This is as close as you’ll get to a Norwegian icon the Queen of Fjords - Hardanger Fjord. This sightseeing drive offers you the chance to see more of the beautiful Norwegian countryside travelling along the true attraction, Hardangerfjord, to an idyllic cider farm tucked away in picturesque landscape. Leaving the city and its residential areas, drive along the scenic Samnangerfjord passing small villages and farmlands on the way. Commence the climb up to the mountainous region of Kvamskogen, a popular winter sports area for people from Bergen. You will make a photo stop at Brattefossen before descending to the Hardangerfjord region and the Steinsdals Waterfall. Take a stroll up the trail, where you can walk under the waterfall to a viewpoint overlooking Norheimsund and Steins Valley. Continuing past the quaint village of Norheimsund you eventually arrive at Spildegården Fruit Farm. This farm is located along the most spectacular fjord branch in Norway, Hardangerfjord. Here you will enjoy the peaceful and idyllic scenery surrounding the farm. For four generations this family has grown fruits and berries, and nowadays they also process and preserve some of their own products. Visiting Spildegården you will experience how the farm is run today through an informative and light-hearted presentation explaining the full process, from berries to quality products. Enjoy lunch made by flavorful local ingredients harmonized with ciders from the farm. On your return drive to Bergen witness more spectacular views of valleys, waterfalls and mountain ranges.
 
Please note: It is recommended to dress in layered clothing and wear comfortable walking shoes. This tour involves uneven ground and an optional trail with a gradual slope and steps. Comfort stop available at the waterfall and the cider farm.
 

 

The Loen Skylift is the fastest and easiest way to the best views in Norway.  This cable car is one of the steepest cable cars in the world and offers magnificent views over the Olden and Loen Valley. You will see parts of the grand Jostedals Glacier, the largest glacier in continental Europe, maintained by the heavy snowfall in the region. You will also overlook the jade green water of the Loen and Briksdals lakes.
Continuing on you will hike on a well maintained path, past the north side of Tungegjølet, a steep narrow gully that ends down at Loen. You will walk close to the steep mountainsides until you reach the peak of Staurinibba, 4,524 feet (1379m) above sea level.  The reward that awaits you is well worth the effort – with an impressive view of inner Nordfjord. At the conclusion of your hike, sit back, relax and breathe in the mountain air as you enjoy a light refreshment at the top of Mount Hoven.
 
Please note: Participants must be in good physical condition and should dress in layered clothing, bring rain gear and wear comfortable hiking shoes.  The trail covers 3.5 miles (5.4km) round trip and is on dirt and gravel, with gradual but consistent inclines, and steps.  This tour is not recommended for anyone who is afraid of heights or experiences vertigo.  Comfort stops available at the base and top of the cable car. If there is snow on top of the mountain snowshoes and poles will be available for additional charge.
 

 

Explore the majestic landscapes surrounding Loen, on a  ride to Kjenndal Glacier,  offering views of tall mountains, lush foliage, waterfalls and glaciers. Travel by motorcoach on a 45-minute drive outside the quaint village of Olden, where the landscape transitions from fjord to valley, with an emerald colored lake nestled between high mountains covered with luxuriant plant life. Arriving in Kjenndal Valley, leave your coach and follow a trailhead that leads to Kjenndal Glacier, nestled between two high mountain tops with glistening waterfalls.  Then you will return to Loen, an take a ride on the Mount Hoven Cable Car, one of the steepest cable cars in the world, bringing you from the fjord to the top of Mount Hoven, up 3,317 feet (1011 meters) in just 7 minutes!  From the mountain top you will find magnificent views over Olden and Loen Valley, see the jade green water of the Loen and Briksdals lakes, and catch a glimpse of the grand Jostedals Glacier, the largest glacier in continental Europe.  Enjoy some coffee and cake while marveling at the beauty of nature.
 
