<<

15 Days Christmas Expedition Cruise from Dover Get ready to be inspired.

FROM $5,766 USD PER PERSON, TWIN SHARE Travelling with Inspiring Vacations allows you to explore the wonders of the world in a variety of different ways. We have partnered with a worldwide network of local travel experts to bring you culturally unique and delightfully unforgettable travel experiences. Whether it is meandering through narrow canyons by rail, cruising the idyllic waters of the Mediterranean or touring through t...

Book Now

TOUR ITINERARY

The information provided in this document is subject to change and may be affected by unforeseen events outside the control of Inspiring Vacations. Where changes to your itinerary or bookings occur, appropriate advice or instructions will be sent to your email address.

Call 1 888 356 2021 Email [email protected] www.inspiringvacations.com Page 1 TOUR ITINERARY

DAY 1 Destination Dover, Embarkation  Meals included Dinner Cruise MS Maud, Polar Outside Cabin, or similar

We set our course north from Dover towards the coast of ’s magical, snow-covered landscape as we hunt for the Northern Lights. You can also look forward to discovering a number of wonderful Norwegian Christmas traditions along the way.

If you’ve time, take a walk alongside or atop the iconic white cliffs of Dover that have become a symbol for England. One of the best places to do so is at St. Margaret’s Bay which offers great views of the chalky coastline from its wide shingle beach.

Once on board the ship, you’ll pick up your complimentary expedition jacket, settle into your cabin, and attend a mandatory safety drill.

When the ship sets sail, stretch your sea legs and get to know MS Maud, your cosy home away from home. Take in the sea air out on deck or watch the world go by from the panoramic Explorer Lounge and Bar, maybe together with a relaxing glass of wine? Your Christmas and New Year’s adventure to the is officially underway!

After the first of many delicious dinners and a welcome toast by the Captain, you’ll meet your expert Expedition Team. They are your knowledgeable lecturers, warm hosts, and good-natured guides throughout your journey. Many grew up and live in the places you’ll be visiting and are passionate about sharing their home with you, especially during this special season.

First and foremost though, they are there to keep you safe and well. They’ll be making it a priority to run through important health and safety aspects with you and your fellow guests.

DAY 2 Destination  At Sea  Meals included Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Cruise MS Maud, Polar Outside Cabin, or similar

This day at sea gives you all the time you need to ease into your journey. You’ll definitely want to start enjoying onboard facilities like the hot tubs, sauna, and indoor gym.

The Expedition Team will begin the first in their series of insightful lectures over at the Science Center. Each member of

The information provided in this document is subject to change and may be affected by unforeseen events outside the control of Inspiring Vacations. Where changes to your itinerary or bookings occur, appropriate advice or instructions will be sent to your email address.

Call 1 888 356 2021 Email [email protected] www.inspiringvacations.com Page 2 TOUR ITINERARY the team are experts on different subjects and you’ll find them to be walking, talking treasure troves of stories and information. They’ll share their extensive knowledge about the places, Christmas traditions, history, and natural phenomena you are likely to encounter.

Our Captain’s goal is to bring us into Egersund the next day, but where wind and waves on the North Sea are involved, nothing can be completely set in stone, especially in the winter season. This is just part and parcel of the expedition experience, adding extra suspense and excitement to your adventure.

Norwegians celebrate Christmas on the 24th rather than the 25th of December. This means that today, the 23rd is Lille Juleaften or Christmas Eve in Norway. Each family has its own traditions; some might weave julekurver – heart-shaped paper decorations, others build gingerbread houses, decorate the tree, or eat risengrynsgrøt – a warm rice porridge served with cinnamon, sugar, and butter. Perhaps you’ll even take one of these Norwegian traditions back home with you and make it your own?

DAY 3 Destination  Egersund  Meals included Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Cruise MS Maud, Polar Outside Cabin, or similar

We arrive in Egersund in the morning. Today is Christmas for Norwegians so the town is likely to be quiet, meaning we’ll have it all to ourselves. Bask in the magical atmosphere while admiring the rustic wooden houses and narrow streets of the historic town, decked out in festive decorations, fairy lights, and a Christmas tree in the town square.

Peruse the many beautifully decorated shops of the pedestrianised town centre. You’ll find homemade products and charming handicrafts, perfect for any last-minute gift-buying. To help keep you warm, cafés will likely be selling hot gløgg (mulled wine) as well as other seasonal snacks.

