Hurtigruten launches new themed voyages for 2010

Want to learn more whilst on holiday? Fancy getting immersed in the world of polar explorers and researchers or Viking history? For 2010 Hurtigruten has increased its selection of themed voyages with new itineraries, additional departures and the return of some old favourites. These trips provide passengers with an extra dimension to the traditional coastal voyage. Guests can enjoy informative talks and activities on Norway’s history, nature and culture on selected dates with like-minded passengers.

To ensure everyone on board learns more about the chosen topic, Hurtigruten has joined forces with a team of experts in a given field who will talk about their specialist subject. In addition, there will be workshops and demonstrations along the way.

NEW FOR 2010
The lords of the fjords: Head off on a voyage with the Vikings – 7 days – 7 April and 14 April 2010 – from £1042pp – As daring explorers, imaginative craftsmen and clever traders, the Vikings characterised their age like no other people. Who were these fearsome men of the north and how did they live? Were the Vikings really just bloodthirsty barbarians who destroyed the cultural centres of Europe with fire and sword? Immerse yourself in the age of the Vikings on this new educational journey that travels from Bergen in the south to Kirkenes in the far north. On board Lecturer Klaus Kiesewetter, who has been working as an expedition lecturer in polar history for many years, and other experts will entertain and educated with a series of talks. Priced from £1042 per person to include six night’s full board on the ship. Based on two sharing.

The ice-breakers: In the wake of the great polar explorers – 7 days – 11 and 18 October 2010 – from £1042pp – Breathe in the polar air and follow the history of important polar researchers such as Amundsen and Nansen. How did these men survive during the winter months In polar waters, how did they protect themselves from the cold and what knowledge can be gained from this for polar research? During the voyage there will be time to listen to a number of lecturers on board. Possibly the most famous one, Arne Kertelhein, will deliver a number of sessions about the polar heros and their voyages, as well as the culture and the inhabitants of the polar region. Priced from £1042 per person to include six night’s full board on the ship travelling from Bergen to Kirkenes. Based on two sharing.

Hall of the mountain king: Take a musical trip with Edvard Grieg – 10 or 16 October – from £1042pp (reintroduced for 2010) – Relax to the enchanting melodies of Edvard Grieg on board while sailing through the Norwegian fjords, a perfect backdrop for this musical voyage. This trip has a recital and lecture programme and is accompanied by Grieg specialist Eilif B. Løtveit who has 35 years experience of working with the nation’s favourite composer. There is also an onboard pianist, Rune Alvar, who has performed in concerts all over Europe. Priced from £1042 to include five night’s full board on the ship travelling for Kirkenes to Bergen. Based on two sharing.

Birds of the Nordic coast: Learn about Norway´s stunning birdlife – 6 days – 20 May – from £1002pp (reintroduced for 2010) – Ever heard of the three-toed gull or seen a sea eagle hunting? Millions of Arctic birds return to the Norwegian coast each spring – the perfect start for a bird watching trip. Accompanied by a professional guide, amateur ornithologists can watch a colorful mix of birds and sign up for bird watching excursions. Priced from £1002 to include five night’s full board on the ship travelling for Kirkenes to Bergen. Based on two sharing.

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