Experience Norway with Fred. Olsen

Captivating fjords, dark green coniferous forests, charming, chocolate-box houses, spectacular snow-capped mountains, sparsely-populated Arctic islands, and wildlife – think elk, reindeer, and orcas – you’d usually only see in a David Attenborough documentary, and the chance to catch a light show you’ll never forget help make Norway a must-visit bucket list destination.

The catch? The country can be notoriously expensive which is why a cruise, whereby accommodation and food is included in your fare, to Norway is so appealing.

And, if you’re looking for a cruise line with whom to truly experience Norway, Fred. Olsen is the answer. That’s because not only does the operator have Norwegian roots (it was founded by three Norwegian brothers) but its smaller ships – favourite Balmoral and newcomers Bolette and Borealis – can access size-restricted waterways that larger competitors simply can’t.

What’s more, Fred. Olsen’s fab fleet of four holds no more than 1,400 people meaning, if you’re new to cruise or travelling solo, it’s easy to strike up a conversation (and perhaps even a friendship) with like-minded passengers and friendly crew.

Ready to set sail to Norway with Fred. Olsen? Here we reveal three of the best Norway cruises to book that still have availability

Summertime Norwegian Fjords and Folklore
No plans for the last bank holiday weekend until Christmas? Then sign up for Fred. Olsen’s six-night British Bank Holiday sailing onboard Balmoral. Departing from Newcastle on August 23, 2024, you’ll sail through a series of majestic fjords including Langsfjord & Eresfjord, Nordfjord, Innvkfjord and Hjørundfjorden.

World of Cruising’s top tip? Be sure to be on deck as these serene waters carve their way through rugged terrain flanked by towering mountains and sheer cliff faces – such as the iconic Trollveggen – whose sheer vastness commands attention.

Elsewhere embrace the Norwegian philosophy of outdoor living and get closer to the fjords via boat or kayak. Or perhaps hike the verdant valleys and mountainous scenery for unparalleled views.
A six-night Summertime Norwegian Fjords and Folklore cruise from Newcastle departs on August 23, 2024. Fares from £999 per person.

Norwegian Fjords from Southampton
This September sailing onboard Borealis coincides with the renowned fruit harvest in the Hardanger region, often referred to as ‘The Orchard of Norway, as you see orchards lining the edges of the fjords, bursting with ripe apples, pears, and cherries, and sample locally produced apple juice, cider and freshly picked fruits.

Elsewhere witness the remarkable scenery of Briksdal Glacier, from the picturesque town of Olden and the waterfalls of Langfoss and the Seven Sisters. In Ulvik, you are perfectly placed to embrace the Norwegian concept of friluftsliv by enjoying activities such as hiking through the fjordland or kayaking on tranquil fjord waters.

Borealis will make a special diversion along Lysefjord which is only accessible to smaller ships, home to the renowned Pulpit Rock (Preikstolen).
A nine-night Norwegian Fjords cruise from Southampton departs on September 11, 2024. Fares from £1,299 per person.

In search of the Northern Lights
On this two-week cruise to Northern Norway onboard Borealis with our friends at Fred. Olsen, you may be lucky enough to see the dancing lights of the Aurora Borealis illuminate the night sky while cruising in the Arctic Ocean. Just make sure you wrap up warm as you’ll be out on the decks of Borealis with experts from Go Stargazing, who will be on board to assist you.

After experiencing the maritime tradition of crossing the Arctic Circle, enjoy an overnight stay in the lively university town of Tromso – it has more pubs per capita than any other Norwegian town – before heading to the northerly city of Alta with its Unesco-listed prehistoric rock art and distinctive Northern Lights Cathedral.

Alta is also a great place to sign up for a husky sledding tour and/or to spend some with the local Sámi people so as to experience their way of life.
A 14-night In search of the Northern Lights cruise from Portsmouth departs on December 7, 2024. Fares from £1,499 per person.