Cruise the Majestic Nordic FjordsItinerary

Day 1: En Route from U.S.
Friday, June 27, 2025

Day 2: Arrive in Bergen, Norway – Embarkation
Saturday, June 28, 2025
Upon arriving to Bergen Airport an Orbridge representative will be waiting to assist with your transfer to the ship for embarkation.

Experience unparalleled comfort and elegance aboard Le Lapérouse, a state-of-the-art expedition vessel and your splendid sanctuary featuring spacious, well-appointed staterooms and impeccably designed public spaces. As embarkation begins take time to unpack and become familiar with your accommodations.

This evening gather with fellow travel companions for a special welcome reception and captain's gala dinner to celebrate the exciting journey ahead.
Overnight: Le Lapérouse (R,D)

Day 3: Geiranger
Sunday, June 29, 2025
After lunch take advantage of the first of many opportunities to explore the magnificent fjords up close. Join the included activity or choose between two alternative excursions.

Board a motor coach to discover Eagle Road mountain pass—a wonderfully scenic drive during which there will be brief stops for photography opportunities. Arrive to Dalsnibba Skywalk for unmatched panoramic views above the surrounding fjords and valley. On a clear day, you can see for miles from the skywalk's observation platform—sheer cliffs, cascading waterfalls and emerald-green forests that characterize the Geirangerfjord area. The transparent glass floor creates a thrilling sensation of floating above the fjords while the crisp mountain air invigorates your senses.

CHOICE 1 (additional fee): 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 lush green forests 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.

CHOICE 2 (additional fee): 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 and seascapes.
Overnight: Le Lapérouse (B,L,D)

Day 4: Olden
Monday, June 30, 2025
Today visit Olden, a picturesque village nestled at the head of the Nordfjord. The included activity features a 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 of the surrounding fjords and shimmering waters below. 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, a charming wooden church dating back to the 18th century. The structure's distinctive white clapboard exterior and red-tiled roof contrast beautifully against its lush backdrop.

Alternatively you may choose to join an excursion to Briksdal Glacier or have free time to explore Olden on your own.

CHOICE 1 (additional fee): Embark on a toll 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.

CHOICE 2: Enjoy time to 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.

CHOICE 3: Stroll Olden independently, indulging in the surrounding natural beauty and serene ambiance.
Overnight: Le Lapérouse (B,L,D)

Day 5: Nordfjordeid
Tuesday, July 1, 2025
Today discover Nordfjordeid's rich cultural heritage with an inside visit 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.

Later choose between two activities.

CHOICE 1 (additional fee): Board a motor coach for a scenic drive towards the Kvalen and Nos viewpoints for magnificent views of the Nordfjord region from 1,600 feet above sea level. This panoramic tour continues by Lake Hornidal with additional photography stops of the surrounding snow-capped mountains.

CHOICE 2: Explore Nordfjordeid independently.

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.
Overnight: Le Lapérouse (B,L,D)

Day 6: Stavanger
Wednesday, July 2, 2025
This morning disembark in Stavanger—a dynamic city known for its charming cobblestone streets and historic landmarks. Visit the Iron Age Farm—a reconstructed farmstead from the Migration Period (350-550 AD) located on the original archaeological site. Next visit 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.

Afterward break for leisure time to explore Stavanger's many other museums, plus its parks and galleries.

Back on board late afternoon, retreat to the main lounge for snacks and beverages accompanied by live music.
Overnight: Le Lapérouse (B,L,D)

Day 7: Sandnes
Thursday, July 3, 2025
After breakfast set out for a full day to experience the vibrant coastal charm of Sandnes, rich with lively local markets, waterfront cafés and quaint boutiques.

Stop at Ulstein Monastery—the only remaining medieval monastery in Norway. Peruse the small museum, which houses artifacts and exhibits detailing the monastery's history and the daily lives of the monks who lived there. From ancient manuscripts and religious artifacts to tools and everyday items, the museum offers a fascinating insight into the monastic way of life.

Next gather for a fisk soup tasting. This hearty, comforting soup is a beloved dish that embodies the flavors and heritage of Norway's coastal cuisine.

The remainder of the afternoon is yours to enjoy the amenities on board the ship. Unwind in the panoramic lounge with a complimentary beverage, take a dip in the pool or watch the passing scenery from the viewing deck.
Overnight: Le Lapérouse (B,L,D)

Day 8: Arendal
Friday, July 4, 2025
Arrive in Arendal on the southeastern side of Norway for a guided walking tour of Tyholmen, the oldest and best preserved part of town. Stroll the cobblestone streets alongside fishing boats bobbing in the picturesque harbor and be transported back in time to the days of Norway's maritime past.

Next visit the Arendal Maritime Museum to gain insight into the town's seafaring heritage and view exhibits showcasing traditional maritime artifacts and historic photographs.

Afterward enjoy time at leisure. Perhaps take the opportunity to wander through Herregardspark's walking lanes and admire the pastoral environment.
Overnight: Le Lapérouse (B,L,D)

Day 9: Gothenburg, Sweden
Saturday, July 5, 2025
Discover the vibrant city life of Gothenburg—Sweden's second-largest city and a bustling cultural hub. Explore the charming historic district of Haga during a guided walking tour. Enjoy leisure time to peruse the unique shops before gathering for an architectural tour by canal boat. Your guide will offer insights about the city's construction and defensive designs as you cruise beneath many low bridges, including the extremely low Osthyveln (“cheese slicer”) bridge.

Disembark the canal boat and continue to a local bakery to partake in a fika—the tradition of sipping tea or coffee with a delicious cinnamon pastry.

Before returning to the ship this afternoon, enjoy free time in town. Perhaps stroll through the Gothenburg Museum of Art to view its impressive collection of Nordic and international art including works by Anders Zorn.

The final evening on board, gather for a lively farewell reception followed by a convivial gala dinner to commemorate this epic journey cruising Norway's fjords.
Overnight: Le Lapérouse (B,L,R,D)

Day 10: Oslo – Disembarkation | Depart for U.S.
Sunday, July 6, 2025
After breakfast guests departing during the suggested times will take a complimentary transfer to the airport for flights home. (B)

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

Activities are generally not very strenuous, however, we expect that guests can enjoy two hours or more of walking each day, are sure-footed on cobbled and unpaved surfaces, and can walk up and down stairs without assistance. Historic areas are usually more accessible by foot than by vehicle, and sometimes it is not possible for your motor coach to drop you off at site entrances. Due to the structure of some buildings, facilities for the disabled may be limited.