Cruise the Norwegian Fjords: In the Path of the Vikings

Image Assets (click to download)

Tour Photos (zip file of jpg or png images)

Map (zip file of jpg image)

Tour Description

Seize this opportunity to experience the magnitude of Norway's breathtaking fjords in unparalleled luxury and style. Cruising aboard five-star SH Diana, ignite your inner explorer with visits to incredible UNESCO World Heritage Sites, immersive hiking and kayaking adventures, and enriching cultural and historical excursions. Accompanied by a dedicated team of expert guides who will enhance your journey, every moment promises to be one of discovery and delight.

Tour Highlights

– Begin your journey with an inspiring immersion into Dutch art and culture while exploring Amsterdam’s world-renowned Rijksmuseum prior to embarkation.

– Sail across the North Sea with a rare opportunity to visit Germany’s remote Heligoland—an island of dramatic red cliffs, seabird colonies and rich maritime history.

– Uncover the rich legacy of Norway’s seafaring ancestors with visits to historic Viking sites in Nordfjordeid and Stavanger where ancient artifacts and reconstructed ships bring the past to life.

– Discover Norway’s pristine wilderness during guided excursions and invigorating hikes leading to breathtaking viewpoints and serene landscapes.

– Celebrate the flavors of Norway through haute cuisine crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

– Bask in the elegant ambiance of the luxurious SH Diana featuring spacious lounges, panoramic decks and exceptional service.

– Indulge in world-class amenities on board, from the state-of-the-art fitness center to the serene full-service spa (additional fees apply).

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: En Route from U.S.
Day 2: Arrive in Amsterdam, Netherlands – Embarkation
Day 3: Heligoland, Germany
Day 4: Mandal, Norway
Day 5: Stavanger
Day 6: Olden
Day 7: ​​​​​​Geiranger
Day 8: Nordfjordeid
Day 9: Flåm
Day 10: Bergen
Day 11: Bergen – Disembarkation | Depart for U.S.

Full Itinerary

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, R = Reception

† = Additional Fee Applies

Day 1: En Route from U.S.

Day 2: Arrive in Amsterdam, Netherlands – Embarkation

(R,D)

Upon arriving to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol an Orbridge representative will be waiting to assist with your transfer to the hospitality room. Once the full group has gathered, continue to the Rijksmuseum—the national museum of the Netherlands—before transferring to the ship by canal boat, an iconic experience that captures the essence of Amsterdam.

As embarkation begins take time to settle into your stateroom and become acquainted with the state-of-the-art SH Diana—your home away from home during this thrilling expedition. Elegant, well-appointed staterooms and beautifully designed public spaces offer inviting options to relax, socialize and enjoy the journey.

This evening gather with fellow travel companions for a special welcome reception and captain's gala dinner to celebrate the exciting adventures ahead.

Overnight: SH Diana

Day 3: Heligoland, Germany

(B,L,D)

Step ashore onto this remote and rugged archipelago in the North Sea about 40 miles off the German coastline. Once a strategic naval base, Heligoland was heavily bombed during World War II. Today the island is a protected nature reserve and a haven for seabirds. During a guided walking tour learn of the area's complex past and witness extraordinary bird colonies within close proximity—as gannets, guillemots and razorbills nest on and soar around the towering sandstone cliffs.

Overnight: SH Diana

Day 4: Mandal, Norway

(B,L,D)

Set out on a guided walking tour through Mandal’s picturesque Old Town where narrow, winding streets are lined with white-painted wooden houses—a hallmark of the region. The town's rich history as a maritime hub and its vibrant artistic community are evident.

Before returning to the ship stop at Kilden Performing Arts Centre, a modern architectural marvel and the center of Southern Norway's cultural scene. Opened in 2012, Kilden houses the Agder Regional Theatre, Kristiansand Symphony Orchestra and Opera Sør, bringing together diverse performing arts under one roof.

Overnight: SH Diana

Day 5: Stavanger

(B,L,D)

This morning disembark in Stavanger—a dynamic city known for its charming cobblestone streets and historic landmarks. First visit the Iron Age Farm—a reconstructed farmstead from the Migration Period (350-550 AD) located on the original archaeological site.

Continue to the Norwegian Petroleum Museum, which features a wealth of exhibits and information illustrating how offshore operations have become Norway's most important industry. Gain insight into the country's first oil procuring initiatives and how the industry has evolved both technologically and ecologically through the decades.

Your guide will escort you on a walking tour of Old Stavanger before visiting the iconic Stavanger Cathedral, one of Norway's oldest churches.

The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure to take advantage of the ship's onboard amenities.

