17 Day Follow The Lights - Northbound
This tour is fully escorted by a dedicated tour leader who will accompany you throughout the tour. If your tour includes multiple countries, you will be met by a new tour leader in each country and any internal flights included will be unescorted.
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
Hurtigruten's Norwegian Coastal Cruise along the scenic coast and fjords of Norway has often been praised as being one of the most beautiful voyages in the world. Each day of your voyage will yield unforgettable memories of natural beauty as you discover a coastline with an ever changing personality with a new revelation around every headland.
✓ Incredible sightseeing and experiences including reindeer and husky safaris, a visit to Santa Claus’ Village, Kjosfossen waterfall, cruising Norway’s famous UNESCO-listed fjords and in-depth city tours in Bergen and Oslo
✓ 10 nights in 4-star hotels, including one night in a glass igloo gazing up at the night sky searching for the northern lights
✓ 6 nights on board the signature Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express voyage, northbound
✓ Norway in a Nutshell journey over two days, including the scenic Bergen Railway, iconic Flåm Railway, a cruise through dramatic fjords and Western Norway’s beautiful scenery
✓ Train from Rovaniemi to Helsinki
✓ Breakfast daily, 7 lunches and 11 dinners
✓ All transport, including cruise, coach, ferry and train
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Welcome to Oslo! Spend the afternoon at leisure. If you wish, you can easily see some sights of Oslo on foot from your hotel. Tonight, meet your guide and tour group at a welcome dinner.
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
After breakfast this morning at your hotel, enjoy an Oslo Grand City tour that will take in the main attractions and highlights of Norway’s capital. Included on the tour is a stop at Oslo Opera House and the world famous Vigeland sculpture park, created by iconic Norwegian artist Gustav Vigeland. Also, see the Holmenkollen Ski Jump before returning to the hotel.
Remainder of your day is at leisure.
Today, embark on the famous Norway in a Nutshell journey, which will take us to the fjordlands of Norway over the next two days. Our day begins with a train journey from Oslo to Myrdal, where we eventually climb up to the 850 metre point above sea level where the iconic Flåm Mountain Railway begins down to the village of Flåm.
On the way down, enjoy incredible scenery and a stop at Kjosfossen Waterfall. Upon arriving in Flåm, it is a short walk to the hotel where you will spend the night where you will enjoy an included Viking themed dinner.
The second day of the Norway in a Nutshell journey begins after breakfast, as you enjoy a two hour boat cruise of Aurlandsfjord and the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord, ending at the village of Gudvangen. A short bus ride through the Nærøydalen valley takes you to Voss, where we will catch a train for the rest of the journey to Bergen, gateway to the fjords.
Upon arrival in Bergen, check into your hotel and the rest of the day is yours at leisure.
This morning at your own leisure, which includes breakfast at your hotel, before you go on a walking tour of Bergen which will take in the sights of St Mary’s Church, Håkon’s Hall and UNESCO World Heritage listed Bryggen district, made up of colourful age-old wooden wharves, which date back to the 11th century AD. The tour also takes in the Bergen fish market andTroldhaugen, the home of famous Norwegian composer, Edvard Greig.
We finish the tour at Bergen pier, where we can relax at the guest lounge before boarding our Hurtigruten ship to begin our Coastal Express voyage north along Norway’s beautiful coast.
Today, the ship will cruise along the breathtaking Nordfjord near Torvik, before sailing past West Cape for the final approach to Ålesund, where we will spend the afternoon exploring. Renowned for its Art Nouveau architecture, Ålesund is easily explored on foot. Make sure to go to Mount Askla, where you can get a fantastic panoramic view of the city.
Head back to the ship for departure, where you can enjoy dinner before the last port of the day, at Molde, where there is an amazing view of 222 mountain peaks across the fjord, called the Molde Panorama.
After breakfast, the ship arrives early in Trondheim, Norway’s first capital. You will have the option of exploring the city in your own time or on an guided optional excursion. Founded in 997, the centrepiece of the city is the magnificent gothic Nidaros Cathedral, nicknamed ‘Norway’s Notre Dame’ and is considered the most sacred building in all of Norway.
Afterwards, make sure you make your way to the district of Bakklandet and get a photo of the colourful wooden wharves from Gamle Byro, the old city bridge. Make way back to the ship’s departure northwest, passing the Kjeungskjær Lighthouse towards the charming village of Rørvik.
This morning, a moment to remember as you cross into the Arctic Circle, where the chances of witnessing the phenomena of the Northern Lights greatly improve the further you journey into its boundaries. This morning, your crew onboard will mark the occasion (entirely if you dare) which will wake you up in the most refreshing way.
