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From the end of the 15th century, Europe sent explorers in the hope of discovering a commercial sea route north and west around North America to establish a new route to the trading nations of Asia.

This fabled passage has taken the lives of many explorers trying to navigate the harsh conditions of the Arctic. Before satellite navigation existed, intrepid explorers attempted to pass through the passage, even in winter, often perishing in the attempt. 

These days things have changed. Thanks to retreating sea ice and modern technology, the Northwest Passage can now be navigated safely by expert expedition cruise ships each year. 

Below we have written a guide on who discovered the Northwest Passage.

Who Discovered The Northwest Passage?

Many explorers have set out in search of a way through this difficult and unforgiving land known as the Northwest Passage. But who actually made the route first as we know it today?

The Earliest Explorers

John Cabot led the 1497 discovery of the coast of North America. This was under the commission of Henry VII of England and is the earliest known European exploration of the North American coast since the Norse discoveries.  

Although many discoveries were made, the crossing of the passage did not succeed. Christopher Columbus was an explorer at the same time and had earlier set sail in search of a westward route after overland travel to Asia had become more difficult. 

After these attempts and new discoveries, the venture to find the Northwest Passage was still something much sought after for trade from Europe. 

Henry Hudson

The third explorer to search for the Northwest Passage was Henry Hudson who set sail in his ship the Discovery on May 1610. He entered an area that is now known as Hudson Strait, at the northern tip of Labrador, Canada, mapping and exploring the area for the first time.

During this period, Henry Hudson also discovered what is now called Hudson Bay. These days the bay is one of the top tourists spots to see beluga whales and polar bears.

The expedition did not have a happy ending for Henry Hudson. Unhappy with how the expedition was going, Hudson's men mutineered in June 1611, leaving Hudson and a few loyal crew on a small boat in the sea. They were never seen again.

John Franklin

John Franklin made three attempts to find the Northwest Passage, however, his final voyage in 1845 ended in tragedy.  

After sailing up the Wellington Channel, then south down Peel Sound, the team found themselves trapped by the ice flow down the McClintock Channel. A crew member deposited a record of their progress and it is thought that they reached as far as Cape Herschel. Franklin died later that year.

The ship still trapped was later abandoned, but the crew were so weak and malnourished that none are known to have made it back to the river. The expedition became the worst disaster in the history of British polar exploration.

Roald Amundsen

In 1903, Roald Amundsen led the first expedition to successfully cross through Canada's Northwest Passage from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean. 

Learning from the failures of the past, Amundsen used a smaller ship and a crew of just six men to complete the journey. The ship - the Gjøa - travelled across Baffin Bay, through Lancaster Sound, Barrow Strait and reached Beechey Island. After dropping anchor in Erebus Bay, they followed the route towards King William Island anchoring on the east coast of the island at what is now named Gjøa Haven.

The expedition spent two years here learning survival skills from the local Netsilik Inuit people. In 1905 they set sail once again heading through Simpson Strait to the south of King William Island and on to the Bering Strait. It is said that when Amundsen saw an oncoming whaling ship from San Francisco he knew the expedition would be a success. 

The Northwest Passage Today

Largely due to climate change, the Northwest Passage has opened up considerably. Retreating sea ice means that in the height of summer, large cruise ships can pass through with relative ease. 

There are a number of itineraries that follow in the footsteps of Amundsen's and Franklin's route. Would you consider taking part in such a epic adventure? 

A spectacular sight to behold and near the top of many a bucket-list, seeing the Northern Lights is something you should do in your lifetime at least once. 

So, you know you want to see them but where is the best place to see the Northern Lights?

Luckily there are a few different places that you can experience nature's greatest light show. From the Americas to destinations across Europe, there are numerous options. 

To help you choose, we have listed our top 10 places to see the Northern Lights below.

Top 10 Places To See The Northern Lights

1. Fairbanks, Alaska

The whole of Alaska is great aurora viewing territory, however Fairbanks is considered one of the best places in the world due to the central location. You can also take a shorter trip from Vancouver if you are worried about time. The Northern Lights are best viewed in winter from September through to March. 

2. Iceland

Early September to the end of April are the times of year you are most likely to see the Northern Lights in Iceland. There is the opportunity to view them anywhere in the country but the more remote locations are better. Vik, Látrabjarg, Eldborgahraun and Djúpavík are all great destinations for optimum aurora viewings opportunities.