Overnight: SH Diana

Day 6: Olden

(B,L,D)

Today visit Olden, a picturesque village nestled at the head of the Nordfjord. Journey to the summit of Mount Hoven aboard the Loen Skylift. One of the steepest in the world, this cable car provides an exhilarating ascent from the base station in Loen to the mountain peak, reaching an altitude of more than 3,280 feet in just a few minutes. The spacious gondola's large windows offer stunning panoramic views. At the summit step out onto the viewing platform for 360º views over rugged peaks and pristine valleys. Before returning to the ship see Olden Church dating back to the 18th century.

Optional Excursions:
Briksdal Glacier Troll Car †: Embark on a troll car excursion to view Briksdal Glacier, part of the larger Jostedalsbreen Glacier and one of Norway's most spectacular natural wonders. While not a traditional hiking trail, the walk out to the glacier is relatively easy.

Hike at Leisure: For those seeking a moderately challenging hike, try Oldeskaret—a trail through lush forests and past serene lakes, delivering hikers to a mountain pass that offers spectacular views of the Olden Valley and surrounding vistas. For more experienced hikers, the path along Skaala Ridge offers unparalleled views of the fjord and surrounding mountains. This hike is demanding and involves some scrambling, but the views from the top are worth the effort.

Visit Olden at Leisure: Stroll Olden independently, indulging in the surrounding natural beauty and serene ambiance.

Overnight: SH Diana

Day 7: Geiranger

(B,L,D)

After breakfast board a motor coach to discover one of the most scenic routes in Europe—The Eagle Road—a remarkable feat of engineering winding through steep mountain terrain with a series of hairpin bends.

Stop for photography opportunities at Eagles Bend nearly 2,000 feet above sea level. Continue to Nibbevegen, the road leading to Dalsnibba, considered to be one of the most ambitious road projects in Norwegian history. Arriving at Dalsnibba Skywalk take in the crisp mountaintop air and 360º views of the surrounding UNESCO World Heritage Western Fjords.

Afterward return to the ship for lunch.

Optional Excursions:
Kayaking †: Set off by kayak, either at your own pace or with a guided group, from a gathering point near the pier. Paddling below Geiranger's towering cliffs and verdant forested areas is an experience like no other. It's serenity defined—the subtle rhythm of paddle strokes meditatively connects with your breath, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in this setting of ultimate natural beauty. Have a camera ready to capture the boundless landscape from this unique perspective.

Fjord Safari †: Embark on a guided fjord safari aboard an agile rigid inflatable boat. Hear stories from your guide about the area while admiring the stunning waterways.

Overnight: SH Diana

Day 8: Nordfjordeid

(B,L,D)

Discover the rich cultural heritage and typical daily life in the Norwegian Fjords. A guided walking tour takes you past the classic architecture of the church of Eid, the cultural Opera House and traditional wooden houses. Continue to the Sagastad Viking Center to learn about Norway's Viking history. Explore interactive exhibits showcasing archaeological finds from the region and view the full-scale reconstruction of the largest Viking longship ever discovered—the Myklebust Ship.

Later return to the ship for a relaxing afternoon cruising the fjords towards Stavanger.

This evening indulge in another culinary masterpiece inspired by the flavors of Norway crafted with locally sourced ingredients. After dinner stop by the theater for live entertainment—perhaps a dance performance, live concert or a film on the big screen.

Optional Excursions:
Kvalen and Nos Viewpoints †: Board a motor coach for a scenic drive towards the viewpoints situated 1,600 feet above sea level. This panoramic tour continues by Lake Hornidal with additional photography stops of the surrounding snow-capped mountains.

Visit Nordfjordeid at Leisure: Explore Nordfjordeid independently.

Overnight: SH Diana

Day 9: Flåm

(B,L,D)

After breakfast transfer to the Flåm Railway for the 60-minute ascent to the mountainous town of Myrdal. Along the route admire the panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys and cascading waterfalls, including the famous Kjosfossen waterfall. Enjoy time at the summit before the return journey by train. There will be additional time to explore Flåm independently before returning to the ship for lunch.

Later set off on a blissful cruise through UNESCO-listed Sognefjord, Norway’s longest and deepest fjord. Continue into the Nærøyfjord, a narrow branch of Sognefjord and a UNESCO World Heritage Site—where the scenery becomes even more dramatic. At points just 800 feet wide, with cliffs soaring more than 3,000 feet high, Nærøyfjord offers one of the most intimate and awe-inspiring fjord experiences in the world. Along the route pass quaint farms perched high on the hillsides, charming hamlets nestled at the water’s edge and idyllic meadows that have been shaped by generations of life along the fjord. Conclude at Gudvangen, a serene village steeped in Viking lore.

