cruise norway in winter

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Wintertime Landscapes of the Norwegian Fjords

Fantastic reduced single supplement deals available on selected grades, these will either be on our Freedom or Saver Fares. T&Cs apply*.

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Your cruise at a glance

Hand-crafted highlights.

Embark on a uniquely timed journey crafted by our team to unveil the winter weather-sprinkled Norwegian Fjords. What’s more, we’ve arranged for your call into Lerwick to coincide with Up Helly Aa, a Viking-themed festival complete with a torch-lit procession and the ceremonial burning of a replica Viking ship. Balmoral will glide along Nordfjord and Åkrafjord, showcasing winter-clad landscapes, including the partially frozen Langfoss Waterfall. Engage in seasonal pursuits like snow-shoe hiking and ice fishing, immersing yourself in the enchanting surroundings of snow and frost. Or perhaps explore Viking history at landmarks such as the Swords in Stone monument and the ancient settlement of Jarlshof.

• On Board Experiences

+441473746175

Discover Breathtaking Mountainous Landscapes

Throughout this cruise, you will have plenty of opportunities to discover the breathtaking mountainous landscapes of Norway in winter. As you glide along serene narrow waterways, you can take in sights of tall, steely grey, snow-capped mountains and vast winter landscapes. From Stavanger, you are perfectly placed to embark on a boat trip down the stunning Lysefjord, known for its towering granite cliffs and dramatic scenery. Balmoral will also navigate the Åkrafjord, sailing past Langfoss waterfall. As the flow of water here is typically consistently strong, the waterfall rarely freezes, although you may see intricate ice formations around the surrounding edges and rocks.

Your Hand-crafted Signature Experience |  Scenic Discoveries

Experience Friluftsliv

Friluftsliv is a Norwegian concept that translates to "open-air living". It embodies a cultural appreciation for outdoor activities and connection with nature. Friluftsliv emphasises spending time outdoors in all seasons, whether hiking, camping, skiing, or simply enjoying the surrounding natural environment. It promotes physical activity, mental well-being, and a sense of harmony with nature, reflecting Norway's deep respect for the outdoors and its importance in maintaining a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. Throughout this cruise, you can experience this for yourself, with plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in this Norwegian idea in our different ports of call.

Your Hand-crafted Signature Experience |  Itinerary Insights

Join in the Festivities of Up Helly Aa

We have planned this itinerary to include an extended call into Lerwick to allow you to join in with the festivities of the annual Up Helly Aa festival. This traditional fire festival has roots in ancient Norse traditions and celebrates Shetland’s Viking heritage. Organised by local communities, it is led by a squad of Viking warriors known as the Jarl Squad, with the leader, known as the Guizer Jarl, representing a different character from Norse mythology or history. One of Europe’s largest fire festivals, it involves various events and culminates in the burning of a replica Viking longship.

Cruise Itinerary

Life On Board

Introducing balmoral.

Beautiful Balmoral is small enough to navigate some of Europe’s most picturesque waterways so guests can enjoy hours of scenic cruising. Balmoral retains a warm, civilised atmosphere and features comfortable accommodation, stylish restaurants and plenty of open deck space.

Beautiful Balmoral is small enough to navigate Europe’s most picturesque waterways so guests can enjoy hours of scenic cruising.  Balmoral offers a warm, civilised atmosphere and features comfortable accommodation, stylish restaurants and plenty of open-deck space.

Your Guest Speakers

We’ve arranged for some wonderful guest speakers to join us for this cruise. They will be delivering a programme of insightful talks and activities to deepen your cultural, artistic and historical understanding of the destinations we will be exploring, well as helping you to enjoy the natural beauty of the places we visit.

Go Stargazing

Acting as tour guides of the heavens, the Go Stargazing astronomers will share their knowledge with group sessions learning interesting and amazing facts about our Universe. The friendly and approachable team will be on hand to answer any questions you may have, and to help you spot planets and stars.

Treats & Pastimes

In addition to our Signature Experiences, we have a selection of lovely Treats & Pastimes for you to enjoy when on board. Just check your Daily Times each day for full details.

Cabins, Prices & Offers

Cabin Options On Your Cruise

* Prices correct as of 09:00 26/05/2024, based on the lowest available Cruise Only fare, and on two people sharing a twin cabin. Please call +441473746175 for live availability & prices.

* Prices correct as of 09:00 26/05/2024, based on the lowest available Cruise Only fare, and on sole occupancy. Please call +441473746175 for live availability & prices.

