DAY 1 (Friday 14th May) Harwich
There’ll be a warm welcome on board before our 4pm sailing.
DAY 2 Cruising at sea
Make the most of a relaxing day at sea, getting to know your fellow passengers or exploring the ship.
DAY 3 Bergen
The charming city of Bergen was once the capital of Norway and is steeped in history. The most historic quarter, the Bryggen district, is just a short stroll from the ship. Now a UNESCO World heritage Site, you’ll find a bustling market, and colourfully painted and gabled former warehouses.
DAY 4 Olden
The pretty, timbered village of Olden, idyllically situated at the head of the Nordfjord, boasts breathtaking scenery. One of Europe’s most magnificent glaciers, the Jostedal Glacier can be seen from here, and its waters flow into another stunning sight – the Oldenvatn glacial lake which can be found just outside the village itself. Join us on an optional shore excursion to the incredible Briksdal Glacier for a closeup glimpse of this unique landscape.
DAY 5 Alesund
Built on three islands, the fishing village of Alesund was devastated by fire in 1904. It was rebuilt in delightful Art Nouveau style with colourful, elaborate and extravagantly decorated facades, spires and turrets. Take our harbour cruise to see the city from a different perspective as you sail through the centre of the city and past the old trading centre of Borgund, or take a tour to stunning Geiranger.
DAY 6 Cruising at sea
Relax and enjoy the ship’s facilities as we cruise at sea today.
DAY 7 Seydisfjordur
Located in east Iceland, Seydisfjordur is a truly beautiful place. Lined on all sides by mountains and waterfalls, this small town is full of history. It was once a successful fishing town and an important trading port for Iceland, in fact, fishing is still a major trade here today. Take a walk around the pretty streets, admiring the timber houses.
DAY 8 Akureyri
A picturesque and colourful town on the northern coast of Iceland, Akureyri is our gateway to some of the most intriguing natural wonders of the world. Surrounding sights include the stunning Godafoss Waterfall, Lake Myvatn, a haven for birdlife, and the boiling mudpools at Dimmubogir. One excursion not to be missed is our whale watching trip. We take a boat from Husavik harbour and watch for the lifting of tails or blowing in the water – a very memorable experience. It is the most common to see Minke whales, although on occasion Killer whale may also be seen. As with any wildlife excursions, it can not be guaranteed that a particular species will be seen.
DAY 9 Grundarfjordur
The small fishing village of Grundarfjordur is sat on a picturesque natural harbour on the beautiful Snaefellsnes Peninsula of western Iceland. You will receive a warm welcome from the villagers when you disembark Athena. Whilst here, take the opportunity to visit the stunning Snaefellsnes National Park, famous for its glacier and geology.
DAY 10 Reykjavik
Iceland’s colourful capital enjoys a beautiful natural setting between the cold waters of the northern Atlantic and Iceland’s eerie volcanic landscape. Explore all the natural sights with a tour to the geysers, mountains and volcanic craters of this spectacular island.
DAY 11 Cruising at sea
Make the most of a relaxing day aboard Athena today.
DAY 12 Torshavn
Torshavn is situated on the largest of the 18 Faroe Islands, Streymoy. One of the smallest capitals in the world, Torshavn is a picturesque town with narrow streets and a leisurely air, the old centre with its timber houses, is wonderfully preserved. Or why not visit the village of Kvivik, one of the oldest settlements in the Faroes where excavations have found remains of viking houses.
DAY 13 Cruising at sea
Relax on board as we head for the UK.
DAY 14 (Thursday 27 May) Harwich
We disembark after breakfast for the transfer home.