14 Night The Arctic Crossing Cruise |
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THINGS TO DO IN
COPENHAGEN
Departs at 5:00 PM
Copenhagen has come a long way from its early Viking days. Its historic center of Frederiksstaden has its share of castles and royal-era palaces— but it’s the modern, sleek Scandinavian design and playful, hygge spirit that sets Denmark’s capital apart today. Each neighborhood offers its own unique, exciting adventures. Explore the city’s seafaring past with a canal cruise under a network of bridges, or take a stroll along Nyhavn’s colorful quay. Peek in Kødbyen’s trendy art galleries and savor world-renowned Nordic cuisine in Christiania’s quirky cafes. Adventure comes in many forms in Copenhagen, from Baltic beaches to famous fairytales.
A Moorish Palace in Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, Denmark
Pump up the adrenaline at Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks. Go upside down on the 62 mph Vertigo, or feel the thrill of riding the famous wooden roller coaster that marked its 100th birthday in 2014. Arcade games, pantomime shows and live music only add to the park’s appeal.
The National Museum of Denmark in Copenhagen
Housed in the old Prince’s Palace, the National Museum’s galleries span the Great Hall and former sleeping quarters of Danish royalty. Here you can admire furniture from the early 18th century, as well as impressive collections of classical and eastern antiquities, handicrafts, coins, medals and children’s toys.
Frederik's Church in Copenhagen, Denmark
Denmark Copenhagen Mini Hot Air Balloons
Hit the famous shopping strip of Strøget, one of the longest pedestrian-friendly streets in Europe, for international brands and kitschy collectibles. Copenhagen is perhaps best-known for its Danish-designed glass and ceramic home goods. Many vendors sell secondhand porcelain and silver pieces in street markets, but be prepared to bargain.
Little Mermaid statue sitting on a rock on the harborfront in the northern Kastellet area in Copenhagen, Denmark
Inspired by the famous Hans Christian Andersen fairytale, The Little Mermaid sculpture remains one of the most visited landmarks in all of Copenhagen. Find her sitting on a rock in the harbor, in all her bronze and granite glory, looking forlorn in search of her prince on land.
Aerial view of Copenhagen, Denmark
Danish smørrebrød sandwich with salmon fish and egg on wooden board, in Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen has the most Michelin-starred restaurants of any Scandinavian city. Noma is consistently named “Best Restaurant in the World” for its New Nordic cuisine. But if you’re hungry for a quick lunch, try a herring smørrebrød sandwich and a dozen Limfjord oysters. Savor Danish cheese, coffee and pastries at Torvehallerne market— or sip on an ice-cold pint of Carlsberg pilsner.
THINGS TO DO IN
KRISTIANSAND
From 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Kristiansand, named after its founding king, is the lively capital of Southern Norway. Stroll through the old town of Posebyen, known for its neat grid design with wooden white and pastel-colored houses. Explore the area around the quayside and fish market, and relax in an outdoor cafe. In summer, the Bystranda Beach is filled with cheerful Norwegians catching a spot of sunshine. Take a boat trip to visit the quaint fishing villages nearby. Cruise to Kristiansand and bring your little ones to the large Dyrepark, which includes a zoo, a fantasy village, and a water park.
Coastal buildings and a lighthouse in Kristiansand, Norway
Take a stroll through Posebyen, the old part of town, admiring the collection of wooden buildings, painted in white and pastel colors. A big city fire in 1892 destroyed most of Kristiansand but left this neighborhood intact.
INSIDER TIP
Kristiansand is flat, so it's an ideal place to explore on foot or by bicycle.
A vintage cannon overlooking the ocean in Kristiansand, Norway
Visit the photogenic Christiansholm Fortress, on the seaside promenade in the city center. Built between 1662 and 1672 by Fredrik III to keep watch over the strategic Skagerrak Straits, which were often assailed by pirates. The fortress features five-meter-thick walls — perfect for soldiers to hold up in a bunker.
Baneheia lakeside view in Kristiansand, Norway
Assorted wool hats in Norway
Shop for local products at the Posebyen Market, including traditional wool hats and sweaters, as well as antique homegoods and decorations. For trendy fashions and modern Scandinavian home designs, head to Kristiansand's main street, Markens. Here, you'll find the large shopping center Slotts Quartalet. For charming boutiques, head to Skippergata — there are small shops specializing in everything from upscale fashions to leather goods.
