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Cruises with a Little Bridge

Rugged and Remote Spitsbergen

 22nd June 2022 | 15 Nights | Newcastle | Balmoral | L2217

from: £2499pp

BMB Host on Board
All of our Little Bridge Bridge Cruises have a Bernard Magee Bridge host on board.
Bridge at Sea
Bridge is available on days at sea. All the bridge sessions are optional.
Partners
We have many single players on board and guarantee everybody a partner.
About this Cruise

Experience a unique Norwegian discovery on this incredible cruise, a 15-night journey designed to allow for in-depth explorations of Spitsbergen’s isolated lands. Deep within Norway’s northernmost reaches, you’ll get to immerse yourself in the beauty, remoteness and eerie silence of remarkable landscapes and destinations, creating memories every step of the way.

An unforgettable week within the Arctic Circle is at the heart of what makes this itinerary so special. On board Balmoral, you’re in for magical scenic cruising in areas of outstanding natural beauty, while each destination you visit will offer many unforgettable moments ashore. The two days in Spitsbergen – found just 700 nautical miles from the North Pole – is top on the list of highlights. Time in Longyearbyen and eerie Pyramiden is something not many get to experience; these far-away towns, situated amongst scenes of stunning Arctic landscapes, offer an insight into the Svalbard archipelago’s Soviet-influenced history, with their imposing architecture and abandoned mineshafts. Go inside the abandoned buildings and wander amongst the industrial communities that thrived here, for a taste of what life was once like. Your time in Svalbard also includes memorable sails by the by the magnificent Nordenskiöldbreen and Tuna glaciers, as well as the jaw-dropping stratifications of Tempelfjorden’s Temple Mountain.

Your Host
BMB Bridge Host

On cruises with a little bridge there is a BMB host on board but no team. Bridge is for days at sea only.

Itinerary
Accommodation
What's Included

What's included?

  • Comfortable, stylish cabins and suites equipped with a Smart TV, hairdryer, tea and coffee making facilities, a fridge and individually controlled air conditioning
  • A tempting choice of cuisine every day throughout your cruise – with five-course à la carte dinners, casual breakfast and lunch buffets, late-night snacks and much more
  • Unlimited, self-service tea and coffee available 24hrs at selected venues, complimentary afternoon tea* with sandwiches and cakes, and in-room sandwiches and snacks
  • A full programme of evening entertainment, including cabaret shows, comedy, dancing and live music
  • Full use of on board leisure facilities, including swimming pools, Jacuzzis and gym
  • A wide choice of engaging on board activities and lectures throughout the day
  • All UK port taxes (where collectable in advance)
  • Luggage porterage between your cabin and the drop-off/pick-up point
    • Formal welcome and/or Captain’s Drinks Party and Gala Buffet

Chargeable extras
Cruise descriptions include optional, chargeable experiences that may be enjoyed independently and/or with optional Fred. Olsen Shore Tours. *Premium Traditional Afternoon Tea not included. Upgrade to All Inclusive Drinks Package is available as a chargeable optional extra and can be added to your booking up to six days prior to your cruise departing.

Great value offers
Great value offers on selected fares and cabin grades available on this cruise. Please contact our Reservations team for further details.

About Your Ship
Balmoral
Carrying up to 1,350 guests is small enough to navigate narrow waterways such as Kiel Canal and bring inspirational sights and experiences closer to you.

Like the rest of the fleet, Balmoral retains a warm, welcoming atmosphere and features comfortable accommodation and lounges, stylish restaurants and plenty of open-deck space.

Rugged and Remote Spitsbergen

 22nd June 2022 | 15 Nights | Newcastle | Balmoral | L2217
For more information and to book, please call: 01344 205 120

Rugged and Remote Spitsbergen

22nd June 2022 | 15 Nights | Newcastle | Balmoral | L2217
Depart: Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
At its eastern end, the magnificent Nordfjord divides into three arms beneath the glaciers of the Jostedalsbreen, and Olden sits at the beginning of the southernmost of these arms. A charming village, Olden is among green meadows which are ablaze with colourful flowers throughout the summer, and through which babbling brooks meander between pretty houses.