A visit to the local chocolate and ice cream factory is also well worth a visit. There are small windows inside where you can see tasty treats being prepared. Indulge in gourmet chocolate and pick from a range of ice cream flavours. We recommend the pepperkake-is, gingerbread ice cream!

You might also have the option of attending a Christmas service and an outdoor choir concert at the local parish church. The white, wooden building was erected in the cruciform style and dates back to 1623. It is Egersund’s oldest standing building.

After enjoying the delights of Egersund, you’ll return to the ship in the afternoon. We continue to sail north and later find a place with calm waters to enjoy a traditional Christmas dinner. The menu will be inspired by the same Christmas

The information provided in this document is subject to change and may be affected by unforeseen events outside the control of Inspiring Vacations. Where changes to your itinerary or bookings occur, appropriate advice or instructions will be sent to your email address.

Call 1 888 356 2021 Email [email protected] www.inspiringvacations.com Page 3 TOUR ITINERARY dinner Norwegian explorer enjoyed on his expedition to the North Pole aboard the original Fram in 1893. It was also the year Hurtigruten was founded.

Our chefs will have been busy preparing rich oxtail soup, traditional fish terrine, succulent reindeer with tangy lingonberry marmalade, stewed cloudberries, and kransekake, a Norwegian confectionary made of almonds. Christmas meals are usually washed down with a generous glass (or more) of local akevitt (snaps) and beer. God jul to all!

DAY 4 Destination  Outside Fjærland  Meals included Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Cruise MS Maud, Polar Outside Cabin, or similar

It’s Christmas Day morning. Norwegians normally open their gifts after dinner the night before but you might have left yours to unwrap this morning. Share season’s greetings with family and friends or simply admire the scenic winter landscapes as we sail into the longest fjord in Norway, Sognefjorden.

Today, we will celebrate nature in all its glory. We plan to cruise deep into the fjord to the tiny hamlet of Fjærland. We will go ashore to discover this idyllic glacier village, where the Sognefjord meets Jostedalsbreen Glacier.

This quirky village, home to only 300 residents, has been named the Norwegian Book Town for its 10 second-hand bookshops. These shops are tucked away in charming corners and old buildings, from ferry waiting rooms to stables. Most of these will be closed on Christmas Day but you can get a sense of their charm from outside and even by peeking in through the windows!

On the banks of this pretty village, if weather permits, you’ll have the chance to go on a winter hike or kayak in incredible nature with the Expedition Team on an optional excursion.

Jostedalsbreen Glacier is the largest glacier on the European continent. It has several smaller glacial arms stretching out in many directions including Bøyabreen and Supphellebreen. Fjærland is the perfect place to learn more from our Expedition Team about how glaciers created the beautiful fjords of Norway.

As you enjoy a delicious meal back on board the ship, you can continue to admire the views as we exit the fjord and rejoin the coastal waters. This will certainly be a Christmas to remember.

The information provided in this document is subject to change and may be affected by unforeseen events outside the control of Inspiring Vacations. Where changes to your itinerary or bookings occur, appropriate advice or instructions will be sent to your email address.

Call 1 888 356 2021 Email [email protected] www.inspiringvacations.com Page 4 TOUR ITINERARY

DAY 5 Destination  At Sea  Meals included Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Cruise MS Maud, Polar Outside Cabin, or similar

Today marks the start of Romjulen, the quieter period between Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Many Norwegians head to the slopes to go skiing or sledding. We’ll be spending the day at sea en route to the famous Lofoten Islands and into the Arctic Circle.

If you celebrated a little too merrily last night, today will provide you with a day to recover. Relax in the ship’s Explorer Lounge, soak in a hot tub, or take in the scenery out on deck as we sail through Helgeland county.

Gaze out over thousands of small isles and pick out the Seven Sisters mountain range and famous Torghatten Mountain with its distinctive natural hole right through its centre.

The Expedition Team continues its on-board lecture series and there may be a photography workshop, giving you top tips on how to capture the best Northern Lights images.

This may come in very useful as we head north of the Arctic Circle into the Aurora Zone where your chances of seeing the Northern Lights improve considerably.

It is the Polar Night above the Arctic Circle, 24 hours of night. It’s not complete darkness though as you’ll also get to experience the very romantic ‘blue hour’. This is an extended twilight that can actually be several hours long. The winter sun glows just below the horizon, bathing Norway’s fjords and mountains in a dreamy cobalt-blue light.

