Summer in the Islands & Fjords of Norway
Aberdeen → Runde → Alesund → Andalsnes → Smola Island → Kristiansund → Nordfjord → Dalsfjord → Bygstad → Vikoyri → Rosendal → Lysefjord → Stavanger → Aberdeen
Organised by Noble Caledonia.
From
from £7995
per person
Overview
A voyage from Aberdeen to the Norwegian coast aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
By any measure, Norway ranks among Europe's most beautiful and awe-inspiring countries. Its unspoilt landscape and pristine wilderness promise to delight those with a love for the natural world, and its beautiful coastline offers the traveller scenery on an epic scale. Join Noble Caledonia for a no-fly cruise as they explore the western shores of this remarkable country, where dramatic fjords, bustling coastal towns, thriving fishing communities, and seemingly endless beaches combine to create an unforgettable journey.
Noble Caledonia’s roundtrip voyage sails from the port of Aberdeen on the east coast of Scotland, and after a day at sea, guests catch their first glimpse of Norway. Here, days will be spent on guided excursions with local guides, on walks with Noble Caledonia’s naturalists, and on the deck of the MS Hebridean Sky as the vessel cruises amongst the fjords. This itinerary uniquely combines the wonders of the natural world with the historical and cultural highlights of the area; guests will visit Alesund, where they will marvel at the Art Nouveau architecture; spend time exploring Hardangerfjord with its magnificent Langfoss waterfall; visit the charming small island of Smola; and witness the prolific birdlife at Runde, home to more than 240 species of birds. A highlight for many will be the scenic journey aboard the Rauma Railway, passing towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and iconic landmarks.
Highlights
- Embark the MS Hebridean Sky in Aberdeen for a comprehensive cruise of the Norwegian coastline.
- Witness over 500,000 birds at the Runde bird cliffs, home to species including puffins, gannets, and razorbills.
- Explore the Art Nouveau architecture of Alesund and enjoy panoramic views from Mount Aksla.
- Experience the scenic Rauma Railway, passing Trollveggen—Europe’s highest vertical rock face—and the iconic Kylling Bridge.
- Explore the remote archipelago of Smola by Zodiac to visit the historical fishing village of Brattvær or the community at Veiholmen.
- Traverse the Atlantic Ocean Road and visit the unique 17th-century Kvernes Stave Church.
- Discover the Jostedal Glacier, mainland Europe’s largest glacier, via a scenic boat trip on Loen Lake.
- Immerse yourself in Norwegian history at the Sunnfjord Museum and visit the region known as "the waterfall country."
- Tour the 12th-century Hopperstad Stave Church in Vikoyri and sample authentic Viking-style "gamal ost" cheese.
- Cruise the majestic fjords of Norway, including the Hardangerfjord, Lysefjord, and scenic views of the Kjerag Mountain and Preikestolen.
Explore further
The ship
Itinerary
- 1
Day 1 Aberdeen, Scotland.
Embark the MS Hebridean Sky this afternoon. Transfers will be provided from Aberdeen Airport and Railway Station at a fixed time. Sail this evening.
- 2
Day 2 At Sea.
Spend a relaxing day at sea as we cross to Norway.
- 3
Day 3 Runde & Alesund, Norway.
Arrive in Norway this morning as we cruise by the bird cliffs at Runde, one of the largest nesting cliffs in the country and home to half a million birds. More than 240 different species have been observed here including puffins, gannets, razorbills and northern fulmar. Continue to Alesund, one of the most beautiful towns in Norway. It is a great place to spend an afternoon as we explore the streets with their Art Nouveau buildings. Those feeling active can take a walk up Mount Aksla taking the 418 steps for magnificent views of the town, islands and Sunnmore Alps.
- 4
Day 4 Andalsnes.
Sail this morning through Romsdalsfjord to Andalsnes, a small village idyllically located in the Romsdal Valley at the mouth of the River Rauma. Here we embark the Rauma Railway for what is regarded as one of Europe's most scenic train journeys combining spectacular fjords, mighty mountains, dramatic waterfalls and beautiful views. During our return journey between Andalsnes and Bjorli we pass Trollveggen, Europe's highest vertical rock face, the 380 metre high Verma waterfall and 15th century Kors Church before crossing the iconic Kylling Bridge. After lunch on board, enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore further at your own pace. Maybe take a stroll in the village or alternatively take the Romsdalen Gondola which climbs 708 metres to the top of the Nesaksla Mountain and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and fjords.
- 5
Day 5 Smola Island.