Cabin Grades

From £2,799 pp

From £2,599 pp

From £1,499 pp

From £1,299 pp

From £1,799 pp

Balcony Junior Suite (BJ)

Balmoral's Balcony Junior Suites have a large cabin area and private balcony

Superior Suite (SS)

Located on decks 9 & 10, Superior Suites have a balcony and large cabin area

Marquee Suite (MS)

Situated on deck 10, Marquee Suites have a private balcony and large cabin area

Premier Suite (PS)

Located on deck 10, Premier Suites have a private balcony and large cabin area

Owner's Suite (OW)

Exclusive Suite - please call for more details

Balcony Cabin (BA)

Located on Deck 8 & 9, Balcony Cabins have a private balcony and spacious cabin area

Ocean View (F)

Two portholes in Balmoral's F Grade Ocean View cabins offer ocean views

Ocean View (E)

The E Grade Ocean View cabin on Balmoral features a picture window

Ocean View (D)

Balmoral’s D Grade Ocean View cabins have a picture window

Superior Ocean Fully Obstructed View (CO)

CO Grade Superior Ocean View cabins have a fully obstructed picture window.

Superior Ocean View (C)

Balmoral's C Grade Superior Ocean View cabins feature a picture window.

Superior Ocean View (B)

These cabins feature a picture window offering ocean views

Superior Ocean View (A)

These cabins feature a picture window offering ocean views.

Interior Cabin (I)

I Grade Inside cabins on Balmoral offer everything you need on a cruise.

Interior Cabin (H)

Balmoral’s H Grade Interior cabins offer all the features you need on a cruise

Superior Interior Cabin (G)

G Grade Superior Inside cabins on Balmoral are perfect for a relaxing cruise

Single Interior Cabin (N)

N Grade Single Interior cabins are located on decks 3 & 6

Single Interior Cabin (M)

M Grade Single Interior cabins are perfect for a relaxing cruise

Single Ocean View (K)

K Grade Ocean View cabins on Balmoral offer scenic views from the picture window

Single Ocean View (L)

Balmoral's L Grade Single Ocean View cabins offer ocean views from the porthole

Single Balcony Cabin (J)

On Lido Deck 8, Balmoral's J Grade Balcony cabins have a picture window

Last few cabins remaining!

Single Balcony Suite (JB)

Balmoral's Single Balcony Suites have a private balcony and airy inside area

From £5,318.10

From £4,938.10

From £2,623.25

From £2,448.25

From £1,799

Cruise Offers

Solo traveller offer available   saver fare freedom fare, free on board spend   freedom fare, what's included, so much already included.

As well as our Signature Experiences, there are a host of other treats to enjoy on board our ships.

Dining & Lounges

• À la carte breakfast, lunch & dinner
• Daily buffet dining options
• Late night Supper Club
• Afternoon tea
• Self-service tea & coffee
• In-cabin dining & snacks
• Evening shows
• Live music & dancing
• Dance classes
• Lectures & talks
• Cookery demonstrations
• Traditional deck games
• Daily games & quizzes

Relaxation & Fitness

• Swimming Pools
• Fitness Centre
• Fitness Classes

Enhance your cruise

Each of our cruises has been carefully designed for you to get the very best out of your time on board; and now you can enhance your cruise to make it even more special.

Need Some Help?

Take a look at our faqs, what do i pack for a cruise.

The handy checklist below has been created to assist in making sure you remember all the important things to pack for your cruise.

Are there any visa requirements I need to be aware of?

Visa and health requirements can change at any time. It is your own responsibility to ensure that you check with a professionally qualified source and comply with such requirements. UK passport holders will need visas for certain Fred. Olsen cruise holidays and will advised at the time of booking. Your cruise booking information will also detail any requirements applicable to your holiday.

What's the difference between Freedom and Saver fares?

On certain sailings we offer two types of cruise fares; Freedom and Saver Fares.

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Our single guests feel right at home on board our ships; Fred. Olsen have the reputation of sailing the friendliest fleet afloat. 

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Disembarking when your ship's at anchor is a very different experience to when it's docked portside. Getting ashore in this instance often involves the use of the ship's tender, which is accessed via the steps of a secure gangway.

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Fjord Travel Norway    Tel: (+47) 55 13 13 10  Fax: (+47) 55 13 13 11

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Winter & Christmas Tours

Winter Cruise & Northern Lights

Winter Cruise & Northern Lights - 8 nights

Enjoy an amazing winter Cruise package with a 5 nights authentic Hurtigruten cruise from the rugged Arctic wilderness of Northern Norway to the magnificent coastal landscape of Western Norway, with calls at tiny coastal towns & fishing settlements. The tour starts with a night in Oslo and overnight in a Gamme cabin in Kirkenes. Enjoy dog sledding in Kirkenes & shore excursions on Vesteralen Islands and in Trondheim. You can add optional land excursions en route.

Individual/unescorted  trip starting in Oslo & finishing in Bergen. Duration 8 nights

Prices from NOK 25495 per person MORE PRICES & BOOKING Choose a start date, rooms/number of travellers and you will see the prices in the tour summary box

Fjord Travel Norway is fully insured and a member of the Norwegian Tour Guarantee Fund (RGF). Travel agencies and wholesalers in Norway are required to be a member of this fund. In the unlikely event of insolvency the RGF will refund any advance payments you have made to our company for a holiday in Norway.