The Odderoya Lighthouse in Kristiansand, Norway
Cross the bridge south of the center to the island of Odderoya. Walk the pleasant seaside walking paths, admire the endless views and sandy beaches, have a look inside the cool galleries, and relax in the laid-back cafes. In summer, the island hosts several festivals and large outdoor concerts with both national and international artists.
INSIDER TIP
The Norwegian Krone (NOK) is the official currency of Norway. Many stores and restaurants also accept major credit cards.
Five scallops on a black plate with garnish
For breakfast, head to the charming coffee shops in Skippergada street to have some quality coffee and a "horn," a savory crescent roll often filled with cheese and ham. Follow the locals to the Fiskebrygga (fish market) and buy a some fish cakes and a basket of strawberries during your Kristiansand cruise. You can enjoy them sitting at the quayside. For dinner, try distinctive dishes like local scallops served with trout roe and radishes at one of the city's upscale, modern restaurants.
PLAY ANY WAY YOU LIKE
Fuel disco, Teen or enchantment of the seas Disco, club, lounge. bar, bar stools, chairs, tv, foosball, en, vision class, youth activities,
Let’s face it, teens want the freedom to choose how they spend their time onboard. Now, 13 to 17-year-olds get an exclusive new lounge to call their own with music, movies, gaming — and even an outdoor patio hangout.
Young Woman Climbing Up the Rock Wall
Perfect Storm Boy Entering Slide
Up for adventure? Put on your brave face and get ready to race through twists, turns and next-level thrills on the boldest slides at sea. No matter which ship you sail on, The Perfect Storm℠ waterslides take excitement off the charts.
Girl Surfing Flowrider at Daytime with a Smile
Grab your board and get ready for 30,000 gallons of rushing awesome headed your way. The surf’s always up on the 40-foot-long FlowRider® surf simulator.
Man Sliding Down The Perfect Storm
Family's First Time Ice Skating
Whether you’re a beginner or you’ve got moves like the Great One, you’ll have a great time every time at the ice skating rink.
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THINGS TO DO IN
AKUREYRI
From 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
For a city of 18,000 residents, Akureyri packs a lively punch. Situated at the head of Eyjafjordur, Iceland's longest fjord, the first thing you'll notice is the backdrop of dramatic snow-covered mountains. Take a stroll through the Old Town and admire the 19th-century turf houses. Sample some authentic Icelandic cuisine, or warm up in the steaming Akureyri Thermal Pool. Around the corner, you'll find Akureyri's basalt church, Akureyrarkirkja, with its striking, futuristic facade. Iceland cruises give you access to stroll through Lystigardurinn, the northernmost botanical garden in the world, and breathe in the fresh air and the scent of wild arctic flowers.
Colorful flowers at a botanical garden in Akureyri, Iceland
Find a wealth of plant life at a stone's throw from the Arctic Circle. At Lystigardurinn, the most northerly botanical garden in the world, you can walk along green pathways lined with colorful, sweet-smelling flowers, and take a look at Iceland's native species, as well as 4,000 foreign plants.
INSIDER TIP
There's a free town bus service on four routes. Look for the yellow buses.
Clear blue water within a cave in Iceland
The Akureyri Thermal Pool is one of Iceland's finest. Cruise to Iceland and splash about or relax in the indoor and outdoor pools, which are open year-round. Join the locals for a dip in the geothermal hot spots, the 25-meter pool or the Turkish bath. There are also water slides and a pool for younger children.
INSIDER TIP
Chances are high that there will be a festival in town, such as the annual Akureyri Art Summer, Local Food Festival or Akureyri Town Festival.
An assortment of wool sweaters at a store
You don't need to walk far when shopping in Akureyri: Most shops are in the city center along Hafnarsteti street and in the Glerartorg shopping mall. You'll find trendy designer brands, fun souvenirs and high-fashion labels. The Icelandic Kroner (ISK) is the official currency, and many stores accept credit cards.
THINGS TO DO IN
REYKJAVIK
From Day 6, 2:00 PM - Day 7, 5:00 PM
Reykjavik is the beating heart of Iceland. The city was founded in 1786, but it's also the site of Iceland's first permanent settlement, dating back to 874 AD. Check out the Settlement Exhibition, a combination archaeological ruin and museum based around a 10th-century longhouse, where interactive technology and archaeology reveal historical Iceland. The church Hallgrimskirkja dominates the skyline — admire its distinctive Expressionist-style architecture designed to mirror the nearby mountains and glaciers during your Iceland cruise.
