7 days / 6 nights
Bergen • Kirkenes
VOYAGE FARES 2010 (PDF document will open in new window)
Set against the perfect backdrop of Norway's magnificent landscapes, this voyage aboard the MS Nordkapp encompasses a rich and exciting programme of events that reflect the deep-rooted traditions of Norwegian culture.
Sailing from the lovely UNESCO setting of Bergen, hugging the coast as you sail north to cross the Arctic Circle heading towards Kirkenes, this voyage is a fascinating fusion of music, crafts, dance and folk culture. Learn folk dancing, take part in instrument workshops on board and watch traditional instruments being made.
On board lecturer - Arne Kertelhein
Arne studied history at the University of Hamburg. For many years he has been interested in the history of the Polar Regions and in the life of the great explorers - both the noted and the unsung. Arne has long been working in different museums and since 2003 has worked as a lecturer on expedition ships and ice-breakers in both the Arctic and Antarctic. He lives on an old farm in Southern Germany.
Your lecture, workshop and concert programme will include:
- Handcraft workshop with costume
designers and instrument makers.
- Folk dancing display.
- Talk on bridal traditions in costumes and
folk dancing.
- Concert with Steinar Ofsdal (flute)
followed by dancing for all passengers.
- A talk on reconstruction of costumes
from the Lofoten Islands.
- Talk on Kven culture: The Kvens are a
minority group in Norway. Their ancestors
migrated from parts of Finland to
the northern parts of Norway and they
are mentioned in sagas dating back to
the Viking times.
- Talk on folk dances in the North - an
exciting melting pot of Russian, Finnish
and Norwegian traditions.
- Presentation on the influence of
Norwegian folk costumes on continental
fashions from the Middle Ages up to the
19th century.
- Costume parade and a presentation
of Norwegian round dance from
various regions.
- Sami folk costumes - a presentation and
short talk plus Sami programme with
'joik', the Sami style of singing.
- 'Kanteletrio' or similar music from Norway
Day 1 : Bergen
Depart from Bergen, the cultural gateway to the fjords, enjoy the relaxed ambience of life on board and an opportunity to meet fellow passengers as you take in the spectacular landscapes.
Day 2 : Ålesund
An early arrival at the Art Nouveau town of Ålesund provides an opportunity to go ashore and explore this pretty town.
Day 3 : Trondheim - Rørvik
Continuing north you head for the medieval city of Trondheim, whose colourful history is reflected in its handsome civic architecture. Excursions include the medieval Nidaros Cathedral or the enthralling Ringve Music Museum. Evening departure towards the land of the Midnight Sun.
Day 4 : Arctic Circle - Bodø - Svolvær
Crossing the Arctic Circle you continue to the modern town of Bodø, from where you can join the Saltstraumen Safari to visit the river with the world's strongest maelstrom. Day's end sees you amidst the glorious Lofoten Islands and their capital, Svolvær.
Day 5 : Tromsø
A relaxing morning at sea precedes your arrival in Tromsø, the capital of the Arctic. Modern shops and cafés provide a vibrant contrast to the stunning stained glass of the Arctic Cathedral, whilst the Polar Museum and Polaria centre explore Arctic life over the centuries.
Days 6 - 7 : Hammerfest - Kirkenes
Following an early call at Hammerfest you arrive in Honningsvåg, the portal to the wonders of the spectacular North Cape. The vistas and sea life become more dramatic as you approach Kirkenes, just a few kilometres from the Russian border and the Sami communities of Northern Finland. Here you disembark.
DEPARTURES 2010 :
11 - 17 April - MS Nordkapp
23 - 29 September - MS Nordkapp
VOYAGE FARES 2010 (PDF document will open in new window)
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