3. Greenland

Not as popular a location for tourists as nearby Iceland, Greenland is still in an optimum position to enjoy a spectacular light show. There are no roads here so it can be difficult to get around. The good thing about Greenland is that you don’t need to go very far to be in the middle of nowhere giving you a great aurora viewing opportunity.  

4. Canadian Arctic

The Canadian Arctic is one of the most remote regions on earth. As such, Northern Lights shine bright here without any light pollution. Yukon and Nunavut are probably the most popular viewing locations thanks to the numerous tour options. Whether its a one-day tour or multiple day camping trip, there are some amazing places to visit here.  

5. Norway

Norway offers alternative and magical experiences when it comes to seeing the Northern Lights.  Locations such as Tromso, Svalbard and The Lofoten Islands are all excellent choices. Choose from log cabins, camping or even specialist viewing accommodation. Not only can you see the lights, but you can enjoy reindeer sledding, whale watching and fjord cruises. Hurtigruten also offer special winter Northern Lights cruises. 

6. Finland

In northern Finland you have the chance to see the lights almost every other night between September and March. There are a range of different accommodation such as the high-end glass igloos in Kakslauttanen to more budget friendly cabins and chalets. But pretty much anywhere away from the cities gives you a great chance of seeing the lights here. Prices tend to be quite high though so bare this in mind.

7. Sweden

Most of Sweden between September and March, with the exception of the cities, will give you the chance to view the lights. However, for the best opportunity visit the area that stretches from Norway to Jokkmokk. There is also Farnebofjarden National Park which is popular destinations thanks to its location close to the capital of Stockholm. Again, Sweden can be pricy but a Northern Lights tour whilst on a city break is good way to do it. 

8. Northern Russia

As a large part of Russia is actually within the Arctic Circle, you have some excellent aurora viewing opportunities here. There are so many places to choose from but more tourist-friendly areas accessible from St. Petersburg include Murmansk, Arkhangelsk and Petrozavodsk. Tours are easy to come by from St Petersburg and you can choose from day (or night) trips or stay longer with overnight expeditions.

9. Scotland

Scotland isn’t the most well -known destination for viewing the lights, however, sometimes when the weather is right there is the chance in the most northern parts of the country. Due to its location mainland Scotland can catch the aurora borealis on occasion, but the best places are Shetland and Orkney Islands.

10. Take A Cruise

There are many opportunities now to take Northern Lights cruises which can be found in a number of destinations. Cruise companies offer specific cruises that focus on the best spots to see the Northern Lights and you have limited light pollution in the middle of the ocean. Popular spots include northern areas of Norway, Finland and Russia. 

The Inuit people are a group of indigenous peoples who have lived in the Arctic regions of Greenland, Canada, and Alaska for hundreds of years. 

The Inuit people are not to be confused with the Yupik of Siberia and the Iñupiat of the US, collectively termed as 'Eskimo', although this is no longer an accepted term in most parts. 

Famed for living in some of the most extreme cold weather environments on earth, the Inuit people are known to live off the land, hunting and gathering, using what nature has given them in this stark and beautiful region.

Just finding food in the Arctic is incredibly difficult. One of the great pleasures of visiting this region is to learn more about the Inuit people and their unique culture. 

The origins of the Inuit people

The first Inuit people are said to have lived on the seacoast and tundra, of north-western Alaska where they hunted the local animals including seals, whales and caribou.

They were the first Artic people to hunt large sea creatures which enabled them to enjoy a richer way of life due to the volume of food. 

Early Inuit began to move east into Arctic Canada in search of a more prosperous lands. The whaling grounds in and around Baffin and Somerset islands became popular places to settle and villages sprung up in the best whaling and hunting and fishing grounds.

Inuit have encountered Vikings, European explorers, and professional whalers. The Inuit people were officially recognised following the second World War. This led to resettlement in permanent locations and Government services and facilities being made available. 

Where do the Inuit live now?

The state of Nunavut is where the settlements were made in the Northern territories of Canada following the second World War.

Today, the communities are thriving whilst still keeping their traditional roots intact. Iqaluit is the administrative, commercial, and cultural centre and the largest town in Nunavut.

Then there are plenty of other smaller towns. Rankin Inlet or Kangiqting on the northwest coast of Hudson Bay, Pangnirtung or Panniqtuuq on Baffin Island, and Cambridge Bay or Ikaluktutiak on the southeast coast of Victoria Island.

