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Cruise · HX Expeditions · 9 nights

Ultimate Norway at Christmas - Arctic Expedition under the Northern Lights (2027/28)

  • Flexible itinerary to make the most of Arctic Norway in winter
  • All-inclusive adventure with winter activities and expedition team guidance
  • Intimate expedition ship with modern Scandinavian-inspired design
From
$9,768 pp twin share
$16,606 pp solo share
9 nights
Enquire
Cruise Snapshot
9 Nights

Discover the magic of a white Christmas in Norway's Arctic, with a flexible expedition cruise showcasing the Northern Lights, winter activities, and traditional Norwegian hospitality

  • Explore Norway's dramatic fjords, mountains, and islands under the Northern Lights
  • Immerse in winter activities like snowshoeing, kayaking, and expedition boat cruising
  • Enjoy exclusive experiences like a private dinner at the Hurtigruten Museum

Trip Details

Departs
18 December 2027
Returns
27 December 2027
Ship
MS Spitsbergen
Operator
HX Expeditions

10‑day all‑inclusive Norway expedition cruise from Tromsø

The 9-night Norway voyage aboard MS Spitsbergen sails round trip from Tromso, calling at Lyngen, Senja, Lonkanfjorden, Stokmarknes, Svolvær, Raftsundet, Lofoten and Elgsness.

  • Experience a magical white Christmas in Northern Norway with snow-covered landscapes, traditional Norwegian food and true yuletide cheer.
  • Embrace a flexible itinerary, seek out the ethereal Northern Lights, and go beyond the usual highlights to discover the real Arctic Norway.
  • Enjoy an all-inclusive adventure filled with winter activities, from kayaking and snowshoeing to whale-spotting and expedition boat cruising.

You sail aboard MS Spitsbergen. After being completely rebuilt for exploration travel with a modern Scandinavian-inspired interior design, MS Spitsbergen joined our fleet in 2016. As one of our smaller expedition vessels, it offers a comfortable and intimate sailing experience. On board: Indoor gym; Sauna with outside view; Outdoor hot tubs; Observation decks; Explorer lounge and bar; Onboard shop; Expedition Team; Restaurant Aune.

When & how much

Departures & Pricing

Departs
18 December 2027
Returns 27 December 2027
Returns
27 December 2027
Duration
9 nights
From pp twin share
$9,768 pp
From pp solo cabin
$16,606 pp
  • 18 Dec 2027 - 27 Dec 2027
    from $9,768 pp twin share / $16,606 pp sole use *
Additional Pricing Information
  • Polar Inside from $9,768 pp twin share
  • Polar Outside from $10,884 pp twin share
  • Arctic Superior from $12,094 pp twin share
  • Expedition Suite from $14,982 pp twin share

* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.

Upgrades, transfers, accommodation and more can be quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.

Life in transit

MS Spitsbergen

MS Spitsbergen
Details · HX Expeditions
MS Spitsbergen

After being completely rebuilt for exploration travel with a modern Scandinavian-inspired interior design, MS Spitsbergen joined our fleet in 2016. As one of our smaller expedition vessels, it offers a comfortable and intimate sailing experience.

Guests
150
Gross tonnage
7,344
Speed
14.5 knots
Length
100 m
Launched
2009
Beam
18 m
Deck plans
6
MS Spitsbergen · Deck plans

Deck 8

MS Spitsbergen — Deck 8 deck plan

Source: HX Expeditions, captured 16 September 2026. Deck plans are provided by the cruise line and are subject to change at any time.

Day by day

Itinerary

  1. 1

    Depart from Tromsø

    Discover the gateway to the Arctic

    Tromsø was the base for many historic Arctic expeditions, including those of Roald Amundsen, and its situation 250 miles north of the Polar Circle has led to it being called the ‘Gateway to the Arctic’. Just like the legendary explorers, now it is your turn to set a course for the High Arctic.

    If you arrive early in Tromsø, take the opportunity to ride the Fjellheisen cable car for wide views over this city, located some 200 miles north of the Arctic Circle. Stroll past the modernist Arctic Cathedral, duck into cosy cafés glowing with festive lights, and keep one eye on the water: whales are sometimes spotted offshore.

  2. 2

    Exploring Lyngen Fjord and Alps

    The scenic Lyngenfjord

    Over the next week we’ll be exploring four distinct regions in depth, each with its own outstanding features and unique beauty. The first such region we’re likely to visit is Lyngen.

