Small expedition ship with dark hull & white upper decks cruises a Norwegian fjord in winter, among iceberg bits & snowy peaks.
Red house with white trim sits at dusk beside a glassy fjord with mountains across the water & snow everywhere.
Green glow of Northern Lights spreads above a waterside town backed by snow-covered mountains reflecting in the glassy fjord.
A small family of white- & brown-coated reindeer of various ages stands atop the snow on a sunny day, seen in Spitsbergen.
Aerial view of snow-covered Norwegian town by calm blue sea, seen on the Nordic Discoveries & Traditions cruise.
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Polar Regions Arctic Cruise

Nordic Discoveries & Traditions

Cruise along the Norwegian coastline for natural beauty: cliffs carved by the sea and the wind, wild fjords, snow-capped mountains and frosted landscapes. Cross the Arctic Circle, seek the northern lights and discover millennial traditions such as reindeer herding.

The main Nordic Discoveries & Traditions itinerary conveniently operates round-trip from Tromso and uniquely visits Hammerfest, considered the northernmost town in the world, and Honningsvag, the northernmost point in Europe. The alternative Ancient Traditions & Norwegian Fjords itinerary mostly cruises Norway but spends more time at sea and uniquely ends in Copenhagen, Denmark.

This Nordic cruise features the elegant sister explorer ships 180-guest Le Bellot and 184-guest Le Champlain. On either ship, enjoy refined and attentive service, a plethora of onboard activities and unrivaled elegance. Appreciate her understated sophistication, international feel and top-notch guides. Enjoy 100% private balconies or terraces, innovative equipment, elegantly designed guest accommodations, welcoming lounge areas that open to the outside and the Blue Eye underwater lounge–a multi-sensory space in the ship’s hull featuring hydrophones, expansive underwater views and other amenities that create the feeling of being underwater beside the marine life that the ship is sailing past. Plus, a variety of onboard activities engage travelers while sailing between anchorages.

Read on for details about this Nordic cruise, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Arctic cruises and Arctic expedition trips, or specialty northern lights cruises.

 



Itinerary

Nordic Discoveries & Traditions Itinerary

The Nordic Discoveries & Traditions itinerary operates round-trip from Tromso, Norway. These departures focus on cruising along Norway but add two ocean crossings to sail by Bjornoya (Bear Island).

Route map of Nordic Discoveries & Traditions cruise round-trip from Tromso, Norway with visits to Narvik, Reine or Leknes, Hammerfest, Alta, Honningsvag & Bjornoya.
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Day 1
Fly from Paris, France to Tromso, Norway & Embark

In the north of the Arctic circle discover Tromsø, a secluded town located in the county of Troms. Norwegians call it the Paris of the north; see why by discovering its extensive neoclassical architectural heritage. A stunning example is the Arctic cathedral, a major monument whose stylistic purity echoes the outline of the mountains surrounding the town.

Accommodations

Le Bellot, Le Champlain

Meals

dinner

Read More
Day 2
Narvik

Beyond the Arctic Circle, discover Narvik, nestling in the heart of impressive mountains that plunge into the Ofotfjord. It is on the verge of obtaining the Sustainable Destination label, a national label awarded to destinations that are committed to a sustainable approach to tourism for the long term. Be mesmerized by its scenery. From Narvik, it is possible to take the Ofoten Line towards Sweden. This historic railway once linked the mineral-rich mines of Kiruna in Sweden to the ice-free port of Narvik. Experience unique moments while meeting the Sami peoplereindeer herders who have ancestral traditions and yet embrace modernity.

Accommodations

Le Bellot, Le Champlain

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 3
Reine, Lofoten

Way beyond the Arctic Circle, Lofoten Islands are truly considered to be in another world. A jewel of nature in its most pristine state, this archipelago with its jagged coastline offers majestic settings of high alpine summits, sandy beaches, green prairies and fjords of a deep blue, where countless bird colonies make their nests. Whether visiting Å or Nusjford, listed by UNESCO, enjoy authentic and memorable moments.

