Guest Speaker 
Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
19 m²
2
Norwegian fjords
Oslo - Bergen
Dates:
10/07/2023
to
17/07/2023
Other available dates
days
nights on board
This is where nature has shaped its most majestic masterpieces… Majestic fjords bordered by monumental cliffs cutting into the coastline of the North Sea, legendary lands featuring fascinating fauna, vertiginous waterfalls tumbling from immense rock walls. Norway will open its doors to you for a unique 8-day journey from Oslo to Bergen, through these ancestral lands, home to myths, conquest and geological wonders.
The Norwegian capital grows distant. Its ochre brick buildings disappear, giving way to the spellbinding setting of Oslfjorden, featuring lush green islands scattered with hundred-year-old oaks, herbaceous shorelines and red wooden houses.
After a port of call in the charming historic Swedish city of Göteborg, you will set sail again for the historic and wild southern tip of Norway. In Arendal, once known as the Venice of the North because of its many canals, you may take the time to contemplate this intact and preserved immense space, composed of conifer forests and long pebble beaches ; these bear testimony to the retreat of a huge glacier, around 12,000 years ago, which left an enormous amount of rock behind. Then, in Sandnes, plunge into the fantastic universe of the legendary and emblematic Vikings, who were explorers and traders but also pirates. Here, an immersion into the Iron Age awaits; you will discover the ancestral traditions of these larger-than-life characters as you visit a reconstructed traditional village or emblematic sites.
The fjords region, the highlight of your odyssey, is approaching. Beneath a misty sky, you will see the imposing dark rock walls of these natural wonders, whose calm waters were explored by Viking drakkars almost ten centuries ago. These geological treasures will immerse you in a universe that is as inhospitable as it is captivating. Lysefjorden and its mythical Preikestolen, a majestic pulpit-shaped cliff; Loen and its closeness to the Jostedalsbreen National Park, which is home to the Briksdal Glacier, one of the last ice caps in Europe; Geiranger and its legendary fjord, the only one to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site; Hellesylt and its impressive cliffs with their vertiginous waterfalls: these all offer a unique, stunning and unforgettable experience.
During a final port of call, you will be able to visit Alesund. Fall in love with the Art Nouveau architecture of this historic city, which is surrounded by a ring of rocky islets, enchanting fjord inlets and majestic mountains. It lies anchored opposite Giske, the home island of Rollo, the great Viking chieftain renowned for his many Nordic expeditions to Normandy.
As a grand finale, this enchanting interlude will come to an end in Bergen, founded by the Vikings almost a thousand years ago and famous for its seven mountains overlooking the city centre and its Hanseatic wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Ref : EU100723
Your itinerary
A unique cruise discovering ancestral Viking heritage and exploring the most emblematic fjords in Norway. UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Geirangerfjord, Bergen and the Hanseatic port of Bryggen (Disembarkation...
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Your trip in detail
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Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Two ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Hat/cap
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Highlights
- A unique cruise discovering ancestral Viking heritage and exploring the most emblematic fjords in Norway.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Geirangerfjord, Bergen and the Hanseatic port of Bryggen (Disembarkation port).
- Enchanting natural settings, featuring monumental granite cliffs with vertiginous waterfalls, verdant canopy with striking biodiversity, granite hills dotted with tufts of greenery, age-old glaciers, picturesque colourful villages, and so on.
- Discovering Viking heritage, with millennial history, vestiges of settlements and ancestral customs.
- Sailing in the Lysefjorden, which means “the fjord of light”, bordered by granite cliffs that rise several hundred metres high.
- From Sandnes, the opportunity to discover a reconstructed traditional village in Ullandhaug.
- Possibility of a walk along the foot of one of the most beautiful glaciers in Europe, the Briksdal, from Loen.