DAY 6 Destination  Svolvær  Meals included Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Cruise MS Maud, Polar Outside Cabin, or similar

There are only a few places on Earth where you can sail north of the Arctic Circle in wintertime. The Norwegian coast is one of them. The ship will officially cross over the Arctic Circle sometime in the morning. To mark the occasion, in the tradition of Norwegian sailors, we’ll invite you out on deck for a special ceremony.

As we approach the Lofoten archipelago, the sight of the massive wall of mountains and dramatic peaks rising up out of the sea is something you’ll never forget. Serene fishing villages sit nestled in the sheltered coves, all the more charming

The information provided in this document is subject to change and may be affected by unforeseen events outside the control of Inspiring Vacations. Where changes to your itinerary or bookings occur, appropriate advice or instructions will be sent to your email address.

Call 1 888 356 2021 Email [email protected] www.inspiringvacations.com Page 5 TOUR ITINERARY when dusted with the season’s snow and if the aurora is seen swirling above.

We sail along Vestfjord and arrive in Svolvær, the largest town in Lofoten, in the afternoon. You’ll be greeted by rows of rorbuer (fishing huts) and wooden racks dotted along the shore called hjell. Here, locally caught cod is dried and turned into stockfish, a prized local delicacy.

If the shops and art galleries along the seafront are open, pick up some Lofot caviar, some locally handcrafted candles, or handblown glass to bring home as souvenirs. You may even be able to rent a kicksled for a traditional ride through the town powered by kicking the ground with your leg and foot.

From where you dock, it’s a short walk to your inclusive visit to the multicoloured Magic Ice bar. The former fish-freezing warehouse is filled with ice sculptures that depict Lofoten life and Viking culture. Enjoy a signature spirit to warm you up, served in an ice glass of course!

Guided by your expert Expedition Team, you can join optional excursions to snowshoe or hike among the spectacular Lofoten scenery in the Polar Night, lit by headlamps and perhaps even by the Northern Lights themselves.

DAY 7 Destination   Meals included Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Cruise MS Maud, Polar Outside Cabin, or similar

We arrive into Narvik in the morning. The town has a spectacular setting on a peninsula surrounded by three fjords: The , Rombaken, and Beisfjord. The multiple mountains also help to shelter its popular ski slopes from strong coastal winds.

Narvik developed as an all-year port for Swedish iron mines, which was of strategic importance for Germany during World War II. You’ll visit the Narvik War Museum to see exhibits and artifacts from the war, learning about the heroism of British and Allied troops in Operation Wilfred to liberate the town from the Nazis.

Afterwards, browse the town’s galleries, shops, and restaurants, which specialise in locally-sourced seafood from the fjords and reindeer meat from the mountains.

If weather allows, ride the cable car to the top of Mount Narvik to see the breathtaking views and twinkling Christmas lights decorating the town or go on optional excursion hikes, snowshoeing or kayaking on the fjord.

The information provided in this document is subject to change and may be affected by unforeseen events outside the control of Inspiring Vacations. Where changes to your itinerary or bookings occur, appropriate advice or instructions will be sent to your email address.

Call 1 888 356 2021 Email [email protected] www.inspiringvacations.com Page 6 TOUR ITINERARY

DAY 8 Destination  Alta  Meals included Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Cruise MS Maud, Polar Outside Cabin, or similar

Alta lies in the vast wilderness of Troms and Finnmark county, well above the Arctic Circle at 70 degrees north. Welcome to the turning point of your expedition and to one of the northernmost towns in the world with a population over 10,000. This is a cute town to stroll around, decorated in Christmas lights and the season’s snow.

We’ll arrive here in the early afternoon and plan to stay past midnight to stargaze and watch for the aurora in Alta’s skies. The town is directly beneath the Auroral Oval, a zone known for consistent Northern Lights activity. If the heavens aren’t overcast, and the conditions are right, you might well be in for quite the show...

You’ll learn more about the aurora at the modern Northern Lights Cathedral in Alta, situated at the end of the Christmas- decorated pedestrian street. The titanium-clad building and its spiral belfry dominate the skyline here, all the more impressive when illuminated at night.

There is an interactive exhibition in the cathedral that chronicles how Norwegian scientist Kristian Birkeland established Alta as an epicentre for ground-breaking Northern Lights research in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. You’ll also be treated to a classical concert in the cathedral as part of your visit… perfect for the festive season!

