4 days / 3 nights
Alta • Honningsvåg
Discover the excitement of northern Norway in winter on an Arctic adventure which combines a stay at the Alta Igloo Ice Hotel with a journey on Hurtigruten voyage and a visit to mainland Europe's most northerly point - the North Cape.
Each January, the Alta Igloo Ice Hotel is constructed entirely out of snow and ice. It houses a bar, gallery, wedding chapel and several lounges all decorated with impressive ice sculptures that are beautifully lit to create a magical atmosphere. The temperature is approximately -4 to -7 degrees Celsius but reindeer hides cover the ice-beds and thermal sleeping bags will keep you snug and warm during your stay.
Your journey starts in Tromsø with a leisurely voyage north, observing the sky for a chance to see the mystical Northern Lights. You arrive in Norway's northernmost borough at Honningsvåg, 'The Town by the North Cape'' where you will have an overnight stay. Be sure to take the optional North Cape excursion, mainland Europe's northernmost point. Spectacular views and sheer cliffs rising from ever changing seas contrast with the peace of St John's chapel. A sheltered viewing point, partly blasted out of the rock, is joined by tunnel to the visitor centre which houses the post office, from where letters home will bear the rare North Cape postmark.
Later there is another chance to participate in some exciting excursions - why not try an optional King Crab or Snowmobile excursion.
After a night in this charming village you travel south to Alta for a nights stay at the magical Igloo Ice Hotel.
Alta is situated in Norwegian Lapland high above the Arctic Circle and there are several optional excursions, such as snowmobiling, dog sledging or a short trip on a horse drawn sleigh, which you can enjoy before having a drink at the Ice Bar. After a relaxing stay in the sauna and hot tub retire for the night to one of the cosy rooms.
ItineraryDay 1 :Fly to Tromsø where you will be transferred to the ship for embarkation (D). Day 2 : Enjoy the voyage passing north, disembark in Honningsvåg, 'The Town by the North Cape' for an overnight stay (B). Day 3 : Transfer to Alta Igloo Hotel, traditional dinner and overnight stay. Free time for optional excursions (B, D). Day 4 : Transfer to the airport for flight home (B). Key: B = Breakfast; D = Dinner |
Fares :-
EXCURSIONS
North Cape - Europe's Northernmost Point - £68pp, pre-bookable
From Honningsvåg a coach will take you to the North Cape plateau where you may enjoy unsurpassed views towards the North Pole, a potentially incredible backdrop for experiencing the Northern Lights. 3 hours 30 mins
King Crab Safari - Honningsvåg - £65pp, pre-bookable
Travel to the small fishing village of Sarnes where you are welcomed by our host and then walk to the lavvo camp situated by the beach. You will have the chance to see giant King Crabs which are prepared for you to enjoy in the lavvo (Sami tent). 3 hours
An Introduction to Snowmobiling - Combined with the King Crab Safari - Honningsvåg - £85pp, pre-bookable
After receiving instructions and the necessary equipment you take an exhilarating snowmobile ride across the white landscape. After driving you have a few competitions at the lavvo camp and enjoy fresh coffee brewed over the fire. 1 hour
Driving Licence required.
Horse Drawn Sleigh - Alta - £40pp, pre-bookable
A sleigh ride through the clear Arctic night is a magical experience. Travel across the frozen landscape in search of the elusive Northern Lights. You will also enjoy a hot drink en route . 1 hour
Dog Sledging - Alta - £130pp, pre-bookable
Wrapped up in warm clothes, you meet the Husky dogs who then transport you by sledge over the frozen landscape. A warm drink in a traditional Lavvo (Sami tent) is included at the end of this fantastic and exceptional journey. 3 hours
Snow Shoeing - Kirkenes - £60pp, pre-bookable
After an introduction on how to use snow shoes, you follow the tracks of rabbits, foxes and local people across the snow covered landscapes. Your rewarding and active trip ends with a hot drink and waffles . 2 hours
Snowmobiling - Alta - £110pp, pre-bookable
Discover the thrills of this exhilarating Arctic transport and the ever-changing winter landscape as you cross snow-covered plains on a snowmobile. 2 hours 30 mins
Supplement for single use £25. Driving licence required.
Please note you may only combine the Horse Drawn Sleigh excursion with either the Dog Sledging or Snowmobile excursion in Alta.
FARES
North Cape and Ice Hotel Adventure - 4 days / 3 nights
Prices 2009
Departures from London Heathrow
| Date | Ship | Price per person |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 22 Jan - 25 Jan | MS Richard With | £1,045 | |
| 29 Jan - 1 Feb | MS Nordkapp | £1,045 | |
| 5 Feb - 8 Feb | MS Kong Harald | £1,065 | |
| 12 Feb - 15 Feb << | MS Nordlys | £1,085 | |
| 26 Feb - 1 Mar | MS Trollfjord | £1,065 | |
| 5 Mar - 8 Mar | MS Polarlys | £1,085 | |
| 12 Mar - 15 Mar | MS Midnatsol | £1,085 | |
| 26 Mar - 29 Mar | MS Finnmarken | £1,085 | |
| Single Cabin Supplement | £70 | ||
| Outside Cabin Supplement | £20 | ||
<< Special Occasion Voyages - Includes Christmas, New Year and Valentine's Day.
Tour Manager included
All prices are per person.
Prices Include :
- Return Economy class flights from London Stansted / London Heathrow as applicable incl. applicable taxes and surcharges
- Voyage as described in itinerary
- Hotels as described in itinerary
- Transfers as applicable
- Meals as per itinerary