Discover the Wonders of North Cape on a Cruise
North Cape, referred to as the northernmost point of mainland Europe, is a breathtaking destination that offers stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and a taste of the Midnight Sun. A cruise to North Cape is the perfect opportunity to experience this natural wonder while enjoying the comforts of your ship. Fun fact: The North Cape plateau rises over 300 meters above the Barents Sea, providing panoramic views that are simply unforgettable! With its dramatic cliffs, rich history, and northern charm, cruising to North Cape is an adventure you won’t want to miss.
Top Harbours in North Cape
When you dock in the North Cape region, these three harbours offer exciting activities and spectacular sights:
Honningsvåg
Honningsvåg is the main gateway to North Cape. Upon arrival, be sure to check out the North Cape Hall, where you can learn about the area’s history and culture. For those seeking adventure, consider taking a guided tour to the North Cape itself, where you can enjoy stunning views and capture that iconic selfie at the monument marking the northernmost point. If you’re pressed for time, sample some local seafood at a nearby restaurant before re-boarding your ship!
North Cape Passage
While technically the passage rather than a harbour, the North Cape Passage is an exciting part of any cruise itinerary. This stunning seaway offers breathtaking views of the rugged terrain and the Barents Sea. Onboard, enjoy the spectacular scenery from the deck or join a guided photography session to capture the breathtaking landscapes full of wildlife. Be on the lookout for seabirds and, if you’re lucky, some migrating whales!
Skarsvåg
This small fishing village is known as Norway‘s northernmost village. Upon docking, take a stroll through Skarsvåg’s charming streets and learn about the local fishing culture. For an unforgettable experience, consider embarking on a fishing trip or taking a guided hike through the nearby hills, where amazing views await. Don’t forget to visit the world’s northernmost garlic farm, where you can taste some homemade garlic products!
Key Ports Visited Before or After North Cape
Several key ports are typically visited before or after cruising to North Cape, adding depth to your journey:
Tromsø
Known as the “Gateway to the Arctic,” Tromsø offers a vibrant cultural scene and stunning views. If your cruise includes a stop, don’t miss the Arctic Cathedral and the Polar Museum. For those seeking adventure, book a dog-sledding tour or catch the cable car for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Dover
A common departure point for those heading to North Cape, Dover is rich in history. Explore the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, or take a day trip to London to visit historical sites such as the Tower of London or Buckingham Palace. Make sure to enjoy some local fish and chips before setting sail!
Rotterdam
Known for its modern architecture and vibrant cultural scene, Rotterdam is a fantastic port of call. Visit the impressive Markthal and try some local delicacies or explore the Museumpark for various cultural institutions. If you have time, take a short walk along the waterfront for stunning views of the city skyline!
Trondheim
Trondheim is famous for its rich Viking history and stunning Nidaros Cathedral. If you dock here, explore the scenic Bakklandet neighbourhood with its colourful wooden houses, or visit the Royal Residence, Stiftsgården—a beautiful wooden palace. Enjoy a meal at a local café, embracing the vibrant atmosphere before re-boarding.
Bergen
This picturesque city is known for its UNESCO-listed wharf, Bryggen. Immerse yourself in local culture by visiting the Fish Market or taking the Fløibanen Funicular for breathtaking views from Mount Fløyen. It’s the perfect spot to experience Norway’s west coast before you begin your journey to North Cape!
Best Seasons to Visit North Cape
The best time to cruise to North Cape generally falls between June and August, when temperatures rise to around 10°C to 20°C, making it ideal for outdoor exploration and activities. This period also presents the chance to experience the Midnight Sun, where the sun does not set at all for a number of weeks! If you prefer to explore with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, consider visiting in September, when average temperatures are closer to 5°C to 15°C, and you might just catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.
Cruise Costs Overview for North Cape
Wondering what you’ll spend on a cruise to North Cape? A 1-week cruise usually ranges from $1,500 to $3,500 for standard packages, while luxury options can be priced between $4,500 and $9,000, depending on the cruise line and amenities. For a 2-week cruise, you might expect typical pricing to run from $2,500 to $6,000 for standard cruises, and $9,000 or more for luxury experiences. Generally, the cheapest months for cruising are mid-June to early July, while the pricey months will be into the summer, especially July and August. Dining in the region can vary, but you can expect to pay between $20 and $50 for a meal, with drinks costing around $8 to $15.