‘Buorit Juovllat!’ That’s Merry Christmas in North Sámi. Troms and Finnmark county forms part of the traditional lands of the indigenous Sámi whose livelihoods revolve around semi-nomadic reindeer herding. Not far from Alta is Máze, a Sámi village located along Kautokeino River, that you can visit and experience Sámi culture and food as part of an optional excursion.

When more snow falls as winter progresses, Alta is also prime territory for visits to snow hotels, dog sledding and snowmobiling. For example, the ice hotel in Sorrisniva has a new design every year and is open to visitors for tours. You will also be able to join optional excursions to go snowshoeing and hiking in the incredible tundra wilderness.

DAY 9 Destination  Tromsø  Meals included Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Cruise MS Maud, Polar Outside Cabin, or similar

Your Yuletide adventure, filled with the magical beauty of nature, continues as we look out for humpback whales out on deck or in the Explorer Lounge. Families of these majestic mammals are known to frequent these winter waters, feeding

The information provided in this document is subject to change and may be affected by unforeseen events outside the control of Inspiring Vacations. Where changes to your itinerary or bookings occur, appropriate advice or instructions will be sent to your email address.

Call 1 888 356 2021 Email [email protected] www.inspiringvacations.com Page 7 TOUR ITINERARY on the abundant herring. The Expedition Team will be on hand to alert you to any sightings.

Our next stop is Tromsø, capital of the Arctic. We’ll arrive around lunchtime and spend the rest of the day and evening exploring its fascinating history, culture and bold architecture.

The city is especially pretty around Christmas, festooned with lights and decorations. The Arctic Cathedral is one of the most striking landmarks in Tromsø, especially when lit up at night. It features a huge stained-glass window that is well worth seeing up close.

You can busy yourself by browsing the shops or sampling the region’s fresh produce in a range of restaurants. Why not drop into a local bakery and try some seasonal julekake, ‘Norwegian Hole Cake’, made with raisins and orange peel?

For more festive spirit, join the friendly locals in the town’s many pubs. Tromsø is home to the world’s northernmost brewery, Mack Bryggeri, which also runs Ølhallen, a popular and lively pub.

Your included activity is a visit to the Polar Museum, housed in a converted 1830s warehouse on the seafront. You’ll enjoy exhibitions about the city’s heritage and famous trappers like Henry Rudi and Wanny Wolstad, the first female hunter in .

You’ll also learn about Tromsø’s crucial role in the expeditions of legendary explorers Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen. The Expedition Team’s lecture today may go into more detail about Norway’s polar history or may cover the nation’s many scientific achievements.

Other winter activities in Tromsø include optional excursions with our Expedition Team on nature hikes and by snowshoe in the surrounding hills offering panoramic Polar Night views of the city. And like many places in Arctic Norway in winter, the landscape transforms into the ideal place for an exhilarating dog sledding experience.

DAY 10 Destination  Reine  Meals included Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Cruise MS Maud, Polar Outside Cabin, or similar

It’s New Year’s Eve and you’ll be spending it in the picture-perfect fishing village of Reine, in the Lofoten Islands. This is where red-painted, snow-covered rorbuer cling to a string of islands beneath sharp, dark grey granite mountain ranges. The 450-metre tall Reinebringen is one of the most distinctive peaks, particularly dramatic when layered with snow.

The combination of setting and colour makes Reine one of the most photographed landscapes in all of Norway. You’ll be

The information provided in this document is subject to change and may be affected by unforeseen events outside the control of Inspiring Vacations. Where changes to your itinerary or bookings occur, appropriate advice or instructions will be sent to your email address.

Call 1 888 356 2021 Email [email protected] www.inspiringvacations.com Page 8 TOUR ITINERARY hoping the Northern Lights are active above the village when we are there, completing the composition of your own photo of this piece of paradise.

After marveling at the scenery and discovering pretty Reine, you’ll go on your included activity for today. A 30-minute bus ride will take you to Å, one of the best-preserved traditional fishing villages in Norway. At the heart of the tiny village is the Norwegian Fishing Village Museum, which covers the importance and development of fishing in Lofoten over the last 250 years.

Later, we return to Reine where there may be opportunities to go on hikes with the Expedition Team or even try some winter kayaking. The views here will certainly tempt you to sign up to either.