View of the organ inside a cathedral in Reykjavik, Iceland
Hallgrimskirkja Church towers over the city. Hop on the elevator to rise 75 meters into the spire, where you'll enjoy panoramic views. In the surprisingly understated interior, you'll find the vast 5,275-pipe organ, upon which an organist performs near-daily concerts.
INSIDER TIP
Take a 30-minute guided tour of the glittering Harpa Music Hall, located on the edge of the port.
People enjoying the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa in Reykjavik, Iceland
Built on a lava field and heated with geothermal energy, the famous Blue Lagoon is an easy 45-minute drive from Reykjavik. Pamper yourself with mud masks and massages while in the hot water. There's plenty to do on dry land as well with cruises to Iceland — relax in a steam room, dine at LAVA Restaurant or shop for skincare products to bring a piece of Iceland home.
The Hallgrimskirkja Cathedral in Reykjavik, Iceland
A wool sweater on a wooden floor
Laugavegur, or "the Wash Road," is the hippest shopping street in this compact city. An easy walk from port, the district offers a wide range of designer clothes, artisan wools and housewares. It's also home to an excellent bookstore and several spots for modern, design-driven home goods that bridge the gap between decorative and utilitarian.
View of the Perlan in Reykjavik, Iceland
Grab the free shuttle bus every half hour from Harpa Music Hall to the Perlan Dome, which reveals the wonders of Iceland through exhibitions that include a man-made ice cave, a planetarium and an interactive glacier show. The observation deck puts your attention on the natural wonders of Iceland, including mountains, geothermal areas, the ocean and a glacier.
INSIDER TIP
Kolaportio Flea Market is housed in an old industrial building by the harbor and offers everything from secondhand clothes to food and knock-off designer goods.
An Icelandic hot dog
Reykjavik holds culinary pleasures both high and low. Many local spots serve up hearty Icelandic meat stew, made with lamb, potatoes, carrots and lots of herbs. Seek out creamy lobster stew and locally caught langoustine tails. And don't miss out on the national street food: the Icelandic hot dog.
Day 2 in REYKJAVIK!
The newly amped up Voyager of the Seas is packed with more ways to play on your South Pacific getaway. Gear up for a glow-in-the-dark laser tag faceoff in Battle for Planet Z℠ and catch a wave on the FlowRider® surf simulator. Take a flavor-filled journey to the exotic Far East at Izumi and find your element with rustic Italian dishes served with a contemporary flair at Giovanni’s Table.
THE PERFECT STORM
Three stories high with wet and wild thrills, The Perfect Storm® waterslide duo takes excitement off the charts. Grab a buddy and race through twists and turns and translucent panels offering unforgettable views, to the bottom of the Typhoon® and Cyclone® slides.
LASER TAG
In a far-flung galaxy in a distant future, two forces are set to collide in Battle for Planet Z℠. One, the last remnants of a robot civilization. The other, an alien landing party for a solar system soon to be consumed by a meganova. It’s a glow-in-the-dark face off for control of the last planet in an epic laser tag battle. Grab your intergalactic gear for a stellar time in Studio B.
ADVENTURE OCEAN
Hangouts get a serious upgrade onboard Voyager of the Seas®, with newly designed spaces for kids and teens too. It’s a whole new game at the award-winning Adventure Ocean℠ Youth Program, redesigned as an open, free play space with whimsical activities tucked into every corner. And teens can kick back and hang out at the coolly updated Living Room, complete with a new outdoor chill space, The Back Deck.
THINGS TO DO IN
PRINS CHRISTIAN SUND
Prins Christian Sund is a dramatically picturesque fjord in the south of Greenland, which is part of the Kingdom of Denmark. Marvel at gorgeous glaciers, steep mountains reaching over 2,200 meters, crystal-clear waterfalls and untouched wildlife. Jump onboard a Greenland cruise and enjoy watching whales swim along the iceberg-dotted shores. In summer, you can spot bright blue and purple flowers — and during winter nights the magical northern lights appear. Walk around the only settlement here, Aappilattoq, a small village of colorful Nordic-style houses that's home to only around 100 people.
Multiple humpback whales
At the entrance and exit to the fjord, you can spot minke, fin and blue whales. Blueberry ringed and bearded seals can be seen on top of icebergs. You may also see reindeer, polar fox, muskox and of course many different species of birds.
INSIDER TIP
Pack warm clothes during all seasons, and be prepared for sudden changes in the weather.
A coastal hiking trail in Greenland
While Greenland has only few roads, South Greenland has a system of hiking trails that link towns and villages to each other. Look for stunning, unfenced wilderness, with the ever-present icy vistas set against towering mountains ridges and rolling green hills.