Norwegian destinations:

• Bergen Norway - the Gateway to the Fjords
• Alesund, the Art Noveau town
• Flam, the tiny Fjord village
• Oslo Norway, the Scandinavian Viking capital
• Tromso, the Arctic capital of Norway

Norwegian attractions:

• The unique Norwegian Fjords
• The Northern Lights (Aurora borealis) Norway
• The spectacular Lofoten Islands
• The scenic Geirangerfjord
• Ice hotels Norway - Kirkenes Snow Hotel

Thematic Norway Holidays:

• Norway Christmas Cruises
• Northern Lights Cruises
• Fjord Tours & Cruises
• Arctic Circle & Midnight Sun Tours
• Sognefjord & Glacier Excursion Tours

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Norway Winter Tours

Our Norway Winter Tours include Northern Lights and winter cruises with Hurtigruten, Tromsø winter breaks, overnights at Ice Hotels and rail tours through spectacular snow-clad scenery. 

Some tours include exotic winter activities like dog-sledding and northern lights observations, but most tours offer the possibility to choose from a wide selection of optional winter activities like snowmobile safari, king-crab safari, reindeer safari and overnight dog-sledding excursions.

Explore our Norway Winter Tours

How this works

1. find your dream tour.

Choose from our selection of tours — or discuss the options with our travel specialists.

2. Request your booking

Complete the online process — add extra nights and experiences and combine tours. 

3. Prepare for your journey

Book your flights, receive your travel documents and get ready for an experience of a lifetime.

• Things to do
• Fjord cruises

Geirangerfjord winter cruise

Cruise the Geirangerfjord without the crowds this winter!

• Join in on an unforgettable winter cruise to the Geirangerfjord from Ålesund.
• Travel on a warm and cosy boat into the raw, wild, and beautiful fjord landscape, visit the Norwegian Fjord center, walk along the frozen waterfalls in Geiranger and enjoy an included lunch.
• Experience a popular World Heritage Site without the large crowds this winter.

Tour description

Good to know, the best things to do in ålesund.

Pure Northern Collection

New package with flights

Find your next voyage

Find your season.

Blooming and vibrant landscapes

Celebrate nature's awakening with blooming landscapes and festivities.

Spring in Norway

Fjords and days that never end

Explore the fjords and the midnight sun in the peak season along the Norwegian coast.

Summer in Norway

Auroras, fjords and fall hues

Enjoy the calm after the summer rush. Explore stunning fjords and northern lights in peace.

Autumn in Norway

Northern lights peak season

See the skies dance with incredible colors, snow covered landscapes, and the joy of christmas.

Winter in Norway

Specials and offers

Southbound adventures

Discover the highlights of the arctic such as Lofoten and Helgeland coast.

Explore more

Solo traveler Seaview Deal

Explore Norway with a view with our special solo rates on departures 100 days ahead. 

Offer details

The Arctic Adventure

This package takes you to the Arctic wonderland of Kirkenes to the historic city of Trondheim. Flights from Oslo to Kirkenes included.

Northern lights promise

We promise you will witness the Northern Lights on from October through March.

We recommend

Voyage South

Kirkenes → Bergen

6 days 33 ports

• The coast of Helgeland
• Nidaros Cathedral
• The Atlantic Ocean Road

Hightlights of the Arctic and Lofoten

Kirkenes → Trondheim

• Lofoten Islands
• Helgeland Coast

North- and southbound Round Voyage

Bergen → Kirkenes → Bergen

• The authentic coastal express visits 34 ports.
• Close to nature and Norwegian communities.
• Sail in silence on board our new ships.
• Choose any of Norway's four seasons.
• Check off bucket list experiences - Lofoten, Geiranger*, North Cape and many more.

Northbound Voyage North

Bergen → Kirkenes

• Geirangerfjorden*
• The arctic circle

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On board our new coastal cruise ships, the emphasis is on providing passengers with spacious cabins. Our cabins are intended to be pleasant places to relax during the day and sleep well at night. The typical Nordic décor reflects the landscape through which you will be sailing.

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Eating is more than getting full. A trip with Havila Voyages gives you the taste of Norway. Flavours that reflects the bold, cold and clean nature.

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Meet the "twin souls"on Pollux

A Romantic Honeymoon

They found love in Tuscany, but their honeymoon adventure unfolded along Norway's spectacular coastline.  

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Get Ready for a Nordic Spring Adventure!

This spring, we are excited to present nine new and sustainable excursions, each thoughtfully crafted to enrich your travel experience.

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Northern Lights

Read more about the Northern Light

Read more about the fjords

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Who in the world would sail into the Arctic Circle in winter time?   