Leaving Reine, we cross Vestfjorden and aim to find calm waters for our special New Year’s Eve dinner. Expect caviar, king crab, and beef, salmon or nut roast Wellington. Round it off with an aquavit sorbet to kick off more New Year’s Eve celebrations aboard the ship for the rest of the evening.

As the party reaches its climax and the clock counts down to midnight, you might be treated to both fireworks and the Northern Lights in the skies above. Not a bad way to see in the new year, not bad at all...

DAY 11 Destination  At Sea  Meals included Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Cruise MS Maud, Polar Outside Cabin, or similar

After the festivities of last night, you’ll likely be glad to have a day at sea to rest and recover! Spend this first day of the new year in full relaxation mode. While away a few hours chatting in the ship’s Explorer Lounge, enjoy an invigorating session in the sauna, or head out on deck for a stroll in the fresh air.

You can also treat yourself to a soothing massage in the Wellness Center. Or proudly compare your best photographs and swap stories of the different excursions with new-found friends.

We also support a number of Citizen Science projects that you can join. These projects include Happywhale, where your photographs help identify and track the movement of specific whales across the planet due to their distinguishing characteristics. Or you can participate in the GLOBE Observer project, which combines your observations of clouds and sky conditions from below with data collected by satellites from above. By participating in these projects, not only will you be supporting the scientific community, you’ll also be gaining a better understanding of the world around you.

The information provided in this document is subject to change and may be affected by unforeseen events outside the control of Inspiring Vacations. Where changes to your itinerary or bookings occur, appropriate advice or instructions will be sent to your email address.

Call 1 888 356 2021 Email [email protected] www.inspiringvacations.com Page 9 TOUR ITINERARY

DAY 12 Destination  Kalvåg  Meals included Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Cruise MS Maud, Polar Outside Cabin, or similar

We welcome you to the little fishing village of Kalvåg, far out on the coastline with the open North Sea to the west. Its name literally means ‘Frozen Bay’ in the Old Norse.

As its name suggests, the local weather and sea conditions don’t always make it possible for our ship to make a landing here but if we can, you’ll discover one of the best kept secrets of the Norwegian coast. No other expedition ships visit Kalvåg, so you’ll experience an authentic slice-of-life community who will likely be thrilled to have visitors.

As part of our traditional Norwegian coastal voyage, our Captains have sailed these waters for decades, always wishing there was time to stop and show you around this oh-so-charming village. We’ve listened to their expert recommendation and now, that’s exactly what you’ll get to do.

Admire an open-air art exhibition and walk around Kalvåg’s collection of old waterfront buildings, from restored wooden wharfs to herring salting warehouses. Cosy-looking houses cluster together around the bay, the reflections of their lights shimmering like candles in the waters below. The wonderful wintery atmosphere is even more captivating with the village coated in a snug blanket of snow.

If the weather allows, you’ll have the chance to join one of our optional hikes or winter kayaking excursions in this picturesque, quaint and isolated setting.

DAY 13 Destination  Mosterøy  Meals included Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Cruise MS Maud, Polar Outside Cabin, or similar

Today is the last day of our great Norwegian winter exploration. It begins as we arrive at Mosterøy and Klosterøy in the morning, two of the myriad islands that lie around the city of Stavanger. The islands here are relatively exposed to the sea so our shore landing will be decided based on how kind the waves and wind are on the day.

Mosterøy is a lovely island made up of a mixture of pastures for cattle, horticulture, and cute neighbourhoods all around. To the west of the island is Fjøløy fort, a small coastal battery built by the German army in 1941 during World War II.

Klosterøy occupies less than a square mile but is home to the historic Utstein Abbey and the 800-year-old Utstein

The information provided in this document is subject to change and may be affected by unforeseen events outside the control of Inspiring Vacations. Where changes to your itinerary or bookings occur, appropriate advice or instructions will be sent to your email address.

Call 1 888 356 2021 Email [email protected] www.inspiringvacations.com Page 10 TOUR ITINERARY

Church. The abbey is Norway’s best-preserved medieval monastery sitting in beautiful surroundings. Parts of the monastery are hired out as a venue for concerts, seminars, and conventions. On arrival, you might be greeted by guides in medieval costume.

Weather permitting, you will be offered optional excursions for hikes and winter kayaking in the tranquil inlets with our Expedition Team. The lecture series continues with topics such as bird migration in Norway and unique bird calls.