Ports of Call & Excursions
10 July 2023 - Oslo
Embarkation 10/07/2023 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 10/07/2023 at 20:00
Capital of Norway, Olso, is a green city. Its many parks and gardens make it the reputedly pleasant city it is. The 80 hectares of Vigeland sculpture parks and its 212 open air exhibitions, the Munch Museum dedicated to the life and works of the Norwegian artist Edvard Munch, plus the Akershus fortress which symbolises Oslo’s rich history, are both must-sees. For culture, the national gallery shelters the largest Norwegian collection of paintings, drawings and sculptures open to the public. And, for sports enthusiasts, the Holmenkollen district with its Ski museum and famous ski jump offer the most stunning, all-encompassing view of the city.
11 July 2023 - Göteborg (Gothenburg)
Arrival 11/07/2023 midday
Departure 11/07/2023 late afternoon
Nestling on the western coast of Sweden, at the junction of the Göta River and the Kattegat sea area, Gothenburg enchants and surprises. Authentic and welcoming, this city of canals, edged with many green spaces, has a rich maritime history, making it Sweden’s most important port. Going beyond its commercial influence, “the cultural capital of Scandinavia” is a perfect blend of historic monuments, neo-classical architecture and eco-districts featuring modern urban spaces. In the old Haga district, you can peruse hippy-chic fashion boutiques and bohemian cafés in the ground floors of traditional wood houses. On the hills of the city, fall under the spell of the Lutheran Masthugget Church, a sumptuous 18th-century building.
12 July 2023 - Arendal
Arrival 12/07/2023 early morning
Departure 12/07/2023 midday
A port city located on Norway’s southern coast, Arendal is considered as the municipality enjoying the best climate in the country. This town in the Sorlandet region has also long been renowned for its iron ore mines: their operation in the 19th century produced a particularly resistant magnetite ore. The Raet National Park, the only protected area on the eastern coast of Norway, is not far away; here, you will fall in love with its raw nature, with silver and emerald reflections, dotted with immense coniferous forests and long pebble beaches.
13 July 2023 - Sandnes
Arrival 13/07/2023 early morning
Departure 13/07/2023 early afternoon
In the south-west of Norway, nestling at the head of the Gands Fjord, Sandnes lies surrounded by nature. Between the rugged coasts with green reflections and the dark seas, it will welcome you for a unique moment in the fantastic universe of the legendary and emblematic Vikings, who were explorers and traders but also pirates. You will be able to discover a recreated traditional village as well as the famous Swords in Rock, three granite swords standing 10 metres (33 ft) tall, symbolising the last victory of the King of Norway Harald I, in 872.
13 July 2023 - Sailing in Lysefjorden
Arrival 13/07/2023
Departure 13/07/2023
You will sail into the heart of one of Norway’s most breathtaking fjords, its marvellous décor dominated by pristine nature, between vertiginous granite cliffs, crystal-clear waters and luxuriant vegetation. Very close to Stavanger, the quiet waters of Lysefjorden stretch out over around forty kilometres, beneath impressive rocks. Admire the world-famous site of Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), a majestic cliff in the shape of a pulpit that rises to more than 600 metres above the waters. A bit further on, Flørli, from the top of its 4,444 steps, is the world’s longest wooden stairway, whereas the Kjerag, with its mythical boulder wedged between two rock faces, provides an unusual and unforgettable spectacle.
14 July 2023 - Loen
Arrival 14/07/2023 early afternoon
Departure 14/07/2023 early evening
At the end of the Nordfjord, the small village of Loen can be discovered under the large Briksdal glacier, in the Jostedalsbreen National Park, which encompasses the largest ice cap in Continental Europe. More than a century ago, European cruise ships started to call here for guests to visit the stunning mountains and valleys of the fjordland by horse-drawn carriage. Today, the Loen Skylift provides modern access to the panorama of the fjord landscape by ferrying guests to the top of Mount Hoven – 1011 meters above sea level – via cable car in only five minutes. Just inland lies beautiful Lake Lovatnet, renowned for its turquoise waters that are fed by melt water from the surrounding glaciers.
