Exploring Norway with Atlas Ocean Voyages

Norway is a magical place—the land of the Midnight Sun, the Northern Lights, snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes, unique wildlife, and, of course, those adorable mythical trolls. Images of Norway’s majestic fjords capture the imagination and beckon adventurous travelers. A Nordic adventure awaits all who answer the call.

Perched at the edge of the Arctic, Norway is a winter wonderland for much of the year and a renowned destination for outdoor and extreme sports enthusiasts. By late spring and early summer, however, a welcome thaw transforms the landscape. Like a bear emerging from hibernation, the country awakens in a burst of color and life. Verdant valleys bloom with wildflowers, waterfalls cascade from melting snow, and birdsong fills the air. Warmer temperatures and reduced snowpack make it an ideal time to explore.

Hard to Resist the Call of Adventure

My seafaring Viking spirit was easily stirred by Norway’s wild beauty. Fittingly, I chose to discover the country by sea aboard Atlas Ocean Voyages, a cruise line known for its small-ship, immersive experiences.

In early May, I joined the World Navigator for the 10-day “Vikings and Vistas” voyage from London to Tromsø. With just 100 cabins and an impressive 1:1 guest-to-staff ratio, the ship felt intimate and welcoming while still offering plenty of space to relax. Having sailed with Atlas in the past, I boarded with high expectations. I was not dissappointed. Why Atlas? The reasons are many.

The embarkation point set the tone for the journey. Docked on the River Thames near the Tower of London, World Navigator offered spectacular views from every angle. Location truly matters.

I arrived two days early to enjoy London. My hotel, CitizenM, was just a ten-minute walk from the Tower of London and the tender service to the ship.

Those two days were a whirlwind. I visited the Tate Modern, Buckingham Palace and Gardens, Borough Market, and even attended Sunday Mass at Westminster Abbey. Walking along the Thames proved to be the perfect way to absorb the city’s energy and history.

As departure time approached, passengers gathered in the Dome Observation Lounge for the sail-away celebration. Glasses were raised, new friendships were formed, and guests enjoyed views of London’s iconic bridges and riverfront as the ship began its voyage north.

Dinner that evening in Atlas’s PORTO restaurant showcased the line’s commitment to exceptional dining. The elegant setting, attentive service, and creative menu made an immediate impression. Complimentary wines, an Atlas signature perk, elevated the experience.

On Atlas, nourishment is never an issue.

Paula’s Pantry quickly became my favorite afternoon retreat whenever I needed a caffeine boost or sweet treat. Sampling a fresh smoothie also turned into a daily addiction.

For more casual dining, the 7AFT Grill serves burgers, fish and chips, pizza, and other comfort-food favorites by the pool. And, the self-serve gelato cart is a sweet indulgence that is impossible to resist. In the evenings, the venue transforms into the reservation-only Josper Grill, specializing in premium seafood and steaks.

Each afternoon, guests can also enjoy traditional tea service in the Dome Observation Lounge, complete with fine teas, scones, and specialty pastries.

Entertainment, Enrichment, and Relaxation

Despite a long first day, my excitement never waned. That evening, I headed back to the Dome Lounge, where the Portuguese duo, CATTZ, delighted guests with smooth Bossa Nova and Samba performances.

Music and a nightcap soon became part of my nightly routine.

Every lounge aboard the ship features a full-service bar stocked with wine, spirits, and beer, with an additional bar located poolside. The Atlas Lounge opens early, making it easy for Happy Hour to become Happy Day.

Atlas also excels at onboard entertainment and enrichment. During my voyage, singer Anne Steele and pianist, William TN Hall, delivered memorable performances, while Cruise Director Michael Shapiro kept guests entertained with his energetic cabaret shows and humorous trivia contests. The crew talent show was another crowd favorite.

Passengers can choose from a variety of Atlas-organized excursions or explore independently. Tourism offices were available in many ports offering recommendations, while the ship’s reception team always provided detailed maps prior to port arrival. Each evening, guests received The Daily Navigator, outlining the next day’s schedule, activities, and special programs.