DAY 14 Destination  At Sea  Meals included Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Cruise MS Maud, Polar Outside Cabin, or similar

It’s our final day at sea and your cruise with us is fast drawing to a close. Your thoughts might naturally turn to home, or maybe you’ll find that you’ll have already left your heart back in Norway.

Today will be a good time to spend reflecting on and taking stock of all the wonderful experiences you’ve had. Like the sensation of standing in awe under the Northern Lights. Or the spectacular scenery of the Lofoten Islands in Reine. Or maybe the cosy, idyllic islands of Kalvåg and Mosterøy.

The Expedition Team will likely be in a similar mood as you, and you can join them as they fondly recap the highlights of the thrilling cruise you’ve shared together. Their enthusiasm and stories of other expeditions might even tempt you to return to Norway with us again, eager to experience other places on its coast but perhaps in a different season next time.

For your next cruise here, spring offers the best of both sun and snow while summer is when the Midnight Sun reigns supreme day and night, making the fjords and mountains appear even more vibrant. Autumn has a special kind of sunlight that bathes the yellow, rust-coloured leaves in hazy gold hues. Whichever season you choose, you’ll probably fall in love with Norway all over again.

DAY 15 Destination  Dover, Disembark Cruise Meals included Breakfast Accommodation N/A

We pass the white cliffs of Dover during the early morning hours and dock at the city’s harbour. After breakfast, it’s time

The information provided in this document is subject to change and may be affected by unforeseen events outside the control of Inspiring Vacations. Where changes to your itinerary or bookings occur, appropriate advice or instructions will be sent to your email address.

Call 1 888 356 2021 Email [email protected] www.inspiringvacations.com Page 11 TOUR ITINERARY to leave your home for the past 14 days, ready to enter the new year in earnest.

As you head ashore, you’ll take with you the lifetime memories of Norway in winter during Christmas time - wonderful fjords, fascinating towns and cities, friendly people, and the magical Northern Lights.

Dover acts as the gateway to English countryside, the verdant counties of Kent and Surrey, and beyond to the melting pot of London. But before you rush off, you might to like to visit Dover Castle, tipped to be the largest in England.

There is a rare Roman lighthouse here, one of only three in the world and reputedly the UK’s oldest building. You can also go on a tour of the underground hospital and secret WWII tunnels that run beneath the castle complex.

Whatever’s next for you, we wish you a safe onward journey and look forward to seeing you on your next adventure!

The information provided in this document is subject to change and may be affected by unforeseen events outside the control of Inspiring Vacations. Where changes to your itinerary or bookings occur, appropriate advice or instructions will be sent to your email address.

Call 1 888 356 2021 Email [email protected] www.inspiringvacations.com Page 12 TOUR ITINERARY

Inclusions

WHAT'S INCLUDED Travel with Hurtigruten The best local insider view of the Norwegian coast Norway’s wild and dramatic coastline is made for expedition-style adventure. Sailing here for almost 130 years, we’re the experts, showing travellers both its highlights and its hidden gems. Explore every place for a half or full day, and join a wide range of excursions. Visit the famous Norwegian fjords on the world’s most beautiful voyage Experience the Midnight Sun in summer, and the Northern Lights in winter Fresh ingredients are grown and harvested naturally along the coast, and delivered directly to our chefs. Breakfast, lunch and dinner including beverages (house beer and wine, sodas, and mineral water) in restaurant Aune A la carte restaurant Lindstrom included for suite guests English-speaking Expedition Team who organise and accompany activities on board and ashore Complimentary Wi-Fi on board

The information provided in this document is subject to change and may be affected by unforeseen events outside the control of Inspiring Vacations. Where changes to your itinerary or bookings occur, appropriate advice or instructions will be sent to your email address.

Call 1 888 356 2021 Email [email protected] www.inspiringvacations.com Page 13 TOUR ITINERARY

CABINS & UPGRADES Cabin Bedding and Upgrades

Bedding on board the cruise is restricted to the following configurations. If you wish to upgrade your cabin, the following amounts are payable in addition to the package price prior to travel:

Polar Outside: INCLUDED Our Polar Outside cabins are mostly situated on the middle or lower decks and have a bathroom with a shower. These cabins also have a queen bed or separate beds. Each Polar Outside cabin has its own unique specifications.

