Need help planning your voyage? Read our travel guide that gives you a full overview over all relevant aspects of traveling with Havila.
Need help planning your voyage? Read our travel guide that gives you a full overview over all relevant aspects of traveling with Havila.
Norway is a country of fjords, islands, mountains and Arctic skies. Deciding when and what to see is a journey in itself.
This guide helps you choose the season, voyage and experiences that are right for you, then prepare for a memorable journey along the Norwegian coast.
There is no single best season — it depends on what you hope to experience. Norway changes dramatically through the year, from bright summer nights to the stillness of Arctic winter.
The light, weather, wildlife, scenery and activities change as you travel along the coast — sometimes even within the same voyage. Choose the season that best matches the experiences you are dreaming of.
December → February
Winter transforms the coast into an Arctic adventure. Snow-covered mountains and long dark evenings make the journey feel especially peaceful. North of the Arctic Circle, the Polar Night creates the right conditions for Northern Lights viewing, while winter excursions bring you closer to reindeer, huskies, snow and Sami culture.
Best for: Travellers seeking Northern Lights, snow, Arctic activities and the distinctive atmosphere of winter in Norway.
March → May
Spring is Norway in transition. Winter can still hold its grip farther north, creating a journey of striking contrasts. Crisp air, longer days, snow on the mountains and the first signs of new life in the fjords. A wonderful time for travellers who enjoy changing scenery at a calmer pace.
Best for: Travellers who enjoy scenery, changing conditions, fewer visitors and the feeling of Norway waking up after winter.
June → August
The days are long, the landscape is green and bright, and north of the Arctic Circle the sun may remain above the horizon long into the night. This is the season for spending time on deck, seeing more of the coastline in daylight and making the most of fjords, islands and outdoor experiences.
Best for: First-time visitors, travellers who want maximum daylight, families, photographers and guests who want an active journey with plenty of time outdoors.
September → November
Days slowly shorten, mountains and forests take on warmer colours, and dark evenings return to the north. It is a season of dramatic skies, clear air, fewer travellers and the first opportunities to see the Northern Lights.
Best for: Travellers looking for a quieter voyage, autumn landscapes, atmospheric scenery and an early chance of Northern Lights.
Havila Voyages travels between Bergen and Kirkenes, calling at ports from western Norway to the Arctic north-east. The complete route takes 12 days there and back, but you can also join for one direction or a shorter section of the coast.
The ship is part of the rhythm of coastal life. It calls at major cities such as Bergen, Trondheim and Tromsø, as well as smaller places that are rarely part of a conventional cruise itinerary. Some calls are quick operational stops; others give you enough time to go ashore.
The exact timings and opportunities vary by route, direction and season, so your sailing schedule is an important part of planning your journey. The voyage continues through the day and night. You may wake to a new landscape, watch the ship arrive in a harbour over breakfast, or see the Arctic sky from the observation lounge after dinner. There is no single “main event” each day: the coast itself is the experience.
From a short introduction to the coast to the complete Norwegian journey, there is a voyage to suit your travel plans. Start with the time you have, then choose the landscapes and experiences you do not want to miss.
Northern Lights PromiseBergen → Kirkenes → Bergen (Full-trip)
Winter is beautiful, dark and cold — especially in northern Norway. Dress in layers that keep you warm, dry and comfortable for time on deck and Arctic excursions. Keep a warm outer layer close by in case the Northern Lights appear.
Experience Norway in winter with snow-covered towns and Northern Lights.
Experience the magic and wonder of Norway’s Northern Lights.
The Polar Night brings weeks of blue light, colourful skies, and Arctic magic.
Witness the Northern Lights. If not, get a second chance for free.
Spring on the Norwegian coast can feel like several seasons in one journey. Expect bright days, cool air and occasional showers, with snow still possible in the north. Pack flexible layers so you can stay comfortable wherever the route takes you.
Sail Norway's coast as spring awakens, with rushing waterfalls, fresh green landscapes, and early Geirangerfjord sailings.
Sail into Geirangerfjord, and discover the breathtaking beauty of Norway’s most iconic natural wonder.
Northern Norway's summer is defined by bright nights and the Midnight Sun.
Experience the magic and wonder of Norway’s Northern Lights.
Summer brings long days, mild temperatures and plenty of time outdoors — but evenings at sea can still be cool, and rain is always possible. Pack for sunny days, fresh sea air and relaxed time on board.
Experience Norway at its brightest, with green fjords, lively villages, the Midnight Sun, and unforgettable summer adventures.
Northern Norway's summer is defined by bright nights and the Midnight Sun.
Sail into Geirangerfjord, and discover the breathtaking beauty of Norway’s most iconic natural wonder.
Wild and wonderful with steep mountains, colourful houses and vibrant fishing villages.
Autumn brings crisp air, changing colours and increasingly dark evenings. Conditions can be wet and windy, particularly along the coast, so warm layers and reliable waterproof clothing are key.
Discover Norway's autumn, where golden hillsides, quiet fjords, and the first Northern Lights await.
The fjord that has fascinated Europe's royals and nobles, adventurers and celebrities.
Witness the Northern Lights. If not, get a second chance for free.
Up to 40% solo discount
Up to 40% solo discount