With its dramatic cliffs and breathtakingly beautiful fjords, the coastline of Norway has to be seen to be believed. You'll have the chance to experience it yourself on this eight-day cruise.
Making this cruise extra special is the company of Si King, formerly of the Hairy Bikers, who'll give a lively talk and Q&A and prepare a delicious gala lunch for guests in Club Orange restaurant on your ship.
Your cruise begins in Rotterdam, the Netherlands' second-largest city. The ship will depart in the afternoon, giving you some time to explore the city's many architectural gems before boarding your ship as your voyage begins.
And what a voyage it is. Making your way up the magical coastline, you'll stop at Oslofjord, Gandsfjord Sognefjord and the spectacular towering hills and stunning waterfalls of Skjolden.
While in Skjolden you'll explore Urnes Stave Church, Norway's oldest stave church and a UNESCO World Heritage site, then hike through Jostedalsbreen National Park, where unforgettable views await.
Your home at sea will be the flagship Rotterdam, a new ship offering exquisite cuisine, superbly appointed staterooms and world-class entertainment. With two full days at sea, there'll be plenty of opportunity to make the most of the ships' excellent facilities, which include two pools, a fitness centre and a spa.
Your voyage will come to an end in Amsterdam, the Netherlands' lively capital, where you can spend some time exploring its art museums, visiting the floating Bloemenmarkt with its colourful tulips for sale or simply wandering along its famous canals.
* From price is per person, based on two people sharing a lead in cabin, subject to availability. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. Single supplement applies, subject to availability. Deposit required. Offers are not valid in conjunction with any other offers or promotions. In the case of unforeseen circumstances, expert(s) may be substituted, and any expert-led events may be subject to change. Expert(s) will not join you for your full trip duration unless otherwise stated. Travel insurance is not included and should be taken out at time of booking. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of TS Travel Ltd and Holland America Line.
Today you'll arrive in Rotterdam, where you'll board your ship, Holland America's flagship Rotterdam, and set sail at 4pm.
If you arrive early, you may wish to spend some time exploring The Netherlands' second-largest city independently.
Sometimes referred to as 'Manhattan-on-the-Maas,' Rotterdam lives up to its reputation as a forward-looking metropolis with fascinating architecture and some of the Netherlands' finest museums and trendiest shops.
Today will be spent entirely at sea as you make your way to Norway. Days at sea are a perfect opportunity to relax and forget the stresses of life on shore. Make the most of Rotterdam's fabulous facilities including two swimming pools, a spa, and a fitness centre.
At lunchtime, Si King will prepare and present a specially curated menu at Club Orange restaurant, followed by a talk and an opportunity to ask him some of your questions.
In the evening, you can look forward to some top-class onboard entertainment. Dance the night away at B.B. King's Blues Club or sing along to your favourite rock classics at Rolling Stone Lounge.
Today you'll arrive in Norway, where your first visit will be to the beautiful Oslo Fjord. Almost half of Norway's population lives within an hour's drive of Oslo Fjord, so there's plenty to see along the shoreline, from islands and skerries to major towns and cities.
The picturesque coastal town Drøbak marks the entrance to the inner Oslo Fjord, where the waterway narrows and the islands are increasingly inhabited, with distinctive wooden cabins dotting the coastline.
Later, you'll dock in Oslo. Norway's charming capital city is a vibrant mix - modern architecture and world-class museums dwell alongside 10th-century Viking history, with indigenous Sami culture woven throughout. This cosmopolitan city caters to everyone from history buffs and literary types to aspiring Arctic adventurers.
Today you'll visit Mandal, one of the prettiest towns in southern Norway, known for its glorious beaches.
Today you'll cruise into Sandnes, a real haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Swimmers can cool off in the fjord; cyclists and hikers will have plenty of mountain trails to explore.
Sandnes is a lovely town with wide pedestrian streets dotted with shops and restaurants. While here you might also choose to visit the Vitenfabrikken, a science museum with a solar telescope and interactive exhibits.
The Tryggvi Icelandic horse farm is another top thing to do in Sandnes, as you can trot through the countryside on horseback. Whatever you do in Sandnes or nearby Stavanger, you're in for a fantastic day.
Today you'll sail into the world's longest and deepest fjord, the incredible Sognefjord.
Imagine 205 majestic winding kilometres of beautiful villages, centuries-old architecture including wooden stave churches, towering mountains with snow-covered peaks, cascading waterfalls and panoramic views. The region is also known for its traditional food, folklore, music and rich culture.
Surrounded by steep hills and stunning waterfalls, the enchanting village of Skjolden is located at the head Sognefjord. Visit Urnes Stave Church, the oldest stave church found in Norway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and take a hike in Jostedalsbreen National Park for views you'll never forget.
Enjoy another day at sea, giving you the chance to unwind on board in the fabulous facilities. Take a dip in the pool, relax in the sauna, or enjoy a drink on deck as you watch the views pass you by.
This evening, enjoy a busy schedule of evening entertainment at the World Stage, with dancing music, and fascinating talks.
Your cruise will come to its final port of call today, the lively Dutch capital of Amsterdam.
Visitors are naturally drawn to the historic city centre where you'll find some of the world's top art museums, including the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. At Dam Square, Amsterdam's largest public square, you can tour the Royal Palace before continuing to the tourist attractions on the Canal Belt.
The iconic network of waterways that surrounds the downtown area offers a picturesque backdrop for sightseeing by bike or canal boat. Be sure to visit the floating Bloemenmarkt to peruse famed Dutch tulips, and take time to wander and window-shop among the narrow lanes of de Jordaan.
After a day exploring the city, it's time to begin your journey home, as your adventure comes to an end.
Our travel partner TS Tours Ltd which specialises in bespoke and expert-led tours, is working in partnership with Holland America Line, leaders in cruising with award-winning service and worldwide itineraries.
To view TS Tours in partnership with Holland America Line’s supplier’s terms and conditions click here.
* From price is per person, based on two people sharing a lead in cabin, subject to availability. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. Single supplement applies, subject to availability. Deposit required. Offers are not valid in conjunction with any other offers or promotions. In the case of unforeseen circumstances, expert(s) may be substituted, and any expert-led events may be subject to change. Expert(s) will not join you for your full trip duration unless otherwise stated. Travel insurance is not included and should be taken out at time of booking. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of TS Travel Ltd and Holland America Line.