Major Cruise Lines Offering North Cape Itineraries
- Holland America Line
With a fleet of 11 ships, Holland America operates three that sail to North Cape, including Nieuw Statendam and Volendam. Departures typically happen from Dover or Rotterdam. Holland America focuses on cultural exploration and strives to create immersive experiences ashore, blending luxury and comfort effectively.
- Princess Cruises
With a total of 17 ships, Princess offers three that head to North Cape, featuring the Crown Princess and Sky Princess. Most cruises depart from domestic ports like Sydney or international ports such as Southampton or Dover. Known for their exceptional service, Princess Cruises embraces a variety of onboard entertainment and culinary options catering to every cruiser’s interests.
- Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity has a fleet of 16 ships, with the Celebrity Apex offering an itinerary to North Cape from Southampton. Celebrity Cruises is known for its stylish design, exceptional cuisine, and upscale amenities, ensuring a luxurious and modern cruising experience.
- MSC Cruises
Operating a fleet of 23 ships, MSC features MSC Preziosa with itineraries to North Cape. This ships sails from Hamburg, and MSC is celebrated for family-friendly voyages, offering an array of sports and entertainment options for cruisers of all ages.
- Cunard Line
Cunard’s fleet of 4 ships includes Queen Anne, which offers itineraries to North Cape from Southampton. Cunard is celebrated for its elegance and charm, providing traditional British cruising experiences, designed for those seeking sophisticated adventures.
Luxury and Small Ship Options to North Cape
- Viking Ocean Cruises
With a fleet of 11 ships, Viking offers four that sail to North Cape, including Viking Neptune and Viking Sky. Departures take place from Bergen or Greenwich, and Viking stands out for its all-inclusive, immersive experiences that connect guests to the culture and history of each destination they visit.
- Seabourn
With a total of 6 ships, Seabourn has one vessel that journeys to North Cape—Seabourn Sojourn. Departures typically occur from London or Reykjavik. Known for ultra-luxury cruising, Seabourn offers attentive service, gourmet dining options, and access to exclusive experiences that promise unforgettable journeys.
- Azamara Cruises
With a fleet of 4 ships, Azamara has two vessels visiting North Cape, namely Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest. Departures commonly take place from Copenhagen or Leith. Azamara focuses on immersive itineraries with longer stays in port, allowing guests to truly experience the local culture and splendour.
- Oceania Cruises
Oceania operates 8 ships, with the Sirena offering itineraries to North Cape. Departures typically happen from Reykjavik or Edinburgh. Known for its gourmet dining and destination-focused voyages, Oceania delivers an enriching cruising experience that satisfies the most discerning travellers.
- Silversea
Silversea’s fleet of 13 ships includes two offering routes to North Cape, featuring Silver Dawn and Silver Endeavour. Departures usually occur from Southampton or New York, and Silversea is renowned for its intimate luxury experience, inclusive service and exclusive land programs that enhance the journey.
Considering Alternatives? Here Are Some Ideas!
If North Cape is intriguing you, consider exploring these alternative regions for your next cruise:
- Arctic: The Arctic regions provide a unique opportunity to see polar wildlife, glaciers, and stunning landscapes. An Arctic cruise is perfect for those seeking adventure and incredible natural beauty.
- Norwegian Fjords: Renowned for its spectacular scenery, a cruise through the Norwegian Fjords offers breathtaking vistas of towering cliffs, waterfalls, and serene waters—ideal for nature lovers!
- Greenland: For those looking to venture further north, Greenland features stunning landscapes, icebergs, and unique indigenous cultures, all waiting to be explored during a cruise.
- Scotland: A cruise to the Scottish Isles offers charming villages, rich history, and rugged coastlines. Perfect for those interested in culture and breathtaking vistas, especially in the summer months.
- Alaska: Famous for its dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife, Alaska offers cruisers a chance to discover amazing glaciers and charming coastal towns, making it a fantastic alternative to North Cape.
Embark on an unforgettable journey to North Cape by booking your cruise with CruiseAway. With spectacular outdoor experiences, charming coastal towns, and unique wildlife, it’s time to set sail for the trip of a lifetime!