Travel

Beyond what one typically associates with a “cruise” is the magnificent journey and exotic experience one gets aboard Havila Voyages. We sailed the contemporary ship, Havila Castor, built only four years ago, from the northern port in Kirkenes to Bergen in the south. It even travels through the Arctic Circle.

Along the journey through the splendid fjords, we participated in a bunch of winter excursions. There’s everything from snowmobiling under the Northern Lights to catching a midnight concert at a Norwegian cathedral to horseback riding, or witnessing the sea eagles in Trollfjord—one of the narrowest fjords in Norway.

Sculpted by glaciers over thousands of years, Trollfjord boasts steep rock walls and a deep basin. Although it’s a relatively short ride through, its striking entrance and sheer cliffs make it one of the most photographed in Norway.

While sailing between ports, enjoy a cocktail at the ship’s panoramic bar while taking in sweeping vistas of the fjords. You can also unwind with a book, engage in some friendly competition with your fellow travelers by playing a board game, or relax in style at the sauna or in the jacuzzi located on the ship’s back deck.

While on board, we watched the scenery change from snowy, icy winter scenes to soon-to-be spring landscapes with brushes of greenery and foliage peeking through.

We opted for a twilight hike at Torghatten and a boat ride through a decadent marble mine. As we sailed through seemingly colored water (the water reflected neon blue and pink hues achieved via modern lighting) we listened to classical music, and witnessed glittering chandeliers and sculptures, which lent a mod luxurious, Insta-worthy aesthetic.

The fun didn’t stop there. While at the fab Magic Bar in Svolvaer (a bartender pours some cold ones below), we sipped on cocktails poured into glass goblets and even slid down a slide crafted of ice….

The Itinerary & beyond

Travelers can sail from Kirkenes to Bergen (Voyage South) as we did, take the journey in the opposite direction from Bergen to Kirkenes (Voyage North) or take the Round Voyage journey.

Just a note……about all the comforts and amenities of the Havila Castor….the ship’s warm, minimalist décor is inspired by the sea, sky, mountains and glaciers of Norway. Guests can grab a bite or drink from the cafe or opt for the meal plan and indulge in the traditional dishes offered at Havrand Restaurant. They are crafted with love from ingredients that hail from the local towns and villages along the ship’s route. There’s also a shop on board, which sells gifts, books, attire, necessities, and more.

Lectures and food demonstrations teach guests about the upcoming ports and foods of Norway, and there are opportunities to do as little or as much as you want via the excursions.

Although we took the South Voyage in the winter/spring, a summer journey would offer a completely different lineup of warm weather excursions which include bike riding, kayaking, and beyond. It’s one I have on my bucket list.

Getting there…

We flew from John F. Kennedy Airport in New York to Bergen and then hopped a flight to Kirkenes via Tromso. We stayed at the Scandic Kirkenes. After a long journey, we enjoyed the heated floors and cozy restaurant where we had our first bites of reindeer.

I wouldn’t recommend checking your luggage since every member of our group regardless of airline or departing airport had their luggage lost. A friend of mine took this journey last summer from San Francisco, and her luggage was lost, too.

I wonder if it’s the remote locale of the port at Kirkenes—250 miles north of the Arctic Circle. Fun fact: Kirkenes is 1,401 miles from the North Pole and a ten minute drive from the Russian border. It certainly felt exotic and remote to this former New Yorker. Happy and safe travels.