Antigua

Northern Lights and Whalen on the Ofoten and Lofoten in Northern Norway!

• Bodø - Ofoten and Lofoten islands – Senja - Tromsø
• 12. november 2021 20:00 h - 19. november 2021 09:00 h
  
• €1.380,- per person in a standard double cabin with shower and toilet
  
• €1.580,- per person in a comfort double cabin with shower and toilet
  
  The islands of Ofoten and Lofoten are often mentioned as the most beautiful in the world. The diversity of the area with dramatic mountain peaks, sheltered bays and sweeping beaches is remarkable. On board the expedition ship Antigua, nature lovers can indulge in the beauty of the untouched landscape and unique natural phenomena of Northern Norway. During this trip your experience  of the environment, nature and history of this area will be enriched by an experienced guide. On board Antigua you will sail through the awe inspiring panoramas and vistas to normally out of reach places. Accompanied by your guide on shore you will be able to further explore the wonders of these remote locations.

  In winter, this exceptionally pristine environment, far above the Arctic Circle offers even more magic: The Northern Lights. Also known as Aurora Borealis or Polar light, the Northern Lights are one of the most extraordinary natural phenomena on earth. With Antigua we visit places and ports without light pollution, so you have the best opportunities to view the Northern Lights. The splendour of green, purple, blue and rose coloured lights dancing across the sky will not disappoint.

  Making this expedition during the Norwegian winter also offers the experience of whale watching. Nowhere else in the world are such large pods of whales visible than in Northern Norway. With Antigua we navigate the fjords to places where we find the largest mammals in the world searching for food and hunting. From the ship we will spend time watching these incredible creatures with an uninterrupted view while remaining respectful of the animals in their natural habitat.

  The magical Northern Lights and large pods of whales are central to this winter expedition. The route between ports and anchorages is therefore dependent on circumstances such as weather conditions and whale locations. With this flexibility the captain of Antigua will navigate the expedition through the unspoiled fjords and bays of the Lofoten and Ofoten Islands, assuring the best opportunities for experiencing the wonders of nature while visiting the traditional villages - guaranteeing an unforgettable winter adventure!

  Friday 12. November
  From 20:00 you may board Antigua in Bodø. Upon boarding you will  meet the crew of the ship, your traveling companions and have time to settle into the accommodations on board which will be your home for the coming days. Depending on the circumstances, we will sail out of the harbour the same evening, beginning the winter adventure.

  Saturday 13. November – Thursday 18. November
  The goal is to sail to Reine, the tiny picturesque fishing village nestled between staggering peaks of granite on the eastern side of the Lofoten. During our stay in Reine we will have the chance to further explore. Either a walk weaving through the red and white fishing huts dotted along the shoreline or a zodiac cruise to the Kerkfjorden surrounded by mountains.

  The beautiful and authentic fishing village Nusfjorden could be our next stop. One of the smallest villages of the Lofoten islands Nusfjorden is a hidden treasure. Its traditional fishing huts hug its tiny tucked away harbour. Here too it is possible to go ashore for a walk,  visit the local store, the cozy coffee shop and get a taste of the essence of Lofoten.

  Next, we like to visit the village Henningsvær. As part of an island group in the Vestfjorden it boasts colourful architecture with a backdrop of majestic mountains. We will moor in the atmospheric port of Henningsvær. The many islets comprising this landscape are perfect for exploring with a zodiac cruise depending on our schedule.

  Skrova is an old whaling village. The port is located in a small bay where the hamlet winds around it. A walk through the village and its thriving community is a must. For a different perspective of the landscape and fjords it is possible to climb Høgskrova (258 m). From here you have incredible views over other Lofoten islands and the Norwegian mainland.

  Early in the morning we leave from Skrova, so that we arrive at Trollfjord, for a magnificent sunrise. The entrance is well hidden; as if to a secret land. As Antigua sails through a narrow passage with steep rocks on both sides, forming wall like structures, we will watch for sea and white-headed eagles soaring with with us.  This is one of the most beautiful and impressive fjords of the Lofoten and offers an experience you will dream of!

  Not all our worth travel time we will spend at the Lofoten. Just north of Andoy the steep edge of the continental plate descends and meets the warm Gulf Stream creating perfect conditions for whales. If the weather conditions permit, we will stay on the open sea for a while to revel in the tranquillity of the open space, whale watching and of course the Northern Lights. In the evening we could moor in Hosoy or Gryllefjord at the island Senja with the chance for a fresh evening walk in the old fishing village.

  After a beautiful stay at Senja we continue sailing to Tromsø. In the evening we will moor at our final destination.

  Friday 19. November
  After breakfast it is time to say goodbye to your traveling companions and the crew of the Antigua. Disembarking is at 10:00 in Tromsø . The airport can be reached by taxi in 10 minutes.

  Note: Wind and weather can influence the journey considerably. When necessary due to unforeseen circumstances significant changes to the route may be made. The last word is always from the  captain of Antigua. But even then, there are plenty of comparable alternatives to visit in the region.

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  Included in the price:

  • Accommodation in a two person cabin with shower and toilet
  • Bed linen and towels
  • Full board
  • Harbour fees

  Not included in the price:

  • Transfer costs
  • Drinks, except coffee, tea and water
  • Travel and cancellation insurance

  Additional information:

  • Please, don’t forget your passport or identity card
  • Luggage preferably in soft travel bags; hard suitcases are difficult to store in the cabins
  • Expenses on board can be settled at the end of the trip
  • Unfortunately it isn’t possible to pay by card
  
  

Disclaimer: Due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, we have adjusted our rules a little.
If the government decides that the trip cannot take place, we will reimburse you for the travel amount or issue you with a voucher.

Antigua

On board the Antigua you are on a very special expedition ship. The three master has a specious center deck which enables you as guest to view the vast wilderness and animals of northernmost regions of Europe. The characteristic sailing ship counts three zodiacs used for excursions.

You’re immediately at home in the comfortable  and cosy salon of the ship, a perfect spot to wind down from a day at sea. As in the salon, the standard cabins are mahogany finished. For those who prefer slightly more comfort there are a few larger cabins with loose beds. All cabins have en-suite bathrooms with showers and toilets.

With the Barkentine Antigua you will reach regions where other ships won’t be able to sail. It’s for that reason that guests prefer to embark on our unique expeditions in arctic waters.

Antigua

Cabin Plan

Sailing plan

Antigua

Facilities