Arctic Superior Relaxation and comfort are hallmarks of the Arctic Superior cabins. Situated on both the upper and middle decks, the cabins all have a bathroom with a shower. Most have a queen bed, while some have separate beds. Each Arctic Superior cabin has its own unique specifications.Upgrades from AU$1,454 per person, twin share or AU$2,110 per person, single (subject to availability).

Expedition Suite with Balcony Our Expedition Suites are the most luxurious cabins on the ship. Situated on the upper decks of the ship, these cabins feature seating areas with a TV, a bathroom with a shower, and a queen bed. Each Expedition Suite has its own unique specifications. Upgrades from AU$7,418 per person, twin share or AU$19,158 per person, single (subject to availability).

Please request your cabin upgrade in the 'special requests' field. Availability and price will then be confirmed and added to your invoice upon acceptance.

The information provided in this document is subject to change and may be affected by unforeseen events outside the control of Inspiring Vacations. Where changes to your itinerary or bookings occur, appropriate advice or instructions will be sent to your email address.

Call 1 888 356 2021 Email [email protected] www.inspiringvacations.com Page 14 TOUR ITINERARY

ABOUT YOUR SHIP MS Maud previously MS Midnatsol, is named after one of the most famous polar vessels of all time, Roald Amundsens “Maud” from 1917. The original “Maud” got her name from the first Queen of modern-day Norway. She also had her namesake in Hurtigruten’s 1925 flagship DS Dronning Maud (“DS Queen Maud”). to know more about your ship, click HERE.

Onboard Features

Some suites come with scenic bay window or a private balcony On-board Expedition team and Science Center Three restaurants On board shop Outdoor Observation deck Explore lounge & bar with incredible view Fitness Centre & Sauna

CRUISE DETAILS Expedition Cruise

Expedition cruise in a cabin of your choice Breakfast, lunch and dinner including beverages (house beer and wine, sodas, and mineral water) in restaurant Aune and A la carte restaurant Lindstrom included for suite guests Complimentary tea and coffee Complimentary Wi-Fi on board. Be aware that we sail in remote areas with very limited connection. Streaming is not supported. Complimentary reusable water bottle to use at water refill stations on board English speaking Expedition Team who organise and accompany activities on board and ashore Range of included excursions

Onboard Activities

Experts on the Expedition Team deliver in-depth lectures on a variety of topics Use of the ship’s Science Center which has an extensive library, biological and geological microscopes and samples

The information provided in this document is subject to change and may be affected by unforeseen events outside the control of Inspiring Vacations. Where changes to your itinerary or bookings occur, appropriate advice or instructions will be sent to your email address.

Call 1 888 356 2021 Email [email protected] www.inspiringvacations.com Page 15 TOUR ITINERARY

Citizen Science programme allows guests to assist with live scientific research Professional onboard photographer gives top tips and tricks for the best landscape and wildlife photos Use of the ship’s hot tubs, panoramic sauna and indoor gym Informal gatherings with the crew such as daily recaps and preparation for the day to come

Landing Activities

Loan of trekking poles and all equipment for activities Complimentary wind and water-resistant expedition jacket Expedition Photographers help with your camera settings

Notes

All planned activities are subject to weather and ice conditions Excursions and activities are subject to change Please make sure you meet all entry and boarding requirements No gratuities expected Norwegian Petroleum Museum is not available Dec 31

Fine Print

BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE Inspiring Vacations has been globally recognised and awarded for its handling of COVID-19 during the pandemic. The safety and wellbeing of our guests is our highest concern during this time of uncertainty, and we are continuously monitoring the evolving COVID-19 situation.

We have adopted the advice of the WHO to ensure all customers can travel with the knowledge of how to travel safely and with confidence.

Australian owned and operated with 100% Australian Customer Service support

We are proudly 100% Australian owned and operated, with our head office located in Melbourne, Victoria. When you make your booking, you will receive dedicated and ongoing support from our team of travel professionals throughout your booking, up until you are due to depart.

The information provided in this document is subject to change and may be affected by unforeseen events outside the control of Inspiring Vacations. Where changes to your itinerary or bookings occur, appropriate advice or instructions will be sent to your email address.

Call 1 888 356 2021 Email [email protected] www.inspiringvacations.com Page 16 TOUR ITINERARY

Flexible Date Change Option

Book now, change later with our Flexible Date Change option. You may select this $99pp option at time of purchase, giving travellers the flexibility to change your date without penalty (subject to availability, less third party costs incurred, plus any applicable surcharges for the new date selected).