Most of these communities can be visited during Canadian Arctic cruises or special Arctic land tours. 

Do the Inuit still hunt off the land?

Hunting is still very much a part of Inuit culture, although nowadays earning a wage has taken precedence to afford modern comforts such as electricity.

They continue to hunt and eat their traditional meats of seal, walrus and reindeer. They also continue to use the furs and skins from their hunt to produce clothing and boots. 

Hunting skills are important even today and activities such as harpoon throwing and kayaking are practised and honoured.

It is a contentious issue for some, and conservation groups have set in motion some restrictions which, although well-intentioned, are causing conflict with ancient Inuit values and practises.

Found in the waters of the Norwegian Sea, far above the Arctic Circle, the Lofoten Islands are a magical destination. 

The unique destination means the warm Gulf Stream offers a milder climate than other parts of the world at the same latitude. This makes it more accessible for travellers wanting to explore this beautiful part of the world. 

Thanks to the dramatic landscape and numerous marine species, there are plenty of photo opportunities within the Lofoten Islands

You can experience different trips depending on the time of year you visit. The Midnight Sun occurs between May and mid-July, whilst September to mid-April is the best time for the Northern Lights. Both of these natural phenomena make the islands fabulous for photography.

Below we have written a guide on the best spots to photograph in the Lofoten Islands.  

Lofoten Islands Photography: Best Spots

Anywhere you travel in the Lofoten islands is a photographer’s dream. However, there are some places that are known to offer exceptional photo opportunities.

Reine

A traditional northern Norwegian fishing village, Reine gives you the picturesque red fishing huts standing in front of a dramatic mountain backdrop and clear waters. Head to one of the many viewpoints to look down on the village and look for the appearance of the northern lights at night. Bring your camera along whilst taking part in outdoor activities such as hiking and kayaking to take unique shots of this beautiful area. 

Hamnoy

Hamnoy Bridge is a popular spot for photographers when visiting the Lofoten islands. The Bridge has a clear shot of the red fishing huts, rugged coastline, and towering mountains behind. Hamnoy is not far from Reine so on a photography tour both can be taken in during one short trip. 

Trollfjord

This 100-metre-wide opening to Trollfjord strait is a great place to capture the contrast between the tall mountains either side of the narrow strait. A naturally beautiful destination to explore there are many chances to snap some great shots whilst experiencing a cruise through the waters. 

Nusfjord

One of the most well-preserved fishing villages in the Lofoten Islands, photography opportunities here are unique and interesting. See the red and yellow huts standing in front of the dramatic scenery and watch little fishing boats coming in and out of the small harbour. Its remote location means you will get some stunning night shots also.

Ramberg Beach

On the island of Flakstadoya, you will find the white sands of Ramberg Beach. Here you'll witness icy blue waters surrounding the red fishing huts and watch rivers flow across the sand. In winter the rivers can freeze over, giving the area an even more interesting angle for photographers.

Kvalvika

A wild beach that is mostly untouched, Kvalvika Beach is a real Norwegian natural beauty. A view from Ryten Peak is the best vantage point to capture the turquoise blue waters lapping the pure white beach, all backdropped by stunning snow-capped mountains in the distance. 

Further Photo Opportunities

As well as great destinations, there are some things to do and see that give you amazing opportunities to take fantastic photographs. 

Photograph The Northern Lights

Being located just beneath the auroral oval, the Lofoten Islands offers some of the best chances of seeing the Northern Lights. There are plenty of places to stay with little to no light pollution which means you can watch the beautiful spectacle direct from your cabin or other accommodation. There are also opportunities to take tours and learn top tips from pro guides for photographing the lights.

Take A Whale Watching Tour

Such is the frequency of whale sightings, companies here offer one hundred percent guaranteed whale sightings during their tours. This is a great opportunity for wildlife lovers as you'll spot plenty of marine species including sperm whales, orcas, pilot whales, fin whales, and even humpback and minke whales. You can even take orca snorkelling trips if you feel brave!   

Take A Norwegian Cruise

Because Norway is packed full of epic photograph destinations, the best way to explore this part of the world is to take a cruise.  You can also take a specific photography tour or small group cruise which will hone your skills whilst exploring this beautiful country.

Yasuni National park is located deep within the Amazon Basin in Ecuador. The park is one of the most remote, and biodiverse places on earth.