Today we enjoy the benefits of our small ship as we visit the archipelago of over 5,000 islands and islets off the Norwegian coast. We hope to anchor off the island of Smola and use our Zodiacs to visit the beautiful former fishing village of Brattvær. Once a thriving fishing community, with a population of around 300, the last inhabitant left in 2012. On a guided walk we can visit the well preserved buildings, including homes, the school and the prayer house for a glimpse into the past. Alternatively visit the charming fishing village of Veiholmen which has a population of around 300 inhabitants and is located at the northernmost tip of Smola Island. Here we will meet members of the lively community and visit the town museum. These islands also have the densest population of white-tailed eagles in the world which we hope to spot whilst ashore. Sail this evening to Kristiansund where we moor overnight.
- 6
Day 6 Kristiansund.
Spend the day in Kristiansund, a colourful town spread over four islands where we have a choice of excursions. You may want to experience the Atlantic Ocean Road, a unique stretch of road that takes you right to the ocean's edge, winding across an archipelago of small islands and islets. Enjoy the views as we continue to the Kvernes Stave Church, beautifully perched above the Kvernes Fjord. Dating back to 1630, it is Norway's only stave church built after the Middle Ages, making it truly one of a kind. Step inside to see the ornate Baroque pulpit, and 15th century altarpiece. Alternatively, join the local ferry to the enchanting island of Grip. Located 14 kilometres off the coast of Kristiansund, this tiny, beautiful island was a thriving fishing village as far back as Medieval times. Today, it is a peaceful summer paradise, with quaint, narrow streets, colourful houses and the world's northernmost stave church. On a guided walk, we discover the rich history of this small island and gain an insight into the lives of those who braved the elements to live and work here in the past. The remainder of the day is free to explore the town from our central berth before we sail in the late afternoon.
- 7
Day 7 Loen, Nordfjord.
Today we leave the charming village of Loen and take a drive to the Kjenndalen valley where we board a small boat to experience the lovely Loen Lake, passing through tall mountains covered by protruding glacier arms. We finally end up at the Kjenndalsbre Fjellstove where we enjoy a short break with homemade Norwegian waffles. We continue our visit to the Kjenndalsbreen glacier viewpoint, an arm of the mighty Jostedal Glacier, the largest in mainland Europe. After lunch on board enjoy some free time in Loen, maybe take a trip on the cable car which rises 1100 metres and offers wonderful views over the fjord below. Sail in the early evening to enjoy the scenery of Nordfjord.
- 8
Day 8 Dalsfjord & Bygstad.
Dalsfjord lies at the heart of Western Norway with its starkly contrasting fjord scenery, halfway between Bergen and Alesund. This little-known fjord arm has a gentler landscape where powerful and diverse watercourses have left their impression on the scenery and settlements. Today's tour will take us through this beautiful environment and over to Sunnfjord with its magnificent waterfalls and mountains. We will visit Sunnfjord Museum, which provides an insight into how life was in local settlements in the mid 1800s, before taking a scenic drive to the region known as ‘the waterfall country'. Here we will stop at the Huldefossen and Likholefossen waterfalls before returning via the Hestadfjord where we find the 19th century Hestad Church located in idyllic surroundings.
- 9
Day 9 Vikoyri.
Overnight we will have sailed to the small village of Vikoyri located in Sognefjord. A local walk will include the richly decorated Hopperstad Stave Church which was built in 1130 and is the oldest stave church in existence. We also see the 12th century Hove stone church and the nearby Moahaugane burial mounds which originate from 200-400 AD. Try the local cheese delicacy of “gamal ost”. The recipe originated from the Vikings and it is still in production at the dairy in Vikoyri. Return to the ship via picturesque homes and boathouses. We sail in the early afternoon for a scenic cruise in the fjords.
- 10
Day 10 Rosendal.
Sail this morning into Hardangerfjord, the third largest fjord in the world. We will anchor and use our Zodiacs to land at Rosendal from where we drive along the fjord towards the small part of the Hardangerfjord called Maurangerfjord, experiencing the idyllic scenery and farms along the way and viewing the magnificent Langfoss waterfall. When we arrive at the small village of Sunndal we will walk to Bondhus Lake which is surrounded by a fascinating landscape of fjords and mountains. After lunch on board there will be some free time to explore the town, maybe visit the 12th century Kvinnherad Church, Stone Park or see the gardens at Barony Rosendal.
- 11
Day 11 Lysefjord & Stavanger.
Awake today in picturesque Lysefjord which measures 23 miles end to end. Spend the morning cruising past Preikestolen (Priest Rock) and Kjerag Mountain which both tower above the fjord. Afterwards we sail to Stavanger and have the chance to stroll in the small harbour with its multi-coloured traditional wooden buildings. Old Stavanger is a cluster of 173 small white wooden houses built in the 19th century which house craft shops, galleries and museums. We sail late tonight for anyone wishing to enjoy a final evening ashore in Norway.