Brrrrrrr .  

This is not exactly the escape from cold and snow that we might typically think of when we look at a cruise vacation .   

Well, Viking Ocean Cruises offers a new kind of adventure that really appeals to those of us seeking to go to new places and check a few items off our lifetime wish list.  

The cruise line this winter began sailing an itinerary it has dubbed “In Search of the Northern Lights.” For the inaugural season, Viking scheduled six 12-day cruises between Bergen, Norway, and  Tilbury , England, on the 930-passenger Viking Sky. The cruises have been extremely popular, selling out and drawing passengers from all over the world.   

Viking announced that it will use its Viking Star ship in 2020 for these sailings .  

We joined in mid-February for the fourth voyage of the season . Our trip began in Bergen, and we were joined by large numbers of passengers from the United States, England and Australia. Travelers from these countries notoriously love to escape to warmer climates for their holidays, but the chance to see the Northern Lights on a cruise proved enticing, many of them said.  

We found several things during our unique trip that stand out about a Viking cruise in Norway during the winter.  

Passing into the Arctic Circle  

No doubt about it, the temps are cold this time of year in the northernmost part of the country.  You have to pack your winter coats and some thermal socks and under layers for when you go out on the decks or ashore for excursions.  

The cruise visits Bergen (overnight),  Narvik , Alta (overnight), Bodo,  Tromso  (overnight), Stavanger and  Tilbury  (England).   

In fact,  Tromso boasts that it is the world’s northernmost city, some 250 miles above the Arctic Circle. Temps throughout our cruise typically ranged from 10 to 45 degrees Fahrenheit. It was unseasonably sunny and warm by the time we got back down south into Stavanger.  

Upon passing in the Arctic Circle, Viking holds a fun “ Order of the Blue Nose ”  ceremony  to welcome passengers into the rugged region . About 100 brave cruisers took a morning plunge into an icy bath (set up in the ship’s hot tub on the main pool deck. The ceremony includes the plunge, a shot of Aquavit spirits and a dab of blue coloring to the nose to mark your inclusion in the club .  

A Taste of Norway   

During the cruise, we got the chance to try some of the flavors and  cuisines  associated with Norway and the Scandinavian region. During a shore excursion to visit with the Sami indigenous people of Norway in  Narvik , we cooked fresh  reindeer sausages  on an open flame inside a tent.  

In  Tromso , we enjoyed a hearty reindeer stew, and on the  ship,  we were served all kinds of regional specialties. Viking’s program includes several poolside grill events for lunch or dinner.  

Reindeer steak, venison and  lutefiske were all featured during our voyage . Some foods tasted much better than others to my palate. I much preferred the tender and juicy steaks to the traditional Norwegian fermented fish. 

Also, you will be tempted to have one of the traditional Norwegian waffles each day. They are available at Mamsen’s in the Explorers’ Lounge, and make sure to get them with fresh fruits and brown goat cheese.

Along the way, it was nice to be able to wash all the meals down with the ship’s stock of Norwegian beers. (These are available all the time, regardless of itinerary or season , by the way.)  

Outdoors Fun and Adventure  

We bundled up and enjoyed the true sense of a Norwegian winter and what the residents in these frosty parts like to do for a bit of fun.  

During our visit with the Sami family in  Narvik , we learned about the tradition of working with reindeer (husbandry) and how they raise the animals and utilize them for food, clothing, crafts and transportation. We also got to interact with the animals.   

In Alta, we enjoyed a sunset session of cross-country skiing in the wilderness. The temps were chilly, but we quickly heated up in our warm gear provided by the excursion company  Paekastun  as we skied a well-groomed track in a forest. We had a great time learning the proper techniques to get up and down the gentle hills.   

We also toured an ice hotel in Alta and had an amazing time dog sledding with a team of huskies in Tromso , where we also went cod fishing during a fjord cruise . In Stavanger, we did a cruise in Lysefjord out to see Pulpit Rock.   

So, our days were filled with thrilling adventures that could only be appreciated in winter time.  

Sailing in Fjords   

A definite highlight of coastal cruising in Norway is the enjoyment of the nation’s stunning physical features along the coastline of western Norway.  

Cruisers on Viking’s “In Search of the Northern Lights” itineraries are treated to breathtaking views all along the way. During times of sailing and on sea days, you can see snow capped cliffs and mountains from the comfort of the ship’s Explorers’ Lounge at the top bow area.   

Passengers also took daily walks on the top deck or on Viking Sky’s promenade that encircles Deck 2 to be out in the fresh air while gazing out at the seascape, which could be filled with rocky islets, small lighthouses, hillside homes, fishing villages or even oil platforms.  

Every stateroom on Viking ocean ships features a balcony, so we also frequently popped out for a bit of sightseeing, especially when first waking up in the morning to check the sunrise.  