For those seeking downtime, staying onboard can be equally rewarding.

The Atlas SeaSpa offers a range of luxurious L’Occitane treatments, and the adjoining sauna provides spectacular ocean views. Fitness enthusiasts can take advantage of the open-air track on Deck 8 or the workout center on Deck 4.

Of course, relaxation on Atlas can be as simple as finding a quiet corner with a good book and the cocktail of the day, or lounging in bed with room service and a movie.

Being lazy takes on new meaning. An elevated state of being.

Exploring Ports of Call and Embracing Local Culture

Before reaching Norway, the ship made a stop in Dundee, Scotland. I spent most of my time at the Victoria & Albert Museum’s captivating CATWALK exhibition, which explores the history and evolution of fashion shows. An interactive app even allowed visitors to create their own catwalk inspired look.

Our visit to Scotland was brief. The North Sea had other plans.

Forecasts called for 10- to 12-foot waves during the crossing to Norway. Fortunately, Atlas ships and crews are well-equipped for challenging conditions. Drawing on extensive experience navigating Antarctica’s infamous Drake Passage, our captain made the prudent decision to depart early and avoid worsening weather and waves.

The result was relatively minor: one missed port, a few bouts of seasickness, and some broken dishes. Thanks to medication and the crew’s surprisingly effective remedy—a green apple—I was back to normal within a day. The onboard medical center was available throughout the journey for any passenger needing assistance.

Once safely across the North Sea, the Norwegian adventure truly began.

Ports of Call included Stavanger, Bergen, Ålesund, Vik, and Nordfjordeid, each offering distinct history, scenery, and cultural experiences.

Bergen quickly became a favorite. Its colorful waterfront, historic wooden buildings, excellent museums, and famous funicular create a vibrant atmosphere. The Bryggens Museum showcases fascinating archaeological discoveries from the Middle Ages, while the collections of the KODE Art Museums rank among the finest in Scandinavia.

In Stavanger, I joined a narrated fjord cruise that provided a spectacular introduction to Norway’s dramatic landscapes.

In Vik, the pace accelerated with an exhilarating RIB speedboat excursion through the fjords. The visit coincided with Norway’s National Day, commemorating the signing of the Norwegian Constitution in 1814. Residents dressed in beautiful Bunads, Norway’s traditional folk costumes, and gathered for a festive parade.

Next came the picturesque town of Ålesund, widely regarded as one of Europe’s finest examples of Art Nouveau architecture. Its elegant buildings and waterfront setting make it ideal for a leisurely stroll.

One of the voyage’s most memorable experiences took place in Nordfjordeid, where Atlas arranged a special evening at the Sagastad Viking Center. Guests enjoyed traditional food, music, and storytelling before boarding a replica of the legendary Myklebust Viking ship. Helmet and sword in hand, nearly everyone embraced the opportunity for a Viking-themed photo.

Farewell to the North

The voyage concluded in Tromsø. Several passengers extended their stay to join the cruise to the Arctic; I spent the morning, before my scheduled flight, exploring the city.

The Polar Museum offers fascinating insight into Arctic exploration, hunting, and life in the far north. The Perspective Museum is equally worthwhile, featuring a rich collection of historical photographs, artifacts, and thoughtfully curated exhibitions.

Transportation to the airport is easy and affordable, with regular bus service departing from designated hotels throughout the city.

As I reflected on the journey, I found myself thinking about the endless smiles, shared laughter, the RIB Speedboat ride, the Arctic Circle crossing celebration and late-night gatherings in the Dome Lounge. These moments, as much as the scenic vistas, made the voyage unforgettable.

Like a good mini-series, my Atlas story is far from over. With my sea legs firmly intact, Antarctica may just be the next chapter.

Happy Cruising.

Link to Altas Ocean Voyages 2023 Cruise Review.