Of the few areas that have been explored, millions of species of plants, birds, insects and mammals have been identified here.

This vast protected area covers one million hectares of rain forest and borders north Peru. It's therefore imperative that you take a guided tour when exploring this remote region of South America.

This area of the world is often explored by taking an Amazon river cruise which gives you the chance to visit different places on the same trip.

If you are planning a visit to Yasuni National Park this year, here are five travel tips which will help you to enjoy your journey even more.

Yasuni National Park: 5 Travel Tips

1. Bring A Good Pair Of Binoculars

There are so many different animals, birds and insects to spot in the park that you simply must bring along some binoculars. You will be much better equipped to see far off creatures and small insects up close.

Spot spider monkeys or toucans in the distant trees or get a close up look at the tiny spiders and other insects that call this place home. One of the most popular reasons for visiting Yasuni National Park is for the chance to see incredible wildlife in their natural habitat. 

2. Use A Reputable Travel Guide

In order to keep yourself safe whilst visiting Yasuni National Park you should always use a reputable travel guide. Book a tour guide that has good reviews, local knowledge, and comes recommended.

Book in advance if you can as this will give you time to research the best travel guides and tour operators in the region. Excellent guides will not only have expert knowledge of the eco-system and its inhabitants, but they will also be able to speak English clearly and present their thoughts in a coherent manner. 

3. Best Time To Visit Yasuni National park

You can visit Yasuni National Park at any time of the year, however, what you see and do will depend on the season. The Rainy season is between December and May and although you have to contend with daily downpours and humid weather, the rising river forces wildlife into the trees, making them easier to spot. This is also the best time for kayaking tours. 

During the dry months from June through to November, wildlife is harder to spot, but you can take plenty of hikes along forest paths where you're likely to spot spiders and snakes among other species.  

4. Bring The Right Clothing

Whenever you visit the rainforest it is going to be wet and humid, so you need to be prepared for this. Heavy clothing will make the air feel even more muggy, as will clothing that does not breathe well.

The best thing to do is bring lightweight, breathable clothing that covers your skin to avoid the sun and any biting insects you may encounter. You should also bring a light rain jacket or poncho to protect you from the rain. Make sure it's small and can be packed away easily. You'll also need a light backpack during the day too to keep your essentials during your day treks.

For a full packing list, please click here.  

5. Respect The Environment 

The most important thing to remember when visiting national parks is to leave as little trace of you being there as possible. It is essential that you respect the park, the wildlife, plants and the local people who work here.

Treading carefully on marked trails and remembering not to touch or feed any wildlife that resides here is critical. This is also why it is important to hire a reputable guide to teach you how to respect the park properly. Take your litter away, leave nothing behind and don’t move or disturb anything.  

Often called the land of fire and ice, Iceland is a place of rugged landscapes, dramatic waterfalls and bubbling hot springs.

Wildlife is in abundance here with numerous tours to see whales, puffins, and dolphins. There also plenty of Icelandic horse riding trips available.

For those travellers who love to explore nature and photograph the great outdoors, Iceland will be just up your street.

Whether your exploring by car, foot or cruise, take a look at our top 7 things to do in Iceland below. 

Top 7 Things To Do In Iceland

1. Explore The Golden Circle

This amazing day trip (which can be taken from Reykjavik) explores the awesome sights of the famous 'Golden Circle'. Some of the top spots include the Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir, and the Thingvellir National Park.

You can complete this tour in just one day which makes it a great option for cruise goers stopping in Reykjavik for a day or two. You can take a guided bus tour or even hire a car and drive the route yourself. It is a popular tourist route but if you visit at the right time you can enjoy the amazing landscapes with few people around.

2. View The Northern Lights

One of the top reasons that visitors come to Iceland is to see the amazing natural light show - the aurora borealis - also known as the Northern Lights.

Because they are weather dependent, the lights are not always visible, so please must keep this in mind during your visit. The best conditions for aurora viewing are dark, clear nights and in a remote location away from light pollution. You can either take a Northern Lights tour in which your guide will take you to the most likely places for viewing, or you can take a drive and hunt for the lights on your own. 

3. Visit Jökulsárlón

Also known as the Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach, Jökulsárlón is a Glacier fed lake that meets Diamond Beach in Southern Iceland. Jökulsárlón contains some of the oldest icebergs in the country with many of them being over 1,000 years old.

