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What you can expect

MS Maud

Our no-fly expedition will transport you from the white cliffs of Dover to the unexpected and treasured discoveries of Norway

Geirangerfjord

This springtime expedition cruise encompasses five of Norway’s most beautiful fjords. Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO-listed World Heritage site is hailed as the ‘Jewel in the Crown’ among the Norwegian fjords.

Hardangerfjord

This is the fifth-longest fjord in the world. The climate here is mild, and in spring, the hillsides are blanketed in the white blossom of some of the prettiest apple orchards in Norway.

About the trip

Explore five of Norway’s most beautiful fjords on this springtime expedition cruise, sailing direct to the stunning Norwegian coast from Dover.

Norway’s ‘royal’ fjords
This springtime expedition cruise encompasses five of Norway’s most beautiful fjords. Discover why Sognefjord is nicknamed ‘King of the Fjords’ as we explore it and visit the charming village of Flåm. From there, your ship continues to Skjolden at the end of Sognefjord, passing snowcapped mountains and remote settlements along the way. You’ll then soak up the scenery of magnificent Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO-listed World Heritage site hailed as the ‘Jewel in the Crown’ among the Norwegian fjords.

High peaks and lush valleys
In Nordfjord, you’ll see high peaks and glaciers, fertile valleys and beautiful sandy beaches. We’ll anchor at Loen, where stunning views await at the top of Mount Hoven. Next, you’ll explore the wild, lush valleys of Hardangerfjord, ‘Queen of the Fjords’, and home to some of the prettiest orchards in Norway. Cap off your spectacular fjord adventure at Lysefjord and take in the iconic Pulpit Rock viewpoint before sailing back to Dover.

 

What's Included

  • Inside Cabin for Sole Occupancy
  • Full Board, Complimentary tea and coffee
  • Range of included activities
  • Solos Tour Leader included with groups of 10
  • Complimentary reusable water bottle to use at water refill stations on board
  • Fully financially protected

Itinerary

  • Dover
  • Sailing Northbound to the fjords of Norway
  • At Sea
  • Flåm
  • Skjolden
  • Geirangerfjord
  • Loen
  • Hardangerfjord
  • Preikestolen
  • At Sea
  • Dover

What’s Extra:

Cabin upgrades

Travel insurance see here

Optional shore excursions with Hurtigruten’s local partners

Optional small-group activities with Hurtigruten’s Expedition Team

What you'll be doing

DAY 1

Setting Sail

If you have time, walk atop Dover’s iconic white cliffs before embarking your comfortable expedition ship, MS Maud.

Once on board, you’ll pick up your complimentary expedition jacket, settle into your cabin, and attend a mandatory safety drill. Head out on deck and gaze at the fishing boats and seagulls as we bid a fond farewell to Dover.

DAY 2

Northbound to the fjords of Norway

Settle into the rhythm of life at sea – expedition style

As we sail to Norway, you’ll have plenty of time to relax and enjoy the ship. You can work up a sweat in the gym, spot wildlife out on the Observation Deck, soak in a hot tub or indulge yourself in one of restaurants.

DAY 3

At Sea

The Expedition Team will prepare you for the adventure ahead by giving lectures on topics ranging from geology to photography.

DAY 4

Flåm

Welcome to Flåm, the quintessential Norwegian village

Surrounded by steep mountainsides and cascading waterfalls, Flåm couldn’t possess a more scenic backdrop. Experience the natural beauty around you on nature walks, or by biking or kayaking.

You’ll want to go up to the Stegastein viewing platform. An architectural masterpiece jutting out from the mountainside, you’ll be standing over 2,000 ft above the Aurlandsfjord.

Flåm’s iconic railway is a masterpiece of engineering and one of the steepest railways in the world. You’ll feel the pull of nostalgia as you’re whisked through breathtaking mountain scenery on an hour-long optional excursion.

INCLUDED

Experience one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Norway.

DAY 5

Skjolden

Sailing deep into Sognefjord, we’ll pass idyllic villages dotted along fertile plains. One of these is Skjolden, home to around 200 residents and our intended base for today.

Enjoy a trip to nearby Urnes Stave Church, an outstanding example of traditional Scandinavian wooden architecture. It’s the oldest stave church in Norway and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll also have the chance to join optional excursions, including hiking or kayaking.

In the evening, we may do a scenic cruise of Nærøyfjorden, which has designated UNESCO status and is said to be among the most scenically outstanding landscapes in the world.

INCLUDED

Enjoy a visit to the UNESCO listed Urnes Stave Church.

DAY 6

Geirangerfjord

Explore Geirangerfjord – the jewel in the crown of Norway’s fjords

With fewer visitors and milder weather, spring is arguably the best season to see Geirangerfjord, often referred to as the ‘Jewel in the Crown’ of the Norwegian fjords. Cruising along deep emerald-green waters, you’ll discover a fairytale landscape featuring spectacular waterfalls, including the famed Bridal Veil and the Seven Sisters.

Tender boats will take you ashore to explore the fjord and its many small communities if conditions allow. We’ve picked some fantastic optional activities for you to enjoy. Among them – if conditions are favourable – is the chance to kayak along the fjord.