Please note: It is recommended to dress in layered clothing, wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for inclement weather.  The optional walk to the viewpoint is approximately 2,297 feet (700 m.) round trip, and is on a dirt and gravel path with gradual slopes.  Coffee, tea and cake will be served at Mount Hoven. Visibility of sights may be affected in adverse weather conditions.
 

 

After brief safety and paddling instructions you will set off toward the glacial waters of the Nordfjord.  Your guide will share with you information about the town of Olden, the Vikings influence of the area, and how the fjord was created by the glaciers.  You will make several stops along the way to appreciate the spectacular scenery around you.
 
Please note:  You will paddle in 2-person kayaks. Life jackets and spray skirts will be provided.
 

 

Join a leisurely kayak trip through the UNESCO Nærøyfjord and enjoy the tranquility that you will only find surrounded by magnificent nature with waterfalls, sheer cliffs, snow-capped mountain tops and idyllic farms. After a short 20-minute drive you will arrive at the kayak center where you will be outfitted with the proper equipment and be given a safety briefing before you board your 2-seat kayak. The Nærøyfjord, lined with dramatic mountains, is one of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring landscapes in the world. On this kayak adventure you will get the chance to explore the historic area of the Nærøyfjord, which for centuries has been playing an important role in linking together western and central Norway. Paddle along the shoreline for a close-up view of the waterfalls, small settlements and local farms, as you pass through the fjord that is only a few hundred feet wide at places. Midway your guide will find a nice place to stop for a light lunch. You will have the chance to relax and enjoy the magnificent landscape while your guide shares stories about daily life in and around the fjord.
 
Please note: Participants must be at least 6 years of age and children must be accompanied by an adult. This tour is not recommended for pregnant women or guests with back or neck problems. All participants will be given a 2-person kayak, lifejacket and spray skirt. Dress in warm, layered clothing and bring raingear and wear shoes that can get wet. Comfort stop available at the kayak center.
 

 

Indulge in 200 years of Norwegian food culture with tastings throughout Stavanger’s bustling Old Town. In this attractive pedestrian district, stroll the cobblestone streets winding along the many well-preserved 18^th  to early 20^th century buildings as your guide mixes tales of the city’s rich history with explanations of how Norwegians’ eating habits have evolved over the centuries. You will make stops along the way to savor the aromas and taste several different food items that have played a significant role in the development of Stavanger, from its days of canning smoked sardines and herring to the present day. Many of the city’s resident chefs are ranked among the best in Europe, and Stavanger is considered a premier culinary destination. You will also visit the Norwegian Petroleum Museum where you will learn about geology, technology and experience the excitement and drama of the oil adventure, life on board the oil rigs, and oil as a financial resource for Norway. The unusual architecture has made this museum a landmark in the Port of Stavanger. Seen from the sea the museum looks like a small oil platform.
 
Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking and standing, at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces and inclines. It is recommended that guests dress layered clothing and wear comfortable walking shoes. Comfort stop available at Petroleum Museum.
 

 

Take this opportunity to gain an insight into the Norwegian way of life with the chance to visit the home of a local.  Your host will give you a tour of the house and tell you about Norwegian home life such as gardening, how they furnish their homes, traditions and more. Feel free to ask questions which will help you understand their way of life. You will be treated to coffee or tea and freshly made Norwegian waffles as you get to know the Norwegian culture up close and personal. 
 
Please note: This tour is not wheelchair accessible.
 

 

The small fishing village of Skagen is Denmark’s northern-most town, and as late as 1890 there were no roads connecting the small town to the rest of Denmark.  Landing in the bustling fishing harbor, you will board a motor coach to start your exploration.  Your first stop will be at the Skagen Museum. Between 1870 and 1930 a group of artists were drawn to Skagen for the very special light found only in this part of the country. They became known later as the Skagen painters and they formed an internationally known artist colony. The Skagen painters favorite scenes were the working fishermen, the charming fishermen’s cottages, and the picturesque landscapes. Next, you will visit Denmark’s most northerly point, Grenen, where two seas, the Skagerak and the Kattegat, meet. Board a tractor trolley for the drive through the sand. Grenen means ’the twig’ in Danish and refers not only to the shape of the spit but to the way it sways slowly between east and west, according to wind and currents. You will also see Skagen’s collection of lighthouses; dating from 1627, to the still active lighthouse built in 1858. Return by bus back to the pier. 