Accommodations

Le Bellot, Le Champlain

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 4
At Sea

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness center. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the onboard photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Accommodations

Le Bellot, Le Champlain

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 5
Hammerfest

Hammerfest, located on the northwestern coast of the island of Kvaloya, beyond the 70th parallel north, is often considered the northernmost town in the world. Conserved in an immaculate natural setting, this charming fishing port enjoys a rich history, as is evidenced by various vestiges dating back to the Stone Age, Napoleonic wars or the Second World War. During this port of call, enjoy the opportunity to discover the Struve Geodetic Arc, a chain of triangulations stretching across Europe from Hammerfest to the Black Sea, and the first technical and scientific object to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Accommodations

Le Bellot, Le Champlain

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 6
Sailing by Bjornoya (Bear Island)

Halfway between Norway and Spitsbergen, sail not far from the coastlines of Bjørnøya, the southernmost island of Svalbard. From the ship, observe this isolated piece of land discovered in 1596 by the Dutch navigator Willem Barents, then looking for the Northwest Passage. Following a tough fight between a polar bear and the members of the expedition, he dubbed the place Bear Island. Regularly covered by a thick layer of fog, Bjørnøya shelters a meteorological station built in 1923, which is still in operation. Declared a nature reserve in 2002, the island is above all home to an enormous colony of sea birds: skuas, guillemots, puffins, Tridactyl gulls, petrels, gulls and little auks all coexist here.

Accommodations

Le Bellot, Le Champlain

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 7
Honningsvag

If you feel like you have arrived at the end of the world in Honningsvåg, it is because this is the case. Halfway between Oslo and the North Pole, it competes with Hammerfest for the status of the northernmost town in Continental Europe. Colorful houses light up this charming and typically Norwegian fishing port nestled in the hollows of the region’s mountainous terrain. Travelers come to stay in the village to go to the North Cape. At the end of the road is the globe that indicates the very end of Europe. At this point, only the Svalbard archipelago separates you from the North Pole. There is sea as far as the eye can see. The Northern Lights, the view of the immense cliff plunging into the sea, the thousands of puffins, gannets and cormorants that spin around you: everything here is grandiose.

Accommodations

Le Bellot, Le Champlain

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Days 8 - 9
Alta

Beyond the Arctic Circle, Alta, in the far north of Norway, is the biggest city in Finnmark county. Alta will reveal itself to at the end of the eponymous fjord, Altafjorden. The region offers a mix of forest, mountainous and coastal landscapes. It is on the verge of obtaining the Sustainable Destination label, a national label awarded to destinations that are committed to a sustainable approach to tourism for the long term. Alta invites you to experience unique moments, whether meeting the Sami peoplereindeer herders who have ancestral traditions and yet embrace modernityor during walks, snowshoe hikes or dog sledding, depending on the season.

Accommodations

Le Bellot, Le Champlain

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 10 - 11
Disembark Tromso, Norway

In the north of the Arctic circle discover Tromsø, a secluded town located in the county of Troms. Norwegians call it the Paris of the north; see why by discovering its extensive neoclassical architectural heritage. A stunning example is the Arctic cathedral, a major monument whose stylistic purity echoes the outline of the mountains surrounding the town.

Accommodations

Le Bellot, Le Champlain (day 10); n/a (day 11)

Meals

breakfast, lunch & dinner (day 10); breakfast (day 11)

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Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

All meals while on board the ship; captain’s welcome cocktail and gala dinner; “open bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands); evening entertainment and events; room service; highly qualified bilingual French/English expedition team; lectures presented by the expedition team; Zodiac and shore excursions (during the 2025 season, choose one complimentary excursion per person, per port of call, from a selection offered by Ponant); park entry fees into protected areas; complimentary unlimited Wifi on board; port fees and taxes (except for child passengers–see Families & Children); gratuities.

Exclusions

Optional add-on excursions or packages (starting with the 2024-2025 season, one excursion per person per stopover is included); ground services before or after the cruise; visa expenses; possible immigration reciprocity taxes; luggage handling; beverages beyond those in Inclusions; laundry, hair salon, spa treatments, onboard medical consultations and other personal charges; cancellation, luggage, assistance, repatriation, medical and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations beyond 14 days after booking confirmation are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
365 days or more – $250
364 to 211 days – 10% of total trip cost
210 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Nordic Discoveries & Traditions cruise begins and ends in Tromso, Norway (TOS). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Recommended flight arrival and departure times are specific to each voyage; consult your Adventure Specialist for guidelines relating to your departure. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Optional activities on your Nordic Discoveries & Traditions cruise include practicing photography, Zodiac cruising, walking, hiking and museum visits, plus one shore excursion per person, per port of call is included for the 2025 season. In addition to these off-ship excursions, a multitude of onboard activities keep guests engaged, including live music, dance and theater; spa treatments; exercise and stretching classes; specialty food, wine and cocktail tastings; organized games; and lectures by guides and possible special guests.

