- Norway
- 14-DAY ARCTIC CIRCLE CROSSING
This unforgettable adventure along the Arctic coast, where cultural exploration meets stunning natural beauty and extraordinary wildlife. Discover the vibrant cities, serene waters, and dramatic landscapes of Norway and the United Kingdom.
Lunch & Dinner
Depart on your regional flight to Rotterdam, you will be met and transferred to the ship for embarkation.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
A day at sea allows you to unwind and enjoy the cruise facilities. Join in on various activities, from cooking classes to fitness sessions, or simply take in the ocean views from the deck.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
The colourful buildings of Alesund feature castle like turrets and spires with intricate facades of ornamental flowers, gargoyles and Viking-inspired decorations. Bordering the Norwegian Sea, this area is also famous for its mountain ranges and fjords. One of the highlights is climbing the 418 steps that lead up Mount Aksla for a spectacular view of the city and the Sunnmøre Alps.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
The medieval Gothic grandeur of the Nidaros Cathedral is a must-see, as is the historic riverside Bakklandet neighbourhood just a few steps away. Explore Trondheim's busy city centre. At Market Square, you'll see the impressive statue of King Olaf, who founded the city and converted the people of Norway to Christianity.
Sailing the Trondheimsfjord takes you along the historic route once traveled by Vikings returning to their capital, Trondheim. While not as famous as some of Norway's other fjords, the Trondheimsfjord holds a significant place in the country’s history. With its ice-free waters year-round, the fjord is teeming with marine life and deepwater corals, and is fed by some of Norway’s richest salmon rivers. As you head east from Trondheim, the coastline becomes more rugged, with quiet beaches, like those at Korsvika on the Lade Peninsula, offering peaceful retreats.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Another day at sea allows you to unwind and enjoy the cruise facilities. Join in on various activities, from cooking classes to fitness sessions, or simply take in the ocean views from the deck.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Embark on a scenic cruise to the North Cape, one of Europe’s most iconic and remote destinations. As your ship navigates along the coastline of Finnmark, you’ll be treated to dramatic views of stark cliffs, the rugged Arctic terrain, and the vast expanse of the Barents Sea. The headland, standing 300 meters tall, offers breathtaking panoramic vistas—though, in reality, Knivskjellodden, located further north, holds the title of being the northernmost point on the continent.
The journey presents the chance to witness the stark beauty of this barren landscape, with its towering cliffs and distant fjords. The rare seabird species nesting on the few grassy islands add an extra layer of charm to the rugged scenery.
Honningsvåg serves as an excellent base for further exploration of the rugged Arctic landscapes. In the town itself, don’t miss the statue of Bamse, the Saint Bernard dog who became the beloved mascot of the Free Norwegian Forces during World War II. This heartwarming monument honors his role in boosting morale during a difficult time.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Tromso, the "Gateway to the Arctic," was once Norway's national capital for a grand total of just 38 days. It is a vibrant city known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Nestled between fjords and mountains, it offers outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, the Northern Lights, the Arctic Cathedral, and panoramic views from the Fjellheisen cable car.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Leknes, on Vestvågøya in the middle of the archipelago, is the gateway to a series of sheltered fishing hamlets with traditional houses perched on the rocky seafront. Just minutes down the road at the tip of the island, Skottinden is a 671-meter-high (2,200-foot) sort of mini-Matterhorn—an iconic landmark that sets the tone for countless peaks to come. Why not visit the Flakstad Church, a little red church made of driftwood from Siberia which was built in 1780.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Another day at sea allows you to unwind and enjoy the cruise facilities. Join in on various activities, from cooking classes to fitness sessions, or simply take in the ocean views from the deck.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Surrounded by steep hills and stunning waterfalls, Skjolden is located at the head Sognefjord--the world's longest navigable fjord. Visit Urnes Stave Church, the oldest stave church found in Norway, included on UNESCO’s World Heritage list, and take a hike in Jostedalsbreen National Park for views you'll never forget.
Norway's Sognefjord, the longest and deepest fjord in the world, is a breathtaking masterpiece of nature and culture. Stretching 127 miles, it weaves through charming villages, centuries-old stave churches, snow-capped peaks, and cascading waterfalls. The fjord plunges to depths of over 1,300 meters and rises with cliffs soaring more than 1,700 meters creating a dramatic landscape that captivates all who visit.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Experience lively Leirvik, a beautiful stop on your Norwegian fjord exploration. Enjoy the tranquillity of the fjords, sample Norwegian specialties, such as local cheese and cured meats, and otherwise explore this scenic town, which is known for its university.
Langenuen is a haven for marine life, where seals and seabirds are commonly spotted along its calm waters. It’s a popular route for boaters and a gateway to exploring the surrounding archipelago, including charming settlements and scenic hiking trails.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Known as the "Granite City" for its shimmering silver buildings, where centuries-old architecture meets modern urban vibrancy. Visit the charming Old Town, with highlights like St. Machar’s Cathedral and the historic University of Aberdeen. Wander the stunning Duthie Park or the award-winning David Welch Winter Gardens, a haven of exotic plants and blooms. Nature lovers will enjoy the rugged beauty of the surrounding coastline, perfect for spotting dolphins at Aberdeen Harbour or exploring the sandy beaches.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Relax during your final day at sea. Enjoy onboard activities or simply take in the views as you sail along the British coastline.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Steeped in history and natural beauty, Dover is your gateway to the iconic White Cliffs and centuries of maritime heritage. This historic port town boasts the majestic Dover Castle, standing guard over the English Channel for over 900 years, and offers breathtaking views from its clifftop vantage points. Explore the charming town centre, discover the Roman Painted House, or take a scenic stroll along the famous cliffs.