    Stretching out to just about 50 miles long is Lyngenfjord, a region of dramatic mountains and valleys, framed by the glacier-capped Lyngen Alps. It’s an incredible place for winter activities. Conditions permitting, you can tackle a hike, try snowshoeing, kayak in the icy waters, or join nature landings where you might spot otters and potentially even orcas and humpback whales.

    Later, it’s time for a real treat. Inspired by Norway’s friluftsliv, a deep love for the great outdoors, we’ll gather on the beach and enjoy the warmth of a bonfire on our Day to Dusk – Flames and Flavours experience. With hot drinks in hand and Norwegian treats cooked by our onboard chefs, you’ll really feel at one with nature. If we’re lucky, perhaps the Northern Lights will put on a display for us.

  3. 3

    Senja

    Discover Norway in miniature

    Senja is Norway’s second-largest island, and it’s sometimes called Norway-in-miniature. With its rugged mountains, sandy beaches, dark forests and idyllic fishing villages, you can see how it earned this name. Free-roaming reindeer wander around the island, so keep an eye out for them.

    We plan to visit the historic settlement of Tranoya for a unique experience with some warm Scandinavian hospitality. Learn about ancient Viking culture and modern life in the remote villages of Arctic Norway during the winter months.

    In December and January, we’ll sometimes be sailing in the dark and at dusk during the day – but this will only enhance our experience, with glittering snowscapes illuminated by the low sun and the starlight.

  4. 4

    Vesterålen

    Enjoy an exclusive adventure

    Vesterålen awaits us with its beautiful snow-covered landscapes, ideal for expedition activities such as snowshoe hiking, small boat cruising and kayaking. We plan to spend two days in this region.

    It’s here that we have our special Into the Night – Dinner at the Museum experience at Hurtigrutemuseet, the Hurtigruten Museum. You’ll enjoy an exclusive opening of this heritage setting and dine amid historical artefacts in the old dining room of the ship, MS Finnmarken.

  5. 5

    Lofoten

    Days 5–6

    Get to know Lofoten in more detail

    Sailing from Vesterålen to Svolvær, your Captain and Expedition Leader will chart the day’s route based on conditions and opportunities, ensuring we make the most of what the region has to offer.

    If conditions allow, we’ll venture into Trollfjord, where narrow waters are framed by sheer-sided cliffs, Or we’ll cruise between rugged peaks through the Raftsundet Strait. Whatever route we take, you’ll be immersed in striking scenery. And as we navigate dramatic fjords, the mountains rise so close to the ship you’ll feel like you could reach out and touch them.

    In winter, the Lofoten Islands transform into a snow-covered wonderland. Narrow fjords, hidden beached between towering mountains and picturesque fishing communities are all ideal to visit with a small ship like MS Spitsbergen.

    One such community is Svolvær. As Christmas nears, the streets and homes are decorated with beautiful lights – wander around and simply soak up the festive atmosphere.

    To top it off, you’ll also get to enjoy your second special experience, a Nordic Sauna and Polar Plunge. Embrace a revitalising Norwegian tradition as you relax in the warmth of a sauna before taking a thrilling polar plunge.

  6. 7

    Christmas in Lofoten

    A Jul to remember

    In Norway, Christmas Eve is the first day of Christmas – or Jul, as the Norwegians say. We’ll enjoy a lovely day as we sail around the Lofoten Islands, seeking out landings to get closer to nature – perhaps it will be a beach covered in snow! We may head out in our small expedition boats to explore between remote islands or even get out the kayaks.

    Later, on board, you’ll feel the Christmas spirit all around you. Decorations, Christmas singing, storytelling, hot chocolate and gløgg - could there be a better place to be at this special time of year? In the evening you’ll enjoy a special Norwegian-themed dinner – or julebord – and afterwards the celebrations will continue.

  7. 8

    Towards Tromsø

    Days 8–9

    Enjoy Christmas Day in serene Norwegian beauty

    Today is Christmas Day, and we’ll continue to enjoy the uniquely festive onboard atmosphere, but with added adventure. We’ll stay sheltered in the deep fjords as we make our way back towards Tromsø – at each turn there will be a new island or mountain. Along the way we have plenty of time to scout out landing sites in our small expedition boats, and to go on nature walks and take part in other activities.

