15 Day Follow The Lights - Southbound
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.
This tour is categorised as 1 out of 5
Explore at your own pace: Discover your destination at your own pace with our self-guided itinerary. Options include driving, rail, or cruising (excluding expeditions). Enjoy included guided day trips for sightseeing as outlined in your itinerary.
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.
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.
✓ Incredible sightseeing and experiences including reindeer and husky safaris, a visit to Santa Claus’ Village, cruising Norway’s famous UNESCO-listed fjords and in-depth city tours in Helsinki, Bergen and Oslo
✓ 9 nights in 4-star hotels, including one night in a glass igloo gazing up at the night sky searching for the northern lights
✓ 5 nights on board the signature Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express voyage, southbound
✓ Norway in a Nutshell journey from Bergen to Oslo, including the scenic Bergen Railway, iconic Flåm Railway, a cruise along dramatic UNESCO-protected Nærøyfjord and coach travel through Western Norway’s beautiful scenery
✓ Train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi
✓ Breakfast daily, 6 lunches and 9 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.
After breakfast this morning at your hotel, we hit the streets as you enjoy a walking tour of Helsinki by your guide that will take in the main attractions and highlights of Finland’s capital. Included on the tour is a stop at Helsinki Cathedral and Senate Square and the world famous Tempeliaukio Church, also known as the ‘Church of Rock’, which is built into the bedrock of the city.
This evening is yours to explore the vibrant nordic capital, why not check out the many bars, restaurants and cafes that are all within walking distance to your hotel.
After breakfast, we catch the train journey as we depart the cosmopolitan landscapes to the wild landscapes of Lapland as we travel north to Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland.
Upon arrival, you will have time to explore this quaint town, surely to be covered in snow, in your own time. Keep your eyes peeled, as you are in the Arctic Circle, where there are greater chances to see the elusive Northern Lights.
For our second day in Rovaniemi, we enjoy our first authentic experience of Finnish Lapland - a visit to a local husky kennel. Learn about the intricate and essential role huskies have played with the local Sámi people. After lunch, you will enjoy a husky-drawn cart or sled ride through the Lapland wilderness.
No visit to Rovaniemi is complete without seeing one of the main attractions, Santa Clause himself. This morning, we visit the world famous Santa Claus Village, home to the bearded man himself. The village is the epitome of Christmas, and is a destination from people all over the world. Enjoy interacting with reindeer and the spirit of Christmas.
A short drive away is Saariselkä, where we will check-in to the Northern Lights Village in your very own glass igloo. Spend the afternoon taking in the beautiful surroundings before we enjoy a dinner at the hotel.
After dinner, we will meet with a local Sámi family. A great opportunity to discover their unique culture and lifestyle. We will also get a chance to feed the family's reindeer!
In the evening, as weather permitting, you will enjoy a reindeer sleigh ride through the Lapland wilderness, in the hope of seeing the northern lights.
Come back to your glass igloo, where the search doesn’t stop as you continue to spot the natural phenomena from the comfort of your own bed.
Today, we continue our journey further north into the heart of Lapland as we arrive at Inari, known as the Sámi capital, the cultural home of the Sámi people of Finland. A visit to the newly renovated SIIDA museum, home to a collection featuring the spiritual and material culture of the Sámi people.
Afterwards, we cross the border into Norway to the northern hub of Kirkenes and to another truly unique stay at the Snowhotel Kirkenes, where you will stay in one of their Gamme cabins, named after a traditional hunting and fishing hut.
The Snowhotel itself has its own ice hotel, husky kennel and even reindeer. It is truly a magical place. Tonight we enjoy dinner in their farmhouse restaurant, Låven.
The next stage of our Arctic adventure today, as we board our Hurtigruten ship to begin our five night journey south along the beautiful Norwegian coast.
The first point of call is Vardø, with its iconic star-shaped Vardøhus Fortress. As we venture into the first night of the cruise, there will always be a chance to witness the Northern Lights. Today, there is even a chance to experience a dip in the Arctic waters, entirely optional of course.