A small coastal settlement in Greenland
The world's largest non-continental island has a small but unique population, which is a blend of Inuit and Danish heritage. In Prins Christian Sund, the only settlement is Aappilattoq.
INSIDER TIP
Be sure to take enough memory cards for your camera — the views are incredibly photogenic.
THINGS TO DO IN
QAQORTOQ
Tendered from 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM
With 3,229 inhabitants, Qaqortoq is a large town for Greenlandic standards. Stroll around the historical buildings in this colorful colonial town, formerly known as Julianeha. Cruise to Greenland to admire the open-air sculpture gallery Stone and Man, and check out the spouting whale fountain. Then, visit the quaint Qaqortoq Museum, housed in the town's oldest building. Kayak among the fjords around the city, or hike along the nearby mountain-rimmed Lake Tasersuaq. Later, soak your stress away in the delightful hot springs, bubbling at a perfect 98 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit on the island of Uunartoq.
A small river in rural Greenland
Take a boat to the nearby uninhabited island of Uunartoq (Greenlandic for "very hot island"). In the middle of the grassy fields, you'll find wonderful hot springs, surrounded by mountain peaks and drifting icebergs. With a water temperature of around 98 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, they are perfect for bathing.
INSIDER TIP
At the Tourist Office, you can get free town maps, buy hiking maps and use the internet.
A face carved in stone
Explore the intriguing sculpture park Stone and Man near the museum. Greenlandic artist Aka Hoegh launched the project in the mid-1990s with artists from all of the Nordic countries. There are now around 40 sculptures and carvings, also in other parts of town.
A moored boat at a marina in Qaqortoq, Greenland
An assortment of handcrafted jewelry
Head to the Qaqortoq Souvenir Shop, right next to the jetty, run by the Greenland Sagalands tour operator and tourist information center. Browse the typical Greenlandic handicrafts like artwork, jewelry, musk ox knitwear or a tupilaq, a carved figure to protect against enemies.
The ruins of a Norse building in Greenland
Visit the Qaqortoq Museum, housed in a tar-blackened building dating back to 1804. Check out the blue room, the red room, the collection of talismans and the peat hut. For more Nordic history, check out the Norse ruins at Hvalsey Church.
INSIDER TIP
The Danish Krone (DKK) is the official currency of Greenland. Major credit cards are accepted.
A roasted fillet of halibut and potato puree in a white bowl
Dine in at of the atmospheric eateries with tasteful art and wooden floors at the old town square. Greenlandic food is based on marine mammal meat, game, birds and halibut. There are a handful of forward-thinking restaurants dishing out modern takes on the traditional fare. Cruises to Greenland allow you to sample musk-ox filet poached in juniper berry juice, mustard-baked halibut or smoked breast of auk, a local sea bird, marinated in honey.
THINGS TO DO IN
NUUK
From 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Most travelers come to Greenland for the glaciers, ice fields and fjords, but to enjoy this large island's culture, be sure to stop in Nuuk. Like most other cities in Greenland, the capital is located along the ice-free, fjord-lined southwest coast, offering beautiful views of both the rolling landscape and the gorgeous icy waters beyond. Cruise to Greenland to stroll around the old harbor, with its wooden homes and fantastic views of the Nuuk fjord. Admire the street art, sculptures and avant-garde architecture like the Katuaq Cultural Centre with its wooden "screen" meant to symbolize the Northern Lights. Sample some traditional dishes, such as nipisa suaat — Greenland's intense, umami-rich signature caviar or browse for a warmer outfit at local boutiques like the family-owned Qiviut.
A panoramic view of Nuuk, Greenland
The spacious Greenland National Museum, located in colonial buildings at the old harbor, houses well-presented exhibitions, with pieces dating back 4,500 years. You won't want to miss the bronze sculpture depicting the Greenlandic tale of the Mother of the Sea, the geological room with the world's oldest rocks and the mummy room with three mummified 15th-century women and a child. This museum will have you never wanting to leave the past.
INSIDER TIP
You'll likely bring warm clothing with you to Greenland, but if you're traveling in summer, don't forget sunscreen, mosquito repellent and sunglasses.
The Church of our Saviour in Nuuk, Greenland
For a glimpse of Greenland's history, head to the yellow-colored Hans Egede House, built in 1728 and located in old harbor. The oldest house in Greenland, this building is now the venue for government receptions. At the Egede House, you'll find a bit of history, amazing views and incredible, centuries-old architecture.
