We chose this cruise specifically in hope of seeing the Aurora Borealis, so by necessity had to go in winter. Embarkation at Bergen was easy but surprised by a huge, very well dressed group of people in the dining room the first night. Hurtigruten takes ‘private groups’ for Christmas parties on board for dinner or breakfast at their discretion and this group were one of those.

The Richard With had a three person expedition team - Linus, Denise and Niri whose many presentations from Aurora Borealis, culture, Vikings to wildlife and using of Norway were excellent. Denise gave a lecture on photographing the Aurora and then spent time with anyone who needed help adjusting the settings on their camera. Even told the smart phone users about an App which would enable their phone to get good photos.

Sailing in winter means you see very little scenery. It was dark from about 3 in the afternoon to 11 in the morning. Read more