In the centre of the village is the Old Church, built in 1759 on the site of a 14th century stave church: the timber was used for the pew doors and doorposts. Near the church is the Singerheimen, the former home of William Henry Singer Jr, an heir to a steelworks in Pittsburgh, who lived in Olden between 1868-1943 and donated large amounts of his wealth to fund the building of local hospitals and roads here. Singer was also a gifted amateur artist, and some of his paintings the Olden area can be seen in his workshop.

The beautiful Oldedalen Valley extends for 12 miles behind Olden and is an absolute joy to explore. On an adventure into the valley you can marvel at huge, near-vertical cliffs, a string of spectacular waterfalls, and sparkling glaciers, such as the astonishing Briksdal.
The sixth longest Norwegian fjord, and one of the most picturesque, beautiful Nordfjord stretches from mainland Norway's western-most point – overlooking Stadhavet, Sunnmørsalpene and Ålfotbreen – to the magnificent Jostedalsbreen, Europe's largest inland glacier.

A journey along this spectacular waterway aboard one of Fred. Olsen's smaller-sized cruise ships brings ever-changing, breathtaking scenes into your viewfinder. The ocean entrance to the fjord is relatively flat, with low-lying lands and smooth beaches. As you venture deeper, the landscapes become taller and untamed, where isolated villages appear amongst a panorama of lush valleys, mighty cliffs and soaring alpine mountains.
Situated on the island of Vagsoy at the mouth of the stunning Nordfjorden, Maloy is one of Norway’s most beautiful and important fishing ports. Originally located on the smaller island of Moldøen, Maloy was moved to keep up with its flourishing trade and fishing industries, and was used as a key coastal fortress by the German forces in the Second World War.

A small town, Maloy isn’t packed with museums, shops and restaurants but it does offer easy access to Vagsoy’s stunning natural landscapes and other villages and towns on the island. From Maloy, the incredible Jostedalsbreen Glacier is within easy reach, as is Refviksanden Beach, one of the finest swimming beaches in Norway.
The Nærøyfjord (Naeroyfjord) has been rated by National Geographic as the world's number one natural heritage site and is rumoured to be the inspiration for the snowy scenes in the hit Disney movie Frozen.

The fjord is 18 kilometres long and only 500 metres wide at its narrowest point and the passage through it, which is only accessible to smaller ships such as those in the Fred. Olsen fleet, is one of the most dramatic in Europe. As you cruise through this stunning part of the world you'll see snow-capped mountains, waterfalls and charming traditional farms that cling to the vast hillsides.
A scenic cruise along the shores of Toget Island allows you see one of Norway's most astonishing natural wonders - Torghatten Mountain. The mountain is known affectionately as 'the mountain with the hole', Torghatten is famous for the huge tunnel that strikes right through the middle of it and has has to be seen to be believed.
Forming a majestic chain of peaks overlooking the shipping channel, the Seven Sister mountain range is an awe-inspring backdrop to the myriad of islands and Norwegian landscapes. Standing 1,000 feet above the shoreline, these beautiful women are perhaps best observed in all their glory from your ship. It is possible to climb them, and to learn the legend of the trolls who were turned to stone!
Crossing the Arctic Circle takes you into the lands of prolonged days and midnight sun. It is visible on a map - north of which the sun can be seen above the horizon even at midnight during the summer months. However, during the winter the sun stays below the horizon for most of the day. During the cold winter months, light is provided by the moon and stars in addition to the elusive but spell-binding Northern Lights.
The Trollfjord is a spectacular 2 kilometre long branch of the Raftsund straight that divides Norway's Lofoten and Vesterålen archipelagos.

One of the most popular sight-seeing destinations in Nordland county, the Trollfjord is a relatively short and narrow fjord that's lined with steep mountains and vast rocky cliffs. Fred. Olsen's more compact ships allow you to cruise directly into the heart of the Trollfjord to join the flocks of native Sea Eagles in their natural habitat.
Sailing along the picturesque northwest coast of Norway’s rugged Senja Island, your smaller-sized ship will present you with views of the tooth-like peaks of the Okshornan Mountains, affectionately known as the Djevelens Tanngard or ‘Devil’s Teeth’.