The Northern Lights  

Days are short in the winter in the Arctic Region, and we had about eight hours of light each day during our cruise (about 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) Night time was when people would get excited about the chance to see the rare phenomenon known as Aurora Borealis, though.   

Viking offers several Northern Lights hunting excursions that take passengers out in coaches with specially trained guides to head off to spots where the skies are clear and offer the best chance to get great sightings and photo opportunities. 

You also can be fortunate enough to spot the lights while on the ship, and we had a great show during our third night of sailing, from  Narvik  on our way to Alta. The skies were clear overhead around 11 p.m., when the show began. Passengers scrambled to the top decks with cameras and cell phones ready. Gasps of “ooh” and “ ahhh ” and exclamations of “This is amazing” could be heard almost in unison as the Northern Lights danced overhead for about 20 minutes.   

This was why most of us had taken this voyage, and special moments like this made it worthwhile to cruise in Norway in the dead of winter.

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Winter Tours in Norway

Explore Norway in wintertime to witness snow-laden landscapes and the magical northern lights. Our regional travel experts will design your dream winter tour in Norway, arranging your accommodation, activities and transport for you.

23 tours available

Prices per adult based on bookings for two

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Northern Lights by Train and Cruise

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Countries Visited Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark

Capitals of Scandinavia & Finland Cruise - Winter

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Best of Scandinavia & Iceland - Winter

Train, cruise & minibus, best of scandinavia - norway cruise & iceland - winter, norway in a nutshell® classic winter - from bergen, best of scandinavia & finland cruise - winter, need any help so far get in touch with us.

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Established in 2002, Nordic Visitor has been creating unforgettable travel experiences in Norway since 2005. Our local experts have all toured and lived in Norway, and they use their experience to create your ideal itinerary. Choose our packages and you’ll take home unforgettable memories.

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Everyone’s travel wish list is different, so we are happy to customise your package. Road trips can be customised to include extended stays or extra locations. And we will happily add days and activities to either side of guided minibus, cruise and train tours.

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We take care of all the details and practicalities for you. You will receive a comprehensive itinerary with any additional extras you’ve requested, plus tried and tested accommodations of both comfort and quality.

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One of our travel experts is always on call 24/7 to handle any unforeseen situations during your trip. Unexpected event or weather issues? No problem. Nordic Visitor will get in touch and rework your itinerary. We will move your accommodation and re-book activities, while keeping you safe and informed.

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With Nordic Visitor, you have peace of mind knowing your tour arrangements with us are 100% financially protected. Your payments are safeguarded as we comply with European Union laws on Package Travel regulations. This guarantees you a refund in the unlikely event of insolvency.

Norway Winter Tour Reviews

We want to give our customers amazing memories of Norway -- so hear what they have to say in these testimonials.

Joyce United Arab Emirates

This was absolutely the trip of a lifetime. We enjoyed seeing a true winter wonderland! The combination of beautiful... read more

This was absolutely the trip of a lifetime. We enjoyed seeing a true winter wonderland! The combination of beautiful fjord views from the boat, chasing the northern lights, dog sledding, the Snow Hotel, so many different experiences - there were a lot of beautiful moments to take in!

Tomoko United States

I couldn't have planned a better trip to Norway on my own. We loved the structure and assurance of the itinerary... read more

I couldn't have planned a better trip to Norway on my own. We loved the structure and assurance of the itinerary while having the flexibility to explore on our own. Travelling in January, Nordic Visitor's emergency number gave us peace of mind in case of bad weather. The hotels were excellent and the locations were very convenient to public transportation and places we wanted to visit. The excursions were fantastic. Want a stress-free adventure? Let Nordic Visitor lead the way.

Whether you have queries about our tours or want to add activities to existing bookings, we’re here to help. Get in touch with our friendly team for any of your travel questions.

Our Scandinavian phone number is +46 8 666 23 30

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Hanseatic Spirit’s Antarctica Season Cancelled

• May 25, 2024

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises is canceling the Hanseatic Spirit’s 2024-25 winter season in Antarctica, according to reports in German media.

The luxury expedition brand is axing nearly five months’ worth of cruises to redeploy the 230-guest ship in Northern Europe.

Cancelled voyages include a total of 12 cruises that were previously scheduled to take place between October 31, 2024 and April 22, 2025.

In addition to 20- to 23-night expeditions to Antarctica, the Hanseatic Spirit was also set to offer itineraries in South America, the Atlantic and Africa.

Affected passengers are currently being informed by Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, according to Schiffe und Kreuzfahrten.

Citing the company, the website said that the change responds to feedback from guests who showed interest in winter expeditions departing from Germany.

The itineraries were introduced a few years ago and were also offered by the Hanseatic Nature during the past winter season.

With the change, Hapag-Lloyd’s 2024-25 winter season will include two vessels sailing to Antarctica and a third remaining in Northern Europe.

