Where Hanseatic ships once exchanged stockfish for flour and textiles, your expedition will begin on the HANSEATIC nature: in Bergen, old merchant houses recall the historical significance of the port city. Follow in the footsteps of the merchants and visit the popular fish market on a bicycle tour of Bergen*. Or enjoy “pure nature” in the Hardangerfjord* with fascinating insights into fruit-growing in Norway.

The idyllic town of Flam lies in the narrow Aurlandsfjord. Draw inspiration from wild gorges and striking waterfalls on one of the most beautiful stretches of railway in the world with a ride on the Flam railway*. Alternatively, take a scenic tour through the fjord landscape* to some spectacular nature where Norway’s beauty comes together like a perfectly formed model.

The landscape becomes ever more spectacular, reaching its first highlight in the Geirangerfjord. What stories could the thundering waterfalls tell, with names like “Seven Sisters” and “Suitor”? Sensational clear views await you at Dalsnibba and the “Eagle’s Bend”*. Alternatively, enjoy a hike to the Storseter waterfall* where the water tumbling from a height of 35 m (115 ft) is truly exhilarating. With the amazing natural experiences roaring in your memory, you can look forward to even greater experiences on board the HANSEATIC nature on the other side of the Arctic Circle.

Svolvaer will welcome you to the heart of the Lofoten Islands with its deeply carved coastline set against striking mountain ranges. Travel a thousand years back in time on a scenic tour with a visit to the Viking farm*. By contrast, an evening stroll through the little streets will show you what modern life is like in the island group. The next morning, the HANSEATIC nature will cruise through the narrow Trollfjord, its mouth only 100 m (328 ft) wide. Be captivated by the changing series of fantastic views from your front-row spot on the “nature walk” or the glass balconies. Tranoy is another stunning part of the Lofoten Islands: take in the expansive view of the Vestfjord and the lofty mountain peaks by exploring independently or on a hike to the lighthouse with the experts.

The maritime centre of the North Cape region, Honningsvag offers a picturesque contrast between colourful houses and rugged landscape. Experience the unique atmosphere of the midnight sun, which never sets at this time of year, on the excursion to North Cape*, the most northerly point on the European mainland. Alternatively, embark on a king crab safari* and enjoy some delights cooked over an open fire and served in a typical Sami tent.

On Spitsbergen, unspoilt nature will provide an extraordinary adventure in which the captain and crew set a course for new discoveries every day depending on the weather and ice conditions. The Zodiacs work tirelessly to take you to the heart of the experience. There will be plenty of opportunities to watch seals, whales, walruses or polar bears from a respectful distance. In the isolation of Spitsbergen, the HANSEATIC nature has no fixed schedule, and will follow only the call of the wild and your insatiable expedition spirit. Forge your way along deserted coasts like the great pioneers before you and visit Hornsund, where hundreds of thousands of little auks live on the shores. Remote Ny-Alesund, an international centre for Arctic research, deserves to be immortalised in art. Explorer Roald Amundsen once set out for the North Pole from here. The shimmering blue of the 14th July Glacier rises up before you as you marvel at the natural wonder from up-close in a Zodiac – a sight only likely to be surpassed in the Liefdefjord by the enormous Monacobreen, where the edge of the glacier reaches heights of up to 40 m (131 ft). The Raudfjord will surprise you with its colourful accents and mountain slopes that shimmer in a striking red. Explore the whaling history of the 17th century on the stony island of Amsterdamoya and in the Magdalenefjord against a breathtaking backdrop. The small island of Prins Karls Forland and its large walrus herds is the crowning glory to round off your adventure. It is said to be one of the first landscapes that Willem Barents discovered here in 1596. For you, it is the last stop on an expedition that has made you a polar pioneer too.