After breakfast, the ship will call into the ports of Ørnes and Bodø before in the afternoon entering the Lofoten archipelago. The striking landscapes of the Lofoten Islands are some of the best in Norway, including the striking Lofoten Wall, a stunning 1,000 metre-high formation of mountains. A short stop at Stamsund before arriving in the evening at the pretty harbour town of Svolvær.
If you get up early enough, you will be able to have a morning stroll at this morning’s first stop, Harstad. The ship then continues on via Finnsnes and past the beautiful island of Senja, before pulling into the Arctic capital of Tromsø. You will have four hours to explore the city, which includes many local breweries, Polaris - the northernmost aquarium and if you are quick enough, cross the bridge past the Arctic Cathedral and make your way to the Fjellheisen to catch the cable car up Storsteinen mountain for spectacular views of the city and the surrounding scenery.
Make sure tonight you make your way outside (if weather permits) to see the mighty Lyngen Alps, as our ship sails through the striking Arctic region this evening.
We sail towards the northernmost point of Norway, as today you will port at Honningsvåg, known as the gateway to the North Cape, marking the northernmost point of the European continent. We continue sailing across northern Norway, on the way, you will witness the local ways of life, as you might see cod drying on gigantic wooden racks called hjell, whose export is one of the main industries of the area.
Today you will leave our Hurtigruten ship as we reach Kirkenes, the last point of the coastal voyage before the ships head back south to Bergen. Your adventure, however, is not over as we begin a journey into Finland. Our first stop is Inari, famous for being a cultural centre for the indigenous Sámi people, and you will learn about them as we visit the Siida Sámi museum to learn more about the Sámi that have defined the culture of Finland.
After lunch at a local restaurant, we continue to Saariselkä, a small skiing village in the heart of Finnish Lapland where you will spend the night.
After breakfast, you will have the day to explore this charming Finnish village at your own pace, or try one of the optional excursions available to you today.
This evening, a magical experience awaits as you will journey through the Finnish wilderness on a reindeer safari, hopefully with the chance to see the northern lights. You will visit a local Sámi family to learn about reindeers and their special relationship to the Sámi people. After some warm drinks in a traditional hut, you will (weather permitted) enjoy a reindeer drawn journey through the night time winter wonderland.
Today we journey south towards the heart of Lapland and its bespoke capital, Rovaniemi - most famous for being the home of Santa Claus. Upon arrival, we will be experiencing the Santa Claus Village, where you can enjoy meeting reindeer and the bearded man himself.
A special evening awaits as we check-in to the Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos in Sinettä where you will enjoy a night in a glass igloo. After dinner in the hotel, settle in and keep your eyes open in the hope you will see the northern lights from the comfort of your bed.
After breakfast at the hotel, we drive back to Rovaniemi to have more time to explore the capital of Lapland. With a fascinating history, particularly during World War II, where the city was extensively damaged and was rebuilt in the shape of a reindeer's head.
This afternoon, another magical Lapland experience awaits as we visit a husky farm. You will take a tour of a husky dog kennel where we will enjoy lunch. Afterwards, enjoy a thrilling husky-drawn cart or sled ride through the Lappish wilderness.
Today, you will have a full day to explore Rovaniemi. Your guide today can recommend additional excursions in the area or things to do in the area.
A train journey south today takes us to the capital of Finland, Helsinki. Considered one of the most liveable cities in the world, Helsinki is a vibrant hub of northern Europe strategically positioned in the Gulf of Finland connecting the city to many other countries in the region.
This evening a farewell dinner will be enjoyed to reflect on our amazing journey across Scandinavia.
Your journey across Scandinavia ends after breakfast today. Please make your own way to the airport.
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
Bedding on board the cruise is restricted to the following configurations. If you wish to upgrade your cabin, the following amounts are payable in addition to the package price prior to travel:
Polar Outside - cabin code L2 included
These comfortable outside cabins for up to two people on the lower deck have separate beds, one of which converts into a sofa, and bathrooms with shower and WC. The cabins have portholes, some with limited or no view.
Polar Outside - cabin codes J2/J2D from $123per person, twin share. Solo fare on application.
Cabin code: J2
These comfortable outside cabins for up to two people on the upper deck have separate beds, one of which converts into a sofa, and bathrooms with shower and WC. The cabins have limited or no view.
Cabin code: J2D
Outside cabin on upper deck for 2 people. The cabin comes with a double bed, TV, and has a limited view.
Polar Outside - cabin codes N2/N2D from $350 per person, twin share. Solo fare on application.
Cabin code: N2
These standard outside cabins for up to two people on the middle decks have separate beds and bathrooms with shower and WC.
Cabin code: N2D
Outside cabin on middle decks for 2 people. The cabin comes with a double bed, full view and TV.
Polar Outside - cabin codes O2/O2D from $452 per person, twin share. Solo fare on application.
Cabin code: O2
These comfortable cabins for up to two people on the middle/upper decks have bathrooms with shower and WC.
