utstein Monastery. On our way to Mosteroy Island we drive through the "Rennfast" road system which is a prime example of Norwegian skills at their finest. The highway passes through one of the world's longest and deepest under sea automobile tunnels -the Byfjord tunnel. The tunnel is 3.5 miles long and descends 731 feet beneath the sea surface and 147 ft below the sea bed. On the western tip of Mosteroy island lays one of the country's finest monuments - the Utstein Monastery. This was one of the royal estates of King Harold Fairhair around 1000 AD, the first King to claim sovereignty over all of Norway. Utstein was also the residence for King Magnus Lawmender around the year 1200, and later dominated to the monks at the St. Olav monastery in Stavanger. They established an Augustinian monastery and carried on with the construction. From the middle of the 18th century, Utstein evolved into a Danish style manor. Both the interior and exterior display a wealth of fine details, such as the altarpiece, the baptismal font, the narrow tower stairs and the peaceful gardens with its many old trees.

Boat Trip to the Lysefjord

Code: E-SVG3
Duration: approx. 3.5 hrs
Price: $145
The first part of the tour gives us a good idea how the Norwegians live in this area. We will most likely meet quite a few spending a summer day onboard their boats. We cruise into the splendid Lysefjord, location of one of Norway's spectacular wonders, Prekestolen -the Pulpit Rock, over 1,500 feet above the sea level and cruise directly under it. One item of note regarding the fjord, the water is as deep as the mountains are high. We make a stop at the idyllic beach at Helleren where coffee or tea, and "Lysefjord Lapper" are served. Cruising back to Stavanger we have a nice view over the city, and we might get to see an oil rig under construction.

ULVIK

April 12, 2010

Fruit & Cider Tour

Code: E-ULV1
Duration: approx. 2.5 hrs
Price: $89
One of the things Hardanger is most famous for is the fruit growing and cider production. On this tour you will learn more about this industry and get a little taste of the products. We drive by bus from the pier to our first stop, which is Hjeltnes Horticultural College. This is the oldest horticultural college in Norway, founded in 1901 and the only one of its kind in Western Norway. Here you will be given an introduction to fruit growing in the Hardanger area. The College also has a lovely park with pretty rose and herb gardens. We continue to Hardanger Saft & Siderfabrikk which is situated on the farm Lekve, about 2 miles from the center of Ulvik. The farm produces apples, plums and cherries. The apples are used in the production of apple juice, cider and calvados type brandy. We are given a guided tour of the factory, and at the end we will be given a small taste of the products. We return by coach to Ulvik and the pier where the tour ends.

Ulvik - Village Stroll with Visit at Skeie Mylna

Code: E-ULV2
Duration: approx. 2 hrs
Price: $26
This is an easy, guided walk where you learn a little about the history of Ulvik and what it is like living there today. You will also visit the old mill Skeie Mylna. Your local guide will meet you at the pier and the leisurely tour starts along Ulvik's streets to Brakanestunet, where you will be given a brief introduction to the poetry of Olav H. Hauge, a poet who lived in Ulvik. Walk to Ulvik Church for a short visit before continuing to the old mill Skeie Mylna. The old mill at Skeie was moved to Ulvik from Bergen by Endre Nilsson Skeie in the 1890s and it is the only one of its kind still left in the Hardanger area. The owners have put a lot of work and money in restoring it, and their vision is that grain once again shall be grinned here. The trip ends on the pier in Ulvik.
Note: Relatively easy walking, but over a longer period of time. These tours are not recommended for guests with walking difficulties. Comfortable and sturdy shoes are recommended.

EIDFJORD

April 12, 2010

Hardangervidda Nature Center

Code: E-EID1
Duration: approx. 2 hrs
Price: $82
The tour starts with a short drive from Eidfjord up the valley to Ovre Eidfjord and Hardangervidda Nature Center, a nature and culture historical center of experience, and the number one tourist attraction in Hardanger. At the Nature Center you will learn about the nature and wildlife on the Mountain plateau Hardangervidda. The Center features lively exhibitions, hand-on activities, and visual effects. Today the center is one of the leading centers of its kind, featuring pioneering technological effects. The super-videograph is a modern panoramic cinema, built in cooperation with Ivo Caprino who also made the film which is shown there. In the cinema you can take off on a journey past fjords, mountains and waterfalls.

