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Knitting on Top of the World with ARNE & CARLOS

Welcome to the Hurtigruten Expedition cruise ‘Knitting on Top of World with ARNE & CARLOS’!

We are excited to invite you to join ARNE & CARLOS on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure expedition in Arctic waters – Knitting on Top of the World! Embarking on an expedition cruise, you will be traveling to some of the most remote and pristine places on the planet, exploring remote communities and hidden vistas few get to see. These are areas where nature reigns supreme and wildlife roams free.

The tour will start with one overnight in Oslo, before boarding a domestic flight from Oslo to Longyearbyen, Svalbard – the town on top of the world. Set in the High Arctic a few hundred miles from the North Pole, the archipelago of Svalbard is a silent wilderness of jaw-dropping beauty. This is a realm of pristine fjords and jagged mountain peaks where polar bears are known to roam - keep your eyes peeled for a glimpse of the ‘Lord of the Arctic’ - in Svalbard, where more polar bears are living than humans.

After exploring Svalbard, our expedition ship MS Spitsbergen sets course southbound and we will attempt to land at Jan Mayen, Norway’s most isolated island, before continuing our Arctic islands hopping, towards the land of ice and fire - Iceland. We will call at vibrant Akureyri – Iceland’s northern capital, and heading east we get to explore Husavik, Iceland’s whale capital - and if we are lucky, we may even spot some of these giants of the sea.

Enjoy the peaceful and soothing atmosphere in the Faroe Islands (Denmark). A short hop away is Torshavn, a place where the modern and the ancestral stand side by side. In the Shetland Islands, learn about the Norse heritage and local customs, like the making of the delicate Shetland lace shawls. Sample the variety of fish dishes in Lerwick on the Shetland Islands, from salmon and shellfish to lythe, ling, and John Dory.

A handpicked Expedition Team of experts will be on hand every step of the way to keep you safe on landings and share interesting stories and anecdotes that will further enhance your sense of wonder. The Expedition Team members in total bring decades of experience to your expedition.

The tour ends in Bergen, where you can explore the UNESCO-listed Bryggen district with its famous fish market and colorful wooden wharves. We can also arrange post-tour stays in Bergen for those who want to extend their tour and experience more of Norway.

During the cruise, you will enjoy the company of your hosts ARNE&CARLOS, attend their interesting lectures, and take part in the exciting mystery knitalong! The trip of a lifetime – you don’t want to miss this opportunity!

 

Highlights:

  • 15 days Arctic expedition cruise exploring three archipelagos, four countries, five islands.
  • Arctic wildlife - lookout for polar bears, humpback and blue whales, walrus, and Arctic fox. 
  • Learn about island communities in Iceland, Faroe Islands, and the Shetland Isles.
  • Interesting lectures and excursions arranged by the onboard Expedition team.
  • All meals onboard included, with beverages (house beer and wine, sodas, and mineral water) in restaurant Aune.
  • Complimentary tea and coffee.
  • Handicraft activities with local communities we visit during the cruise.
  • Five complimentary excursions
  • Lectures and mystery knitalong with your hosts ARNE&CARLOS.
     

ARNE & CARLOS

Scandinavians Arne Nerjordet and Carlos Zachrisson are highly regarded fashion designers, textile artists, YouTubers and authors. They are best known for their original, colourful and visually striking designs as well as their knitwear and their books. Their work is highly influenced by their Scandinavian background and their everyday life in rural Norway. They work under their artist name ARNE & CARLOS, which they established in 2001.

Read more about ARNE & CARLOS here.

Program

PROGRAM

B = Breakfast L = Lunch   D = Dinner

Please note program is subject to changes

Day 1              Arrival Oslo 

Arrival Oslo, Norway from your home destination, by own arrangement. Check in at your hotel in downtown Oslo – Clarion The Hub. Welcome drinks in The Hub where you will meet your hosts ARNE & CARLOS and you will be given your mystery knitalong kit. Information about the tour program by your tour leader from Aller travel.

Day 2              Oslo - Longyearbyen  (B, D)

After check out from The Hub, there will be a bus transfer in the early afternoon to Oslo Airport, for the domestic flight to Longyearbyen, Svalbard. Arrival in Longyearbyen in the evening and bus transfer to the charming hotel Funken Lodge, where we will meet for welcome dinner.