Breakfast
Disembark in Rotterdam for your return flight back to the UK.
If booking more than 12 weeks before departure a deposit of £1300.00pp will need to be paid at the time of booking with the full amount payable at 12 weeks prior to departure. The deposit applies to adults and children. If you are within 12 weeks of travel then the full balance of the holiday will be payable.
A visa is not required for your trip to Norway. To enter Norway your passport must; have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive and have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave. Sources of information include; https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.
Further advice should be sought from the applicable tourist authority for other nationalities and for general queries. We strongly advise you check your destinations’ Tourist Board or Embassy for the most up-to-date guidelines regarding passport validity.
Please note that final flight details will be confirmed on your final documentation which will be sent to you approximately 21 days before departure. Check in baggage is included with your flight. A printed E-ticket is no longer required at check-in, all you need to do is present your passport to the staff at the desk and your boarding pass will be given to you.
To assist you with this, we have arranged travel insurance in partnership with Holiday Extras. To arrange your travel insurance with Holiday Extras, please call 0800 781 4237 and quote 'WK830' for preferential rates. Please ensure you provide us with the name of your insurer, policy number and their 24-hour emergency contact number as soon as possible. Mercury Holidays will not be liable for any costs incurred by you due to your failure to take out suitable travel insurance from the date of booking.
It is your responsibility to check any health and vaccination requirements applicable to your booked arrangements. We can only provide general information about this. Health and hygiene facilities and disease risks vary from country to country. You should take health advice about your own needs as early as possible and in good time before your departure. Sources of information include; www.fco.gov.uk, www.travelhealthpro.org.uk/, www.hpa.org.uk, your General Practitioner or a specialist clinic.
On board your ship refreshments from the bar, souvenirs and Wifi will be charged to your cabin. The day before departure you can settle your bill with the Ship’s Manager and pay by credit card Visa or MasterCard only or cash in Euro or Dollar only. The price and standard currency on board the vessels is Euro. There are foreign exchange offices and cash machines available at the airport However It is important that you budget carefully and ensure you have the right form of currency before you arrive in the country.
As normal practice you may be asked for your credit card details on check-in at the hotel in order to cover any extras incurred during your stay. If you do not have a credit card, you may be asked for a cash deposit. MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted in hotels as well as American Express.
You will need to take money with you to cover any personal purchases such as souvenirs, laundry, any meals not included in the itinerary as well as drinks and any additional snacks.
The minimum number of travellers in your group will be 1. If we are not able to operate your departure date, then you may be asked to change to a different date and a full refund will be made available to you should this alternative not be suitable.
Please note: your cruise is shared with international clients from other companies.
Excursions during your cruise are in shared services, meaning that these excursions are not exclusive to Mercury Holidays customers, you will have a English-speaking local guide present during these excursions ensuring that you have first-hand knowledge at all times. This guide will only be available during excursions.
Please note: your cruise is shared with international clients from other companies.
Mercury Holidays has visited and inspected all cruise ships to ensure that they meet the high standards of service which we require for our clients. If the ship detailed is not available, an alternative will be used of a similar standard. Your accommodation is selected for convenience, location, comfort or character. Hotel accommodation is generally rated as local three to four-star standard. All group tours hotels have private bathroom facilities and air-conditioning, where needed. Rest assured that all accommodation used by Mercury Holidays is regularly inspected by our staff and partners to ensure that standards meet your needs.
Please contact Customer Experience for questions about other dietary requirements or allergy information. Vegan, vegetarian options are available, all meal requests need to be sent over to our suppliers before travel.
On your arrival, you will be met by a representative from our local agent, who will show you to your transfer vehicle. Your national guide will be on hand 24 hours a day should you have any queries.
Boarding Procedures
Guests are encouraged to complete the Online Check-in process at hollandamerica.com and, if possible, download the Holland America Line Navigator App. Once Online Check-in is complete, travellers should either print their Boarding Pass or access the electronic version via the Navigator App.
At the pier, guests must present their Boarding Pass, have their passports and applicable visas verified, and have their photo taken if one was not uploaded through the app. Stateroom keycards will be delivered directly to staterooms.
Important Notes:
• Online Check-in must be completed prior to the sail date. • Required documents for check-in include: o Boarding Pass (available via Express Docs) o Proof of citizenship o Applicable visas
To comply with U.S. security regulations, Holland America must submit guest information to law enforcement at least 60 minutes before departure. This requires all information to be submitted no later than 90 minutes before the ship’s departure. Guests who do not complete Online Check-in beforehand or arrive late to the terminal risk being unable to board. Costs incurred to join the vessel at the next port will be the guest’s responsibility.
Ship Identification Card:
Upon completing check-in, guests will receive a ship ID card, which serves as identification for embarkation, disembarkation, onboard purchases, and access to staterooms. When boarding or leaving the ship, guests should carry their ship ID card along with a government-issued photo ID. Terminal security may also require a valid picture ID.
Embarkation Details:
Boarding begins at 12:00 p.m., and all guests must check in no later than 90 minutes before the published sailing time. Passports will be collected during check-in for secure handling by staff, as some ports require face-to-face immigration inspections. Guests are encouraged to bring photocopies of their passport pages as a precaution.
Although embarkation may start as early as 11:30 a.m., preparation of staterooms will be underway, with readiness anticipated by approximately 1:00 p.m. Guests are welcome to relax in bar, lounge, or pool areas while waiting. Checked baggage will be delivered to staterooms later in the afternoon.
Holland America ensures an organized and seamless embarkation process, allowing guests to start their cruise stress-free.