This guided bike trip starts at the pier. Drive through the western part of town to the Kystmuseet Skagen Museum of local history for a photo stop.  You will continue on to the former royal summer residence Klitgaarden – now a resort for authors, artists and scientists and the Buried Church which has become covered by sand over the years, so only the bell tower can be seen. Continue past the town hall and follow the beach road to view the old timbered lighthouse - Vippefyret. Continue north to Grenen, the most-northern part of Skagens Odde.  This is where the North and Baltic Seas converge and you can experience it standing with one foot in each sea. Walk the 1.86-mile stretch to and from the very tip of Grenen. Grenen is both, the top of Denmark and of the European continent, a gateway as well as a land's-end and an amazing wonder of nature attracting more than 2 million visitors every year. If you choose not to walk out to Grenen, you may take a seat by the ice-cream hut and enjoy the scenery and the fresh air.  Bike back to the town of Skagen and along the vibrant marina area where you will see the special fishermen’s cottages that dot the area, continue past the Swedish Seamen’s Church and back to the cruise quay.
 
Please note: Since this is a bike tour it is  not recommended for guests with limited mobility. Tour may operate in reverse or alternate order. All guests must sign an activity release form/waiver prior to tour start. Usage of helmets and vests is mandatory. Minimum age is 12 - and kids must be competent bike riders. There are restrooms and a kiosk at Grenen parking area. Wear weather appropriate clothes and sturdy shoes.
 

 

The small fishing village of Skagen is Denmark’s northern-most town and can trace its origins back to the 13th century. For centuries fishing trade alone sustained the small community and as late as 1890 there were no roads connecting the small town to the rest of Denmark. But now Skagen is a very popular holiday destination, sometimes doubling or tripling the population over summer. Your motor coach will take you to the bustling fishing harbor where you will soon be swept up in the charm of the village. Enjoy a scenic drive through charming Skagen on your way to the Skagen Odde Naturcenter, beautifully situated in the protected landscape of Grenen at the tip of Denmark. The Skagen Odde Naturcenter, houses various exhibitions – one focusing on wind, sea and sand, the 3 elements that created this region, one which illustrates the works of Danish architect Jørn Utzon, and exhibitions of contemporary art. The tour will continue to Skagen Bryghus, where you will enjoy a taster of different beers from the local microbrewery –  along with information on how the beer is brewed and what ingredients are used. As a small gift, you will be offered a bottle of Skagen Beer to bring back to your ship.  From here, transfer to Pakhuset for a chance to discover one of Skagen’s most iconic foods, marinated herring.  Your tasting menu will include five different types of herring along with some aquavit, a traditional spirit of Scandinavia with flavors of spices and herbs. While at Pakhuset you will also be able to see and hear of their impressive collection of figureheads. 
 
Please note:  By Danish Law, drivers and guides are not allowed to assist guests with limited mobility – meaning guests have to be able to get on/off the motor coach by themselves. The minimum age to participate is 18 due to the alcoholic drinks on this tour (by Danish law the minimum age is 18). 
 

 

Here's a pub-crawl cleverly disguised as a shore excursion, designed to please the most discriminating beer palate and, of course, is also for those who are along strictly for the purpose of cultural enlightenment. Although Aalborg is most famous for its production of Aquavit, there is little doubt that the locals love their beer too. Aalborg is notoriously known, in Denmark, for the Jomfru Ane Gade (Virgin Anne Street); a street dedicated entirely to establishments where adult beverages are enthusiastically consumed. You will have a guided stroll to three of the most popular local watering holes. Starting out on foot from the pier, you will not have far to walk in order to find the first oasis. Step inside and learn about the specialty beers carried here - or in some cases brewed right here on the premises. Meet the barkeep and enjoy the first of a total of six 5 oz. beer tastings included in the tour. Your beer is served in a special Aalborg Beerwalk logo glass, which is yours to keep at the end of the tour. As you stroll from pub to pub, your guide will show you the Old Town of Aalborg and share stories from the colorful history of this northern town. If you opt to stay in town to shop or explore independently following the tour you will have to make your own way back to the yacht.
 