Day 3              Longyearbyen – embarkation MS Spitsbergen  (B, L, D)

After breakfast, there will be time to visit more of the town’s sights, Longyearbyen is perfect for exploring on foot. Stroll down the main street and you might see Svalbard reindeer saunter by. Although wild, they're curious and tame. Admire the polar bear-inspired art or visit the North Pole Expedition Museum. After lunch get ready for the ‘Svalbard Experience’ excursion which is included, or join an optional electric bike or hiking tour. In the afternoon, it's time to board the ship and continue your Arctic discovery as we cruise around Spitsbergen.

Day 4-5           Scenic Spitsbergen (B, L, D)

Spitsbergen showcases Arctic beauty in its untouched glory, a wilderness of steep mountains, stark glaciers and eerily beautiful islands. You will visit some of the world’s most dramatic fjords, immense U-shaped valleys and glaciers preparing to calve icebergs into the sea. You might also spot the region’s apex predator, the magnificent polar bear. They trek the ice along the coast, hunting for seals. Every opportunity will be taken to land, to use expedition boats ashore for hiking and other activities. If possible, kayaks will be launched to enjoy the scenery in near-perfect silence.

Day 6              A day at sea  (B, L, D)

Time to relax and discover what adventures lie ahead. As our Arctic cruise continues towards Jan Mayen, enjoy a day at sea. There is plenty to do onboard. Scan for marine wildlife from the deck, enjoy the panoramic sauna or a soak in the hot tub. Visit the Science Center for insights into the destinations ahead on your island-hopping expedition. Enjoy a fascinating lecture from the Expedition Team or help collect important data for our Citizen Science projects. Photography enthusiasts can pick up some pointers from the onboard photographer on how to capture wildlife and landscapes. You will find the comfort of the Explorer Lounge a great place to knit, read or watch the world glide by. Today ARNE&CARLOS will also be giving their first interesting lecture.

Day 7              Volcanic Jan Mayen  (B, L, D)

Jan Mayen has no permanent residents and visits to the island are rare. In fact, Hurtigruten is one of the few ships to attempt landings here. If conditions allow, you will be setting foot on one of Earth’s most remote places. Jan Mayens’ surreal, moss and lichen-streaked landscape is dominated by the volcanic cone of Mount Beerenberg. It is the world's northernmost active volcano and last erupted in 1985, and the island is a haven for bird life. There are no land mammals, but the island is designated an Important Bird Area, supporting large populations of Northern Fulmars, Brünich’s Guillemots and Little Auks. Look out for abundant marine life in the waters too, including whales and seals.

Day 8              To Iceland’s north coast   (B, L, D)

Enjoy a relaxing day and as we cruise towards Iceland, from Jan Mayen to Akureyri, you will have time to sit back and swap stories of your adventures so far. Keep your eyes peeled while on deck for some wonderful marine life and seabirds – you can even relax in the hot tub up there at the same time. Join the Expedition Team in the Science Center as they set the scene for the next leg of our expedition in North Iceland. Learn about the island's stunning landscape, culture and beliefs, such as the Icelandic Elves. You may also join one of the onboard knitting workshops!

Day 9              Akureyri and Goðafoss  (B, L, D)                                                      

Gaze at snow-capped peaks as we cruise along Eyjafjörður, Iceland's longest fjord. It is one of the best places in Europe to spot humpback whales, white-beaked dolphins and harbor porpoises. You may see orcas, blue and fin whales. Iceland’s 'Northern Capital’, Akureyri, sits at the fjord base.  A city walk is included and you may enjoy the oasis of a botanical garden, top-notch eateries and museums. Hurtigruten offers optional excursions to visit impressive Goðafoss Waterfall where turquoise water pounds against black rocks. Spot Eider and Harlequin Ducks at Lake Mývatn, one of Iceland's most active volcanic areas.

Day 10            Whale watching in Húsavík  (B, L, D)

Iceland's best whale-watching spot is Húsavík. Discover the whale capital on the walking tour which is included. Húsavík is a fascinating small town which is one of the best places in the world to see whales. We will head to Skjálfandi Bay to look out for humpback, minke, white-beaked dolphin, harbor porpoise and maybe even the elusive blue whale. Learn more about them at Husavik’s Whale Museum. There is even a space exploration museum here. NASA thought Húsavík's geology resembled lunar rocks and sent astronauts from their Apollo space missions here to train. You can also enjoy the geothermal waters at GeoSea overlooking Skjálfandi Bay, and then refresh with a beer at the local microbrewery.