    The scenery continues to be stunning as we pass through these inner waters, with the magical winter light playing softly on the sea and mountains. We also pass through areas where we’re likely to see whales. While on board, enjoy the Arctic scenery from the ship, warm up in the sauna or join the Expedition Team to listen to talks and attend discovery sessions in the Science Centre.

  8. 10

    Return to Tromsø

    Another opportunity to explore Tromsø

    Your Christmas expedition cruise ends back in Tromsø. If you didn’t have an opportunity to explore this beautiful town before the cruise, make sure you do now. There’s so much to see and do here.

What you get for the price

Inclusions & exclusions

What’s included

  • A stay in a cabin of your choice.
  • All day coffee, tea and soft drinks.
  • Fine dining in restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests (only on MS Fram).
  • A complimentary Ocean Bottle water bottle to refill on board and take home.
  • A wind and waterproof expedition jacket.
  • Professional photos from your trip taken by our onboard photographer.

Not included

  • International flights
  • Additional overnight(s) if required due to international flight timings
  • Travel insurance
  • Luggage handling
  • Optional shore excursions with our local partners
Where you’ll stay

Accommodation

MS Spitsbergen

After being completely rebuilt for exploration travel with a modern Scandinavian-inspired interior design, MS Spitsbergen joined our fleet in 2016. As one of our smaller expedition vessels, it offers a comfortable and intimate sailing experience.

On board: Indoor gym; Sauna with outside view; Outdoor hot tubs; Observation decks; Explorer lounge and bar; Onboard shop; Expedition Team; Restaurant Aune; Brygga Bistro; Wi-Fi.

Polar Inside

Our cosy Polar Inside cabins feature

  • Double beds and some have additional Pullman beds.

  • All have private bathrooms with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, and tea- and coffee-making facilities.  

  • I2D – Inside cabin: no window, double bed, 9–14 m².
  • K2D – Larger inside cabin: no window, double bed, 15–20 m².

Polar Outside

  • Most of our Polar Outside cabins onboard MS Spitsbergen have double beds. Some include a single or double sofa bed and two Pullman beds (upper/lower berths).

  • All have private bathrooms with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, and tea- and coffee-making facilities.  

  • O3 – Outside cabin: window, two pullman beds, upper/lower berths, 13–14 m².
  • O2D – Outside cabin: window, double bed, 13–14 m².
  • J2D – Outside cabin: window, limited view or no view, double bed, 11–12 m².

Arctic Superior

Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of our Arctic Superior cabins.

  • They feature double beds, some with a sofa bed.

  • All have private bathrooms with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, and tea- and coffee-making facilities.  

  • QJ – Outside cabin: window, limited view or no view, double bed, 14–18 m².
  • YA – Wheelchair-accessible cabin: window, limited view or no view, double bed, 18 m².
  • P2D – Outside cabin: window, limited view or no view, double bed, 11 m².
  • U2D – Outside cabin: window, double bed, 13–14 m².

Expedition Suite

Add some indulgence to your voyage aboard MS Spitsbergen and reserve one of our Expedition Suites.

  • Spacious, serviced, and with bed combinations for up to four people, these well-appointed apartments offer special features such as private balconies, expansive windows, and minibars (charges apply).

  • Suites feature double beds, some with a seating area, some with a sofa bed or a Pullman bed.

  • All have private bathrooms with a shower and toiletries, a TV, a safe, European two-pin plug sockets, tea-making facilities, and a single-serve coffee machine. Naturally, the accommodation includes a full range of premium facilities including daily turn-down service and laundry.

  • Champagne on ice and a platter of delicacies are provided for your enjoyment as you set sail.

  • MX – Owners Suite: private balcony, double bed, sofa bed, 32–33 m².
  • MG – Grand Suite: private balcony, double bed, sofa bed, 28–29 m².
  • Q2 – Mini Suite: window, double bed, 16–17 m².
  • Q3 – Mini Suite: window, double bed, 22–23 m².
  • Q4 – Mini Suite: window, double bed, 21–22 m².
From the operator

Common questions about this voyage

How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 10 days and 9 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 18 Dec 2027 and 27 Dec 2027, subject to live availability.
Can I travel solo?
Solo pricing may be available on selected departures, and final options can be confirmed at enquiry.
What is generally included?
Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.
What style of accommodation is used?
Accommodation is pre-arranged as part of the journey, with specific properties shown in the trip details.
Ready to lock in?

Book this cruise

Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.

Enquire about this cruise
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