Finland, Sweden, & Norway with Cruise

Departure from the USA on a flight to Helsinki.

Arrive in this fascinating city in the afternoon and have free time to explore until we gather at a traditional Finnish restaurant for a welcome dinner.

Today you will enjoy your ultimate Finnish experience after a relaxing morning and late breakfast — We’ve planned a culinary adventure in Helsinki with a local foodie, visiting five must-stop spots to sample a variety of exquisite, freshly prepared, and healthy dishes, including Asian-Nordic fusion, Baltic herring, reindeer meat, cloudberries, and authentic Russian cuisine, culminating in a special meal at a Michelin recommended restaurant prepared by a Finnish chef – and a sauna!

Following breakfast, we will drive to a nearby family-run husky sled farm where we will share in the thrill of a scenic self-drive dog sledding adventure. Situated on the shores of Lake Sierijärvi, we will be greeted by a private guide and a pack of adorable Siberian Huskies. This excursion offers easy terrain suitable for all abilities, allowing everyone to try their hand at mushing or simply enjoy the ride as a passenger in the sled.

The journey takes us through a winter wonderland, crossing a frozen lake and winding through snow-covered pine forests.  Along the way  soak in the serene beauty of the Lappish landscape. After the ride, you’ll return to the farm for some special time with the huskies and enjoy hot drinks around a campfire. The guide will share fascinating insights about the Arctic lifestyle and the role of husky mushers. 

Once we arrive back at our igloos, we can relax in a traditional sauna, roll around in the snow, and later enjoy a cozy inside barbecue with the lovely owners. 

We leave Rovaniemi and take a short flight to the cultural city of Stockholm, arriving in the early afternoon.

We will have a free afternoon to walk around Stockholm from our home base, the elegant Strand Hotel, located on the picturesque Nybroviken waterfront. For anyone who wants to join us, we will walk along the waterfront, taking in the scenic views of the harbor and the historic buildings lining the shore. This area is a perfect introduction to Stockholm’s blend of modern vibrancy and historical charm.

We will then walk towards the iconic Royal Dramatic Theatre, a stunning example of Art Nouveau architecture. We will cross the Norrbro Bridge, which offers fantastic views of the Royal Palace and the Parliament House. If you are up for it, we can wander through the narrow, cobblestone streets of the Old Town, where history comes alive with every step. The vibrant buildings, quaint shops, and inviting cafés make this part of the city a delightful place to explore.

Within a few minutes, we will make our way to the Stortorget, the oldest square in Stockholm, surrounded by colorful townhouses. Here, we will find the Nobel Museum, dedicated to the history of the prestigious Nobel Prize. Spend some time exploring the exhibits, learning about Alfred Nobel and the laureates who have made significant contributions to humanity. After our visit, we will find a nearby café, perhaps enjoying a traditional Swedish fika, before leisurely making our way back to the Strand Hotel, enriched by the cultural and historical tapestry of Stockholm.

In the early evening, we will meet for dinner at a classic Swedish restaurant.

Our final day in Stockholm offers a special and very unique experience. Our first stop will be a tour that begins with a visit to the historic Stockholm Prison grounds of Långholmen, now a fascinating museum, unique hotel, and charming restaurant. This former prison, once home to Sweden’s most notorious criminals, has been thoughtfully transformed, preserving its rich history while offering modern comforts. As we explore the museum, you will gain insight into the lives of the prisoners and the evolution of the Swedish penal system. The guided tour of the grounds will reveal intriguing stories from the past, making it a captivating start to our journey. We will enjoy lunch here as well.

Next, we will participate in a hands-on lithograph-making class with a talented local lithographer. This almost lost art form will come to life as you learn the intricate process of creating lithographs, from preparing the stone to printing your design. The experience will not only be educational but also a unique opportunity to connect with Stockholm’s artistic heritage. Our final stop is the Nobel family house, where we will tour the residence and learn about the family’s significant contributions to science and culture. We will also visit a nearby gallery run by local artists, who will warmly welcome us with refreshments. The artists will give a short talk, sharing insights into their creative processes and the local art scene, providing a perfect end to a day rich in history, art, and culture.

Dinner tonight will be at a restaurant near our hotel.

This morning we fly to Tromsø, Norway, known as the “Gateway to the Arctic.” It is a vibrant city renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique Arctic experiences. Nestled on the island of Tromsøya, it offers unparalleled opportunities to witness the Northern Lights from September to April and the Midnight Sun in summer. The city is home to architectural landmarks like the Arctic Cathedral, captivating museums such as the Polar Museum, and a thriving local scene with galleries, cafes, and cultural events. 

Everyone is welcome to spend the day as they wish once we arrive to our hotel, which is centrally located in the old town and near the port.

We meet for dinner at the hotel.