Day 11            Hike in Bakkagerði   (B, L, D)                                                                 

The Iceland cruise adventure continues to Bakkagerði, a tiny settlement off the beaten track. The included excursion takes you on a lively walk around town to learn about the area from local people. According to folklore, Bakkagerði is inhabited by a large population of elves. It is also a popular hiking spot. You can hike through lush green valleys and pristine wilderness among colorful rhyolite rocks. The coastal cliffs are home to fulmars, Kittiwakes, Eiders and puffins. We may also visit the Atlantic Puffin colony on Hafnarhólmi – a true gem for nature lovers and wildlife photographers.

Day 12             Enjoy a day at sea  (B, L, D)

A day at sea cruising from Iceland to Faroe Islands can be spent discovering more about the isolated island group in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. You may have unanswered questions about things you have seen in Iceland or things to come in the Faroe Islands. As ever, the onboard Expedition Team will be on hand with lectures and insights about these Arctic islands. The Science Center will keep enquiring minds busy. Work out in the gym or relax in the panoramic sauna, where you can watch the views as you sail. Look for birds and wildlife from the decks. Or just take the time to sort through all those photos you have been taking. Or do some more knitting! ARNE & CARLOS  will give another lecture today.

 

Day 13            Peaceful, tiny Elduvik   (B, L, D)                                                            

MS Spitsbergen arrives in the Faroe Islands, part of the Kingdom of Denmark. There will be an opportunity to explore the tiny village of Elduvík with just 23 inhabitants. While small, it comes complete with a school, church, dock and pier. From the pier, enjoy the view across the sparkling waters to the nearby island of Kalsoy. It is astonishingly peaceful here. Homes here are built in traditional Icelandic style, with wooden walls and grass roofs that offer excellent insulation. As you walk through the village's charming streets, you will hear the songs of seabirds, bleating sheep, and waves coming to shore from the fjord. Whilst in the Faroe Islands we will learn about the rich wool and handicraft traditions here and meet with local knitters.

Day 14            10th century Tórshavn  (B, L, D)                                                             

On Streymoy, the largest of the Faroe Islands, is Tórshavn. Founded by Norsemen in the 10th century, Tórshavn - ‘Thor’s Harbor’ - is one of Northern Europe’s oldest capitals. The walking tour which is included, winds through cobbled alleyways and colorful, turf-roofed houses. In the local museums, you will learn about the city’s origins and the flora, fauna and geology of the Faroe Islands. Just over a mile north of the town, Svartafoss Waterfall tumbles over mossy rocks. Walking along the seafront, look out for the Eider Drake and the distinctive Faroese Starling with its beige-tipped wings.

Day 15            The Shetland Isles   (B, L, D)

The Shetland Isles are Scotland's most northerly inhabited isles. Lerwick is the northernmost town in Scotland, with deep Norse roots. You will hear it in the dialect and see it in the town hall’s stained glass windows, which tell stories from Viking times. The Shetland Museum, with its Pictish carvings contrasting beautifully with delicate Shetland lace shawls, is a great place to find out more. These islands are famous for birdlife. Key breeding species to look out for include Red-throated Divers, Redshank and Curlew. If you are walking along the shoreline, look out for grey and common seals too - they’re often seen peeking out from the waters just offshore. We will find out more about the Shetland knitting traditions. This is where the well-known Shetland Wool Week is held every year, with visitors from all over the world.

Day 16            The home stretch to Bergen and disembarkation  (B)                     

Our ‘Knitting on Top of the World’ adventure with ARNE & CARLOS ends in Bergen. Surrounded by mountains and the sea, the old capital is one of Norway’s most picturesque cities. If you choose to spend time in Bergen after the tour, don’t miss the famous Bryggen district with its colorful wooden wharfs and artisanal boutiques. For amazing views over the city founded on seven mountains, take the funicular railway up to the summit of Mount Fløyen.

MS Spitsbergen arrives in Bergen at 08.00 in the morning and it is time to say goodbye to the ship’s crew, new friends and ARNE&CARLOS after a wonderful time with lots of lovely memories!

 

Hurtigruten Expedition

MS Spitsbergen is named after the crown jewel of Arctic Norway – the Svalbard archipelago and its biggest island, Spitsbergen. Hurtigruten has a long history of traveling to Spitsbergen, beginning in 1896 with the 'Sports Route'. 


