Ocean Cruises in Nordic / Scandinavia

What our customers ask about Ocean Cruises in Nordic / Scandinavia

• When is the best time to take an Ocean Cruise in Nordic/Scandinavia?

  The main season for Nordic/Scandinavian Ocean Cruises runs June through August bringing long daylight hours and mild temperatures. July trips to Spitsbergen let travelers take advantage of 24-hour daylight for wildlife viewing while August offers clear conditions for exploring Norwegian fjords. A TourRadar traveler described their summer Hurtigruten voyage: "The endless daylight meant we could spot wildlife at any hour and the weather was perfect for deck viewing."

• What are the must-see highlights of a Nordic/Scandinavian Ocean Cruise?

  The journey takes you through Norway's deep fjords including Geirangerfjord and Lysefjord where Pulpit Rock stands guard. The route continues along Iceland's rugged shores past Lake Mývatn and Godafoss waterfall before reaching Svalbard's untouched Arctic landscape. Stops include Bergen's UNESCO-listed Bryggen wharf where travelers can stay at distinctive properties like the Art Nouveau Hotel Brosundet in Ålesund. A TourRadar traveler notes: "Cruising into the remote Jan Mayen island with its towering Beerenberg volcano was absolutely breathtaking - these unique destinations are only accessible by ship."

• How active are Nordic/Scandinavian Ocean Cruises?

  The cruises fit various fitness levels with options from leisurely town walks in Bergen and Ålesund to demanding hikes like the trek to Preikestolen. Vessels such as Seabourn Venture provide kayaking and Zodiac trips while accommodations like Hotel Sigló offer active pursuits right from your doorstep. According to one TourRadar traveler: "We could choose between relaxing scenic cruising or joining guided hikes and kayak trips - the flexibility was perfect."

• What is the best cruise length for exploring the Nordic/Scandinavian region?

  The most complete Nordic/Scandinavian voyages take 12-15 days giving travelers time to explore multiple countries. A 13-day Ultimate Arctic Voyage covers Svalbard Jan Mayen and Iceland while a 15-day Island Hopping route includes Norway Iceland and the Faroe Islands with stays at places like Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon. As a TourRadar traveler shared: "Two weeks was perfect to really experience the diversity of the region without feeling rushed."

• How many passengers are typically on Nordic/Scandinavian cruise ships?

  Expedition vessels in this region typically carry 100-250 passengers creating an intimate setting. Scenic Eclipse II welcomes 228 guests (200 in polar regions) while Hurtigruten's MS Maud accommodates about 500 passengers allowing access to small ports like Siglufjörður where the boutique Hotel Sigló serves as a base. One TourRadar traveler noted: "The smaller ship size meant we could access remote fjords and ports while maintaining a friendly atmosphere onboard."

• What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on a Nordic/Scandinavia Ocean Cruise?

  The waters and shores teem with wildlife from whales in Iceland's Skjálfandi bay to polar bears roaming Svalbard. Jan Mayen Island draws northern fulmars Brünnich's guillemots and little auks while sea eagles soar above the Lofoten Islands. A TourRadar traveler recounts: "Watching whales breach the surface in Húsavík was breathtaking and seeing my first polar bear in Svalbard was an unforgettable highlight of the cruise."