Fred. Olsen – In Search of the Northern Lights – January 2026
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Portsmouth Historic Dockyards
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Borealis sailing ©Fred Olsen Cruise Lines
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Borealis' Colours & Tastes Restaurant ©Fred Olsen Cruise Lines
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Single Ocean View Cabin K on Borealis ©Fred Olsen Cruise Lines
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Explore Ersfjorden in Explorer Boats ©Tor Farstad, Hurtigruten
Sails from Portsmouth
Embark on a captivating adventure, timed by our Journey Planners to afford the possibility of sighting the Northern Lights, a cosmic phenomenon casting ethereal ribbons of colour across the night skies. After crossing the Arctic Circle, explore the enchanting ports of Narvik and Bodø, offering yet more opportunities to spot the lights. You can immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of the Sámi, the indigenous people of Norway. Discover their fascinating history and nomadic lifestyle in the cosy setting of a traditional tepee-style lavvu tent. Unravel the science behind the Aurora Borealis, enhancing your experience with a deeper understanding of the celestial wonder that graces the skies.
Dates
Sunday 04 January - Wednesday 14 January 2026
Cruise Itinerary
Sunday 04 January 2026
Departure from Portsmouth, United Kingdom
Board the ship late-afternoon before you set sail.
Monday 05 January 2026
At Sea
Enjoy a full day of cruising.
Tuesday 06 January 2026
At Sea
Enjoy a full day of cruising.
Wednesday 07 January 2026
ÅLESUND, Norway
Considered by Norwegians to be Norway’s most beautiful city, Alesund in winter is perhaps even more breath-taking than in the summer months, as its bathed in dusky shades of orange and pink. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the Art Nouveau town is built on three islands, where panoramic views of the city, archipelago and Sunnmore Alps are best seen from the top of Mount Aksla.
Thursday 08 January 2026
At Sea
Enjoy a full day of cruising.
Friday 09 January 2026
NARVIK, Norway
Due to its location far north of the Arctic Circle, the small town of Narvik is seen as one of the best places to see the Aurora Borealis. Situated on the banks of the Ofotfjorden, with snow covered mountains and dense forests surrounding Narvik, the Northern Lights dance in the skies overlooking the town.
Saturday 10 January 2026
BODØ, Norway
Surrounded by steep, snow covered mountain peaks, Bodo in winter is bathed in hues of pink and orange light as the winter light reflects off the surrounding waters. Located just north of the Arctic Circle, there are also opportunities to see the Northern Lights in Bodo, and as it is the first place the Gulf Stream hits the Norwegian coast, it’s climate is milder than more inland destinations.
Sunday 11 January 2026
At Sea
Enjoy a full day of cruising.
Monday 12 January 2026
STAVANGER, Norway
During the winter months, Stavanger will often be covered in a layer of snow, reaching down to the fjord’s edge. It’s climate is said to be similar to that of Scotland, located across the sea, and so can often be wet in the winter. Nearby is the renowned Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) with Lysefjord lying below, where the waters are almost as deep as the mountains are high.
Tuesday 13 January 2026
At Sea
Enjoy a full day of cruising.
Wednesday 14 January 2026
Arrival at Portsmouth, United Kingdom
After an early breakfast, disembark the ship for your journey home.
Borealis Ship Information
Sister ship of Fred. Olsen’s flagship Bolette, Borealis joined in the fleet 2020, and as the fastest ship in the fleet, she is perfectly suited to sailing on longer voyages across the globe, meaning that she can include fantastic scenic discoveries and highlights into each itinerary.
Redecorated and refurbished when she joined the fleet in order to meet the high standards of the Olsen family, Borealis features a wonderful series of lounges, bars, elegant restaurants and wide-open deck spaces, as well as 702 beautiful cabins and suites.
Enjoy one of the Signatures Experiences of Scenic Discoveries from the perfectly-appointed Observatory, where guests will be able to see oustanding natural scenery and iconic landmarks, accompanied by commentary from the on board teams; or sample delicious Treats of the Region in the Auditorium where the talented chefs will prepare dishes that are local to the exciting destinations you’re visiting. The friendly crew will be on hand throughout your cruise, providing the personal service they’re known for.
| Date | Arrival | Departure | Port of Call |
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Sun 04 Jan 2026 |
Late PM | Portsmouth, United Kingdom | |
| Mon 05 Jan 2026 | Cruising | ||
| Tue 06 Jan 2026 | Cruising | ||
| Wed 07 Jan 2026 | Early AM | Late PM | ÅLESUND, Norway |
| Thu 08 Jan 2026 | Cruising | ||
| Fri 09 Jan 2026 | Early AM | Late PM | NARVIK, Norway |
| Sat 10 Jan 2026 | Early AM | Late PM | BODØ, Norway |
| Sun 11 Jan 2026 | Cruising | ||
| Mon 12 Jan 2026 | Early AM | Late PM | STAVANGER, Norway |
| Tue 13 Jan 2026 | Cruising | ||
| Wed 14 Jan 2026 | Early AM | Portsmouth, United Kingdom |
