Spitsbergen, 10 Night Nordic Navigator – From Norway’s Wilds to Scotland’s Isles ex Tromso, Norway to Greenock (Glasgow), Scotland

Day 1
Depart from Tromsø
Discover the gateway to the Arctic Backed by snowy mountains, lively Tromsø is the perfect place from which to set out on an adventure. It was the base for many a historic Arctic expedition, including those of Roald Amundsen, and its situation 250 miles north of the Polar Circle has led to it being called the ‘Gateway to the Arctic’.  Just like the legendary explorers, now it is your turn to set a course for the Arctic. If you arrive early in Tromsø we recommend exploring the city before joining your cruise.  There’s plenty to see, such as the Polar Museum, where you’ll learn about the city’s exploration heritage. And make sure to visit the striking Arctic Cathedral – with its huge stained-glass window. For those who’d like a little extra adventure, why not take a look at our Pre-Programme.  

Day 2
Senja
Discover Norway in miniature  Senja is Norway’s second-largest island, and it’s sometimes called Norway-in-miniature. With its rugged mountains, sandy beaches, dark forests and idyllic fishing villages, you can see how it earned this name. Free-roaming reindeer wander around the island, so keep an eye out for them. Here, we’ll visit a local community and experience some warm Scandinavian hospitality. We'll learn about ancient Viking culture and modern life in remote villages in Arctic Norway during the winter months.  Later, it’s time for a real treat. Inspired by Norway’s friluftsliv, or deep love for the great outdoors, we’ll gather on the beach and enjoy the warmth of a bonfire on our Day to Dusk – Flames and Flavours experience. With hot drinks in hand and Norwegian treats cooked by our onboard chefs, you’ll really feel at one with nature. If we’re lucky, perhaps the Northern Lights will put on a display for us.  Some of the time, we’ll be sailing in the dark and at dusk – but this will only enhance our experience, with glittering snowscapes illuminated by the low sun and the starlight. 

Day 3
Vesterålen
Enjoy an exclusive adventureAs we sail towards Vesterålen, the Expedition Team will seek out the best place for a nature landing, perhaps at one of the many fine beaches likely covered in pristine snow. We may head out in our small expedition boats to explore between remote islands or get out the kayaks.  Vesterålen awaits with its beautiful snow-covered landscapes, ideal for expedition activities such as snowshoe hiking, small boat cruising and kayaking.  It’s here that we have our special Into the Night – Dinner at the Museum experience at Hurtigrutemuseet, the Hurtigruten Museum. You’ll enjoy an exclusive opening of this heritage setting and dine amid historical artefacts in the old dining room of the ship, MS Finnmarken.  

Day 4
Lofoten
Experience dramatic panoramasSailing from Vesterålen to Lofoten, if conditions allow, we’ll venture into Trollfjord, where narrow waters are framed by sheer-sided cliffs. Or we’ll cruise between rugged peaks through the Raftsundet Strait. Whatever route we take, you’ll be immersed in striking scenery. And as we navigate dramatic fjords, the mountains rise so close to the ship you’ll feel like you could reach out and touch them. In winter, the Lofoten Islands transform into a snow-covered wonderland. Narrow fjords, hidden beaches between towering mountains and picturesque fish communities are all ideal for a visit with a small ship like MS Spitsbergen. One such community is Svolvaer, where you’ll enjoy your second special experience, a Nordic Sauna and Polar Plunge. Embrace a revitalising Norwegian tradition as you relax in the warmth of a sauna before taking a thrilling polar plunge.  

Day 5
Svartisen
Discover Norway's second-largest glacierToday, we'll sail into Holandsfjord off the rugged Helgeland coast, and head towards Svartisen glacier. Covering 230 square miles and with 60 ‘tongues’, this incredible geographical feature is Norway’s second largest glacier after Jostedalsbreen.  Meaning ‘black ice’, the epic Svartisen is made up of two separate glaciers, Vestisen and the Østisen, which are divided by the 0.6-mile-long Vesterdalen valley. The ice colour can range from turquoise to dark blue, although never quite black.If conditions allow, your Expedition Team will land at a local jetty and lead you ashore, where we’ll take a hike to get a closer view of this incredible glacier.  