15 July 2023 - Geiranger
Arrival 15/07/2023 early morning
Departure 15/07/2023 midday
A must-see stopover in Norway, located halfway between Bergen and Trondheim, Geiranger offers the stunning beauty of a natural decor, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. You will be able to admire the splendour of the sheer cliffs, dark rocks and crystal-clear water that make the place famous, like the majestic and mythical Seven Sisters waterfall. The sides of the fjord offer many possibilities for hiking: the Eagle’s Road takes you up to a steep stretch offering a gorgeous panoramic view. A visit to Geiranger village will immerse you in the rhythm of life in the little local community.
15 July 2023 - Hellesylt
Arrival 15/07/2023 early afternoon
Departure 15/07/2023 late afternoon
Hellesylt is a small village located 20 kilometres from the Geiranger site. Here, you’ll get a taste of a traditional Norwegian village. Colourful houses, wooden walkways, rustic stalls where you can have a refreshment before heading off to discover more of the local colour. The surroundings are simply magnificent with cliffs, mountains and lakes with peaceful waters. The village is crossed by a river whose charming cascade tumbles into the fjord waters.
16 July 2023 - Alesund
Arrival 16/07/2023 early morning
Departure 16/07/2023 early afternoon
Surrounded by a multitude of islands, fjords and majestic mountains, the town of Ålesund surprises many visitors. In fact, it is internationally renowned for its Art nouveau architecture. After the terrible fire of 1904 which reduced a large part of the town to ashes, Norwegian architects inspired by the Art nouveau style contributed to its reconstruction, with a very picturesque result. Not far from Ålesund, you will also discover Giske, the native island of Rollon, the great Viking leader who commanded the Norse expeditions to Normandy, or the beautiful island of Godoy and the village of Alnes, which offers a grandiose panorama over the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding islands.
17 July 2023 - Bergen
Arrival 17/07/2023 early morning
Disembarkation 17/07/2023 at 08:00
Located at the end of Byfjord, Bergen was the capital of Norway in the 12th and 13th Centuries and has preserved some very beautiful monuments from the time when it was home to royalty. Wandering through Bergen’s streets means going back in time, in search of the hidden treasures that have been listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. A veritable openair museum, Bergen is home to a thriving artistic community of painters, potters, jewellers. The Bergen cable car offers you a splendid panorama over the port and the surrounding fjords. Do not miss the visit to the old quarter with its narrow streets, a testimony of the power of the hanseatic League that controlled trade in Northern Europe at the end of the Middle Ages.
Viking heritage
Sandnes and the surrounding areas have for centuries played a leading part in Norway's maritime history, from the time when the Viking kings battled in Hafrsfjord, through the period of the "white sails" and the steamships up to modern super-tankers. Today you will explore the area's part of the Viking era.
From the pier, board your local coach and start your scenic drive. Approaching Hafrsfjord, learn about how the viking king Harald Haarfagre (the Fair-haired) in 872 defeated the last of the regional princes and united the 29 small kingdoms under one crown, thus founding the Kingdom of Norway. A stop will be made nearby the monument Swords in Rock which commemorates this battle.
Then continue to Stavanger, where you will enjoy a guided walk through "Old Stavanger" with picturesque, well preserved wooden houses in narrow lanes before arriving at your last stop, the Museum of Archaeology.
Here, discover the Viking Voyagers exhibition. This interesting exhibition uses sound and visual effects to bring the brutal yet fascinating Viking Age to life. A central part of the exhibition are the new Viking Age burials, recently found in Rogaland, containing keen-edged swords, golden buckles and brightly colored glass beads. There are also displays of the treasures stolen during their oversea raids such as Gilded, decorated Irish book clasps, brooches, beads of jet, silver treasure troves including Arabic coins.
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This excursion involves walking on mostly flat ground and some steps at the museum. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes.
Total : 90 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Manafossen waterfall hike
This excursion is the opportunity to immerse yourself in spellbinding countryside and stretch your legs on this active experience in Norway’s great outdoors.