Overnight: SH Diana

Day 10: Bergen

(B,L,R,D)

After breakfast depart for Bergen by motor coach for a guided tour. Continue to Bryggen, a historic district and UNESCO World Heritage Site that encapsulates the rich maritime heritage and Hanseatic trading history of the city dating back to the 14th century. Bryggen's colorful wooden buildings, with their distinctive gabled façades and sloping roofs, once served as the headquarters and warehouses of the Hanseatic League merchants who dominated the city's trade during the Middle Ages.

Next stop at Fantoft Stave Church for an inside visit. This church gained notoriety in 1992 when it was destroyed in a suspected arson attack. The structure was painstakingly reconstructed using traditional methods and materials, ensuring that its historical and architectural integrity were preserved.

Later step into the life and legacy of one of Norway’s most beloved composers—Edvard Grieg—during an inside visit to his idyllic home. Perched above Lake Nordås, this charming 19th-century villa, with its ivy-clad walls and sweeping views, offers an intimate window into Grieg’s creative world. Explore the beautifully preserved rooms, and see original furnishings, photographs and the composer's upright Steinway piano, all set as they were when Grieg and his wife Nina lived here. Following the house tour, enjoy a private piano recital in the Troldsalen concert hall—an architectural gem built seamlessly into the landscape, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the same vistas that once stirred Grieg’s imagination.

The final evening on board, gather for a lively farewell reception followed by a convivial gala dinner to commemorate this epic journey cruising the Viking Line.

Overnight: SH Diana

Day 11: Bergen – Disembarkation | Depart for U.S.

(B)

After breakfast guests departing during the suggested times will take a complimentary transfer to the airport for flights home.

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Activity Level: 3

Moderate

Tour days tend to be long, flow at a consistent pace and may include long periods of travel. Guests should be prepared to walk longer distances, climb stairs and tolerate periods of standing, for example on city walks, sightseeing stops or excursions, on sometimes uneven surfaces including cobblestones or unpaved pathways and trails. Some destinations may have variations in altitude and/or temperature. Daily pace and timing may vary significantly between longer and shorter travel days, with additional activities possibly occurring in the early morning or evening. Guests are expected to board transportation without assistance. Elevators are not always available at accommodations or sites visited.

What's Included

  • 9 nights aboard the exclusively chartered SH Diana
  • All onboard hand-crafted meals: 9 breakfasts, 8 lunches and 9 dinners (served with wine, beer or non-alcoholic beverages) plus special welcome and farewell receptions
  • Private tours and special small-group excursions as noted in the 11-day itinerary
  • Full guiding services of a team of Orbridge Expedition Leaders and expert local guides
  • Private motor coach transportation
  • Luggage porterage
  • Gratuities to ship crew, Orbridge Expedition Leaders, local guides, drivers, porters and wait staff for included meals
  • Airport transfers for guests arriving and departing during the suggested times

Accommodations

SH Diana

Embark on an unparalleled journey of luxury and elegance aboard the SH Diana. From the moment you step on board, you’ll be enveloped in an atmosphere of opulence and comfort.

Refined staterooms, each featuring ocean views, offer a serene retreat after the day’s adventures. Inviting common spaces foster a sense of warm camaraderie among fellow travelers.

Indulge in gourmet dining that elevates every meal to an extraordinary culinary experience. The ship offers several dining venues to cater to different tastes and preferences.

The observation lounge offers floor-to-ceiling windows providing stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Stateroom Amenities: Snacks, stocked minibar with soft drinks and beer, Illy Espresso coffee machine with coffee pods, tea kettle and Kusmi tea bags, complimentary Wi-Fi (subject to satellite reception), TV service, bathrobes and slippers, towels for cabin, swimming pool and gym, premium Lajatica sundries (hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, conditioner and body lotion), and hair dryer.

Oceanview (Deck 4) approx. 215 sq.ft.
One double or two single beds, living room area, private bathroom, and flame-effect fireplace.

Balcony (Deck 5, 6) approx. 269 sq.ft. with balcony approx. 54 sq. ft.
One double or two single beds, living room area, private bathroom, flame-effect fireplace, and private balcony.

Junior Suite (Deck 5, 6) approx. 344-388 sq.ft. with balcony approx. 65 sq. ft.
King bed, living room area, large private bathroom, and private balcony.

Suite (Deck 5, 6) approx. 441 sq.ft. with balcony approx. 54 sq. ft.
King bed, living room, large private bathroom with separate bathtub and walk-in shower, flame-effect fireplace, and private balcony.

