SCOTTISH cruise operator Hebridean Island Cruises has introduced longer itineraries in Norway including the lesser-known fjords, following demand from regular passengers for a wider choice in 2000.
The cruises are on the 50-passenger ship Hebridean Princess and featured in the operator’s Cruise Directory 2000 brochure.
Itineraries include the seven-night Stavanger and the Scenic South cruise between Stavanger and Bergen, which takes in the lesser-known Hardangerfjord and the almost unexplored Lysefjord.
The seven-night Bergen and the Undiscovered North voyage also explores new territory, Osterfjord and Sorfjord, which is rarely visited by cruise ships.
For a longer holiday, the 14-night Nordic Odyssey itinerary has also been introduced. Guests board at Bergen, sail north to the island of Steinsoy at the mouth of the Sognefjord, where they visit Utvaer, the most westerly point in Norway.
The cruise also takes in the archipelago of Bulandet, comprising 365 islands known as the Venice of Norway; the port of Alesund; and the Scottish islands of Orkney and Shetland.
Hebridean Island Cruises managing director Michael Fenton said:”The ship has not previously visited these remote parts of Norway. Cruising in this region for the majority of vessels is confined to the seaward end of a few of the deeper fjords.
“In addition, the sheer size of most cruise vessels and their tight schedules mean there is no opportunity for exploring the peaceful upper reaches and time ashore is very limited.
“The waters are rarely visited by other cruise ships and we may well be the first small cruise vessel ever to have visited some of these remote communities.”
To tempt the newcomer, Hebridean has introduced a series of four-night mini-cruises. The Hebridean Sampler and A Taste of the Hebrides cruises both take place in April, calling at Mull, Colonsay and the Isle of Jura.
Prices start at £845 for a single cabin on the four-night cruise and £3,150 on the seven-night Norway cruise. The 14-night Nordic Odyssey starts at £7,000 per person.
Prices include all meals, soft drinks and tea and coffee on board, entrance fees to attractions on shore visits and use of the ship’s equipment.