Norway at Its Most Atmospheric on the Expedition Yacht ARCTIC

When charter broker Sarah Piggin was invited to explore the Norwegian fjords during the shoulder season, she initially questioned whether it would be the right time to go. In reality, it proved to be the perfect time. Cruising aboard the 287’ (87m) expedition superyacht ARCTIC, the quieter months revealed Norway at its most atmospheric: snow-dusted mountain peaks, and waterfalls thundering down sheer cliff faces, all enjoyed without the crowds of summer.

Sarah’s journey began in Bergen, before traveling inland by train along one of Europe’s most scenic rail routes, joining ARCTIC in the small town of Flåm, deep within the UNESCO-listed Nærøfjord. “As soon as ACRTIC was underway, it was clear that this would be a charter experience unlike any other,” says Sarah. “Time seemed to slow, and the days took on an unhurried pace.”

Converted from an ice-classed salvage tug, ARCTIC is fitted out to be both an exploration vessel and a luxury superyacht and is exceptionally well-suited to high-latitude cruising. She has been with the same family since ever since her conversion in 1994 and is cared for by a remarkably long-standing crew of 28. “She’s incredibly stable and feels more like a refined country house at sea,” Sarah explains. “Deep sofas, warm interiors and an atmosphere that instantly makes you relax.”

Days were filled with immersive experiences both on and off the yacht. Alfresco lunches were enjoyed on the aft deck, warmed by heating beneath the table, while cruising through mirror-still waters. Hikes along the coastline led to surprise fireside stops arranged by the crew, complete with toasties, hot chocolate and schnapps. “It’s these little details that really made our time on board memorable.” One standout moment came with a kayak journey to a remote village, where guests were greeted by Vikings in traditional dress, welcomed into a longhouse for a feast, and immersed in stories of Norway’s seafaring past.

Adventure is an integral part of life aboard ARCTIC. Guests took a polar plunge before retreating to the Jacuzzi, explored deep into the fjords on jet skis, and cruised alongside thundering waterfalls. “The scale of the landscape is breathtaking,” says Sarah. “Some fjords stretch more than 130 miles inland, with towering cliffs and mountains rising 3,000-feet above you and similar depths below. You need a yacht like ARCTIC, with extensive anchoring capability, to cruise here properly.”

What was most surprising was just how much is possible outside the summer months. With immersion suits, an extensive toy collection and partnerships with specialist operators offering activities such as dog sledding, heli-skiing and even snorkeling with orcas, the shoulder seasons becomes a true sweet spot. “You have the fjords almost entirely to yourself,” says Sarah. “It completely changed my perception of when and where yachting can be enjoyed. For clients looking to redefine what a yacht charter can be, Norway aboard an exploration yacht like ARCTIC is unforgettable.”

TOP 5 EXPERIENCES
Cruising the UNESCO-listed fjords
Kayaking through mirror-still waters
Jet skiing in immersion suits
Polar plunge and jacuzzi
Viking culture