From the pier, board your local coach and relax on the scenic journey to Rogaland County.
Upon arrival, lace up your walking boots and set off for an enchanting hike. Your reward for climbing the mountainside trail is a spectacular view over Manafossen, also known as the Moon Waterfall. Watch in awe as the rushing waters leap out from the rocks and thunder over 300 feet into the river below. On a sunny day, the moisture in the air might create a rainbow for the perfect photo opportunity.
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This excursion involves hiking approximately 1½ hours over uneven and steep terrain, which can be slippery when wet. Participants must be in good physical condition. Children and pregnant women are not permitted to participate. We recommend you wear good hiking shoes and a windproof jacket. We also recommend you bring water from the ship.
Total : 90 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Nordic walk experience
Norway has a long tradition of cross-country skiing. This activity has been adapted to the walk you will discover today. Nordic walking is a total body version of walking but is different from hiking - the poles are not used vertically in front of the body but are pointed backwards, as in cross-country skiing. The technique is easy to learn, permitting to enjoy a true nature experience.
After a short transfer, begin your tour with a short walk through an industrial and residential area before you reach the shores of the Gandsfjord and a 19-mile-long (30 km) trail reaching all the way to the city of Stavanger. The trail runs in open countryside right beside the fjord and offers a fantastic view over the Gandsfjord and the mountains beyond. There are several lovely beaches along the way, and you will pass large rocky headlands protruding into the fjord.
Then, relax during a peaceful stop, where you will enjoy one of Norway’s best loved – and one of the simplest – culinary treats, the locally-made cheese. Together with rye bread and beverages, this constitutes a typical Norwegian back-to-the-basics trail snack.
Afterwards, board your coach for your transfer back to the pier.
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This tour includes approximately 5 to 6 miles (8 km) of trail walking over mainly flat, paved and gravel surfaces. We recommend you wear sturdy walking shoes and bring a small rucksack to hold any gear. Walking poles will be provided.
Total : 120 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Le Dumont-d'Urville
Le Dumont-d’Urville belongs to a new generation of ships fitted with innovative equipment and designed to be environmentally friendly, and which come equipped with lounges that are largely open to the exterior, an outdoor swimming pool and a Blue Eye, a multisensorial underwater lounge. Everything is in place for an extraordinary cruise experience. It's now possible to depart for adventure to the most remote places on the planet onboard a ship offering luxury services.
Up to 184 Guests
92 staterooms & suites
118 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, an English-speaking lecturer will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, and stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or on your shore visits, this expert will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
10/07/2023 - FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + TRANSFER FROM AIPORT TO THE PIER OF OSLO (PRE) + DIRECT TRANSFER FROM THE PIER TO THE AIRPORT (POST)
730 €
Find out moreTRANSFER FROM AIPORT TO THE PIER OF OSLO
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between the airport and your port of embarkation.
Oslo
Meet at Oslo Gardermoen airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
You will then be transferred to the pier (45 minutes transfer) to embark on your ship.
Your programme includes:
- Transfers as mentioned in the programme.
- Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Personal expenses
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Duration may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
In the event of schedule changes of PONANT’s selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.
Total : 90 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
DISCOVER OSLO (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 – Oslo
Meet at Oslo Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to the Radisson Blu Scandinavia hotel 4*.
Dinner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Oslo
Breakfast.
Morning at leisure.
Lunch will be served in a local restaurant after check-out.
After lunch, you will enjoy a guided walking tour of Oslo, passing the City Hall; the National Theatre; the Royal Palace; Karl Johans gate, the city’s main street; the University of Oslo; the Storting building, housing the parliament of Norway; and the Oslo Opera House. Your guide will tell you all about the history of Norway’s capital, but also about its evolution through the ages and the different actions taken to make it a more sustainable city.
You will then be transferred to the pier of Oslo to embark on board your ship.