Premium Suite (Deck 6) approx. 441 sq.ft. with balcony approx. 86 sq. ft.
King bed, walk-in wardrobe, living room, large private bathroom with separate bathtub and walk-in shower, flame-effect fireplace, and private balcony.

image

(Accommodations subject to change.)

Optional Pre-Tour

Amsterdam

Take advantage of additional time in Amsterdam, a city where centuries-old charm meets artistic brilliance. Wander alongside tranquil canals, past historic gabled houses and through vibrant squares brimming with Dutch culture. Stand before Van Gogh’s bold brushstrokes, step inside a centuries-old windmill at Zaanse Schans and uncover the stories behind masterpieces in the famed Rijksmuseum.

Pre-Tour Itinerary

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch

Day +1: En Route from U.S.

Day +2: Arrive in Amsterdam, Netherlands

Upon arrival to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol transfer to the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Overnight: DoubleTree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station

Day +3: Amsterdam

(B)

After breakfast step into the world of one of history’s most celebrated artists at the Van Gogh Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s paintings, drawings and letters. Peruse through the museum’s thoughtfully curated galleries, interactive exhibits and personal correspondences that provide an intimate glimpse into van Gogh's struggles and genius. See iconic masterpieces like Sunflowers, The Bedroom and Almond Blossom, each revealing the artist's evolving style and emotional depth.

Following lunch on your own, join a local guide for a captivating walking tour of the city's historic streets and charming canals. Stroll past the famous 17th-century gabled buildings, cross picturesque bridges over UNESCO-listed waterways and hear the fascinating stories behind Amsterdam's golden age. See the flower-lined Bloemenmarkt and the grand Begijnhof courtyard—a hidden medieval gem in the heart of the city. Conclude at Dam Square, a bustling plaza that's home to the Royal Palace, the New Church and the National Monument.

Late afternoon and evening are at leisure to explore independently.

Overnight: DoubleTree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station

Day +4: Amsterdam | Main Program Begins

(B,L)

Following breakfast at the hotel board a motor coach to Zaanse Schans, an open-air museum that brings the Netherlands’ rich industrial past to life. This picture-perfect village is dotted with well-preserved 18th- and 19th-century windmills, wooden houses and artisan workshops. Stroll the scenic paths and breathe in the scent of freshly made stroopwafels. Venture inside a working windmill to discover the inner mechanics that once powered the country’s economy. During leisure time in town, watch traditional craftsmen at work—shoemakers carving wooden clogs, cheesemakers crafting rich Dutch gouda and artisans demonstrating the art of Delftware pottery.

Rejoin the group for lunch before returning to the city for an inside visit to the Rijksmuseum—a world-renowned institution showcasing centuries of artistic mastery. Marvel at Rembrandt’s dramatic The Night Watch, one of the museum’s crown jewels. Admire Vermeer’s luminous The Milkmaid, Frans Hals’ expressive portraits and intricate Delftware ceramics.

Later this afternoon take a scenic canal cruise that delivers you to the embarkation point as you join guests arriving for the main program.

Pre-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Activity Level: 3

Moderate

Tour days tend to be long, flow at a consistent pace and may include long periods of travel. Guests should be prepared to walk longer distances, climb stairs and tolerate periods of standing, for example on city walks, sightseeing stops or excursions, on sometimes uneven surfaces including cobblestones or unpaved pathways and trails. Some destinations may have variations in altitude and/or temperature. Daily pace and timing may vary significantly between longer and shorter travel days, with additional activities possibly occurring in the early morning or evening. Guests are expected to board transportation without assistance. Elevators are not always available at accommodations or sites visited.

What's Included

  • 2 nights hotel accommodations
  • 2 breakfasts and 1 lunch
  • Admission to the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum
  • Guided city tour
  • Guided touring of Zaanse Schans with inside windmill visit
  • Canal cruise to the port to join the main program
  • Transportation for included tours
  • Luggage porterage
  • Full guiding services of an Orbridge Travel Director
  • Gratuities to Orbridge Travel Director, local guide, driver, porters, hotel staff and wait staff for included meals
  • Airport transfers for guests arriving during the suggested times

Pre-Tour Accommodations

DoubleTree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station

This modern property is ideally situated within walking distance of Amsterdam's key sites and shopping area. During leisure time visit the rooftop bar for panoramic views over the city.

Room Amenities: Individual climate control, writing desk and chair, satellite TV, phone, coffee and tea maker, minibar, mini-fridge, safe, coffee and tea maker, iron and ironing board, and en suite marble bathroom with sundries and hair dryer.