Room Configuration

Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. This supplement may vary depending on cabin category and remaining capacity per departure. A willing-to-share program is not available. Triple and quadruple rates may be available in select cabin categories; contact AdventureSmith for details.

Families & Children

Children 3 years and older at time of travel are welcomed on this cruise. Children under 18 years old at time of travel may receive special discounts when sharing a cabin with two full-fare adults. A child sharing a cabin with a single adult is considered to be a paying adult. Contact AdventureSmith for details.

Travel Insurance

A medical form for all travelers is required for every departure. Travelers are also highly encouraged to have full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses. In addition, we highly recommend our travelers protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Ancient Traditions & Norwegian Fjords Itinerary

The Ancient Traditions & Norwegian Fjords begins with a connecting flight from Paris, France to Tromso, Norway, then cruises to Copenhagen, Denmark. These departures focus on cruising along Norway but spend more time at sea and uniquely end in Denmark.

Route map of Ancient Traditions & Norwegian Fjords cruise from Tromso, Norway to Copenhagen, Denmark with visits to Norway's Alta, Leknes, Geiranger & Bergen.
Read More
Days 1 - 2
Fly From Paris, France to Tromso, Norway & Embark

On Day 1, embark the ship between 4:00 and 5:00pm. On Day 2, enjoy a guided tour of Tromso before the ship departs at 6:00pm. In the north of the Arctic circle discover Tromsø, a secluded town located in the county of Troms. Norwegians call it the Paris of the north; see why by discovering its extensive neoclassical architectural heritage. A stunning example is the Arctic cathedral, a major monument whose stylistic purity echoes the outline of the mountains surrounding the town.

Accommodations

Le Champlain

Meals

dinner (day 1); breakfast, lunch & dinner (day 2)

Read More
Day 3
Alta

Beyond the Arctic Circle, Alta, in the far north of Norway, is the biggest city in Finnmark county. Alta will reveal itself to at the end of the eponymous fjord, Altafjorden. The region offers a mix of forest, mountainous and coastal landscapes. It is on the verge of obtaining the Sustainable Destination label, a national label awarded to destinations that are committed to a sustainable approach to tourism for the long term. Alta invites you to experience unique moments, whether meeting the Sami peoplereindeer herders who have ancestral traditions and yet embrace modernityor during walks, snowshoe hikes or dog sledding, depending on the season.

Accommodations

Le Champlain

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 4
At Sea

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness center. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the onboard photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Accommodations

Le Champlain

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 5
Narvik

Beyond the Arctic Circle, discover Narvik, nestling in the heart of impressive mountains that plunge into the Ofotfjord. It is on the verge of obtaining the Sustainable Destination label, a national label awarded to destinations that are committed to a sustainable approach to tourism for the long term. Be mesmerized by its scenery. From Narvik, it is possible to take the Ofoten Line towards Sweden. This historic railway once linked the mineral-rich mines of Kiruna in Sweden to the ice-free port of Narvik. Experience unique moments while meeting the Sami peoplereindeer herders who have ancestral traditions and yet embrace modernity.

Accommodations

Le Champlain

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 6
Leknes, Lofoten

Way beyond the Arctic Circle, Lofoten Islands are truly considered to be in another world. A jewel of nature in its most pristine state, this archipelago with its jagged coastline offers majestic settings of high alpine summits, sandy beaches, green prairies and fjords of a deep blue, where countless bird colonies make their nests. Whether visiting Å or Nusjford, listed by UNESCO, enjoy authentic and memorable moments.