A late night stop in Mehamn, offers a unique opportunity to hunt for the Northern Lights on snowmobiles (bookable onboard) through the Arctic wilderness. Throughout the day we venture through the stunning coastline of Northern Norway, making a few stops along the way, including in Hammerfest where you can see the UNESCO-listed Meridian Column, erected in 1854 to honour the first precise geographic measurement of the globe.
Enjoy more scenery before we arrive in Tromsø, the capital of the Arctic Circle, where this evening a truly magical experience awaits - a midnight Northern Lights concert at the Arctic Cathedral (optional).
After a leisurely morning on the ship cruising along the coastline, we will arrive in one of the most beautiful parts of the country, Lofoten and Vesterålen. With its steep mountains, local fishing villages and natural beauty, it will surely be a highlight of your journey south.
This evening, if weather permits the ship will navigate through Trollfjord, with parts so narrow, it will make you feel like you can reach out and touch the cliff faces - a truly unforgettable experience (optional).
Today, we leave the Arctic Circle, and your crew onboard will mark the occasion with a tradition of tasting a spoonful of cod liver oil.
On today’s sail, you will see the mountain of Torghatten, with its distinctive hole through its centre. You will also sail past the Seven Sisters mountain range, a source of local legends and stories that come from its ancient peaks.
We arrive today in the old capital of Norway, Trondheim. 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 south, passing important coastal communities highlighting the country's important dried cod industry - its long time export of the dried fish.
During the night, we port at Ålesund, Torvik and Måløy as our journey south draws to a close, passing more magnificent scenery.
We arrive early in the afternoon to Bergen, known as the gateway to the fjords. After disembarkation, we are collected on a private coach to tour the city, including a walking tour. You will visit the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Bryggen, the waterfront district made up of colourful wooden wharves, St Mary’s Church and Håkon’s Hall. The tour concludes at Troldhaugen, home to the famous Norwegian composer, Edvard Grieg.
This evening, the city is yours to explore at your own leisure, with time to catch the Fløibanen funicular up to Mount Fløyen to enjoy spectacular views of the city.
There is a reason that Bergen is known as the gateway to the fjords, and you are going to experience that today as you journey to Oslo via the famous Norway in a Nutshell journey, encompassing rail, coach and ferry across the beautiful landscapes.
First we catch a train from Bergen to Voss, before catching a coach through the Nærøydalen valley we arrive in the village of Gudvangen. Here we board a ferry that will take us through the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord and Aurlandsfjord before arriving in the picturesque village of Flåm. Here, after a short stop, we embark on one of the most famous train journeys in the world - the Flåm Mountain Railway which climbs up to 850 metres above sea level. Along the way, the train will stop at Kjosfossen Waterfall before arriving in Myrdal, where the remainder of the journey will be on rail to the cosmopolitan city of Oslo, capital of Norway.
Upon arrival in Oslo, the evening is yours at your own leisure.
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.
This evening we enjoy a farewell dinner to reminisce on our Northern Lights adventure.
Your journey across Scandinavia ends after breakfast today.
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.
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
MS Nordkapp
MS Nordnorge
MS Richard With
MS Polarlys
Cruise Information and Upgrades
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 $97 per 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 $274 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 $354 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 $628 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.
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.
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.
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 ”1”
1 - Leisurely Paced Tour: A general level of fitness and mobility is required for this tour. The itinerary includes ample free time and you will not be impacted by stairs and uneven terrain. Where coach transportation is included, you will be required to get on and off the coach with ease.
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 $4,945.00 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.
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://www.safetravel.govt.nz for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.
Group Size
Max 24 people. Please be advised that under exceptional circumstances, the group size may slightly surpass the designated limit due to operational reasons, such as in the event that a cruise date is consolidated with another.
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 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 assist with flying the airline of your choice to turn your booking into a flight inclusive package.
We would be more than happy to provide you with a quote for the following requests:
We are currently unable to provide a quote for the following requests:
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.
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