Your hotel:
The Radisson Blu Scandinavia hotel is conveniently located in the city center, making it ideal for discovering Oslo on foot. It also features an indoor pool and a sauna. Enjoy a drink at the hotel bar on the 21st floor for great view of Oslo and the nearby fjord.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
- 1-night accommodation in Superior room at the Radisson Blu Scandinavia 4* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
- Meals as mentioned in the programme.
- Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine or 1 local beer and 1 coffee or tea).
- Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
- The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Dinner on day 1.
- Personal expenses.
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
- It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
Contact of your hotel:
Radisson Blu Scandinavia 4*
Holbergs gate 30
0166 Oslo, Norvège
Telephone: +4723293000
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : 915 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
NORWEGIAN RAILWAY ADVENTURE : FROM BERGEN TO OSLO (3 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Take advantage of four days to discover the Norwegian landscapes, traditions, and culture along the Bergensbanen railway from Bergen to Oslo.
Day 1 - Bergen
Meet at Bergen Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to Opus XVI hotel 4*.
Check-in your room.
The end of the day and the dinner are at leisure.
Day 2 – Bergen/Flåm/Voss
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Bergen train station.
The scenic train journey will take you through typical west Norwegian scenery along the narrow Sørfjord to the industrial centre of Dale and upwards to the Bolstadfjord and Voss River well known for its Salmon. You will reach the beautiful Vangs Lake at Voss and further through the picturesque Raundal Valley, after passing through the Graqvhalstunnel, you will arrive at Myrdal situated on a ridge above the Flåm valley. There, you will change train for the famous Flåm railway.
The Flåm railroad is one of the most interesting pieces of engineering in Norway. Only 20 kilometres long, it runs from Flåm station at sea level with an altitude of 867 metres to Myrdal. Enjoy the unique and impressive views up the steep valley between towering mountains and of the Kjosfossen waterfall where the water cascades between dark cliffs and the splendid panorama view that unfolds before your eyes.
Flåm is 2 metres above sea level, situated in the Aurlandsfjord, a branch of the Sognefjord and is 90 sea miles away from the North Sea. You will have some leisure time in this quiet village before lunch in a local restaurant.
After having lunch, the excursion continues by coach.
You will stop at the beautiful Tvindefoss waterfall, and at Gudvangen at the head of the Næroyfjord listed by UNESCO as the most beautiful fjord in the world, before reaching the district of Voss. The village is one of West Norway's finest agricultural areas and is well known tourist resort and a traffic junction between the Sognefjord and the Hardangerfjord.
In the evening, dinner and overnight at Fleischer’s hotel.
Day 3 – Voss/Oslo
Breakfast at the hotel and check-out.
You will depart the hotel in the morning by coach for a second day of exploration.
You will make your way through Norway’s sheer nature beauty to the Hardanger Juice and Cider Factory, located in the innermost part of the Hardanger Fjord at the fruit farm Lekve in Ulvik. Here you will get a guided tour of everything the farm can offer. Here they make apple juice and cider which plays an important role in the production of the farm since 2004, and the farm has since 2009 also started apple brandy production. Hardanger Cider, the fairy-tale drink, is also on the menu and is still being made according to old recipe, just with modern tools. You will get a chance to taste the products as part of your visit to the factory.
After this visit, you will be taken to Ulvik city centre where you will have lunch in a local restaurant and enjoy some time at leisure before heading to Voss train station.
From there, you will begin your marvelous Oslo Railway journey to Oslo, often described as the most beautiful train ride in the world. You will ascend to over 4,000 feet above sea level as you cross the Hardangervidda plateau, featuring breath-taking views.
Upon your arrival to Oslo, you will walk a few steps to the Amerikalinjen hotel spend the overnight.
Dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 4 – Oslo
Breakfast at the hotel and morning at leisure, followed by check-out.
