Hurtigruten expands its shore excursion programme.

Hurtigruten has expanded its shore excursion programme for the autumn with three new trips now available.

A thrilling husky dog sledge ride. The island of Kvaløya is where you hop aboard the sledges and let the huskies pull you over the frozen landscape; enjoying stunning views of the ocean, mountains and open plateaus. During the polar night, the only light comes from your headlamps, the uniquely Nordic starry sky, and if you’re lucky, the magical Northern Lights. Afterwards you are invited into a Sámi lavvo (tent) with an open fire and a hot drink.  

From Trondheim, the ‘Munkholmen’ shore excursion takes guests on a boat trip through the Trondheim fjord to the historic island of Munkholmen, which served as a place of execution many centuries ago, and on which a Benedictine monastery was erected in the 11th century. Later on, the monastery was replaced by a fortress and a prison. A visit to the fortress provides impressive insights into a thousand years of history, while the Trondheim fjord offers magnificent views of the city.

During the ‘Sami Autumn’ excursion which travels between Kjøllefjord and Mehamn, guests find out all there is to know about this Arctic region’s food and medicine and the Sami way of life at this time of year. There is the option to sample reindeer meat, cloudberries and nettle tea, and to learn about the diversity and healing powers of the local herbs and berries. The Sami shamans were experts in utilising the power of nature to prevent diseases and heal the sick.

In Kirkenes, the ‘Arctic Bushcraft’ excursion demonstrates how the inhabitants of the Arctic reap their harvest, hunt for fish and store their winter supplies, just like they have done for many centuries. Here, guests will learn how to make fire and throw a lasso, and enjoy sampling cloudberries with cream and dried reindeer meat.

Classic Voyage North including FREE FLIGHTS AND FREE EXCURSION TO NORTH CAPE – from £1177pp (selected dates in October) – A 12-day Classic Round Voyage from Bergen in the south to Kirkenes by the Russian border and back costs from £1177pp and includes full board on the ship, return flights from London Gatwick, transfers and a free excursion to North Cape. Prices in October are from £1398pp.

For more information call Hurtigruten – 0844 448 7601 www.hurtigruten.co.uk