INSIDER TIP
Greenlandic is spoken by around 80,000 Inuits in Greenland, Alaska and Canada. Say "qujanarsuaq" if you want to thank a local for their help.
A women holding a wool sweater
Imaneq Street is the place to go for traditionally made goods when you visit Nuuk with your cruise. Check out Qiviut to shop for garments knitted from muskox wool, an incredibly warm and soft material. You'll find a taste of native Inuit culture with Nuuk Couture, and you'll discover much more variety at the Nuuk Center, the country's first shopping mall, located next to the Katuaq Cultural Centre.
Typical architecture in Nuuk, Greenland
The design of the large Katuaq Cultural Centre, the city's architectural highlight, was inspired by icebergs, the waving Northern Lights and the play of light on ice and snow. Head here to check out a Greenlandic art exhibition, to attend a concert or to meet the locals in the pleasant cafe during your cruise to Nuuk. Witness an architectural feat at Katuaq.
INSIDER TIP
The Danish krone (DKK) is the official currency in Greenland, but some souvenir shops accept foreign currency in notes.
A traditional fish dish in Greenland
Most of the food in Greenland comes from the sea and is often smoked, dried or salted, and served with sauces. Stop into any local restaurant to feast on Greenland's national dish, suaasat, a thick soup made of meat, potatoes, onion and rice. If you're looking to indulge, try some panertut, dried fish or meat with butter and apples.
Start of three days of cruising, fun, and food onboard the Voyager.
GET READY TO TRAVEL ON A WHOLE NEW LEVEL
This isn’t your same-old, never bold vacation. This is a boredom busting adventure for the whole crew.
Race to the finish line on two high-speed waterslides on The Perfect Storm℠. Or go head to head in a glow-in-the-dark laser tag clash in Laser Tag: Battle for Planet Z℠.
Take a flavor-filled journey to the exotic Far East at Izumi. Find your element with rustic Italian dishes served with a contemporary flair at Giovanni’s Table. Indulge in the cut above the rest hand-cut steaks at Chops Grille. Or embark on a globetrotting gourmet adventure at Windjammer Café.
Come for the g-force spins. Stay for the spectacular ice dancing. The Studio B ice rink presents dramatic ice shows starring a cast of professional skaters from around the world. Enjoy dazzling costumes and choreography filled with amazing spins, leaps and lifts.
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Crusing continued...
THINGS TO DO IN
BOSTON
Arrives at 6:00 AM
Toting over 400 years of history, Boston is one of the oldest cities in America. Boston cruises allow you to see Revolution-era relics standing tall amid modern cityscapes, and homes where legendary patriots, politicians and poets once lived. Discover cobblestone charm in Beacon Hill and Paul Revere’s midnight route through the North End. Breathe in salty air along the Harborwalk and ride in a swan boat around Boston Public Garden. Whether it’s walking the Freedom Trail, kayaking on the Charles River, or living time-honored baseball traditions at Fenway Park, you’ll come to find Boston is the birthplace of New England adventure.
Walk the 2.5-mile, red-lined Freedom Trail past 16 historical sites. See the grave of John Hancock, old meetinghouses, famous churches, the home of Paul Revere, the site of the Boston Massacre, Quincy Market and the USS Constitution— Old Ironsides— the world’s oldest commissioned warship still floating today.
Step aboard a full-scale restored 18th-century boat and explore American history at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museums during your Boston cruise. Let historical interpreters, artifacts, and an award-winning film engage you in the story of the Sons of Liberty, whose infamous political protest helped ignite the American Revolution.
Newbury Street offers a mix of upscale retailers and art galleries. Converse shoes were born here — design your own pair at the flagship store. Cruise to Boston and brattle Book Shop sells rare first editions in a hidden alleyway. Or stop by Faneuil Hall for handbags, scrimshaw items and jewelry hand-made by local artisans.
Massachusetts Gloucester Lighthouse Harbor
See Boston from the water while on a scenic sightseeing harbor cruise. Check out the city’s historic skyline, bridges spanning the Charles River, and Boston’s harbor islands. You can sail by wooden schooner, take a climate-controlled boat ride, or enjoy a fully narrated Duck Tour in a WWII-style amphibious landing craft.
Boston Common Massachusetts Maple Oak Fall
Nothing beats eating a New England lobster roll by the harbor. And don’t miss Union Oyster House, one of America’s oldest restaurants, for Island Creek oysters and their famous clam chowder. Try Boston baked beans and scrod fish fillets. Parker House rolls and Boston cream pie were both conceived here too— and head to the North End for Italian-American fare, especially sweet cannoli.