Day 3
One of the joys of life aboard the Azamara Pursuit is the sense of relaxation it brings. A leisurely day’s cruising affords us plenty of time to catch up on some reading or treat yourself to a pampering session at the Sanctum Spa. Take a look at our schedule of talks on board by leading experts and brush up on your knowledge of our ports of call. Later during dinner we arrive at our first stop – Oslo, Norway’s beguiling capital city.
Day 4
After breakfast we have a sightseeing tour of Oslo. This relatively small capital is a captivating blend of old and new, featuring world-class museums, cutting-edge contemporary architecture and beautiful open spaces. We see the imposing Royal Palace and the famed Vigeland sculpture park.
The rest of the day is free for you to explore this charming city. Perhaps visit the Kon-Tiki Museum, which contains the reed and balsa-wood vessels used by Norwegian adventurer Thor Heyerdahl on his landmark 1947 expedition across the Pacific and later trips across other oceans. Next door is the museum dedicated to the polar exploration ship, Fram, used by Roald Amundsen when he beat Captain Scott in the race to reach the South Pole.
During dinner we begin cruising through the strait of Skagerrak, once the only route in and out of the Baltic Sea and the site of the Battle of Jutland during World War I.
Day 5
This morning we arrive in Kristiansand, a charming city with a lively fishing harbour and an old quarter where the architecture is as striking as it is diverse. The city’s broad streets are laid out in a quadrant plan, a legacy of King Christian IV from 1641. Perhaps visit the circular Christiansholm Fortress, which was once used to repel British warships but today doubles as a popular venue for cultural events. Just north of the city centre are Baneheia and Ravnedalen, quiet nature parks that offer excellent lakeside hiking. For insights into the daily life of Norwegians from the past, head to the Vest-Agder open-air museum, which features carefully reconstructed streets with an impressive collection of historic buildings, some dating back to 1580.
Early this evening we continue cruising along Norway’s southern coast.
Day 6
Arriving this morning, you have the day to explore Haugesund, an attractive and lively city that stretches from the open sea to the magnificent fjords and mountains in the east. The kith and kin of early princes made the region the royal seat of Harald Fairhair, and if you wish to see the burial site of Norway’s very first king, head to the National Monument of Norway, where a 55.8-foot-high obelisk crowns a large mound. To learn about Haugesund’s more recent history and involvement in the Second World War, why not visit the Arquebus War History Museum? Perhaps travel through a scenic landscape of steep mountains to visit Langfoss, a 2,000-foot-long waterfall that has been voted one of the world’s 10 most beautiful waterfalls.
During dinner this evening, the Azamara Pursuit continues its journey along the famed western coast.
Day 7
Perhaps awake early this morning for our grand arrival into Eidfjord, a beautifully sited town guarded by lofty mountains and cascading waterfalls. To really experience the sheer power of Mother Nature, we journey into the surrounding highlands and valleys, beginning with a steep drive to one of the largest mountain plateaus in Northern Europe – with a bit of luck, you might spot the wild reindeer that inhabit the area.
We then make our way down into the steeply sided Måbødalen Valley to visit the manmade Sysendammen, one of Norway’s largest dams. Here we stroll along the 265-foot-high walls and take in wonderful views across the vast Hardangervidda plateau. Time seems to slow down in the stunning silence, and on a clear day you may be able to catch a glimpse of the magnificent, blue-tinted Hardanger glacier, which film buffs may recognise from The Empire Strikes Back.
Last but certainly not least, we continue our drive to Norway’s most famous waterfall, the Vøringsfossen, which cuts through unspoilt wilderness and plunges dramatically over 600 feet to the valley floor.
Back on board the Azamara Pursuit this evening, head up to the sun deck to admire the spectacular scenery as the ship departs Eidfjord, bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun.
Day 8
This morning we arrive in lovely Bergen, which stretches up the mountainsides and watches over the sea. Norway’s second-largest city somehow manages to ooze small-town charm as well as a fresh youthful atmosphere, despite being founded more than 900 years ago.
It’s the first of our two days here and we have a walking tour to get to know this beautiful coastal city. Bergen has a long fishing heritage and we visit its famous fish market before strolling among the colourful wooden houses and warehouses that make up the UNESCO World Heritage site of Bryggen. Originally built during the 14th century for German merchants trading from the city, these waterside buildings have been converted into characterful shops and restaurants that wonderfully evoke Bergen’s medieval past.
The rest of the day is free and our ship remains moored overnight, so there’s plenty of time to explore Bergen or return to your cabin to relax. Perhaps visit Håkon's Hall, the largest and most imposing royal residence in the 13th century, and still used today for official occasions. Other highlights include Rosenkrantz Tower, considered one of the country’s most important Renaissance monuments, and St Mary’s Church, an excellent example of Romanesque architecture in Norway.
Another memorable highlight is included this evening. Join your travelling companions and tour manager for an exclusive music recital at Grieg Hall, home of the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra and named after Bergen-born composer Edvard Grieg, who served as music director of the orchestra.
Day 9
Our second day in Bergen is entirely at your leisure, so what is it to be? This city is the birthplace of composer Edvard Grieg, so classical music enthusiasts may want to visit his enchanting summer residence, now a museum as well as a music venue for daily concerts during the summer.
Shore excursions with Azamara can be booked in advance or on board, such as ascending Mount Fløyen by funicular and hiking through woodlands high above the fjords. Or experience the pastoral beauty of Hardanger on a panoramic journey through quaint market towns, mountain gorges and plateaus.
We depart this wonderful city tonight as you enjoy another delicious dinner on board.
Day 10
This morning we find ourselves in the picturesque small town of Flåm, nestled in a tributary of the majestic Sognefjord, Norway’s deepest fjord. Surrounded by steep mountains, thundering waterfalls and plunging green valleys, you’re treated to a spectacular view at every turn.
Included today is an exhilarating return journey on the Flåm Railway, one of the world’s steepest railway lines. It’s an extraordinary feat of engineering, zigzagging from the stunning Aurlandsfjord through tunnels carved in the forest-covered mountainsides allowing us to take in the magnificence of the perpendicular cliffs and roaring waterfalls. Enjoy the ride from fully enclosed coaches with elegant interiors and comfortable seating as your local guide brings to life the stunning surroundings. The hour-long journey ends high in the mountains at Myrdal station before returning to Flåm in time for lunch on board.
Early this evening, the ship departs for our voyage across the North Sea back to the UK.
Day 11 & 12
You have two full days at sea to relax and enjoy the Azamara Pursuit’s many excellent facilities. Take a dip in the pool, where Azamara’s famous White Night party is held at least once on every cruise (weather permitting), or enjoy the fresh sea air at the Sunset Veranda, a bright outdoor patio with covered and open-air seating. Don’t forget to pick up some souvenirs at the Pursuit Shop or perhaps have your picture taken by a professional photographer at the photo shop. And why not reward yourself with another relaxing treatment at the Sanctum Spa?
When the sun sets, reconvene with your newfound friends at one of the ship’s many comfortable lounge areas and reminisce about the many highlights of your wonderful holiday. You could also enjoy thrilling live performances with your favourite tipple at the Cabaret Lounge.
Day 12
After a final breakfast on board the Azamara Pursuit, we disembark in Southampton.