Tallinn with Surroundings and Lunch

Code: E-TLL2
Duration: approx. 7 hrs
Price: $101
Departing from the pier, your coach will drive around the medieval city wall which encompasses the Old Town before you start a guided walking tour through its atmospheric streets. Visit the Russian Orthodox Church, inaugurated in 1900 and filled with a stunning array of superb icons. You'll also visit the 13th century Gothic style Dome Cathedral and view the exterior of the Castle which is now the seat of the Estonia's Parliament. Built on a cliff top, the Upper Town provides a superb vantage point from which to admire the red-gabled roofs and spires of the Lower Town. Your tour continues as you follow your guide down Long and Short Leg Streets to the Lower Town. You'll reach the Town Hall Square where you'll find the oldest surviving Gothic Town Hall in Northern Europe. Across the square is a 15th century Apothecary shop, probably the oldest pharmacy still in use. You'll also walk past several medieval guild houses and merchants' homes. Lunch is served at a charming restaurant in the Old Town followed with some 30 minutes of free time for shopping at St. Catherine's arts and crafts center. We board the coach again and drive through the cultural centre of Tallinn and towards Kadriorg (Catherine's Valley), the largest park in Estonia. We visit the newly renovated Baroque Palace and the garden from the outside and continue with a visit to the Tallinn Song Bowl, a natural amphitheatre officially said to hold about 150,000 people. After this, we visit the St Birgit's Convent, a magnificent monument of the 15th century limestone architecture.
Note: includes 3-course meal, coffee/tea.

In the Footstep of the Vikings

Code: E-EID2
Duration: approx. 2 hrs
Price: $39
This walk goes from the center of Eidfjord up along the river Eio, known for being a good river for salmon fishing. Continue the walk to Hereid, a terrace in the landscape. This area is clearly marked by the geological processes, caused by the Ice Ages. On Hereid at least 350 grave-mounds are found dating from 500 AD to 1000 AD, some probably even older. It is the largest pre historic burial site in the county of Hordaland, now covered by birch trees. The grave-mounds vary in size and shape. On Hereid there are also a few farms clustered together.
Note: This tour is a landscape walk and climbs approx. 320 ft above sea level. The total length is about 2.5 miles.

Along Hardangerfjord to Lofthus

Code: E-EID3
Duration: approx. 4 hrs
Price: $102
The Hardanger area is not only known for dramatic landscapes, but also for fruit growing. Western Norway and in particular Hardanger, is the only place on earth where fruit is cultivated as far as 60 º north. The warm Gulf stream results in a mild and humid climate, which together with many hours of light during summer and the perfect soil, have left an image of Hardanger being the Orchard of Norway. From Eidfjord we drive along the Hardangerfjord to the village of Lofthus. Lofthus is truly idyllic with a view to the majestic Folgefonna glacier, and the waterfall Skrikjo coming over the edge of the Hardangervidda plateau. From the area around Lofthus, 80% of the total Norwegian sweet cherry production is harvested. On both sides of the fjord there is a total of 550,000 fruit trees. Famous Norwegian writer Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson said following about Lofthus: "Had I known that it was so beautiful here, I would have come earlier." At Ullensvang Research Center, a modern national center researching in fruit growing, we will take a stroll in the garden of the center and the guide will given an orientation about the local agriculture and secrets about the orchards in Hardanger. After the stroll in the garden, we will walk to the Ullensvang Church passing many lovely gardens. Ullensvang Church was built by Englishmen in the English gothic style. Your guide will tell you about the Monks from Fountains Abbey in Yorkshire who brought their knowledge and skills about orchards and fruit cultivation to Hardanger. Coffe/tea and a delicious apple cake will be served at Ullensvang Gjestheim, which is located in beautiful surroundings close by Ullensvang Church.

FLAM

April 13, 2010

The Flam Railway to Myrdal

Code: E-FLM1
Duration: approx. 3-3.5 hrs
Price: $77
The tour starts from the pier which is actually also the Railway Station. On this tour you will experience the most dramatic train ride in Europe. The Flåm Railway is only 12 miles long but a masterpiece of engineering. The train climbs up from sea-level to 2,844 ft during these 12 miles, crossing back and forth across rivers and through 20 tunnels. To allow you to view the magnificent scenery the train will proceed slowly and even stop at the Kjosfossen waterfall where you may leave the train to take a closer look or take some pictures. At Myrdal you will leave the train. Here you will have time (approx. 30-40 mins) to relax and look at the beautiful scenery before re-boarding the train back to Flam.