The chunks of ice float serenely on the lagoon and lay on the beach glistening in the sun like diamonds. From Reykjavik, Jökulsárlón is around five hours drive and around two and a half hours from Vik.  You can visit all year round, but beware that driving can be a bit tricky during the winter and certain roads may be closed.

4. Visit A Black Sand Beach

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach in Vik is another natural beauty to behold in Iceland. The surrounding cliffs end in magnificent hexagonal-shaped basalt columns at the bottom giving the area a unique allure.

The beach was formed by lava cooling quickly as it met the sea, creating the rough pebbles that have been shaped through time in the tide. When exploring the beach, you must be aware of sneaker waves. Although the tide can appear low, there are some waves that break higher up the beach pulling unwitting bystanders back with it. 

5. Go Ice Caving

Ice caves are a natural phenomena in Iceland that are formed in glaciers during the winter time. They are usually formed by water running through or under the glacier and, in fact, new caves are actually created each year.

There are two different caves that are the most popular to visit, a naturally formed cave in Vatnajökull glacier and a man-made cave in Langjökull glacier. Tours are the best and safest way to do this see the caves.  

6. Take A Whale Watching Tour

There are some amazing places close to Reykjavik to see some incredible marine life. Four different species can be seen here on a regular basis including harbour porpoises, white-beaked dolphins, Minke Whales and Humpback Whales.

If you are really lucky you may even see orcas, pilot whales, and perhaps Basking Sharks. Tours are regular at all times of year but what species you see really depends on the season and weather. 

7. Explore Reykjavik

The capital city of Iceland is an interesting and charming place to explore. There are so many different museums to see and the modern architecture is simply breathtaking.

The towering, iconic church of Hallgrimskirkja is a real highlights, as is the Harpa Concert Hall. Reykjavik is a charming and quirky place to explore on foot and should not be missed when visiting Iceland.

For more information, please read our page on the top things to see in Reykjavik here.  

As the largest non-continental island in the world, Greenland is an exceptionally large place to explore.

Very few people call Greenland home, making it ideal for people looking for a tranquil break.

It is a land of natural beauty, from the Icebergs and glaciers to the green mountains and sparkling blue fjords. Even though it's often difficult to get around in Greenland, there are plenty of things to see and do.

If you want to visit Greenland, we recommend taking a cruise as this will allow you to see parts of Greenland that few others can reach. You can also combine a Greenland cruise with a visit to Iceland and Svalbard. 

If you are thinking of visiting this epic country, take a look at our top 7 things to do in Greenland below. 

Top 7 Things To Do In Greenland

1. Witness The Northern Lights

Certain conditions need to be met in order to see the amazing spectacle that is the Northern Lights. You'll need to visit in the dark of winter and get lucky with some clear nights. There is a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights between November and March, but the optimum time is between December and February the the nights are at their clearest. 

The top places in Greenland to witness the Northern Lights include Qaqortoq, Ittoqqortoormiit, and Kangerlussuaq. These are generally where most tours will focus.

2. See Numerous Whale Species

Most fjords here have melted by May, so June and July are usually the best months for whale watching in Greenland. Cruise amongst the icebergs and spot the many different species of whale that visit Greenland.

Whale watching tours are the best way to see these gentle giants and visitors frequently spot humpback, minke, and fin whales. If you're very lucky, you may even spot blue whales, orcas, narwhals, beluga whales, sperm whales, and pilot whales. Greenland really offers a fantastic opportunity to see these creatures in their natural habitat. 

3.Ilulissat Ice-Fjord 

One of the most visited places in Greenland is the Ilulissat Ice fjord where you will find amazing landscapes and an active calving glacier.

In Disko Bay you can witness this natural phenomenon and take in the breathtaking beauty of this entire region. Most main line cruises will visit Ilulissat, but you can also take specific tours from other parts of Greenland. 

4. Visit The Island Of Ammassalik

You can get completely different experiences of Ammassalik depending on which season you visit. During the summer months there is almost no snow so you can enjoy hiking on the green mountainous island, whilst winter offers the chance of skiing and dog-sledding.

Tasiilaq, the main town on the island, is a great place to visit and very picturesque. The Flower Valley behind the town is a lovely place to explore and there are plenty of activities to keep you busy such as helicopter tours, sea kayaking and mountain biking. 