While the Hanseatic Nature and the Hanseatic Inspiration are set to offer programs in Antarctica, the Hanseatic Spirit will sail from Germany for itineraries to the Norwegian Fjords, Western Europe, the Baltic and more.

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The best cruises from Galveston for every type of traveler

What are the best cruises from Galveston, Texas? I've been on nearly all the cruise ships that sail out of the fast-growing cruise port (and visited all the places they go), and I know which one I would pick: a seven-night sailing on Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Prima.

I'm a big fan of the 20-month-old Norwegian Prima's stylish design and upscale feel, and I love its luxurious Haven suite complex. It also offers a solid itinerary out of Galveston that visits several of my favorite ports in the Western Caribbean.

That said, a seven-night Norwegian Prima sailing out of Galveston isn't necessarily the best Galveston cruise for you.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Whether you'll have a better time on one of the other cruise ships that regularly sail out of Galveston will depend a lot on the type of traveler you are. The best ship for a family cruise out of Galveston might not be the top pick for a couples cruise or girlfriend getaway.

Nearly a dozen ships currently set sail from Texas. Here we list our top picks for the best cruises from Galveston for five different types of travelers.

Best for families: Harmony of the Seas

Looking for the best family cruise from Galveston? It's hard to go wrong with a sailing on Royal Caribbean 's giant Harmony of the Seas.

Designed specifically to appeal to families, the world's fourth-largest cruise vessel offers more family-friendly activity zones than just about any other cruise ship at sea.

Thanks partly to its enormous size — it's 18 decks high and nearly 1,200 feet long — the 5,479-passenger Harmony of the Seas has room for three separate main pool areas, a water park, a kiddie splash zone, surfing simulators, a miniature golf course, a basketball court and even a zip line. And that's just on its top decks.

Inside Harmony of the Seas, you'll find all sorts of family attractions, including counselor-staffed play areas for kids, a teen club and an indoor ice skating rink. The ship also has lots of family-friendly performances, such as ice skating shows at the rink and acrobatic and diving performances at an outdoor "Aquatheater." At the back of the ship, a New Jersey boardwalk-themed fun zone features rock climbing walls and a hand-carved carousel.

In short, whether you have toddlers in tow or command a troop of teens and tweens, you'll find all sorts of activities to keep them squealing with delight — more than on any other ship that sails out of Galveston, including Disney Cruise Line's family-focused Disney Magic.

Related: The ultimate guide to Royal Caribbean cruise ships and itineraries

Harmony of the Seas sails out of Galveston every Sunday on seven-night voyages to the Western Caribbean. The ship stops at Roatan, Honduras, and Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico.

Harmony of the Seas is part of Royal Caribbean's groundbreaking Oasis Class vessels , which are among the biggest and most amenity-filled ships in the world.

In addition to Harmony of the Seas, Royal Caribbean operates two smaller vessels out of Galveston: the 3,344-passenger Mariner of the Seas and the 2,110-passenger Jewel of the Seas. The former ship mostly sails four- and five-night trips to Mexico, while the latter vessel sails longer voyages to the Southern and Western Caribbean.

Best for Disney fans: Disney Magic

As noted above, our pick for the best family cruises out of Galveston are the sailings available on Royal Caribbean's Harmony of the Seas. But we say that with one big caveat. If your family is Disney-obsessed and you can't imagine a vacation that isn't infused to the extreme with all things Disney, there is only one choice for your Galveston-based cruise: a voyage on Disney Magic .

Based in Galveston seasonally from November to March, Disney Magic offers the best cruises out of the city for Disney fans. It is, for the record, the only Disney Cruise Line ship that sails from Galveston.

Disney Magic isn't a new ship. It dates to 1998 and is the oldest cruise ship regularly sailing out of Galveston. That said, it still feels modern thanks to major makeovers in recent years.

One overhaul to Disney Magic not too long ago brought such cutting-edge features as the AquaDunk — a 37-foot-tall body slide that careens over the side of the vessel — and a new outdoor kiddie fun zone called AquaLab.

Disney Magic is also home to multiple pool areas and indoor children's zones that cover almost an entire deck, plus multiple themed restaurants that Disney fans will love. (In Disney Cruise Line tradition, passengers — and their waiters — rotate each night among three main restaurants.) The ship also has a large showroom for nightly Disney-themed shows.

Like all Disney ships, Disney Magic has many cabins with split bathrooms — a boon for families. That's not something you'll find on any of the other Galveston-based cruise vessels.

If you've tried Disney's newer Disney Wish or two Dream Class ships (Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream), you will notice that the 1,754-passenger Disney Magic is noticeably smaller — about 42% smaller than Disney Wish and 35% smaller than the Dream Class ships. That results in fewer and smaller attractions than the other vessels. On the flip side, it has a much more intimate feel on board.

