Fred. Olsen – In Search of the Northern Lights – March 2026
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Balmoral in Dover ©Fred Olsen Cruise Lines
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Colours & Tastes Restaurant on Balmoral ©Fred Olsen Cruise Lines
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The Book Mark Café on Balmoral ©Fred Olsen Cruise Lines
Sails from Newcastle
This Northern Norway cruise adventure has been planned to give you the opportunity to witness the enchanting Northern Lights, a mesmerising display of colourful ribbons dancing across the night sky. Beyond this celestial spectacle, known as the Aurora Borealis, immerse yourself in the local culture with thrilling activities like husky sledding, snowshoe hiking and snowmobiling through pristine wintery landscapes. You can also connect with the indigenous Sámi community, delving into their traditions and way of life, from reindeer herding to the warmth of lavvu tents. Furthermore, seize the chance to delve into the science behind the Aurora Borealis, unravelling the mysteries of this otherworldly phenomenon.
Dates
Tuesday 3rd March - Friday 13 March 2026
Cruise Itinerary
Tuesday 03 March 2026
Departure from Newcastle, United Kingdom
Board the ship early evening before you set sail.
Wednesday 04 March 2026
At Sea
Enjoy a full day of cruising.
Thursday 05 March 2026
Kristiansund, Norway
Located close to the start of the engineering feat of the Atlantic Ocean Road, Kristiansund is a city spread over four islands and is known as the ‘cured cod capital’ due to its centuries-old export of dried fish. The old wharf in the city is now a museum dedicated to how clipfish was prepared. The route from Kristiansund to Molde, along the Atlantic Ocean Road offers scenery covered with snow, and bridges linking the islands that seem to appear out of nowhere.
Friday 06 March 2026
Crossing Naeroysundet, Norway
Part of the shipping lane that follows the country’s coast, Nærøysundet is an important part of Norway’s maritime industry. However, as busy as this strait is, it is beautiful too, and sailing its glassy waters offer outstanding scenic views. Take in scenes of forested valleys and rugged, rocky shores, dotted with little villages and thriving towns, and see the impressive Nærøysund Suspension Bridge, linking the islands of Vikna to the mainland.
Friday 06 March 2026
Cruising Torghatten, Norway
Located on the island of Torget, Torghatten Mountain is one of Norway’s most astonishing natural wonders. Known affectionately as ‘the mountain with the hole’, Torghatten is famous for the huge hole which strikes right through the middle of it. Formed during the Scandinavian Ice Age, looser sediment and rock were eroded, but the harder rock at the top of the mountain remained, creating the distinctive hole. There are also one or two folklore tales about how the hole was formed!
Friday 06 March 2026
Cruising Seven Sisters Mountain Range, Norway
Forming a majestic chain of peaks overlooking the shipping channel, the Seven Sisters mountain range is an awe-inspring backdrop to a myriad of islands and Norwegian landscapes. Standing 1,000 feet above the shoreline, these striking peaks are perhaps best observed in all their glory from your cruise ship, particularly when snow-covered in the winter months. It is possible to climb them, and to learn the legend of the trolls who were turned to stone!
Friday 06 March 2026
Crossing the Arctic Circle, Norway
Embarking on the maritime tradition of crossing the Arctic Circle is a cherished experience for guests and crew alike. This momentous occasion, often announced by our Captain, invites you to venture out on deck and celebrate. You may choose to participate in a ceremonial ritual, complete with optional ‘baptisms’, where ice-cold water is poured down your back, or simply delight in the atmosphere of excitement and anticipation.
Saturday 07 March 2026
Narvik, Norway
Due to its location far north of the Arctic Circle, the small town of Narvik is seen as one of the best places to see the Aurora Borealis. Situated on the banks of the Ofotfjorden, with snow covered mountains and dense forests surrounding Narvik, the Northern Lights dance in the skies overlooking the town.
Sunday 08 March 2026 - Monday 09 March 2026
Tromzo, Norway
During winter, the ice-covered seas around Tromsø are filled with hundreds of whales, as they go in search of food and breeding grounds. One of the main reasons they visit this area is for the abundance of herring in the waters. Tromsø is also well-known for its husky sledding, where these magnificent creatures pull sleds through the snowy countryside. It’s also possible to see the other-wordly Northern Lights as they dance and flicker in the skies above northern Norway’s largest city.
- Overnight Port
Tuesday 10 March 2026
At Sea
Enjoy a full day of cruising.
Wednesday 11 March 2026
Alesund, Norway
Considered by Norwegians to be Norway’s most beautiful city, Alesund in winter is perhaps even more breath-taking than in the summer months, as its bathed in dusky shades of orange and pink. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the Art Nouveau town is built on three islands, where panoramic views of the city, archipelago and Sunnmore Alps are best seen from the top of Mount Aksla.
Thursday 12 March 2026
At Sea
Enjoy a full day of cruising.
Friday 13 March 2026
Arrival at Newcastle, United Kingdom
After an early breakfast, disembark the ship for your journey home.
Balmoral Ship Information
Balmoral is the largest of Fred Olsen’s cruise ships, on board there are nine decks two of which are for the sole purpose of leisure and relaxation.
The ship’s facilities include swimming pools & Jacuzzis, Fitness centre, Sundeck & golf nets, Atlantic Spa & Salon, library and card room. There are also boutiques, fine jewellery and Port shop. A selection of soft drinks, wines and beers are included and provided by a wide range of restaurants, cafés, grill and lounges on board.
During the day several talks, lectures and classes take place, while in the evening fantastic live performances including cabaret, stand-up comedy and concerts will keep you entertained throughout the duration of your cruise.
All of the 710 rooms are equipped with private facilities which include an en-suite shower (some may have a bathtub also), a desk, telephone, interactive television, hairdryer, air conditioning and tea and coffee making facilities. According to your needs you can choose between different room types: single, interior, ocean view, balcony rooms and suites.
| Date | Arrival | Departure |
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Tue 03 March 2026 |
Early PM | |
| Wed 04 March 2026 | ||
| Thu 05 March 2026 | Early PM | Early PM |
| Fri 06 March 2026 | Early AM | Early PM |
| Sat 07 March 2026 | Early AM | Early PM |
| Sun 08 March 2026 | Early AM | |
| Mon 09 March 2026 | Early PM | |
| Tue 10 March 2026 | ||
| Wed 11 March 2026 | Early AM | Late PM |
| Thu 12 March 2026 | ||
| Fri 13 March 2026 | Early AM |
