Join us on an exciting voyage in true expedition style aboard the 12-passenger ship M/S Stockholm, a ship rich in history and character! We’ll venture into the fjords outside Alta to explore a magnificent natural wonderland, with the hope of witnessing the majestic Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). In recent years, family groups of orca and humpback whales have gathered here in search of the large herring shoals that overwinter in the region. If we’re lucky, this expedition will offer truly immersive and unforgettable encounters with these remarkable animals!
- Good chances of encounter orcas
- True expedition cruising
- Possible of humpback whales sightings
- Good chances of seeing the Northern Lights
- Experience magnificent sceneries and fjord landscapes
- 12 passengers only
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Arrive independently in the Norwegian city of Alta, located about 380 km north of the Arctic Circle. Check into a centrally located hotel, close to famous sights such as the Northern Lights Cathedral.
Explore Alta on your own. In the afternoon, meet your guides, board the small expedition ship M/S Stockholm, and settle in. The expedition cruise has begun!
You are now on an expedition cruise and the itinerary for the following days is flexible due to wildlife and weather conditions. In late October and early November, the polar night hasn’t yet settled over Alta, and there are still some hours of daylight. The polar night lasts from the end of November to the middle of January. During this period, the sun doesn't rise above the horizon, but there isn’t constant darkness. Even when the sun is below the horizon, we can enjoy enchanting twilight periods in the middle of the day, resembling colourful dusks and dawns. For those interested in capturing the beauty of nature, the light at this time of year can be captivating. Imagine photographing a group of orcas against pink-colored skies and dramatic, snow-covered mountains!
In clear weather, we have a good chance of seeing the spectacular Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) dance in the sky. Alta is known to be one of the best destinations to visit if you dream of watching this fascinating phenomenon.
Since 2010, huge shoals of herring have overwintered in the fjords in Northern Norway, which has attracted many orcas and humpbacks. As with any wild animals, it is hard to predict if and where they will appear, but with some luck, we will experience unforgettable encounters with these incredible mammals. The area is also a popular haunt for white-tailed eagles, often seen soaring above us with their impressive wingspans.
During the trip, we hope to be fortunate enough to see both the Northern Lights and whales, and when the opportunity arises, we'll head out on exciting Zodiac cruises and refreshing hikes to explore the dramatic landscapes. Øksfjorden, Stjernøya and Loppa are examples of places we hope to explore. Perhaps the first snow will have fallen, settling over the high mountain peaks, offering marvellous scenery together with the small, picturesque houses and the beautiful fjords.
On board, we'll listen to inspiring lectures, enjoy delicious meals, and keep a lookout for wildlife and the Northern Lights from the deck. For those interested in fishing, there will be opportunities to try your luck from the ship.
In the morning, we disembark from our ship and begin the journey home.
The exact route will depend on weather conditions and potential wildlife encounters. The Captain and Expedition Leader will do everything possible to maximise our experience. Please remember that flexibility is key to a successful expedition!
Stockholm
| Launched | 1953 |
|---|
The M/S Stockholm is a classic vessel built in 1953 for the Swedish National Maritime Administration. In 1999 she was totally refitted and started her career as a comfortable polar passenger ship. The M/S Stockholm exclusively carries a maximum of 12 passengers in outside twin cabins, all with upper and lower berth and private facilities. She is a marvellous piece of maritime history with beautiful brass details and pine decks. No wonder the M/S Stockholm is loved by so many!
On board the ship you will enjoy delicious meals in the company of likeminded travellers who enjoy the natural world, and who are as fascinated by the Arctic as you will be. The food on board is of a high standard. All wine, beer and drinks are included in the trip fare. With such a small party on board, this is like travelling on a private yacht. An entirely different experience and perspective to that of a larger and more conventional vessel! The M/S Stockholm is also ideal for private parties who wish to explore the Svalbard archipelago.
The owner, Captain and crew of the ship have long experience in Arctic waters, and are actively involved in making expeditions in tune with nature conservation. The crew onboard M/S Stockholm are great enthusiasts of the unique wildlife and unspoilt nature too, so do not be surprised if you suddenly see the chef ashore taking photographs or studying birds, whenever his time permits. The genuine curiosity of the crew is a prerequisite for expedition cruises of this kind. A trip on board M/S Stockholm in these northern waters, with its unique wildlife and pristine nature is anexperience of a lifetime, simply hard to beat.
