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
Monday 23rd March - Thursday 2nd April 2026
Cruise Itinerary
Monday 23 March 2026
Departure from Newcastle, United Kingdom
Board the ship early evening before you set sail.
Tuesday 24 March 2026
At Sea
Enjoy a full day of cruising.
Wednesday 25 March 2026
Molde, Norway
The Atlantic Ocean Road links Molde with Kristiansund, and stretches for eight kilometres through rocky coastlines, over the sea and through the surrounding mountains. Often described as the world’s most beautiful road; in winter the twisting and winding road leads over bridges linking islands, and through snow-capped mountains, seeming to drop off the earth into the sea
Thursday 26 March 2026
Crossing 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!
Thursday 26 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!
Thursday 26 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.
Friday 27 March 2026
Cruise Tjeldsundet Strait, Norway
Slicing through the rugged landscapes of Troms og Finnmark, separating the islands of Hinnøya and Tjeldøya from the mainland, the Tjeldsundet Strait has long been one of Norway’s most important waterways, serving as a vital route between the country’s northern and southern regions. The beauty and peace of Tjeldsundet is surrounded by mountains and dramatic rock faces; and the impressive Tjeldsund Suspension Bridge connects the islands of Lofoten and Vesterålen with the mainland.
Friday 27 March 2026 - Saturday 28 March 2026
Alta, Norway
During the winter months, it is possible to witness the Northern Lights as they dance across the skies above Alta, in colours of green, blue, red and violet. Produced by powerful electromagnetic waves during solar geomagnetic storms, they illuminate the towns and cities below in a hauntingly beautiful light. Alta is also ideal for enjoying city walks, husky or reindeer sledding and viewing mountain plateaus and coastal landscapes.
Sunday 29 March 2026
Tromzø, 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
Monday 30 March 2026
Cruise Tjeldsundet Strait, Norway
Slicing through the rugged landscapes of Troms og Finnmark, separating the islands of Hinnøya and Tjeldøya from the mainland, the Tjeldsundet Strait has long been one of Norway’s most important waterways, serving as a vital route between the country’s northern and southern regions. The beauty and peace of Tjeldsundet is surrounded by mountains and dramatic rock faces; and the impressive Tjeldsund Suspension Bridge connects the islands of Lofoten and Vesterålen with the mainland.
Tuesday 31 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.
Wednesday 01 April 2026
At Sea
Enjoy a full day of cruising.
Thursday 02 April 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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Mon 23 March 2026 |
Early PM | |
| Tue 24 March 2026 | ||
| Wed 25 March 2026 | Early PM | Early PM |
| Thu 26 March 2026 | Early AM | Early PM |
| Fri 27 March 2026 | Late PM | |
| Sat 28 March 2026 | Early PM | |
| Sun 29 March 2026 | Early AM | Late PM |
| Mon 30 March 2026 | Late PM | Late PM |
| Tue 31 March 2026 | Early PM | Early PM |
| Wed 01 April 2026 | ||
| Thu 02 April 2026 | Early AM |
