Norway onboard Hanse Explorer | Y.CO (2024)

Bodo

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Embark in Bodo and welcome onboard Hanse Explorer. Settle in and enjoy views out over the Lofoten Oslands. Welcome dinner onboard.

Reine

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Reine lies over 100km above the arctic circle, an outcrop of the Island of Moskenesøya on the Island of Moskenesøya. Dotted with fisherman huts and surrounded by imposing granite peaks looming out of the Reinefjorden, this is a stunning village with white sand beaches. Hike Reinebringen, about 450 metres up, for mesmerizing viewings. Later, cruise to Henningsvær, a very picturesque fishing village with a pier large enough for Hanse Explorer. Overnight cruise to Trollfjorden.

Trollfjorden

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Experience the exhilaration Hanse Explorer navigating the extremely narrow Trollfjord, is sidearm of the Raftsund stretching 2km between the Lofoten islands and Vesteralen archipelago. Encased by steep mountains either side, spot sea eagles above you and wonder at nature. On to Raftsund, who astonishing natural landscapes have lured kings and emperors as well as superyacht guests. Take in snowcapped mountains and the famed Raftsund Bridge as you cross between the islands of Hinnøya and Austvågøya. Later, depart from Lonkanfjorden for overnight voyage.

Tysfjord

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Wake in Tysfjord, known for its whale watching. Orcas can be spotted here from the decks of Hanse Explorer, as well as porpoises and lobsters. Onland, see sea eagles, ravens, otters, and moose. Today, visit Stetind, Norway's ‘national mountain’, sweeping majestically from mirror-calm waters. Explore Drag, the cultural centre of Norway’s indigenous Sami people. Hike along the coastline of Hellemobotn, edging the Swedish border.

Lœdingen Narrows

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Morning types can wake early for spectacular sunrise cruising along the Lœdingen Narrows to fairytale island of Senja. This island is ideal for hiking and kayaking in the coastal pine forests and mountains of the Ånderdalen National Park. Don’t miss the world’s largest ‘troll’. By night, experience the indescribable magic of a Midnight Sun Safari at Sundsvollsundet on the yacht or zodiac.

Andenes

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Go on a whale safari in Andenes. Join as we go offshore looking for Sperm whales. Pilot whales, Fin whales, Minky whales and orcas can also be spotted. Later, visit the historic fisherman’s town, with whale museum, polar museum and northern lights centre.

Øksfjorden

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Discover the scenic narrow fjord of Øksfjorden. Helicopter tours can be arranged for the most intrepid guests. Later, explore the Sami cultural experience.

Nordkapp

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Arguably the northernmost point of continental Europe, Nordkapp is on every adventurer’s bucket list. Hike to North Cape from Hornvika, experience a Zodiac landing at Skarsvåg or explore the nature reserve and bird nesting cliffs at Gjesværstappan. The northern lights can be seen from this point during certain months.

Hammerfest

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Welcome new guests at Hammerfest, a quiet port town said to be the northernmost city in the world.

Bear Island

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The southernmost island of the Svalbard archipelago features a permanent Meteorological station for safe navigation at sea, and only 9 inhabitants. Explore on a zodiac tour or take a dip at the specialised swimming club that offers certification. Overnight, the captain will Reposition Hanse Explorer from Bear Island to Hornsund.

Hornsund

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Awake in Hornsund for a day of hiking and exploring whaling remains in Gåshamna, before heading to Gnålodden/Burgerbukta for more hiking among trapper huts and bird cliff, or kayaking with a breathtaking backdrop. Look out for bears and beluga!

Bellsund

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The 20km long sound of Bellsund is on the west coast of Spitsbergen, part of the Svalbard archipelago. Venture to Ingeborgfjellet and see colonies of Little Auk and reindeer. Hike spectacular paths surrounded by mountains. Later, head to Fleur de Lyshamna and Bourbonhamna and hike to the former Beluga hunting station. This is also a fantastic spot for kayaking.

Amsterdamøya

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Situated in the northwestern corner of Spitsbergen, Amsterdamøya is a historical site famed for whaling. Its mountainous landscapes backdrop icy shores home to walruses, reindeer and even polar bears. Then cruise to Raudfjord, and explore the bay of Alicehamna and Bruceneset. Take a short hike uphill to scenic views, longer hike inland, trapper hut, birdlife.

Woodfjorden

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Woodfjorden has been carved out by glaciers, creating U-shaped valley flooded with seawater. Located at almost 80 degrees north and 64km in length, and it is still being constantly changed by glacial activity. Look for out for reindeer and unusual birdlife.

Northern Svalbard

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Spend today exploring the sea ice of northern Svalbard. Spot polar bears and seals in their natural habitat. Potentially try to spear the ship into the ice, or use the zodiacs to land on the ice and explore, if conditions allow.

Krossfjorden

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Krossfjorden stretches for 30km into the west coast of Spitsbergen. Immerse yourself in these incredible landscapes with a full day of activities. Hike the 14 Juli Glacier or Lilliehöökbreen, home to guillemot and Atlantic puffins. Alternatively, take in its full icy majesty by zodiac or kayak. Swimming can be arranged in these waters with Hanse Explorer’s cold water swimming gear. On land, spot wild reindeer in Tinayrebukta.

Longyearbyen

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