Flam Railway, Voss & Stalheim

Code: E-FLM2
Duration: approx. 5.5 hrs
Price: $185
Board the famous Flam Railway, taking you to 2,700 feet above sea level in about 50 minutes. The Flam Railway is only 12 miles long but a masterpiece of engineering. The train climbs up from sea-level to 2,844 ft during these 12 miles, crossing back and forth across rivers and through 20 tunnels. At Myrdal railway station you have to change trains. We will arrive in Voss which is a perfect recreation area, with Vangsvannet Lake for summer activities and the ski system for winter activities. In Voss you will board the coach and drive to the open air museum Mølstertunet. Mølstertunet has a collection of old Mountain farm houses and you will see how life was in this part of Norway during the 18th and 19th centuries. Afterwards you continue down the Oppheim Lake and towards Tvindefossen waterfall where a photo stop will be made. We continue passing Norwegian farming countryside to the next stop at Stalheim Hotel, where we will be served coffee/tea and cake. Enjoy the beautiful view over the Næroy Valley which has been added to the UNESCO's World Heritage List. We follow the Næroy valley to Gudvangen where the tour ends.

The Flam Railway & Mountain Biking

Code: E-FLM3
Duration: approx. 3-3.5 hrs
Price: $151
The tour starts from the pier which is actually also the Railway Station. On this tour you will experience the most dramatic train ride in Europe. The Flam railway is only 12 miles long but a masterpiece of engineering. The train climbs up from sea-level to 2,844 ft during these 12 miles, crossing back and forth across rivers and through 20 tunnels. We depart the train at Myrdal and wait for the returning train. At Berekvam station we leave the train and here our Mountain-bike guide will be waiting for us. Bikes, helmets and rain gear if needed will be handed out and then we are ready for action.
The 6.8 mile ride is downhill more or less all the way, starting at 1,131 miles above sea level and ending near the Fjord at Flam. Your guide will lead the way and make sure you don't miss the best photo stops and viewpoints. A vehicle will follow behind the group providing support for any problems or breakdowns that can happen. The narrow road winds its way besides the river most of the ride with fantastic views ofthe valley. It is also possible to fill our water bottles or drink from the river or streams along the way.
Note: This tour is recommended only for the physically fit and adventurous guests. Warm clothes and comfortable walking shoes necessary. Tour can only operate if weather permits.

GUDVANGEN

April 13, 2010

The Magical White Caves of Gudvangen

Code: E-GVG1
Duration: approx. 1-1.5hrs
Price: $68
This tour takes us by bus to the White Mines in Gudvangen for a unique experience deep inside the limestone caves. At the White Caves you will be given a tour through Trolls and Mystery, through the deepest caves and then to the dawn of light and a beautiful sunset, before entering the big hall, where you can rest on reindeer skins, enjoy a little snack and visit the very special CaveBar. All to the sound of running and dripping water along with Grieg's beautiful music and a delicate light show from the deepest blue to the brightest orange, coming and going, reflecting on the many small ponds. Here you find, second after the moon, the world's largest deposit of Anorthositt, a type of marble, which contains both gold and aluminum. Helmets, warm coats, mountain water to drink, a small snack in the big hall, and candlelight-to make a wish in the pond are all included in the tour.
Note: Not recommended for claustrophobic guests due to the visit in the White Caves. Wheelchairs not permitted in the White Caves.

ALESUND

April 14, 2010

Alesund - Walking in the Art Nouveau City

Code: E-AE1
Duration: approx. 2.5 - 3 hrs
Price: $38
A large part of Alesund was destroyed by fire in 1904 and rebuilt in the Art Noveau-style, typical for the first decade of this century. Today, it is a bustling town where the fish and fish processing industry are the main sources of income. The Art Nouveau Centre in Alesund documents the town's unique architectural history with the establishment of Art Nouveau architecture after the great Town Fire of 1904. Experience the fascinating and exciting history that is presented to you through a time machine and multimedia show that portrays the town before and after the fire. Take a stroll through the many rooms in the building known as "The Swan Pharmacy," and be mesmerized by the beautiful and authentic décor. The tour continues through the Jugend (Art Noveau) quarters of the town center and inner harbor, through the attractive park at the foot of Mt Aksla and back to the pier and your ship.
Note: Flat and comfortable shoes are recommended. Not suitable for wheelchair or people with difficulty walking.

