Arctic Journey and Northern Lights with History Channel

Pricing based on departure date: 4 October 2026

The HISTORY™ Channel exclusively curated itinerary: Calling all aurora seekers. Cross the Arctic Circle, visit Tromsø and stay overnight in Alta, the “City of Northern Lights.” Explore Norway’s spectacular fjords and remote ports.

ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS

Rotterdam - The Netherlands’ second-largest city and Europe’s busiest port is home to some of the 20th and 21st centuries' most important architectural feats, which is particularly impressive when you consider that nearly all of Rotterdam was razed to the ground during World War II. Sometimes referred to as “Manhattan-on-the-Maas,” the city lives up to its reputation as a forward-looking metropolis with fascinating design and some of the Netherlands' finest museums and most trendy shops.

Nordfjordeid, Norway

Discover Nordfjordeid aboard our perfectly sized ships, which take you closer to unique ports and hidden gems. Explore iconic cities and charming villages while engaging with local culture through our exclusive Exploration Central® programs, featuring stories from locals, insider tips, and cooking demonstrations. Enjoy spacious decks for a relaxing journey, and immerse yourself in enriching experiences at each cruise port.

Scenic Cruising Nordfjord

Nestled between Europe’s largest glacier and Norway’s wildest coast, Nordfjord boasts breathtaking scenery with majestic mountains, rolling farmland, and a rugged coastline. Experience the stunning landscapes that define this remarkable region.

Leknes (Lofoten), Norway

The fishing life used to be harsh and brutal on Norway’s wind-whipped Lofoten archipelago. Boats would head out from the town of Leknes in search of cod and risk never returning, but today visitors follow a well-paved road that skirts small farms below craggy, snowcapped peaks and twists around bogs and lakes and over precipitous bridges that link one rocky islet after another. In summer, fish hang on wooden drying racks at every turn.  With its airport and cruise terminal, Leknes, on Vestvågøya in the middle of the archipelago, is the gateway to a series of sheltered fishing hamlets with traditional houses perched on the rocky seafront. Just minutes down the road at the tip of the island, Skottinden is a 671-meter-high (2,200-foot) sort of mini-Matterhorn—an iconic landmark that sets the tone for countless peaks to come. With their art galleries and cafés, Henningsvær and larger Svolvær are two destinations from which Zodiacs launch to get visitors closer to orcas and sea eagles. Surprisingly for such a rugged realm, even beachcombers will find places to enjoy here: The coastal temperatures are remarkably mild despite the location north of the Arctic Circle.

Alta, Norway (Overnight)

Alta, Norway, is as enchanting as it gets. Nestled on the head of the Alta Fjord, between the mountains and the coast, Alta features lush green valleys, mild temperatures, and a friendly vibe. It is the gateway to the Nordic interior and nicknamed the “City of Northern Lights.” Many flock to Alta during the fall and winter months to hunt the aurora, as it has a lot of clear nights and a location above the Arctic Circle.

Alta is the place where scientists first conducted northern lights research and it’s nicknamed, “City of Northern Lights.” Don’t worry if you’re cruising to Alta outside peak viewing periods. Summer brings a different phenomenon—the Midnight sun and a flurry of outdoor activities. Hike, bike or fish for salmon amid the serene surroundings of Alta River Canyon, Northern Europe’s largest canyon. 

Ships dock in Alta, Norway about 2.5 miles (4 km) outside the town center. There will be courtesy shuttles and taxis available to take you into town. Shop for mementos at Amfi Alta, a spacious shopping mall. Stop into the Northern Lights Cathedral, a church with a unique spiral steeple and concrete walls. 

Leave a few hours in your itinerary to visit the town’s pride, the Alta Museum and World Heritage Rock Art Centre, an 8-minute drive from downtown Alta. The only prehistoric monument in Norway, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Gain insight into life up to 7,000 years ago as you gaze at fascinating paintings and carvings of hunters, gatherers, and animals. The museum features rotating cultural and art exhibitions, and a café with a gorgeous view of the fjord.

Top 3 Things to Do in Alta, Norway

[1] Alta Museum & Rock Art Centre

View captivating rock art from 2,000 to 7,000 years ago.

[2] Alta River Canyon

Hike or bike trails surrounding Northern Europe’s largest canyons. 

[3] Northern Lights Cathedral

Tour a modern church that inspired by the aurora borealis. 

Your ship: Rotterdam

Named Rotterdam, our newest cruise ship makes a dazzling debut in the Caribbean this November.

Rotterdam hits all the right notes: exquisite dining, innovative entertainment, superbly appointed staterooms and suites, the finest service and craftsmanship that reflects nearly 150 years of expertise.

Music is front and center on Rotterdam and the result is a ship that moves—not only through water, but through the hearts of guests. With world-class dining and the best live music at sea, this new cruise ship creates the soundtrack to the discoveries you’ll make each day.

Rotterdam, Nordfjordeid, Trondheim, Crossing the Arctic Circle, Leknes (Lofoten), Tromso, Alta (Overnight), Crossing the Arctic Circle, Molde, Bergen, Lerwick, Amsterdam

All fares are displayed in NZD, and pricing is per person based on twin share occupancy unless stated otherwise. Although all due care is taken to keep information as up-to-date as possible, pricing and availability are subject to change without notice: due to varying timing schedules of supplier automated update processes; currency fluctuations; fuel surcharges or government tax & fee changes and may not be guaranteed until paid in full. Gratuities may be an additional onboard charge depending on particular cruise line selected. Please ask your cruise consultant for any clarification of Terms & Conditions.