- 12
Day 12 At Sea.
Enjoy a relaxing day at sea as we return to Scotland.
- 13
Day 13 Aberdeen, Scotland.
Disembark after breakfast. Transfers will be provided to Aberdeen Airport and Railway Station at a fixed time.
Rail Accommodation
Hebridean Sky
The MS Hebridean Sky is one of our two flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Island Sky. Both vessels were built in the same ship yard in Italy at similar times and share the same excellent attributes that make them two of the finest small ships in the world.
Deck plan
Life aboard Hebridean Sky
The MS Hebridean Sky is an intimate, 118-passenger vessel offering a refined experience akin to a private yacht. It is ideal for travellers seeking a peaceful, service-focused voyage with an emphasis on destination exploration rather than large-scale ship entertainment.
Quick facts
Passengers
118
Crew/Staff
75
Year Built
1992
Language
English
Gross Tonnage
4200
Suites
The ship features 59 spacious, wood-panelled suites with outside views and en-suite bathrooms. Accommodation ranges from standard suites to the premium Hebridean Suite, with some options including private balconies.
- •All suites include air-conditioning, mini-fridge, safe, hairdryer, telephone, and TV.
- •Bathrooms feature walk-in rainfall showers but no baths.
- •Private balconies are available in 14 suites, located on the Scott and Shackleton Decks.
- •Beds can be configured as twins or doubles, except in suites 601 and 602 which have fixed doubles.
- •The Hebridean Suite offers a separate sitting room, extra-large balcony, complimentary laundry, and stocked mini-bar.
Life on board
Life aboard focuses on relaxation, enrichment talks, and socialising in a low-key, elegant environment. Guests can enjoy panoramic views from the observation deck or visit the lounge for daily briefings and guest speakers.
- •Public areas include a main lounge, The Club bar with a pianist, and a library stocked with reference books.
- •There is no large-scale entertainment, deck games, or black-tie events.
- •Wi-Fi is available via satellite in public areas and suites.
- •An observation area on the top deck provides seating for wildlife spotting.
- •A small beauty salon offers hairdressing and massage treatments on request.
Dining
The dining experience is informal and flexible, featuring open seating in the restaurant and potential al fresco options on the Lido Deck. Menus focus on international cuisine, incorporating fresh local produce when available.
- •Breakfast is buffet-style, while lunch and dinner are à la carte.
- •House wine, beer, and soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner.
- •Open seating allows guests to choose their table and companions at every meal.
- •Afternoon tea and daily pre-dinner canapés are served.
- •Special diets can be accommodated with advance notice, though cannot be guaranteed.
Practical information
The ship operates in a casual, professional manner with a strong emphasis on safety and service. Guests should prepare for satellite internet limitations and note the 110v electrical system.
- •Voltage is 110v/60Hz (American standard); bring a two-pin American adaptor.
- •Dress code is casual during the day and smart casual in the evenings; no formal nights.
- •Smoking is restricted to a designated outdoor area only.
- •Medical services and a doctor are available on board 24/7, with consultations charged to your account.
- •Laundry service is available with a 24-hour turnaround; no self-service launderettes provided.
- •Personal electronic devices like irons or coffee makers are strictly forbidden in suites.
Ship information may be subject to operational change. Please contact us for the latest details before booking.
Departures & pricing
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 6 to 18 July 2028 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| Amundsen Deck Standard Suite | — | — |
| Byrd Deck Superior Suite | £8495 | £7995 |
| Mawson Deck Premium Suite | £8995 | £8495 |
| Mawson Deck Corner Suite | — | — |
| Scott Deck Deluxe Balcony Suite | — | — |
| Shackleton Deck Owner's Balcony Suite | — | — |
| Shackleton Deck Hebridean Suite | — | — |
| Amundsen Deck Standard for sole use | — | — |
| Byrd Deck Superior for sole use | — | — |
Tour Reference Code: SCHKS060728
PRICE INCLUDES:
• 12 nights aboard the MS Hebridean Sky on a full board basis • House wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Noble Caledonia expedition team • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes
Not Included:
Travel insurance. Ship to Shore: This cruise is not classified as an expedition cruise; however, Zodiac landing craft will be used to transfer guests from ship to shore in Rosendal, Smola, Vikoyri and Loen where the ship will be at anchor.
Please note that availability and prices shown on our website are not updated in real time and may change. For the latest availability and pricing, please call 0800 678 3787