5. Explore Viking Ruins

Due the history of large Norse settlements throughout Greenland, there are several Viking ruins dotted around the country. The most popular and recommended is the Hvalsey Fjord Church which is the oldest of its kind here. It is also a great place to hike with fantastic views of the fjords and green landscapes below.

Another ruin you shouldn’t miss is the Brattahlid near the town of Qassiarsuk. There’s a reconstruction of the old chapel and you can walk among the ruins of Erik the Red's Viking estate settlement. The ruins are easily reached as a day trip so exploring here is an excellent choice for a shore excursion on your cruise.

6. Sermermiut Eskimo Settlement 

A walk to this previous Inuit settlement is an amazing adventure, exploring surrounding iceburgs and frozen scenery. You can see remains of different Inuit cultures which have lived in the settlement over a period of 4000 years.

Walk along the wooden walkway and take in spectacular views from the viewpoint at Nakkaavik - also known as Old Ladies Gorge. Taking a guided tour is highly recommended as your guide will explain the history and significance of the area you are exploring. 

7. Take A Dog Sledding Trip

If you visit Greenland during the winter months you should not miss a dog sledding trip. It is one of the best ways to explore the amazing natural environment and perhaps encounter some of the area’s wildlife. You may see polar bears and reindeers on your trip if you're very lucky. 

Day tours are easy to book and are another great idea for a shore excursion if you are stopping here on a cruise. Disko Bay, Tasiusaq fjord and Thule are all great starting destinations to explore by dog sled.

One of the most picturesque places on earth, Norways attracts thousands of tourists every year. 

Norway is a country that offers a welcome contrast for visitors. On one hand you'll find some spectacular scenery, beautiful landscapes, and unique views. On the other hand, you'll experience an ultra-modern and forward-thinking culture. 

There are fascinating museums, beautiful parks and plenty of outdoor activity options for the more adventurous travellers.

So, if you are thinking of visiting this year, take a look at our top 7 things to do in Norway below. 

Top 7 Things To Do In Norway

1. Take A Fjords Cruise

A Fjords cruise is a great way to see the wonderful natural beauty of the Norwegian coastline. Formed by retreating glaciers, the Fjords are a combination of deep waters, flooded valleys and dramatic mountains and coastline.

Some of the most popular areas to cruise include the southern most fjords, the northern region from Bergen to Tromso, and the Lysefjord area which can be explored on a day trip. The Lysefjord area also includes the fantastic viewing points of Kjerag and Preikestolen. Further north is the Trollfjord which is only 100 metres wide and gives you a real up-close view of the surrounding scenery. 

2. Explore The Museums In Oslo

Oslo is a clean and modern city which is home to some excellent museums. If you are interested in the history of Norway, then don't miss the Viking Ship Museum where you can see the world’s best- preserved Viking ship.

Then there is the Norsk Folkemuseum which is the open-air Norwegian Museum of Cultural History, the highlight being the stave church dating back to the year AD1200.

For art lovers there’s the Munch museum, housing the largest collection of Edvard Munch works in the world. Other excellent museums include The Fram Museum, Vigeland Museum, the Museum of Oslo, and the Norwegian museum of Science and Technology.

3. Explore Hardangervidda National Park

Norway’s largest National Park - Hardangervidda - spans 3,422 square kilometres and is made up of some of the nation's most dramatic landscapes.

Highlights include viewing Hårteigen mountain which can be seen for miles around, spotting wildlife including wild reindeer and birds, or perhaps enjoying some outdoor activities such as biking, hiking or kayaking. You could spend a great deal of time exploring this magnificent place, with so much to see and do it is definitely worth a visit when exploring Norway. 

4. Witness The Midnight Sun

Although visitors to Norway often focus on seeing the Northern Lights, during the summer months, the focus turns to the Midnight Sun. This is when the sun remains in the sky for several months, allowing no darkness to fall.

Tromsø, in northern Norway, is one of the best places to experience this. Visit between the 20th May an 22nd July and it will be light enough outside at midnight to read a book or go for a stroll.

5. Take A Cruise To Olden

A historical village at the mouth of the river Oldeelva, Nordfjordeid, Olden is a picturesque and interesting place to visit. Many cruises stop at this village located at the foot of the glacier and there are plenty of things to do once you get here.

Explore the village and try the local cuisine, do some shopping, visit the pretty church, or take a tour to the mountain viewing points high above the fjord. Some tours enable you to take a hike to see Briksdal Glacier and enjoy fantastic panoramic views.