Day 6-7
At sea
Relax at sea as we head towards Scotland’s Shetland IslandsAs we make our way south through the sheltered fjords, the soul-stirring scenery continues. Passing through the inner waters, see how the soft winter sun casts its magical spell across the snow-dusted landscape and soaring mountains. Take some time to relax and enjoy the facilities of your expedition ship. Soak up the scenery out on deck, warm up in the sauna, or join your Expedition Team for fascinating talks and demonstrations in the Science Centre.  As we get closer to Scotland’s Northern Isles, we’ll enter the waters of the North Sea. 

Day 8
Lerwick’s past and present
Discover Scotland's most northerly inhabited islesToday we reach the most northern outpost of the British Isles, docking the capital of Scotland’s Shetland Islands, Lerwick. These islands have a rich heritage, and local people are justifiably proud of it. You’ll see references to monuments and times past wherever you go.  After our crossing of the Norwegian Sea, find your land legs again walking around this friendly Victorian-influenced fishing town. Wander around the town’s narrow lanes and discover little shops selling locally made products such as whiskies, woollen sweaters and fudge. By the old waterfront you’ll find the Shetland Museum, charting the area's rich history. Nearby you can see Fort Charlotte and the regal-looking Town Hall.

Day 9
Highlights of Orkney
Learn about Kirkwall's Norse heritageToday we arrive at the Orkney Islands' largest town, Kirkwall. Explore this vibrant, Viking-influenced island capital, which is still compact enough to cover on foot. Visit the regal St Magnus Cathedral, made from distinctive local red sandstone, and the adjacent Earl’s Palace to see the stone ruins of this once-grand Renaissance building. The famous Neolithic settlement of Skara Brae is also only a bus ride away.  Whisky aficionados will enjoy Kirkwall's Highland Park and Scapa distilleries for their unique single malts. Or if you fancy something a bit different, Orkney Distillery produces gin made from local Orcadian botanicals.  

Day 10
Sailing through the Hebrides
Relax and recap en route to Glasgow  As your journey edges closer to its end, we sail south past the Hebridean Islands towards Glasgow.  Take this day at sea to indulge in your ship’s facilities one final time. Relax in the Explorer Lounge & Bar with newfound friends and recap the experiences you’ve had, or soak in the hot tubs and take in the last of the sea views. There’s also still time to visit the Science Centre and find out more about the things you’ve seen, or edit the images you’ve captured with tips from the onboard photographer.  

Day 11
Glasgow (Fairlie)
End your voyage in Scotland's second city For the last week and a half, we’ve travelled from the wilds of Arctic Norway to the islands of Scotland, and today our expedition comes to an end in Fairlie.  Lying on the shores of the Firth of Clyde, nestled against a backdrop of the North Ayrshire Hills, this area is known for its Viking heritage and scenic walks.  Wander the small community here or make your way back to vibrant Glasgow.  If you’re still in explorer mode, nearby Glasgow has plenty of things to offer the curious traveller. 

MS Spitsbergen will take you on a voyage beyond the ordinary.

MS Spitsbergen is named after the crown jewel of Arctic Norway – the Svalbard archipelago and its biggest island, Spitsbergen. Hurtigruten has a long history of travelling to Spitsbergen, beginning in 1896 with the `Sports Route´. MS Spitsbergen cruises along the Norwegian coast from September to May, and becomes part of our global Explorer sailings during the rest of the year.

After complete reconstruction, MS Spitsbergen joined the Hurtigruten fleet in 2016. The ship features high technical standards as well as comfortable, modern public areas and cabins. The vessel´s fresh Scandinavian design reflects a colour palette derived from the sea. She is modern and environmentally progressive, and we plan further improvements that will reduce emissions and fuel consumption even more. The new ship’s maneuverability and optimal size make her quite suitable for exploring polar waters.

HX Expeditions is a leading global expedition cruise line offering immersive journeys to the planet's most remote and extraordinary destinations. From the icy wilderness of Antarctica and the Arctic to the unique ecosystems of the Galápagos and Alaska, HX delivers authentic small-ship experiences designed for curious travelers seeking adventure, discovery, and meaningful connections with nature.

Operating a modern fleet of purpose-built, sustainable vessels, HX puts environmental responsibility at the heart of every expedition. Guests explore fragile ecosystems with expert-led guidance from naturalists, scientists, and local specialists, ensuring journeys are both educational and transformative.

With an emphasis on small groups and personalized service, HX provides access to hidden places unreachable by larger ships, delivering comfort, authenticity, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Whether witnessing the Northern Lights or exploring pristine shores, HX Expeditions invites travelers to experience the world’s wildest corners in a responsible and impactful way.