(Accommodations subject to change.)

Optional Post-Tour

Bergen to Oslo

Set off on a journey of discovery from Bergen to Oslo highlighted by vibrant cityscapes, breathtaking mountain vistas and a captivating tapestry of past and present. Experience the true essence of Norwegian splendor where charming towns, historic rail routes and towering peaks of the surrounding fjords create a picture-perfect backdrop for exploration.

Post-Tour Itinerary

B = Breakfast, D = Dinner

Day 11: Bergen | Stalheim

(D)

After disembarkation board your private motor coach for the scenic two-hour drive to Stalheim. Heading northeast catch glimpses of deep blue fjord waters stretching between towering cliffs as the road follows sections of Osterfjord, one of Norway’s beautiful waterways.

Arrive at your picturesque hotel with time to unpack and freshen up before gathering with the group for dinner at the property.

Overnight: Stalheim Hotel

Day 12: Stalheim | Oslo

(B)

Following breakfast at the hotel depart by motor coach to the mountainous town of Myrdal—arriving at Myrdal Central Station to board the train to Oslo. During this relaxing, approximately five-hour journey, embrace the colorful panoramas from the comfort of your business class seat.

This evening take advantage of leisure time to explore Oslo independently.

Overnight: Sommerro

Day 13: Oslo

(B)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before meeting with a local guide for a panoramic city tour.

Visit Vigeland Park, named after its creator Gustav Vigeland, featuring an impressive collection of more than 200 bronze, granite and wrought iron sculptures depicting the human form in various poses and expressions—from children at play to adults deep in introspection. The park's centerpiece is an awe-inspiring granite monolith pillar rising 46 feet into the sky. Carved from a single block of stone, the piece symbolizes the circle of life and humanity's eternal journey.

Continue to the Opera House, a sleek building clad in white Italian Carrara marble with a sloping marble roof that extends seamlessly from the ground level up. Walk the gentle incline and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Oslo Fjord.

The remainder of the day is open to explore at leisure. Discover Oslo's rich cultural heritage by visiting renowned museums like the Munch Museum and The National Gallery, which houses Edvard Munch's iconic painting The Scream. Take a scenic walk along the Oslo Fjord, stopping to admire the modern architecture of the Oslo Barcode district, and experience Oslo's diverse culinary scene which offers everything from Michelin-starred fine dining to street food markets.

Overnight: Sommerro

Day 14: Oslo | Depart for U.S.

(B)

Following breakfast guests departing during the suggested time take the complimentary transfer to the airport for flights home.

Post-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Activity Level: 3

Moderate

Tour days tend to be long, flow at a consistent pace and may include long periods of travel. Guests should be prepared to walk longer distances, climb stairs and tolerate periods of standing, for example on city walks, sightseeing stops or excursions, on sometimes uneven surfaces including cobblestones or unpaved pathways and trails. Some destinations may have variations in altitude and/or temperature. Daily pace and timing may vary significantly between longer and shorter travel days, with additional activities possibly occurring in the early morning or evening. Guests are expected to board transportation without assistance. Elevators are not always available at accommodations or sites visited.

What's Included

  • 3 nights hotel accommodations
  • 3 breakfasts and 1 dinner
  • Rail tickets between Myrdal and Oslo
  • Guided Oslo city tour
  • Motor coach transportation for included transfers and tours
  • Luggage porterage
  • Full guiding services of an Orbridge Travel Director
  • Gratuities to Orbridge Travel Director, local guide, driver, porters, hotel staff and wait staff for included meals
  • Airport transfers for guests departing during the suggested time

Post-Tour Accommodations

Stalheim Hotel

This historic hotel—situated in one of the most breathtaking locations in Norway—offers sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and winding valley. Originally established in the mid-18th century as a coaching inn, Stalheim Hotel has a long tradition of welcoming travelers exploring Norway’s fjords and highlands. While the current building is more modern it retains a classic, old-world feel with warm wood interiors, large windows and a cozy atmosphere.

Room Amenities: Individual climate control, sitting area, writing desk and chair, complimentary Wi-Fi, iron and ironing board, and en suite bathroom with sundries and hair dryer.

Sommerro

This stylish, award-winning property is situated behind the Royal Palace in Oslo's charming neighborhood, Frogner. During free time take advantage of this Art Deco hotel's rooftop sauna and pool, well-equipped wellness space and on-site social gathering spaces.

Room Amenities: Individual climate control, writing desk and chair, TV, minibar, bathrobes, and en suite bathroom with sundries and hair dryer.

(Accommodations subject to change.)