At the head of the approximately 100 kilometres long Oslofjord lays the capital of Norway, cradled between forest-clad hills with several islands spread out in the fjord in front. Many of these have summerhouses built on them, others belong to the community where it is free to go swimming and sunbathing. Incidentally, Oslo is the sunniest among the Scandinavian capitals statistically!
King Harald the Hardruler founded Oslo 1050 A.D. In the year 1624 the town was destroyed by fire and the Danish/Norwegian king at the time, Christian IV, decided to rebuild the city under the walls of the fortress of Akershus dating back to 1299. He named the new town “Christiania”, a name that was used right up to the year 1925 when it was decided to take back the original name “Oslo” which means the estuary of the river Lo.
Start your Oslo journey with a lunch in a local restaurant, perfectly located in Norway capital city.
After lunch, your guide will lead you by foot through the past historical buildings as the City Hall with its two impressive towers, which stood ready for the city’s 900 years’ jubilee in 1950. Norway's most distinguished artists contributed to the decorations of this modern landmark.
You will also discover the National Theatre with the statues of the writers Henrik Ibsen and Bjørnson in front. Then, you will pass the Royal palace that Karl Johan built and head up the main street “Karl Johan” named after King Karl Johan Bernadotte, the king of Sweden/Norway in the first half of the 19th century. At the far end the original University buildings from 1913 and Parliament “Stortinget”.
Finally, you will walk to Oslo’s newest building completed in 2008 – the Opera House.
You will experience the award-winning modern architecture and take a walk on the harbour.
The tour will end at the pier for embarkation.
Your hotels:
Opus XVI Hotel 4*, Bergen
The family name of the owners, Grieg, might ring a bell in your mind. They are relatives to the very famous Edvard Grieg, composer and pianist who was born and died in Bergen, in 1907. The hotel has a unique architecture with the main hall with its airy appearance, solid granite walls and ionic columns in polished marble. The building was designed by the architect Herman Schirmer and was later extended in two rounds. Architect Schak Bull – who also designed the home of Edvard Grieg – was responsible for the last expansion in 1918. Wonderful beds, an excellent location and attentive service, you will enjoy a unique atmosphere unlike any other, based on the rich heritage of Grieg and with the historic Vågsallmenningen 16 as a backdrop.
Fleischer’s Hotel 4*, Voss
Tucked in the mountains of western Norway, in the centre of the town Voss, you will find a modern hotel, with many traditions, which was built in 1889 in the popular Swiss style. Fleischer's Hotel is known for its venerable atmosphere, grand dining room and attentive host. Though more than 150 years in the tourism of western Norway, the hotel has helped build Voss as a tourist destination and is also committed in environment. The hotel got the Eco-lighthouse Ecolabel for the first time in 2013. The owners are passionate about sustainability and work systematically on limiting their footprint in nature.
Amerikalinjen 4*, Oslo
Here the journey began for thousands of hopeful Norwegians. They were going to travel with Amerikalinjen to the land of opportunity with the Norwegian America Line. The headquarter of the company opened in 1919, and 100 years later, a new breath permitted this iconic building reborn as a vibrant boutique hotel, designed for the modern explorer.
Your programme includes:
- 1-night accommodation in Opus XVI hotel 4*, local standards (or similar) including breakfast.
- 1-night accommodation in Fleischer’s hotel 4*, local standards (or similar) including breakfast.
- 1-night accommodation in Amerikalinjen hotel 4*, local standards (or similar) including breakfast.
- Meals as mentioned in the programme.
- Beverages package during meals (mineral water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer + 1 coffee or tea).
- Train tickets, transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
- The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Personal expenses.
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
- It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
Contact of your hotels:
Opus XVI hotel
Vågsallmenningen 16
5014 Bergen
Norway
Telephone number: +47 53 01 22 00
Fleischer’s hotel
Evangervegen 13
5704 Voss
Norway
Telephone number: +47 56 52 05 00
Amerikalinjen hotel
Jernbanetorget 2
0154 Oslo
Norway
Telephone number: +47 21 40 59 00
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : 2.515 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
Viking heritage
Sandnes and the surrounding areas have for centuries played a leading part in Norway's maritime history, from the time when the Viking kings battled in Hafrsfjord, through the period of the "white sails" and the steamships up to modern super-tankers. Today you will explore the area's part of the Viking era.