Although the Okshornan’s are a popular hiking route, the best way to appreciate their imposing magnificence and spectacular beauty is from the water, with unmissable photo opportunities to take advantage of as you glide serenely by this remarkable corner of Norway.
Honningsvåg, on Norway’s North Cape, a fishing community characterised by its charming, pastel-shaded wooden buildings, attracts tourists from all over the world. Often referred to as the top of Europe, Honningsvåg is framed by dramatic rugged mountains and the remoteness of the Arctic Ocean.

Honningsvåg is the gateway to the Nordkapp (North Cape), Europe’s most northernmost point. Its rocky coastlines, picturesque villages, endless cliff faces and vast snow-capped mountains are a joy to explore. For two months of summer, the sun is visible 24 hours a day from Nordkapp, and when the sun does set on this extraordinary landscape, the Aurora Borealis lights up the Polar sky. More on these wonderful seasonal changes can be experienced in the North Cape Hall visitor centre, which offers wide-screen film presentations about this Arctic region.

Honningsvåg was completely destroyed during the Second World War, but rapidly rebuilt. The Artico Ice Bar in the city centre – made entirely of ice sourced from the natural lakes of Norwegian Lapland – is worth a visit. While the sea views from the Kompasset Restaurant, and the freshly baked waffles of the Grotten Bar – a huge cave cut into the face of the Cape cliff, both need discovering.
Cruising by the North Cape in the farthest reaches of northern mainland Norway is always a memorable experience. In the summer, between mid-May and the end of July, you can experience the midnight sun; while in winter this fascinating region near the very top of the world is one of the best places on earth to hopefully catch a glimpse of the elusive Northern Lights.

No matter what time of the year you sail to this mesmerising part of the world you can also marvel at the natural beauty of the North Cape plateau, with its craggy cliff face jutting out into the sea and rising to about 1,000 feet above sea level. At the North Cape you always create memories which will last a lifetime.
Located far above the Arctic Circle at the foot of the beautiful Billefjord on the Norwegian island of Spitsbergen, Pyramiden – a former Russian coal mining town, was once one of the Svalbard Archipelago’s most important and busiest settlements, but is now home to only a handful of people who dedicate their time to renovating the town and conserving the natural environment in which it is situated.

However, as much of the town’s original infrastructure and buildings still exist, there is still much to see on a visit to this eerie settlement. The most ethereal feature is undoubtedly the ‘bottle shop’, a house made entirely from white and green glass bottles, whose beauty and delicacy is a bizarre contrast in the harsh climate.

Large Soviet-era warehouses, living quarters and an old coal-fired power plant stand defiantly in the town centre and the network of empty mine shafts have been locked in time and offer a deep insight into the Soviet’s industrial past.
The awe-inspiring Nordenskiöldbreen is one of Norway’s largest glaciers, a 16-mile-long, 6.8-mile-wide crumbling wall of glistening Arctic ice that dominates the landscape of the spectacular Isfjord and Billefjord.

A Fred. Olsen cruise to Northern Norway and the remote Svalbard archipelago could include a memorable sail by Nordenskiöldbreen, affording you a rare opportunity to see this magnificent natural wonder in all its breathtaking scenic splendour.
Tempelfjorden is a fjord branch at the inner end of Sassenfjorden, a part of Isfjorden at Spitsbergen, Svalbard. It is located between Sabine Land and Bünsow Land. The fjord is named after the mountain Templet, which resembles a temple. Every winter, the sailing vessel Noorderlicht is intentionally frozen into Tempelfjorden.
Situated at 78° north, deep within the Arctic Circle, Longyearbyen is widely regarded as the world's northernmost town. It is also the largest settlement in Svalbard, located amongst incredible Norwegian Arctic wilderness on the archipelago's largest island, Spitsbergen.