Alesund City Tour and Atlantic Sea Park

Code: E-AE2
Duration: approx. 3 hrs
Price: $88
On this tour you will get a brief city sightseeing and the opportunity to visit the town's newest attraction, the Atlantic Sea Park. We will depart the pier and drive through one of Norway's most wonderful towns, built on three islands between two fjords. The first stop will be at the Atlantic Sea Park which is situated on the ocean front at Tueneset. The Atlantic Sea park is the largest aquarium in Scandinavia. Large landscape aquariums teem with ocean life from up and down the Atlantic, with an emphasis on the western regions. You will also meet coastal scenery with fishing stands, hiking trails, bathing sites and outstanding diving. Rejoin your coach for the drive back to Alesund. A stop will be made up on Mt. Aksla at the "Fjellstua" Mountain Lodge to enjoy the magnificent view over the town and its surroundings before returning via the central parts of the town to your ship.

The Islands of Giske & Godoy

Code: E-AE3
Duration: approx. 3 hrs
Price: $88
The community of Giske consists of four islands. Two of them will be visited at this tour - the Giske and Godoy Islands which lies further to the west. The tour to the islands goes via bridges and underwater tunnels, the longest being 2.6 miles. Giske is known as the Saga Island and for the fact that the Viking Chieftain Rollo was born here. This island is fairly flat and fertile. Here you will visit the old stone church dating back to 1150, originally a chapel belonging to the mighty Giske-family. From Giske you continue over to the Godoy Island. On the north-western side of the island the land is flat and fertile and you drive towards the headland where the small fishing village of Alnes is situated facing the Atlantic Ocean. You will take a closer look at the old lighthouse before returning to Alesund. On the way back to the ship, you will visit the viewpoint Mt. Aksla, with a spectacular view of Alesund and the islands that you have just visited.
Note: Some walking involved. Considerable number of steps in the lighthouse. Not suitable for wheelchairs.

GEIRANGER

April 14, 2010

Walk to the Norwegian Fjord Center

Code: E-GEI1
Duration: approx. 1 - 2 hrs
Price: $24
The Norwegian Fjord Centre presents the information center for the West Norwegian Fjords World Heritage Site. The World Heritage Site, which is represented by the Geirangerfjord and the Naeroyfjord, is Norway's only natural heritage site on the UNESCO List of natural and cultural World Heritage Sites. The West Norwegian Fjords were inscribed on the List on July 14, 2005 and encompass some of the longest, deepest, narrowest and most beautiful fjords in the world! The Norwegian Fjord Centre was opened in June 2002 by HM Queen Sonja and offers a unique and rewarding insight into the history, the colorful people and the fabulous natural scenery of the area. The very latest technology is used to bring you information about the local flora and fauna, geological features including landslides and landslide areas, hydro-electric power development, road-building, tourism and transport, folk life and nature. The interactive multimedia exhibit "From Mountain to Fjord" will show you the stunning natural World Heritage Site as it appears through the four seasons of the year.

OLDEN

April 15, 2010

Jostedalsbreen National Park Centre

Code: E-OLD1
Duration: approx. 3 hrs
Price: $96
Leave the charming village of Olden at the head of the beautiful Nordfjord and drive along its shores to the village of Loen. The whole area abounds with glaciers, high mountains and luxuriant plant life. We will follow the Stryn River, famous for its salmon fishing, reaching the Stryn Lake with its turquoise, crystal clear water. Here you will visit Jostedalsbreen National Park Center and see a film of the natural attractions of the area. There are exhibitions about life on and beneath the glacier, and the center also has an extraordinary wild flower exhibition.

Jostedalsbreen National Park Centre

Briksdal Glacier Walking Tour

Code: E-OLD2
Duration: approx. 4 hrs
Price: $107
The village of Olden is situated at the end of the innermost arm of lovely Nordfjord, which cuts its way inland to the mighty ice fields of the Josterdals Glacier, Europe's largest glacier. Briksdal Glacier, your destination on this tour, is one of its arms. Leaving Olden's center by coach, pass two picturesque churches and the beautiful lakes Floren and Olden. At the end of the valley lies Rustoen, around which numerous waterfalls tumble from the ice field. The road ascends through woodlands to the Briksdalen Inn, where we leave the coach. The walk to the glacier viewpoint takes 45 minutes, and although the first part is somewhat steep, the rest of the way is comparatively flat. The spectacle is truly awe-inspiring, with waters of the lake in front of the glacier reflecting the greens and blues of the ice. From time to time a sound like thunder is heard as the glacier "calves," dropping a chunk of glacier ice into the fjord. After the visit to the glacier we will return to the Briksdalen Inn for coffee, tea and cake.
Note: This tour is recommended only for physically fit and adventurous guests. Comfortable and solid hiking / walking boots are recommended. 45 minutes uphill walk to the glacier view point. Total walking time is approx 90 minutes. Incl. coffee, tea and cake.