Related: The 3 types of Disney Cruise Line ships, explained

Disney Magic sails a mix of four- to six-night voyages from Galveston to Mexico. Four-night voyages typically visit Progreso, Mexico, while five-night sailings add a stop in Cozumel. Six-night sailings typically visit Cozumel and Grand Cayman in the Cayman Islands.

Fares for off-peak sailings on Disney Magic often start at more than $1,000 per person for a four-night trip — significantly higher on a per-night basis than the lowest-cost sailings on many of the other ships sailing out of Galveston.

In other words, you'll pay a premium for that Disney magic.

Best for budget travelers: Carnival Breeze

Carnival Cruise Line 's Carnival Breeze is the Galveston-based ship to pick when you're looking for a quick and affordable getaway — something that isn't a big commitment and won't break the bank.

Based in Galveston year-round, the 12-year-old vessel operates short four- and five-night voyages to the Western Caribbean that are often on sale for under $500 per person. For off-peak travel, we sometimes see five-night sailings for sale for around $400 per person — or just $80 a night. This is a third of the cost of similar five-night sailings on Disney Magic.

Remember, the rates for Carnival Breeze mentioned above are not just for your room but for meals on the ship, too.

For would-be Galveston cruisers, Carnival Breeze serves as a sort of "test the port" ship. Its short sailings and low pricing mean you won't lose a lot of time or money if you don't love the experience. It caters heavily to first-time cruisers, as well as Texas locals and Southerners who can book on short notice and drive to the port for a quick escape.

One of three ships in the line's Dream Class that date to the late 2000s and early 2010s, the 3,690-passenger Carnival Breeze is no longer the newest or snazziest ship in the Carnival fleet. At around 130,000 tons, it's about 29% smaller than Carnival's newer Excel Class ships and has fewer bars, restaurants and entertainment spaces.

Related: The 8 types of Carnival Cruise Line ships, explained

That said, Carnival Breeze still has a huge amount to offer for all sorts of travelers, from couples to families with kids. The ship was, notably, the first Carnival ship to feature a 4D "thrill theater" and one of the first Carnival ships with a ropes course — attractions that appeal heavily to teens and tweens.

Carnival Breeze also offers a water park with waterslides on its top decks, a miniature golf course, a sports court for basketball and volleyball, and multiple pools.

Interior venues on Carnival Breeze include a comedy club, a piano bar, a casino and a showroom for big production shows. The dining options are similar to what you'll find on many Carnival ships, including an extra-charge steakhouse and Italian eatery, Cucina Del Capitano, as well as no-extra-charge main restaurants. It also has a sushi restaurant and a version of Carnival's Caribbean-inspired watering hole, RedFrog Pub.

Most Carnival Breeze sailings out of Galveston stop at Cozumel, with some adding a stop at Costa Maya and Progreso as well.

Carnival has two other vessels based year-round in Galveston: Carnival Jubilee and Carnival Dream. Both ships operate longer, generally more expensive sailings. Carnival Jubilee mostly sails seven-night trips out of Galveston, while Carnival Dream alternates between six- and eight-night voyages out of the Texas port.

Best for luxury lovers: Norwegian Prima

None of the luxury-focused cruise lines, such as Silversea Cruises or Seabourn Cruise Line , sail out of Galveston. Still, you can get a luxury cruise experience on a voyage from Galveston by sailing on the one mainstream vessel based in the city that has a separate "ship-within-a-ship" luxury zone: Norwegian Cruise Line 's new Norwegian Prima .

Hands down, the 3,099-passenger ship offers the best Galveston cruises for luxury lovers.

Unveiled in 2022, Norwegian Prima was the first of a new class of Norwegian vessel that the line designed to be "elevated," in its words, as compared to earlier Norwegian ships. That is, it was designed to be more upscale.

The high-end turn included loading Norwegian Prima with an unusually large variety of suites (13 categories in all), including what the line said was the largest three-bedroom suites of any recently unveiled cruise vessel. If it's swanky digs you're after (and you have the money to spend), you'll find plenty of options on this ship.

Notably, the entire back of Norwegian Prima is devoted to an upscale luxury enclave for well-heeled travelers called The Haven. Rising eight decks high, it's home to 107 of the above-mentioned suites, a sprawling private indoor lounge area, private outdoor lounge and pool areas, and a private restaurant — all exclusively for the use of those who pay up for one of its suites.

Related: The best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Outside of The Haven, the entire ship has a more elegant feel than you'll find on other Norwegian ships. It has an atmosphere more in line with the ships in the fleets of Norwegian's higher-end sister brands, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises — albeit on a bigger scale.

Alas, Norwegian Prima only is based in Galveston seasonally for the winter, typically from January to March. For 2025, it'll offer seven-night sailings to the Western Caribbean with calls in Roatan, Costa Maya, Cozumel and Harvest Caye, Belize. It'll also operate two longer 14-night Caribbean sailings.