Date change must be requested prior to 65 days before your original selected departure date*. Once inside 65 days of departure, date changes are not permitted. *some packages may have a varied period in which you can request a date change due to limitations with the third-party provider.

Please refer to our 'Book with Confidence' section for terms and conditions.

The Flexible Date Change option does not cover cost incurred for components not fulfilled by Inspiring Vacations or in the event extra services have been booked with Inspiring Vacations outside of the standard package, including but not limited to airfares, pre/post accommodation or insurance.

Cooling off period

If you change your mind within 7 days of making your booking online, you can request a refund of your initial deposit payment as part of our cooling off period.

Once your purchase date falls outside of the 7 day period, our standard terms and conditions will apply. Please ensure that any request to cancel your booking is received via email to [email protected], including the reason for cancellation.

The information provided in this document is subject to change and may be affected by unforeseen events outside the control of Inspiring Vacations. Where changes to your itinerary or bookings occur, appropriate advice or instructions will be sent to your email address.

Call 1 888 356 2021 Email [email protected] www.inspiringvacations.com Page 17 TOUR ITINERARY

HOW TO BOOK & PAYMENTS Deposit & Payments

Book now and secure your package with a $99 deposit per person. Pay a 2nd instalment of 20% per person within 7 days. You will then be invoiced for final payment 120 days prior to departure.

Booking Process

'Sign Up' first by entering your email and creating a password Then select the red 'Book now' tab of the tour you have selected Select your Departure Date, Number of Passengers, Room Configuration, any Upgrade Options, and enter any Special Requests Click the red ‘Proceed to Secure Checkout' tab Enter your credit card or PayPal details to secure your deposit/payment Once your order is complete, you will be prompted to complete a Booking Form so that we can fulfil your booking Your booking is on request and will be confirmed by Inspiring Vacations once all components of your package have been secured with our partners, please see below for further information

Booking On Request

Your Inspiring Vacations package is made up of multiple components and travel partners. Once your booking is made and passenger details form submitted, we will begin to confirm all of your arrangements. Please note, this process can take several business days to complete. Once all elements have been confirmed we will send you an email confirmation, if we are unable to confirm we will provide you with alternative dates or offer a full refund of your deposit or re-credit your account if a travel credit was used. Please DO NOT book any additional services, such as flights, until we have confirmed your Inspiring Vacations package in writing. Inspiring Vacations will not be liable for any fees or charges incurred to change or cancel components not booked by Inspiring Vacations should your selected package be unavailable.

The information provided in this document is subject to change and may be affected by unforeseen events outside the control of Inspiring Vacations. Where changes to your itinerary or bookings occur, appropriate advice or instructions will be sent to your email address.

Call 1 888 356 2021 Email [email protected] www.inspiringvacations.com Page 18 TOUR ITINERARY

IMPORTANT INFORMATION COVID-19 Due to COVID there maybe disruptions to standard operating schedules of particular components of this itinerary. Should a component be effected a substitute will be confirmed prior to departure.

Fitness Requirements While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity.

These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers. As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.

Accommodation The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only and subject to availability. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, however any changes are beyond our control.

Single Supplement Please follow the 'book now' prompts and select 1 passenger to view the single supplement cost.

Triple Share Not Available

Travel Insurance Travel insurance is required to protect yourself against the unexpected.

Tour Documentation Final documentation including, e-tickets and cruise details, will be provided approximately 30 days prior to travel.

Children Children must share a room with parents at all times and are charged the same price as adults.

The information provided in this document is subject to change and may be affected by unforeseen events outside the control of Inspiring Vacations. Where changes to your itinerary or bookings occur, appropriate advice or instructions will be sent to your email address.

Call 1 888 356 2021 Email [email protected] www.inspiringvacations.com Page 19 TOUR ITINERARY

VISA & PASSPORT REQUIREMENT For all international voyages, it is the traveller's responsibility to ensure that they have a valid passport and they meet the visa requirement. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return.

EXCLUSIONS Flights unless mentioned Personal expenses Optional activities Anything not mentioned in the itinerary Travel insurance (highly recommended)

The information provided in this document is subject to change and may be affected by unforeseen events outside the control of Inspiring Vacations. Where changes to your itinerary or bookings occur, appropriate advice or instructions will be sent to your email address.

Call 1 888 356 2021 Email [email protected] www.inspiringvacations.com Page 20