Cabin code: O2D
These comfortable outside cabins for up to two people on the middle/lower decks have a bathroom with shower/WC, and a double bed.
Arctic Superior - cabin codes P2/P2D from $802 per person, twin share. Solo fare on application.
Cabin code: P2
These comfortable outside cabins for up to two people on the upper decks have a bathroom with shower and WC, and separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa.
Cabin code: P2D
Arctic superior cabin on upper decks for 2 people, with double bed, full view and TV.
The Norwegian Coastline Cruises operate with a number of different ships, all with similar facilities and deck plans. Please click the ship name below to be taken to further information including the deck plans;
MS Kong Harald
Secure your trip with a $99.00 deposit per person.
Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options.
Instalment Schedule:
Please note that if you have selected a cabin upgrade or are booking a single cabin, your first installment will differ from your initial invoice. At the time of confirmation we will adjust your invoice accordingly to ensure we collect the correct amount in order to secure your booking with our supplier.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.This particular tour is categorised as a ”3”
3 - Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. While tipping is not customary, it's of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many destinations.
You may also consider tipping your tour leader and driver for outstanding service throughout your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, but we can’t guarantee your request will be available at all properties.
Single travellers
When booking this tour, solo travellers will be presented with two options:
1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional $5,195.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your own room throughout the entire trip.
2- Shared Room with a known friend
If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with him/her and avoid paying a single supplement.
You and your friend can create a unique booking each. Creating a unique booking, gives each of you the flexibility of making different travel arrangements (such adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), make separate payments and have individual access to our Traveller’s Hub
During the purchase path, you will need to provide your friend’s booking ID (if known) or at a minimum, your friend’s full name.
Triple Share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.
We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book Comprehensive or Essentials cover for your domestic, international or multi-trip journeys simply by clicking HERE.
Note that Inspiring Vacations cannot provide advice with regards to any insurance product.
Visa & Passport information
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return.
Visas may be required.
Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://smartraveller.gov.au for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.
Group Size
For packages that include a train or cruise, you will be travelling with other passengers up to the capacity of this component.
Children
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Tour Style
To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
Northern Lights
Please note, the Northern Lights are a natural phenomena and can't be guaranteed. The dates provided will give you the best chance of hopefully viewing the lights during your trip, but Inspiring Vacations will not be liable for any departures which unfortunately don't see the Northern Lights during their trip.
What to pack for your Follow The Lights Tour
To ensure your comfort we suggest packing base and mid layers, along with a substantial winter jacket, a wool or fleece hat, balaclava/buff, gloves, a woolly jumper, scarf, winter boots.. Keep in mind the layering principle: it's more effective to wear several thin layers than a few thick ones.
In exceptionally cold conditions, consider wearing two pairs of gloves – a thick pair of mitts (as mitts keep your hands warmer by not separating the fingers) and a thin pair of gloves underneath for finger dexterity. For those susceptible to cold extremities, consider acquiring carbon hand and foot warmers, typically found in reputable outdoor stores.
It is highly recommended to pack (or buy in a local shop) snow spikes/cleats. These anti-slip traction accessories for your shoes will come in very handy towards navigating slippery roads and slopes. Just keep these handy as you will be expected to remove them before entering shops and restaurants.
This package is sold as land only, however you do have the option of adding domestic & international airfares to your booking. Simply click on’ book now’, and under upgrades , you will be asked “Would you like us to contact you around our flight service?”. By selecting this option Inspiring Vacations will contact you to discuss adding flights to your chosen destination. We can then assist with turning your booking into a flight inclusive package.
Upon completing the purchase of your package and fulfilling the following booking requirements, you will be granted access to our flight portal via your Traveller Hub.
Once these criteria have been met, access will be made available to you via Traveller Hub to book your flights via our flight portal.
The following requests are able to be processed through the online flight portal:
The online flight portal is unable to process the following requests and you must book these yourself independently:
Online check-in
Some airlines may not permit online check-in where flights have been booked by a travel company. Where unavailable to do so online, you will be required to check-in at the airport. Inspiring Vacations cannot check-in online on behalf of our customers.
Some of our packages will include airport transfers in either one or both directions when arriving or departing from your destination. To know if transfers are included please view the ‘inclusions’ section of your selected package. If airport transfers are stated, transfers will be included as advised.
If transfers are not included, we also offer the option to book your airport transfers using our online portal. Access to this portal is available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed. Transfers are readily available and do not need to be booked until your final hotel list has been confirmed. Once you have made a transfer booking, please refer to your confirmation email for all transfer details including a local contact number for the transfer company.
If you book pre and/or post-tour accommodation on your own arrangement, and the tour includes transfers, note that these will be forfeited. The transfers are only provided in line with the tour dates and pre and/or post-tour accommodation purchased through Inspiring Vacations when available.
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