Best for retirees: Regal Princess

Looking for a cruise out of Galveston that isn't full of families with children? Look no further than the sailings out of the city on Princess Cruises ' Regal Princess.

Unlike the other major cruise ships that sail out of Galveston each year — operated by family-focused Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian and Disney — Regal Princess wasn't built with families in mind as the core customer. As is the case with all Princess ships, it's geared toward middle-aged and older travelers without kids, including lots of retirees.

Notably, the 3,600-passenger Regal Princess lacks nearly all the gee-whiz attractions for families found on other ships that sail out of Galveston. You won't find big waterslides, kiddie splash zones, zip lines or go-kart tracks on this ship.

For the most part, the top decks of Regal Princess only offer pools, whirlpools and sunning areas, as is typical for Princess ships. As a result, it draws far fewer families than the vessels above and caters more to an older crowd of mostly couples.

Related: Best cruises for seniors who love to travel by sea

Regal Princess is based in Galveston on a seasonal basis from October to March. It operates some of the longest sailings from the Texas port, including 10- and 11-night trips to Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, Honduras, Belize and Mexico. It also occasionally offers a 12-night sailing to the Southern Caribbean. These sailings generally appeal to a retired crowd because they require a long time away from home.

The shortest sailings that the 11-year-old Princess ship operates out of Galveston are six nights in length.

Bottom line

Galveston offers a relatively wide range of cruise ships and itinerary choices. Five different cruise lines currently sail four- to 12-night Western Caribbean voyages and visit ports in Mexico, Belize, Honduras, Jamaica and the Cayman Islands. A sixth line — MSC Cruises — will be starting up cruises from Galveston in 2025.

What is the best cruise from Galveston for you? That'll depend on your personal interests and travel style, as there are cruises from Galveston that appeal to everyone, including family travelers, budget travelers and retirees.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• 8 cabin locations on cruise ships you should definitely avoid
• Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• Which cruise brand is best for you? A guide to the most popular lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on their first cruise
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Hurtigruten Expeditions is now HX!

• Norway Attractions

The North Cape Line

Sail to the north cape at the top of europe on an all-inclusive northern lights cruise from oslo or bergen., why choose the north cape line.

Take your time with several hours in handpicked ports like Stavanger, Alta, Narvik, and Haugesund.  

Have peace of mind with our extended Northern Lights Promise for a FREE voyage if the aurora doesn’t appear (T&Cs apply). 

Savor the tastes of Norway with award-winning all-inclusive food and drink on board.  

Enjoy exclusive excursions that allow you to tailor-make your Norway experience to your interests. 

Choose your voyage on the North Cape Line

Full voyage from Bergen to Oslo

Bergen – Honningsvåg – Oslo (Roundtrip)

Departure Dates

December 2024 - April 2025

Price from $3,283

MS Trollfjord

Full voyage from Oslo to Bergen

Oslo – Honningsvåg – Bergen (Roundtrip)

December 2024 - May 2025

Price from $3,389

The North Cape Line – North

Half voyage from Bergen

Bergen – Honningsvåg – Tromsø (Northbound)

Price from $2,190

Included in your voyage on the North Cape Line

All-inclusive food and drink

Indulge in breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks in at least two onboard restaurants, each serving top-quality Nordic cuisine and a wide range of delicious Norwegian juices, beers, spirits, and international wines. 

Six-person Coastal Experience Team

Twice the size compared with our Original voyages, more Coastal Experience Team members means more guest care, more fascinating talks, more intimate storytelling, and more activities on board. 

A Signature voyage

As the Northern Lights dance through the longer nights, immerse yourself in Norway’s coast. It’s the ultimate way to experience the compelling culture, wildlife and beauty of the Norwegian coast in winter. These things and many more make our Signature voyages special. Here are just a few.

Norway’s Coastal Kitchen

Life on board MS Trollfjord

Meet the team: MS Trollfjord

Learn why hurtigruten's newly refurbished ms trollfjord makes condé nast traveler's gold list 2024.

Explore the Rich Flavors of Nordic Cuisine

Culinary Nordic Delights

Indulge in the pinnacle of Norwegian culinary excellence at MS Trollfjord's restaurants – Flora, Røst, and Brasserie Árran. Proudly serving the finest, most timeless, and sustainable Norwegian cuisine, our restaurants promise an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

UNCOVER THE REAL NORWAY

Authentic Experiences

Immerse yourself in quintessentially Nordic activities like savouring aquavit, basking in oceanview saunas, and daring polar plunges.

Discover Inviting Getaways

Cozy Retreats

Experience unparalleled comfort with our onboard accommodation and amenities . Thanks to our expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, we prioritize your relaxation and well-being throughout your journey.