Set at the end of the Advent Fjord, and framed by flat-topped, snow-covered peaks, Longyearbyen is home to some 2000 inhabitants, several reindeer and the odd polar bear. The town Longyearbyen was only established as a permanent settlement in 1906 to exploit local coal reserves, and is named after American mining specialist, John M. Longyear.

Only one mine remains working, but Mine 3, which was turned into a living museum in 1996 on its closure, can still be visited. The museum guides are all former miners who give first-hand accounts about life underground. The Svalbard Museum also provides insights into the life of miners, and the other local industry, whaling. The 24-hour sundial reminds visitors that the sun doesn’t set for months during summer, and the Spitsbergen Airship Museum, which has exhibits from the era of polar exploration, is worth discovery.
The island city of Tromsø is one of northern Norway’s true delights. Rich with neo-classical architecture, the city known as the ‘Gateway to the Arctic’ contains the largest number of wooden houses in Northern Norway, and its old world charm makes it a joy to explore.

A major cultural hub above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is famed as a viewing point for the colourful Northern Lights that often light up the night sky. The city’s most recognisable landmark is the must-visit Arctic Cathedral. Built in 1965, the cathedral’s distinctive iceberg-shaped design was inspired by the landscapes of Northern Norway and features a beautiful glass mosaic.

The many museums and galleries in the city include the Perspektivet Museum – set in a neo-classical building built in 1838 that has exhibits from Tromsø’s past, plus the Art Museum of Northern Norway and the Mack Brewery. Tromsø is also home to Polaria, an Arctic aquarium that is popular with locals and tourists alike. The aquarium’s tanks are full of Arctic fish species, and the friendly bearded seals always delight the visiting crowds.

Tromsø, and the stunning landscapes that surround it, are best viewed from the top of the Storsteinen Mountain, which stands 420 metres above sea level. Accessible via cable car, the peak is easy to reach and one of the most popular spots on the edge of the city.
The famous Svartisen or 'Black Glacier' - spread out over an impressive 375 square kilometres - is the second largest glacier in Norway. The glacier is in fact divided into two seperate glaciers called the West Ice and the East Ice and a cruise past this fascinating natural wonder offers stunning views of Mother Nature at her finest.
Rarely sailed on an ocean cruise itinerary, as it is only accessible to smaller ships such as those in the Fred. Olsen fleet, Nordfjorden – a glorious, simply breathtaking fjord in the heart of Norway’s Meloy Municipality – is a wonder that many people don’t have the privilege to see, explore and experience.

But thankfully, on your scenic exploration, you’ll get to fully immerse yourself in the wonderland of awe-inspiring scenery, where glassy waters are flanked by magnificent, snow-capped mountains and glacial peaks, as your smaller-sized ship negotiates the narrow, imposing waterway.
Surrounded by the incredible mountains of the Romsdalsfjord, Åndalsnes is often referred to as the 'Alp town by the fjord'. Situated at the mouth of the Rauma River, the town is in one of the most beautiful areas of scenic Norway, and a natural starting point for forest walks in the hilly terrain and short hikes to magnificent viewpoints.

With all its natural attractions, this beautiful destination is one of Norway’s most popular locations for sightseers and a mecca for hikers. Known as the 'Mountaineering Capital', Åndalsnes is close to the mighty Trollveggen (The Troll Wall), the tallest vertical rock face in Europe – an appealing challenge for many climbers. Many visitors, who wish to enjoy the sights with a little less effort, can take the Rauma Railway into the mountains to discover amazing views.
One of the longest – and cleanest – Norwegian fjords, Romsdalsfjorden is the fjordland at its very best. Framed by the majestic peaks and waterfalls of the Romsdalsalpene Mountains, which tower over rolling, lush green valleys and charming waterside villages, the fjord boasts spectacular scenery to admire as your smaller-sized ship slices through the glassy waters and cool, crisp air.