After a complete reconstruction, MS Spitsbergen joined the Hurtigruten fleet in 2016. The ship features high technical standards as well as comfortable, modern public areas and cabins. The vessel's fresh Scandinavian design reflects a color palette derived from the sea. She is modern and environmentally progressive and will undergo further improvements that will reduce emissions and fuel consumption even more. The new ship’s maneuverability and optimal size make her quite suitable for exploring polar waters.

Read about Hurtigruten Expeditions HERE

Cabins

MS SPITSBERGEN CABINS

Polar Inside cabins are located on all decks. All cabins include bathrooms with a shower/toilet. Most of the cabins have double beds, while some are equipped with separate beds where one doubles as a sofa, or upper and lower berths. All cabins have individual specifications.

Polar Interior cabin I2D

 

Polar Outside cabin double bed O2D and Polar Outside cabin double bed J2D (limited view)

The Polar Outside cabins are mostly situated on the middle or lower decks and all have bathrooms with a shower/toilet. Most have double beds, while others offer separate beds (where one is a sofa bed) or upper berths. All cabins have individual specifications. The cabins differ in size and some have obstructed views.

Arctic Superior cabin twin bed - OJ (limited view)

Relaxation and comfort are the hallmarks of our Arctic Superior cabins. Situated on both the upper and middle decks, they all have bathrooms with shower/toilet. They are also equipped with tea and coffee making facilities. All cabins have individual specifications. The cabins differ in size and some have obstructed views.

 

Arctic Superior double bed U2D

Mini suite Q2/Q3

This mini suite for up to three people on lower deck have a double bed with an extra sofabed, window, TV, and bathroom with shower/WC.

 

Grand Suite on upper deck category MG

These exclusive suites on the upper deck have one large room, a seating area, TV, kettle, tea/coffee, stereo, bathrooms with shower/WC, complimentary internet access, minibar and a private balcony. The first minibar setup is included, and each replenishment is chargeable.

Hotels

Clarion Hotel The Hub
15 Dronning Eufemias gate, 0510 Oslo

Clarion Hotel The Hub boasts one of the best locations in Oslo right next to the central station. Guests can enjoy stunning views from the Norda restaurant and Calmeyers Hage bar on the 13th floor, and a great urban vibe at the Hub Bar on the 1st floor.

Read about The Hub here.

Tour Leaders

 

Lise has many years of experience in the travel industry. She has worked as a travel producer, and as a tour leader to many exciting destinations and on cruises worldwide. Among her favorite countries are Croatia, Italy, England, South Africa and South East Asia. Lise has also previously been a tour leader on ARNE & CARLOS Knitting cruises and she is a very capable knitter!  For the knitting cruise, Lise will meet you in Oslo, and she will be assisting the group with all practical matters throughout the tour. She enjoys knitting and other handicrafts and has a keen interest in cooking and baking. Lise will be the tour leader on the Knitting on Top of the World cruise in 2024.

Prices in USD

PRICE SPECIFICATION per person:

Polar Inside shared cabin I2D dbl bed:                                     NOK 73 800,- (USD 6700) 

Polar Outside shared cabin J2D limited view dbl bed:           NOK 82 000,- (USD 7500)

Polar Outside shared cabin O2D dbl bed:                                NOK 91 000,- (USD 8350)

Arctic Superior shared cabin QJ twin bed limited view:        NOK 88 000,- (USD 8050)

Arctic Superior shared cabin U2D dbl bed:                              NOK 95 500,- (USD 8750)

Mini Suite shared cabin Q2/Q3 dbl bed:                                  NOK 104 000,- (USD 9500)

Grand Suite shared cabin MG dbl bed:                                     NOK 115 000,- (USD 10500)

 

Polar Inside I2D single use:                                                        NOK 104 000,- (USD 9500)

Polar Outside J2D single use:                                                   NOK 119 000,-  (USD 10900)

Polar Outside cabin O2D single use:                                        NOK 133 000,- (USD 12200)

Arctic Superior OJ single use:                                                   NOK 127 000,- (USD 11650)

Arctic Superior  U2D dbl single use:                                         NOK 146 000,- (USD 13400)

Cancellation conditions

Hurtigruten Expedition has the following cancellation conditions:

Up until 6 months before departure - the cruise may be cancelled but the deposit paid at the time of booking, is non refundable.

Cancellation fees of the total cost 100%: 

180 - 90 days before departure               25% 

89 - 60 days before departure                 50% 

59 - 30 days before departure                 75% 

Less than 30 days before departure       100 %