6. See The Whacky Sculptures At Vigeland

Located within the larger Frogner Park, Vigeland sculpture park is a fascinating park to visit on the outskirts of Oslo city. With 200 sculptures created by Gustav Vigeland, it is the world's largest sculpture park made by a single artist.

The park is open year-round and is a wonderful place to walk around and admire the art. You will also find the Manor house and the Oslo city museum at the south end of Frogner Park.

7. Holmenkollen Ski Jump

Climb to the top of the famous ski jump and take in the panoramic view of Oslo and the surrounding landscape. Imagine what it would feel like standing on the top ready to ski down. Afterwards you can also visit the ski museum located at the bottom of the jump.

The museum offers a number of interesting exhibits on skiing history including a historic ski suit for a 9-month-old child!  There is also information on Norwegian polar exploration and an exhibition on snowboarding and modern skiing. You can even try the virtual reality booth and experience what it would be like to jump off this famous ski jump.

Norwegian Fjords cruises can range in duration from seven to fourteen nights depending on where you go and how much you want to see.

Bergen is the starting point for most itineraries, however, Oslo is also a popular seating point.

Fjords cruises tend to include scenic ports like Stavanger, Geiranger, Alesund and Flam, with some going as far north as Spitsbergen or Svalbard in the Arctic.

Cruises for 7 nights from Bergen can cost as little as $500 and costs can rise into the thousands depending on the cruise line and what you want to be included. 

Although there are numerous itineraries and levels of luxury, we have done our best below to budget for your Norwegian fjords cruise. Please note that this is a guide only. 

Norwegian Fjords Cruise Cost

The major cost to consider is the cruise itself. Unlike many other cruise destinations such as Svalbard, Greenland, or Iceland, cruise prices in Norway vary considerably depending on itinerary and ship. 

Just on Hurtigruten for example, cruise prices start from around $900 for a Northern Lights cruise in winter, and go up to $8,500 for a 2 week round-cruise in the summer peak period. 

Thanks to the warmer temperatures and wider activity choices, the summer is the more popular (and more expensive) time to visit Norway.

Standard 7 day cruises cost 'on average' around $1,500, whilst 2 week cruise usually cost upwards of $5,000. If you want a suite accommodation then you can double those prices. 

Last Minute Options

Although you may be able to find last minute deals, they are few and far between. It is best to book in advance as this will help to keep the cost down and ensure you get a cruise that visits the places you want to actually see.

It can be very expensive to stay in Norway too, so it is not advised to stay and wait for a last-minute cruise deal to come up as you will probably end up spending more than you would have anyway.

Hudson Bay is the second largest bay in the world. Teeming with wildlife, a plethora of species call this magnificent region home.

Located in Manitoba, Canada, Hudson bay is an excellent place to see marine life, mammals and hundreds of species of birds.

Known as an active wildlife corridor, tourists travel to this scenic and remote area to view the abundant array of creatures in their natural habitat.

Although most notable for it's Polar Bears, Hudson Bay is also one of the best places to see large pods of Beluga whales.

It is impossible to mention every species that can be seen in Hudson Bay, but below are some of the more popular animals that can be found in this wonderful wilderness. We also discuss the best time to visit Hudson Bay and wildlife watching tour options. 

Hudson Bay Wildlife

Hudson Bay Mammals

The area of Churchill which is located on the edge of the bay is often called the Polar Bear capital of the world. As the southernmost colony of polar bears, there are often hundreds frequenting the area during the hunting season. This is when the sea is freezing, and they gather to hunt seals and other sea life in the bay. This is also the only place you can see polar bears hunting beluga whales.

As well as the polar bears, there are plenty of other interesting mammals found here including moose, black bears, caribou and wolves. Make sure to take a wildlife tour to avoid disappointment.

Hudson Bay Marine Species

Beluga whales live in sub-arctic waters and are near the top of the check-list for most visitors to Hudson Bay. Hudson Bay offers the perfect mix of climate and food which means that the bay is home to the world’s largest population of beluga whales. You'll find plenty of whale watching tours to enjoy. You'll hopefully see the whales playing together and hear their high-pitched whistles and clicks as they communicate to one another.

Walrus, dolphins, and orcas also frequent the bay to feed on the cod, salmon and polar plaice which, in turn, feast on molluscs, starfish and sea urchins living here.