British Isles Explorer - with Bergen Railway
Overview
Traverse the isles, north to south and extend your cruise with this 'Best of Norway & Scenic Train' package
Combine one of the world’s greatest rail journeys with stays in Oslo and Bergen. Discover Norway’s maritime heritage and see the Akershus Fortress and the Royal Palace. Board the Bergen Railway for a journey over the Hardangervidda, Europe’s highest mountain plateau, and explore beautiful Bergen.
Your cruise departs Bergen - immerse yourself in the British Isles with overnight stays in Bergen, Norway, and Greenwich, England. Discover the legendary Highlands and Western Isles of Scotland and its capital, Edinburgh. Visit the Shetland and Orkney Islands, and contrast modern Belfast with traditional Dublin. Witness Welsh culture in Snowdonia. In England, visit maritime Liverpool, see historic Dover and enjoy a tour of London.
*Advertised price based on cruise departing 6 April 2025. Other departures available from March - September 2025 but pricing may vary. Price correct as at 11 July. Offer ends 15 August, unless sold out prior.
Inclusions
Best of Norway & Scenic Train' package inclusions:
- 2 hotel nights in Oslo at Clarion Hotel the Hub, Oslo (or similar)
- 2 hotel nights in Bergen at Hotel Norge by Scandic, Bergen (or similar)
- 5 meals: 4 breakfasts (B) & 1 lunch (L)
- 2 guided tours: Oslo Tour; Bergen Tour
- Services of a Viking Host
- Scenic train journey from Oslo to Bergen on the Bergen Railway
- All transfers
Cruise Inclusions:
- 14 night cruise from Bergen to London (Greenwich)
- Cruise in a Deluxe Verandah giving you access to priority shore excursion and dinner reservations
- One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call
- Free Wi-Fi
- Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner
- 24-hour specialty coffees, teas & bottled water
- Alternative restaurant dining at no extra charge
- 24-hour room service
- Complimentary access to The Nordic Spa & Fitness Center.
- Self-service launderettes
- Visits to UNESCO Sites
- Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances
- Onboard gratuities
- Port taxes & fees
Itinerary
Day 1 - Oslo
A Viking Representative will meet you at the airport and take care of your baggage before you transfer to the city. This evening, check in to your hotel and get settled in. You may choose to dine in the hotel restaurant or one of the city’s many fine eateries, or take a short “jet-lag-busting” stroll to the Akershus Pier—considered one of the world’s first and most successful wharf conversions—for dinner on your own.
The Swan schooner, Norwegian Maritime Museum
Day 2 - Oslo
After breakfast, join your guide for a tour of Oslo. You will see the Akershus Fortress, which has guarded the harbor for centuries; the Royal Palace, home to the beloved Norwegian royal family; the Parliament; and the National Theater. You will also visit the Norwegian Maritime Museum and learn about Norway’s seafaring history that spans over centuries. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure; dinner is on your own. (B)
Oslo to Bergen train, Norway
Day 3 - Bergen
Board the Bergen Railway for your journey to Bergen, often described as the most beautiful train ride in the world. Your ascension to over 4,000 feet above sea level as you cross the Hardangervidda plateau features breathtaking views and will be accompanied by an informative narration. Arrive in Bergen and transfer to your hotel, where you can enjoy your evening at leisure. A Viking Host is available to help you plan your time in Bergen so you can make the most of your visit. (B, L)
Bergen Fortress, Norway
Day 4 - Bergen
Contrast the Bergen of old with the elegant modern-day city on an enlightening tour, highlighted by insights from your local guide. Step behind the walls of the medieval Bergen Fortress and visit the well-preserved 13th-century Håkons Hall. Pass the Bryggen wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the more modern section of the city, view two beloved musical theaters: the National Stage and Grieg Hall, named for the famed Norwegian composer. After your tour, enjoy the evening at your leisure. (B)
Bergen, Norway
Day 5 - Bergen
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and transfer to your ship to begin your cruise. (B)
Day 6 - Bergen, Norway
Enjoy charming Bergen, a historic city full of colorful architecture and a lively atmosphere. Admire the rugged mountains and magnificent fjords around Bergen, the “Capital of Fjords.”
Day 7 - Shetland Islands (Lerwick), Scotland
Visit castle ruins and learn about the heroes of World War II; see Shetland ponies.
Day 8 - The Highlands (Invergordon), Scotland
Explore Inverness, cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands or venture to Loch Ness.
Day 9 - Edinburgh (New Haven Harbour), Scotland
Discover the many highlights of Scotland’s capital, from Edinburgh Castle to the Royal Mile.
Day 10 - Orkney Islands (Kirkwall), Scotland
Witness the UNESCO-listed Ring of Brodgar and other impressive henges of the Orkney Islands.
Day 11 - The Highlands (Ullapool), Scotland
Discover this fishing town, nestled on the shores of Loch Broom in The Highlands.
Day 12 - Belfast, Northern Ireland
See this historic city’s landmarks, such as the Grand Opera House and Albert Memorial Clock.
Day 13 - Liverpool, England
Encounter the city’s most impressive sights, including those associated with the Beatles.
Day 14 - Holyhead, Wales
Visit picturesque coastal towns and explore the isle’s castles and fortresses.
Day 15 - Dublin (Dún Laoghaire), Ireland
See highlights such as Trinity College, St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the Guinness Storehouse.
Day 16 - Scenic Sailing: English Channel
Glimpse Dover’s famed white cliffs, seen as a long white strip resting on the horizon.
Day 17 - Dover, England
Stroll the streets of historic Canterbury, or see the front lines of World War II.
Day 18 - London (Greenwich), England
Discover Greenwich or travel to London to see Westminster Abbey and Big Ben.
Day 19 - London (Greenwich), England
Explore historic London, the seat of the British monarchy and visit iconic royal palaces.