From the pier, board your local coach and start your scenic drive. Approaching Hafrsfjord, learn about how the viking king Harald Haarfagre (the Fair-haired) in 872 defeated the last of the regional princes and united the 29 small kingdoms under one crown, thus founding the Kingdom of Norway. A stop will be made nearby the monument Swords in Rock which commemorates this battle.
Then continue to Stavanger, where you will enjoy a guided walk through "Old Stavanger" with picturesque, well preserved wooden houses in narrow lanes before arriving at your last stop, the Museum of Archaeology.
Here, discover the Viking Voyagers exhibition. This interesting exhibition uses sound and visual effects to bring the brutal yet fascinating Viking Age to life. A central part of the exhibition are the new Viking Age burials, recently found in Rogaland, containing keen-edged swords, golden buckles and brightly colored glass beads. There are also displays of the treasures stolen during their oversea raids such as Gilded, decorated Irish book clasps, brooches, beads of jet, silver treasure troves including Arabic coins.
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This excursion involves walking on mostly flat ground and some steps at the museum. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes.
Total : 90 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Manafossen waterfall hike
This excursion is the opportunity to immerse yourself in spellbinding countryside and stretch your legs on this active experience in Norway’s great outdoors.
From the pier, board your local coach and relax on the scenic journey to Rogaland County.
Upon arrival, lace up your walking boots and set off for an enchanting hike. Your reward for climbing the mountainside trail is a spectacular view over Manafossen, also known as the Moon Waterfall. Watch in awe as the rushing waters leap out from the rocks and thunder over 300 feet into the river below. On a sunny day, the moisture in the air might create a rainbow for the perfect photo opportunity.
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This excursion involves hiking approximately 1½ hours over uneven and steep terrain, which can be slippery when wet. Participants must be in good physical condition. Children and pregnant women are not permitted to participate. We recommend you wear good hiking shoes and a windproof jacket. We also recommend you bring water from the ship.
Total : 90 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Nordic walk experience
Norway has a long tradition of cross-country skiing. This activity has been adapted to the walk you will discover today. Nordic walking is a total body version of walking but is different from hiking - the poles are not used vertically in front of the body but are pointed backwards, as in cross-country skiing. The technique is easy to learn, permitting to enjoy a true nature experience.
After a short transfer, begin your tour with a short walk through an industrial and residential area before you reach the shores of the Gandsfjord and a 19-mile-long (30 km) trail reaching all the way to the city of Stavanger. The trail runs in open countryside right beside the fjord and offers a fantastic view over the Gandsfjord and the mountains beyond. There are several lovely beaches along the way, and you will pass large rocky headlands protruding into the fjord.
Then, relax during a peaceful stop, where you will enjoy one of Norway’s best loved – and one of the simplest – culinary treats, the locally-made cheese. Together with rye bread and beverages, this constitutes a typical Norwegian back-to-the-basics trail snack.
Afterwards, board your coach for your transfer back to the pier.
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This tour includes approximately 5 to 6 miles (8 km) of trail walking over mainly flat, paved and gravel surfaces. We recommend you wear sturdy walking shoes and bring a small rucksack to hold any gear. Walking poles will be provided.
Total : 120 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
DIRECT TRANSFER FROM THE PIER TO THE AIRPORT
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between your port of disembarkation and the airport.
Bergen
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local English-speaking representative.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.
Your programme includes:
- The transfer as mentioned in the programme.
- Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Personal expenses
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : 90 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + TRANSFER FROM AIPORT TO THE PIER OF OSLO (PRE) + DIRECT TRANSFER FROM THE PIER TO THE AIRPORT (POST)
Total : 730 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.