Please note: Wear weather appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes as uneven surfaces might occur. Minimum age to participate in this tour is 21.
 

 

Walk from the pier to New Square and the Jens Bang's Stone House. Built in 1624, this 5-story, ornate Renaissance house was the largest private home in Denmark and today is considered one of the city's greatest treasures. Pass the lovely Baroque-style Town Hall dating back to 1762 and continue to the Budolfi Cathedral. This snow-white cathedral was built as a mere church in the late 1300s; its status was upgraded to 'cathedral' in 1554. Although quite plain on the outside, the cathedral is surprisingly beautiful and colorful on the inside. View the Monastery of the Holy Ghost, established in 1451 as a part of a hospitalier order that originated in France. It is one of the best-preserved medieval establishments in Denmark, and a great example of an early welfare institution that cared for the sick, the old and orphaned. The monastery now serves as a home for senior citizens. Visit the Missing Bell brew-pub, which is Aalborg's only pub with its own brewery. The pub is tastefully decorated with interior from an old church from Northern England; the only thing missing is the original church bell, because it did not fit into the truck when the interior was shipped to Denmark. How the pub got its name is no longer a mystery. Enjoy a tasting of beer with a piece of rye bread, pickled herring and schnapps - all in all a traditional Danish lunch. Next you will discover the charming Old Town with your guide and as you stroll down the pedestrian street. A slight detour takes you through an inconspicuous side door and down 10 feet underground to see the atmospheric ruins of the Monastery of the Grey Friars. Franciscan Friars built this monastery around 1250. On your way to the harbor you will see how Aalborg is reviving its waterfront district by demolishing the old industrial facilities and replacing them with new and exciting architecture. Watch for Aalborghus Castle near the waterfront -- it is a half-timbered, 16^th century castle built by King Christian III, and became the seat of the King's provincial governors in Northern Europe.
 
Please note: Wear weather appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes as uneven surfaces might occur. Minimum age to participate in this tour is 21.
 

 

Aalborg is Denmark’s 4^th largest city – a twin city sprawled on both sides of the Limfjord Sound which connects it to the open ocean 16 miles (25 km) away. Aalborg was founded by Vikings in the late 900’s and prospered on fishing and the land and sea trade going across and upon the Limfjorden. Board a motor coach on the pier to begin this Viking journey. Drive through the historic and idyllic countryside to reach your first stop; a re-creation of a Viking farmstead depicts everyday life for Viking farmers. The farm is a reconstruction of an actual farm found near Jelling—the hometown of Harald Bluetooth. During summer season, the farmstead is populated with local volunteer enthusiasts who dress in Viking garb and perform various household chores and cultural traditions, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the world of Vikings. You will also pay a visit to one of the oldest so-called Ring Fortresses built in Denmark around the year 980 AD, where you will enjoy a short glass of mead. Continue the journey across the bridge over the Limfjorden and soon you will find yourself at the ancient Viking site of Lindholm Hoje - one of the most important ancient monuments in Denmark. The burial site has 700 graves in stone settings and a settlement dating from the Late Iron Age and the Viking era. Follow your Viking expert guide close up to the burial site, where history becomes alive. Afterwards, explore the onsite museum, which contains a fascinating exhibition about the settlement on the area. Before continuing to the next stop, you will have a great chance to pick-up a real Viking Souvenir or Viking artifact.  After your visit here, return to the yacht.
 
Please note: Wear sturdy walking shoes. Tour operates in all weather conditions; dress warmly in layers with a wind and waterproof outer layer. Order of sights visited might vary.
 

