Norwegian Fjords

Haugesund stands on Norway's southwest shore, where the fjords flow out into the North Sea. The breathtaking scenery and a rich Viking legacy make it an intriguing destination on cruises along the Norwegian coast.

Experience the grandeur of this memorable Norweigan highlight when sailing the world-renowned network of spectacular fjords, which have been created slowly but surely by nature over millions of years. As well as witnessing the striking and varied scenery as you approach port, there are many more ways to enjoy Nordfjord. Perhaps by biking, hiking or skiing, or even by cable car at over 1,000 metres.

Experience the grandeur of this memorable Norwegian highlight when sailing the world-renowned network of spectacular fjords, which have been created slowly but surely by nature over millions of years. As well as witnessing the striking and varied scenery as you approach port, there are many more ways to enjoy Nordfjord. Perhaps by biking, hiking or skiing, or even by cable car at over 1,000 metres.

Near this idyllic town, gaze up at the "Troll Wall", whose immense grassy cliffs form the highest vertical mountain face in Europe. Or make an ascent of the "Troll Ladder", a road whose hairpin bends zig-zag up a steep mountainside and reveal spectacular valley views close to the thundering Stigfossen Waterfall.

In Romsdalsfjord, explore a region of deep blue fjords, rolling emerald hills, crashing waterfalls and jagged, snow-capped mountains, which are interspersed with charming villages Vikings once ruled. Sailing the fjords is a memorable maritime experience. Formed during the Ice Age when the glaciers retreated, deep valleys and narrow inlets were flooded with seawater to create these natural wonders.

A latecomer to Norwegian cruising, the Lofoten Islands have quickly become popular because of their picturesque fishing villages, awesome views of pristine fjords and huge variety of birdlife.

Explore regal pomp and ceremony, Norwegian style. The wooden "Stiftsgarden" is the city's official royal residence and under Nidaros Cathedral's gleaming spire, monarchs are still crowned to this day. You can also ride the quaint sightseeing streetcar and or make interesting visits to open-air folk museums, a working ski jump and the Lokken Copper Mines.

Ålesund is renowned for its beautiful art nouveau architecture. This owes to a devastating fire that burned a large part of the city to the ground in 1904. The entire town was subsequently rebuilt in the fashionable art nouveau style of the time. Take the opportunity to wander Ålesund’s charming cobblestone streets and admire the numerous spires, towers and highly-ornate buildings. Norway is a seafood nation and Ålesund is its fisheries capital. Take the opportunity to visit the Norwegian Aquarium - built directly into the rocky coastline, the aquarium is also an architectural marvel. Due to excellent oceanic conditions along the Norwegian coast, the aquarium features a colourful and exciting range of fish and fauna, including octopus, seals and penguins.

The UK's premier passenger ship port, located in the picturesque English county of Hampshire, Southampton is a vibrant waterfront city, serviced by direct trains to London, an airport, and an international cruise terminal. Explore the city’s maritime heritage and links to RMS Titanic in the Sea City Museum, see contemporary British art in the Cultural Quarter, or walk the medieval walls in the Old Town. Further afield you’ll find The New Forest National Park, Winchester Cathedral, Stonehenge, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and the Isle of Wight, while the city’s thriving craft beer and culinary scene will leave you spoilt for choice.