Sailing deep into Romsdalsfjorden, you may cruise all the way to the fjord village of Isfjorden, situated at the innermost part of the fjord. Isfjorden is idyllic as it gets, a sleepy, unspoilt charm surrounded by some of Norway’s most famous natural landmarks, such as Romsdalshorn and Trollveggen.
Arrive: Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom

Accommodation on Balmoral

22nd June 2022 | 15 Nights | Newcastle | Balmoral | L2217
BJ - Balcony Junior Suite
  • This suite is approximately 200 square feet in size and can be found on Highland Deck 10, Bridge Deck 9 and Lido Deck 8.
  • This suite has a bedroom with a sitting area and a balcony. There is an en-suite bathroom with bath and/or shower.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on room balconies.

Please note, rooms 8057 and 8059 on Lido deck are equipped for use by disabled passengers.

PS - Premier Suite
  • This suite is approximately 430 square feet in size and can be found on Highland Deck 10.
  • This suite has a sitting room, balcony and a bedroom with large double bed and bathroom with bath and/or shower.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on room balconies.
OW - Owner's Suite
  • Exclusive suite - please call for more details.
SS - Superior Suite
  • This style of suite is approximately 275 square feet in size, and can be found on Highland Deck 10 and Bridge Deck 9.
  • This suite has a sitting area with a balcony and a bedroom with a twin or double bed. The bathroom has a bath and/or shower.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on room balconies.
MS - Marquee Suite
  • This suite is approximately 390 square feet in size and can be found on Highland Deck 10.
  • This suite has a bedroom with a large double bed and a sitting area, a bathroom with bath and/or shower.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on room balconies.
BA - Superior Balcony Cabin
  • These rooms are approximately 190 square feet in size and can be found on Bridge Deck 9.
  • Slightly larger than a BC grade, these rooms have a balcony, bathroom with bath and/or shower.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on room balconies.
BC - Balcony Cabin
  • This room is approximately 180 square feet in size, and can be found on Lido Deck 8 and Bridge Deck 9.
  • It has a balcony, bathroom with bath and/or shower.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts). Smoking is permitted on room balconies.
A - Superior Ocean View
  • This room is approximately 200 square feet in size and can be found on Lido Deck 8.
  • It has a picture window, bathroom with bath and/or shower.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
B - Superior Ocean View
  • Approx. 165 square feet in size, these rooms are located on the Lido Deck 8 and Main Deck 6.
  • Fitted with everything you need for your stay, there’s a picture window too.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).

*Rooms 8073, 8075, 8084 and 8086 on the Lido Deck are wheelchair accessible and have a fully restricted view.

C - Superior Ocean View
  • This room is approximately 165 square feet in size and can be found on Atlantic Deck 5.
  • It has a picture window and a bathroom with bath and/or shower.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
D - Ocean View
  • These rooms are approximately 165 square feet in size, and can be found on Atlantic Deck 5 and Coral Deck 4.
  • They have a picture window and a bathroom with bath and/or shower.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
E - Ocean View
  • This room is approximately 165 square feet in size and can be found on Coral Deck 4.
  • It has a picture window and a bathroom with shower.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
F - Ocean View
  • This room is approximately 165 square feet in size and can be found on Atlantic Deck 5, Coral Deck 4 & Marina Deck 3.
  • It has 2 portholes, bathroom with a shower.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
G - Superior Interior Cabin
  • Our Superior Interior Rooms are approximately 160 square feet in size and can be found on Lido Deck 8 and Bridge Deck 9.
  • These rooms have a bathroom with bath and/or shower.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer and tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).

*Please note, rooms 9048, 9056 and 9095 on Bridge Deck have been adapted for use by disabled passengers.

H - Interior Cabin
  • This room is approximately 160 square feet in size and can be found on Main Deck 6 and Atlantic Deck 5.
  • It has a bathroom with shower.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
I - Interior Cabin
  • This room is approximately 160 square feet in size and can be found on Atlantic Deck 5, Coral Deck 4 and Marina Deck 3.
  • It has a bathroom with shower.
  • Facilities include climate control, Interactive Smart TV, desk, phone, mini-fridge, hairdryer & tea & coffee making facilities.
  • All rooms are non-smoking, have room service available until 11.00pm, and require a European 2 pin plug (220 volts).
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