Christmas or New Year's Eve in the magic of the Northern Lights, 2026

General information
Our Northern Norway cruises with the „Cape Race“ focus on experiencing the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) and observing whales of various species. From mid-November to mid-January there is polar night in northern Norway. The sun no longer rises above the horizon at this time and a fascinating twilight envelops the fjords and small settlements. And on clear nights, the magical veil of the Northern Lights often appears. From the beginning of November, killer whales and humpback whales are frequently spotted in the waters around Tromsø, following the large shoals of herring. Based on observations in recent years, it is expected that the best chances of sighting the marine mammals are in the Kvaenangen Fjord region to the north-east of Tromsø. Ultimately, however, the occurrence of humpback and killer whales depends very much on the herring stocks (which vary greatly in size), so the expedition leader will react flexibly to the situation. An alternative route could also take you south to the island of Senja and near Andenes. In recent years, whales of other species (e.g. sperm whales) that are not dependent on the presence of shoals of herring have often been sighted here.

DAY 1 AND 2: TROMSØ
After our arrival, 350 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle, you will explore Tromsø, the ‘Paris of the North’, with its famous Arctic Ocean Cathedral, the exciting Polar Museum, which documents the history of expeditions into the ice, or on an excursion by cable car up Fjellheisen with breathtaking views over the icy fjord landscape. You will spend the first night in an upscale mid-range hotel (Radisson Blu or similar). In the afternoon of the following day, we welcome you on board the CAPE RACE. We will introduce you to the ship and crew, you will freshen up in your cabin or enjoy the cosy saloon and, depending on the weather conditions, the captain will give the signal to set sail.

DAY 3 – 8: THE FJORDS OF NORTHERN NORWAY

We follow humpback or fin whales and schools of orcas in the fjords as they hunt for schools of herring. Their blowing guides us, similar to the rain-like sound of the shoals of herring when there is no wind. Accompanied by the dancing aurora borealis over the snow-covered mountains, we glide through the fjords, anchoring or mooring at picturesque places such as Reinfjord, Hamnes or Spildra, depending on the route. The silence on deck – perhaps under the Northern Lights -, exciting visits to the bridge, evenings in the oven-heated saloon with the sound of the well-tuned piano, a visit to the on-board sauna, short evening walks along the coast or an excellent meal will be unforgettable moments.

DAY 9: TROMSØ
Back in Tromsø. Return flight or transfer to ‘Malangen Lodge’.

Important note on the travel programme

Our exact itinerary depends on the ice, weather conditions and wildlife. The places mentioned are just examples of some of the many sights this trip has to offer. Please remember that flexibility is the key to a successful expedition!

OPTIONAL FOLLOW-UP PROGRAMME AT THE ‘MALANGEN LODGE’
The tasteful and modern Malangen Resort is located on the south-eastern shore of the Malangsfjord, about an hour’s drive from Tromsø. The lodge offers a fantastic view over the fjord and the mountains, and you can often observe Arctic wildlife or the aurora borealis directly from here. Experience the nature of northern Norway with various winter activities, relax in the resort on your return and enjoy the view of the fjord.

Day 1: Tromsø – Malangen Resort:
After disembarking on the ‘Cape Race’, you will be transferred to the Malangen Resort. The Malangen Resort is located in one of the best Northern Lights hotspots in the Tromsø area. The ‘Guardian’ gives guests the opportunity to see the mysterious Northern Lights. We begin the magical journey with an orientation on the natural phenomenon and the prevailing Northern Lights conditions before travelling to our own base camp, Camp Nikka, which is just a 20-minute walk from the resort. Day 2: Snowshoe hike: This exciting and informative tour combines the joys of walking on snowshoes in the snowy forest with practical and fascinating information from our knowledgeable guide.

Day 3: Dog sledding tour (weather permitting):
Experience the fantastic winter landscape on a dog sled ride. Let the joy of the dogs infect you as you head out into the snowy winter landscape. Lead a team of eager huskies through the snow-covered Arctic landscape and marvel at the breathtaking scenery. The adventure ends with a tasty snack by the open fire.

Day 4: Malangen Resort – Tromsø – journey home:
After breakfast, the transfer back to Tromsø takes place at around 9:00 am.