DAY 7

Loen

Soak up stunning mountain views in Loen, the tiny village that has it all

Sailing to the idyllic village of Loen, you’ll gaze upon dazzling glaciers, fertile valleys and beautiful sandy beaches. Situated at the base of Nordfjord and Mount Hoven, Loen comes with postcard-ready views and a variety of ways to explore.

Take advantage of Loen’s Skylift cable car and climb to the top of Mount Hoven. You’ll have spectacular views of the mountains, valleys and the fjord.

If the weather allows, you can join guided hikes along alpine trails in optional excursions. The impressive Briksdalsbreen Glacier and the nearby Kleivafossen waterfall are also popular attractions.

INCLUDED

Take the Loen Skylift from sea level to top the of mountain Hoven in 5 minutes. Enjoy spectacular views to mountains, glaciers and the fjord.

DAY 8

Hardangerfjord

Mountains, glaciers and apple orchards, Hardangerfjord in spring is a paradise

Welcome to Hardangerfjord, the fifth-longest fjord in the world. The climate here is mild, and in spring, the hillsides are blanketed in the white blossom of some of the prettiest apple orchards in Norway.

We’ll explore either of the villages of Sunndal or Rosendal, depending on local conditions. From Sunndal, you can explore the area on a scenic hike or go kayaking with the Expedition Team as optional excursions.

A small, charming village, Rosendal’s biggest attraction is the 16th century Barony, a manor famous for its beautiful rose garden and landscaped grounds.

DAY 9

Preikestolen

On a high at Pulpit Rock -prepare to see some of the most striking rock formations in the world

Preikestolen, also known as Pulpit Rock, is perhaps the most famous tourist attraction in Norway and the popular subject of many social media posts. As we approach Preikestolen, we hope to be treated to a fine view of this incredible rock formation from below.

If weather conditions allow, you’ll have an optional excursion to do the five-hour guided hike to the Preikestolen viewpoint 1,982 ft above Lysefjord.

 

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DAY 10

At Sea

Rest, relax and reflect

Recall the best moments of your expedition cruise

Today is a day at sea. Make the most of your day on board MS Maud. You may want to soak in a hot tub, work out in the gym, relax in the Explorer Lounge or edit the photographs from your trip.

 

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DAY 11

Dover

End your expedition cruise in Dover.

Today you’ll say farewell to Ms Maud, taking with you unforgettable memories of the magnificent fjords along Norway’s west coast.

 

 

Accommodation

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MS Maud

MS Maud, previously MS Midnatsol, is named after one of the most famous polar vessels of all time, Roald Amundsens “Maud” from 1917. The original “Maud” got her name from the first Queen of modern-day Norway. She also had her namesake in Hurtigruten’s 1925 flagship DS Dronning Maud (“DS Queen Maud”).

Facilities Include

Restaurants and Bar

Restaurant Aune

This is the main dining room, serving wonderful meals and in an informal setting. Dishes are international, often with a Norwegian twist, so expect honest, home-cooked flavors fit for an explorer. Breakfast with made-to-order eggs give you the right start for your day and a generous lunch serving keeps you satisfied. Dinner will either be a buffet or three to five-course dinners.

Restaurant Fredheim

With an eclectic mix of dishes from all over the world, the open kitchen cooks up satisfying comfort food. The menu will vary throughout the voyage, but there will always be fixed signature dishes available.

Explorer Lounge & Bar

Sink into a deep, comfortable armchair and gaze out at magnificent views at the front of the ship through the floor-to-ceiling windows. The bar here serves up a tempting range of snacks and refreshments throughout the day.

Room Includes

Cabins:

MS Maud is well-suited for expedition cruising, with a décor inspired by Norway’s stunning nature, reflected in many of the pieces of Norwegian modern art on board. The cabins are fitted out with comfortable and modern furniture.

Polar Inside

Our cozy Polar Inside cabins are located on all decks. All cabins include bathrooms with a shower/toilet. Most cabins have separate beds, with one doubling as a sofa. Others are equipped with upper and lower berths. All cabins have individual specifications.

Polar Outside
Our Polar Outside cabins are mostly situated on the middle or lower decks and all have bathrooms with a shower/toilet. They have separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, or upper and lower berths. All cabins have individual specifications.

Arctic Superior
Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of  the Arctic Superior cabins. Situated on both the upper and middle decks, they all have bathrooms with shower/toilet. They are also equipped with tea- and coffee-making facilities. Most of them have separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa, and some have double beds. All cabins have individual specifications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Average Temperatures

Month(s) Highest temperature Lowest temperature
April 9 °C 4 °C

Our Reviews

“I’m sure you will enjoy it, I have been on three solos holidays to date and the people I’ve met have been great.”

“I’ve been travelling with Solos for nearly 20 years, on and off. The reason is for exactly what you want – you meet like minded people… and have loads of fun!”

“I’ve been on loads of trips with Solos over the years and can honestly say you will not regret booking your 1st one!”

“The feeling you have once you go away on your own is worth all the nerves before! I was so very anxious the first time but now having done it 4 times, I love it!”

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