 

Denmark is known as a bike friendly country and bicycles are both a sustainable means of transportation and part of the local lifestyle. Experience Aalborg on two wheels, like the locals, on a beautiful and enjoyable guided bike ride along the fjord. Get close to both the history of Aalborg and Denmark and find out more about the Danish way of living on this charming bike ride, which also includes a small refreshment stop. The ride along the harbor front will take you past two of Aalborg’s pride and local juggernauts during the industrial era: C.W Obels Tobacco Factory, one of the area’s largest factories, and also the Danish liquor factory and the producer of the world-famous schnapps, Red Aalborg Aquavit. The factories are not in use these days and the area is undergoing a transformation to become Aalborg’s new modern city, called Cloud City after the 98-foot-high (30-meter-high) artwork by the same name, made by the Argentinian artist Tomás Saracenos. You will see Fjordbyen, or the Fjord Village, said to be Aalborg’s answer to Copenhagen’s freetown Christiania. In spite of rules and regulations, the settlement was established on the edge of the beautiful Limfjord. But nowadays, the district is more or less legalized and inhabited by creative and artistic people, clearly shown in the small, self-built and often very colorful houses there. Next on, experience a brand-new recreation area in Aalborg. Vestre Fjord Park is an outdoor place for locals and guests, meant for swimming, relaxing and socializing. The area recently won a special price for its creative architecture and its interaction with the surrounding nature. You’ll make a refreshment stop here and re-fuel before biking your way back to the yacht.
 
Please note: Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear. A bike and a helmet will be provided. Tour may operate in reverse order. Guests need to be physically fit and able to negotiate the bike unassisted and should be able to do the course of the tour by themselves. Guests don't need to be well-trained bikers, and most of the tour is conducted on a flat terrain. Tour operates in most weather conditions.
 

 

Ghost stories, Templar Knights, Kings, an outstanding collection from the French Royal Family. This tour offers you a variety of breathtaking stories from both Manor House and Abbey. Voergaard Manor invites you in behind the moat and meter-thick walls to impress you with large collections of furniture, antiques, paintings, china, and silverware, including treasures from Louis XIV, Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette's personal effects as well as works by Rubens, Raphael, Goya and El Greco. Behind the enchanting moat lies Voergaard Manor House, one of the finest Renaissance castles in Denmark. You will be met by your specialist guide, who will tell you stories of love and luck, the scariest ghost stories and show you the largest private collection of French art and artefacts outside of France. Discover all the amazing stories the Manor has to tell. The Manor House is decorated and furnished just as it was by the last owner, Count Oberbech-Clausen, who brought the large collection of furniture, antiques, paintings, china, and silverware from his possessions in France to Voergaard, including tapestry from the Vatican and treasures from Louis XIV, Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette's personal effects as well as works by Rubens, Raphael, Goya and El Greco. In 1963, Oberbech-Clausen died and Voergaard was converted to a family trust, the aim of which was to preserve the castle for posterity and keep the collection open to the public. As you wander through the halls, you are walking in the footsteps of Templar Knights, former Kings of Denmark – and ghosts. The latter you will see in the tower, where the bloodstain is visible on the floor - each time it has been removed it reappears the day after. From this enchanting visit, the tour continues to the Borglum Abbey. Drive through small scenic villages, lining the route to the Abbey located to the West of Voergaard. The abbey is one of the oldest still existing abbeys in Denmark, dating back to the 11^th century. It has served as royal residence and abbey and, through decades, it has been the center of power in northwestern Jutland. The abbey is now owned by the Lord Chamberlain Hans Rottbøll and wife Anne who, together with their four children, reside in all of the abbey's 85 rooms. Upon arrival, you will have a guided tour of the abbey, visiting the church, the old kitchen and the stables - which also boasts a magnificent replica of the Bayeux Tapestries. After immersing yourself in the great place, filled with history and tales, enjoy a light refreshment in the form of coffee and Danish pastry, before returning to your yacht in Aalborg.
 
Please note: Wear weather appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes as uneven surfaces might occur. Tour may operate in reverse order. No photography allowed inside the Manor/Castle.