Today we set sail at 1:0 pm, and we will cruising from Tromsø through the scenic Norwegian coast to Stomsund. We will sail to Finnsnes, a charming town known for its beautiful surroundings and as a gateway to the spectacular Senja Island, offering dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and lush greenery.

Continuing south, we’ll reach Harstad, a city that combines a rich cultural heritage with striking natural beauty. The next stops, Risøyhamn and Sortland, bring you closer to the heart of the Vesterålen archipelago, known for its serene landscapes and abundant wildlife, including whale watching opportunities. As you journey through Stokmarknes, the birthplace of the Hurtigruten coastal express, we can learn about the history of coastal travel in Norway.

Our cruise then takes us to Svolvær, the lively capital of the Lofoten Islands, famous for its dramatic peaks, sheltered bays, and vibrant arts scene. Our final stop, Stamsund, offers a glimpse into traditional fishing village life amidst stunning scenery. This cruise not only provides breathtaking views of the rugged Norwegian coastline but also immerses you in the rich cultural tapestry and natural wonders of the region, making it a truly enriching experience.

All meals will be enjoyed on the ship.

Today we will continue through some of the most captivating maritime landscapes in Scandinavia. As we depart, we’ll first glide past Bodø, situated just north of the Arctic Circle. This vibrant city is renowned for its dramatic coastal scenery and the formidable Saltstraumen maelstrom, one of the strongest tidal currents in the world, creating a spectacle of swirling waters visible from the ship.

Continuing south, we will navigate through Ørnes, a picturesque village surrounded by towering mountains and tranquil fjords. Here, we will witness the natural beauty of Norway’s rugged terrain, with its steep cliffs and serene waters. Next, the cruise passes by Nesna, a quaint coastal town that offers a quintessential glimpse of Norway’s serene rural landscapes, with charming wooden houses and lush greenery stretching to the water’s edge.

As the ship makes its way further south, we’ll reach Sandnessjøen, known for the iconic Seven Sisters mountain range, which provides a breathtaking backdrop of jagged peaks silhouetted against the sky. The journey then takes us through Brønnøysund, where we can see the famous Torghatten mountain with its distinctive hole through the middle, a natural marvel best appreciated from the deck. Finally, we head towards Rørvik, a bustling fishing village that blends tradition with modernity, offering a picturesque end to our day. 

Today we embark on a cruise from Trondheim to Kristiansund and then to Molde, offering a day filled with breathtaking coastal scenery and a glimpse into Norway’s rich maritime heritage. We begin in Trondheim, a historic city known for its beautiful Nidaros Cathedral and colorful wooden wharfs along the Nidelva River. We’ll sail through the picturesque Trondheimsfjord, surrounded by lush landscapes and dotted with quaint villages. The fjord’s calm waters and the verdant scenery create a serene start to your voyage, with the possibility of spotting seabirds and perhaps even porpoises along the way.

Arriving in Kristiansund, we’ll witness a city spread across four islands, connected by bridges and tunnels. Kristiansund is famous for its klippfisk (dried and salted cod), and its colorful waterfront houses make for a vibrant sight against the backdrop of the sea. As the cruise continues towards Molde, the ship will navigate through the Hustadvika, a notorious stretch of coastline known for its rough seas, which contrasts with the otherwise peaceful journey. Approaching Molde, known as the “City of Roses,” we’ll be greeted by stunning views of the Romsdal Alps. The town’s charming streets, lined with beautiful rose gardens, are framed by majestic peaks and the serene waters of the Moldefjord. 

Today we sail from Ålesund to Bergen, with stops at Torvik, Måløy, and Florø. We actually sail through Ålesund just after midnight, renowned for its Art Nouveau architecture and picturesque setting across several islands. Enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding fjords and mountains, with the moon casting a glow on the serene waters.

The ship then sails towards Torvik, a charming village nestled along the coastline. Continuing on to Måløy around sunrise, witness the striking sight of the Vågsøy island, with its rugged cliffs and the historic Måløy Bridge spanning the water. The lighthouse at Kråkenes and the vibrant fishing activity in the harbor offer a glimpse into the maritime heritage of the region.

Next, the cruise navigates towards Florø, Norway’s westernmost town, known for its beautiful archipelago and bustling harbor. The sight of numerous small islands and skerries as you approach Florø provides a picturesque backdrop of unspoiled nature. Finally, as the ship heads towards Bergen, we will pass through stunning coastal landscapes, including the majestic Sognefjord and its surrounding mountains. Approaching Bergen, the city’s colorful wooden houses and historic Bryggen wharf come into view, framed by seven mountains. 

We will disembark in Bergen, have a delicious dinner and retire to our hotel for our last night in Norway.

Today marks the end of our tour Scandinavian tour – and what an adventure it will have been.  We will have breakfast at our hotel before transferring to the airport for departure.