Helicopter Glacier Adventure

Code: E-OLD3
Duration: approx. 1 hrs
Price: $289
Join us on this exhilarating helicopter flight over the renowned Briksdal Glacier. From the pier, enjoy a short drive to the nearby take off spot. On this spectacular helicopter tour you will have the unique opportunity to savour the wonderful panormaic views of the Briksdal Glacier. The glacier is an arm of the mighty Jostedals Glacier, the largest glacier on the European mainland. This ice giant covers 1,594 sq ft and is up to 1,300 ft deep. It's highest point is 6,397 ft above sea level and the Briksdal Glacier ends in a lake only 807 ft above sea level.
Note: This excursion is not recommended for guests with physical/walking disabilities or who suffer from motion sickness and/or vertigo, nor guests who have a fear of heights and enclosed spaces. It is recommended that guests dress in warm layered clothing and wear flat comfortable shoes. This excursion is not wheelchair accessible, nor it is recommended for guests with physical limitations as they will be required to embark/disembark the helicopter. The operation of this excursion is dependent upon prevailing weather conditions.

BERGEN

April 16, 2010

Bergen City Tour

Code: E-BGO1
Duration: approx. 2.5 hrs
Price: $48
This excursion can be combined with E-BGO2 or E-BGO3.
Our tour starts with the old wooden Hanseatic pier - Bryggen. We go for a stroll around The Hanseatic Quarters, one of the most known quarters from the Middle age in Norway, originating from 1702 when the original buildings were destroyed in a fire. The houses were rebuilt in the same style as the former buildings, which originate from 1350. We will continue across the street to the Fish Market, where you will find all kinds of fresh seafood, fruit and vegetables. After the stroll we board the coach again for a drive through Bergen city center. Some of the highlights of the tour will be King Hakons Hall, the Rosenkrantz Tower, St. Mary's Church built around 1170 and one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in Norway, Bergen Theater (Den Nationale Scene), the Peninsula of Nordnes with the Aquarium of Bergen and Grieghallen, the modern concert hall named after Norway's great composer, Edvard Grieg.

Fantoft Stave Church & Edvard Grieg, including Recital

Code: E-BGO2
Duration: approx. 3.5 hrs
Price: $114
This excursion can be combined with E-BGO1. Our tour starts with the old wooden Hanseatic pier - Bryggen. We go for a stroll around The Hanseatic Quarters, one of the most known quarters from the Middle age in Norway, originating from 1702 when the original buildings were destroyed in a fire. The houses were rebuilt in the same style as the former buildings, which originate from 1350. We will continue across the street to the Fish Market, where you will find all kinds of fresh seafood, fruit and vegetables. After the stroll we board the coach again for a drive through Bergen city center. Some of the highlights of the tour will be King Hakons Hall, the Rosenkrantz Tower, St. Mary's Church built around 1170 and one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in Norway, Bergen Theater (Den Nationale Scene), the Peninsula of Nordnes with the Aquarium of Bergen and Grieghallen, the modern concert hall named after Norway's great composer, Edvard Grieg.

Old Bergen, Håkons Hall and Fløyen

Code: E-BGO3
Duration: approx. 3.5 - 4 hrs
Price: $112
This excursion can be combined with BGO1. This tour starts with a short drive from the pier to Old Bergen. Old Bergen is a reconstructed town with approx. 50 wooden houses from the 18th, 19th and 20th century. Here you will find houses and shops that belonged to people of different professions like the sea captain, the dentist, the photographer, and the baker. Countless rooms and objects bring the city's history through generations to life. Old Bergen is an idyllic reminder of what Bergen used to be like, and a guided tour of the houses is a fascinating and entertaining experience. We return to downtown Bergen where we leave the bus and make a visit at King Hakons Hall, which was erected during the reign of king Hakon Hakonsson. Here we will get a guided tour of the medieval building. After this visit we go for a stroll around The Hanseatic Quarters "Bryggen," one of the most known quarters from the Middle Ages in Norway, originating from 1702 when the original buildings were destroyed in a fire. The houses were rebuilt in the same style as the former buildings, which originate from 1350. We end this tour with a ride on Floybanen funicular which takes us approx. 1,050 ft above sea level. At the top you will enjoy a panoramic view over the town center and the surrounding area. Enjoy some free time to stroll around and enjoy the scenery at one of the most popular city mountains in Bergen.