Accommodations

Le Champlain

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 7
At Sea

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness center. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the onboard photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Accommodations

Le Champlain

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 8
Geiranger

A must-see stopover in Norway, located halfway between Bergen and Trondheim, Geiranger offers the stunning beauty of a natural decor, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The splendor of the sheer cliffs, dark rock and crystalline water are the stars of the show here. The sides of the fjord offer many possibilities for hiking: the Eagle’s Road takes one up to a steep stretch offering a gorgeous panoramic view. A visit to Geiranger village immerses all in the rhythm of life in the little local community.

Accommodations

Le Champlain

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 9
Bergen

Located at the end of Byfjord, Bergen was the capital of Norway in the 12th and 13th Centuries and has preserved some very beautiful monuments from the time when it was home to royalty. Wandering through Bergen’s streets means going back in time, in search of the hidden treasures that have been listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. A veritable open-air museum, Bergen is home to a thriving artistic community of painters, potters and jewelers. The Bergen cable car offers a splendid panorama over the port and the surrounding fjords. Do not miss the visit to the old quarter with its narrow streets, a testimony of the power of the Hanseatic League that controlled trade in Northern Europe at the end of the Middle Ages.

Accommodations

Le Champlain

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 10
At Sea

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness center. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the onboard photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Accommodations

Le Champlain

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 11
Disembark Copenhagen, Denmark

Connected to the far eastern side of Sealand island, a few kilometers away from the Swedish coasts, Copenhagen offers the high color of Scandinavian capitals. Discover the city’s riches that weave through the canal networks through the historical districts of Christiansborg and Nyhavn. Many palaces provide an apercu of Danish history. For eating, try out the smorrebrod, traditional Danish sandwiches made with ham, cheese or smoked fish.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

All meals while on board the ship; captain’s welcome cocktail and gala dinner; “open bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands); evening entertainment and events; room service; highly qualified bilingual French/English expedition team; lectures presented by the expedition team; Zodiac and shore excursions; park entry fees into protected areas; complimentary unlimited Wifi on board; port fees and taxes (except for child passengers–see Families & Children); gratuities.

Exclusions

Optional add-on excursions or packages; ground services before or after the cruise; visa expenses; possible immigration reciprocity taxes; luggage handling; beverages beyond those in Inclusions; laundry, hair salon, spa treatments, onboard medical consultations and other personal charges; cancellation, luggage, assistance, repatriation, medical and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations beyond 14 days after booking confirmation are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
365 days or more – $250
364 to 211 days – 10% of total trip cost
210 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Ancient Traditions & Norwegian Fjords cruise begins in Tromso, Norway (TOS) and ends in Copenhagen, Denmark (CPH). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Recommended flight arrival and departure times are specific to each voyage; consult your Adventure Specialist for guidelines relating to your departure. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Optional activities on your Ancient Traditions & Norwegian Fjords cruise include practicing photography, Zodiac cruising, walking, hiking and museum visits. In addition to these off-ship excursions, a multitude of onboard activities keep guests engaged, including live music, dance and theater; spa treatments; exercise and stretching classes; specialty food, wine and cocktail tastings; organized games; and lectures by guides and possible special guests.

Room Configuration

Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. This supplement may vary depending on cabin category and remaining capacity per departure. A willing-to-share program is not available. Triple and quadruple rates may be available in select cabin categories; contact AdventureSmith for details.

Families & Children

Children 3 years and older at time of travel are welcomed on this cruise. Children under 18 years old at time of travel may receive special discounts when sharing a cabin with two full-fare adults. A child sharing a cabin with a single adult is considered to be a paying adult. Contact AdventureSmith for details.

Travel Insurance

A medical form for all travelers is required for every departure. Travelers are also highly encouraged to have full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses. In addition, we highly recommend our travelers protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Rates are variable per remaining availability and are subject to change.

Feb 24 - Mar 06, 2025
Le Champlain • 11 days
From $12470USD
Per Person
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Mar 06 - Mar 16, 2025
Le Champlain • 11 days
From $11880USD
Per Person
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Mar 16 - Mar 26, 2025
Le Champlain • 11 days
From $11280USD
Per Person
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Mar 26 - Apr 05, 2025
Le Champlain • 10 days
From $11280USD
Per Person
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Apr 05 - Apr 15, 2025
Le Champlain • 11 days
From $9590USD
Per Person
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Accommodation

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Book with the confidence that comes from experience.

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

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