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Go deeper into the otherworldly fjords of Norway on this unique journey from Scotland, across the Norwegian Sea to the fjords of Norway. Discover wonderous UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Standing Stones of Stennes and the mystical Ring of Brodgar, visit archaeological sites, witness the curious clash of cultures in the Shetland Islands, and marvel at the stunning forests and waterfalls that line the fjords. Even after you come home, a part of you will remain here forever.
Explore the Standing Stones of Stenness, Enjoy a city tour of Bergen, Hop on the Flåm Railway to reach the scenic fjord of the Flåm district, Wander through fishing villages and appreciate the slow pace of life
Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to call our G Adventures Sales team. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.
EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS
Please call the numbers listed below, which will connect you directly with our 24 hour Sales team, who will happily assist you.
Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100
Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000
Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000
Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618
Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307
Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999
Every G Expedition cruise raises thousands of dollars for G Adventures' non-profit partner, Planeterra, supporting both the Ocean Health Fund and Planeterra's community social enterprise programs. The Ocean Health Fund helps combat waste which threatens ocean health, conducts scientific research on ocean animals and climate change, as well as investing in programs that work with local communities to promote ocean conservation and stewardship. Onboard the G Expedition, there are many opportunities to learn about these initiatives, to participate in Citizen Science programs, or purchase items in the gift shop from Planeterra-supported communities around the world.
The Planeterra Foundation planeterra.org is a Canadian non-profit organization that helps empower local people to develop their communities, conserve their cultures, and create humane and supportive systems for their endeavours. Planeterra provides capacity building and catalyst grants to get community social enterprises off the ground. These businesses address local challenges by providing benefits for indigenous people, empowering marginalized women, and granting disadvantaged youth access to education, employment, and brighter futures. Planeterra also works to ensure these businesses have a thriving customer base by integrating programs into G Adventures' itineraries globally.
G Adventures is Planeterra's largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need.
Dollar-a-Day Program
G Adventures' Dollar-a-Day Program provides travellers with the opportunity to give back to the people and places visited on our tours by donating one dollar for every day you are on trip. 100% of these donations go directly to support community development projects worldwide that are implemented by Planeterra.
Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customersolutions@gadventures.com and we will send it on to you.
Your luggage should be a clearly labeled suitcase, or rucksack, plus a daypack. Most airlines allow one checked bag and two carry-ons per person. Most airlines are currently enforcing strict restrictions for checked luggage and carry-on bags. To avoid any problems on check-in and with possible excess baggage charges, please consult your airline for specific restrictions.
In the world's most remote destinations that we travel to on the G Expedition, we cannot offload our plastics, glass or tin waste for recycling. Therefore, we try to reduce what single use items we use. You will see on the ship that every effort is being made to stop the use of single use plastic containers, bags and other items. In an effort to prevent plastic waste from entering the waste stream, we are asking for your help. We offer exceptional drinking water on the ship with refilling stations for your reusable water containers. You will be provided a complimentary water bottle to fill up as needed. Plastic items such as single use shampoo/conditioner plastic containers cannot be recycled, so please plan to bring any plastics back to your home countries for recycling. Please do not bring single use items that you intend to leave behind such plastic bags and throw away razors. Your participation in helping to prevent pollution and promote recycling is greatly appreciated.
Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers, in any capacity.
One expedition team member per 10 guests.
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. While on board our Expedition ships, please note that the currency for all purchases is USD.
G Expedition, Zodiac, local bus, coach, walking.
Please note that if you have selected the Private Cabin option at the time of booking, you will receive your own room for the duration of this cruise.
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Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. G Adventures can provide you with the appropriate coverage. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Aboard the G Expedition in quad-, triple-, twin-share cabins, or suites (all with en suite bathrooms and porthole or window, 12 nts). Please note that all cabins consist of twin-size berths and are ocean-facing. Suites have one queen-size bed.
Before and after the cruise:
Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances. Visa cards are the most widely accepted cards. While ATMs are widely available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work overseas. Check with your bank. You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies. Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of US dollars or Euros cash and cards is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.
While on board the G Expedition:
Cash and most major credit cards (VISA, Mastercard and American Express) are accepted to clear incidental bills at the end of the cruise by the ship's Purser (eg: bar bills, laundry, crew tips, etc).
OUR COMMITMENT TO RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL
As a leader in sustainable tourism, we are committed to ensuring that all of our marine expeditions operate in a socially and environmentally responsible manner. All expeditions aboard the G Expedition meet and exceed all environmental regulations and protocols in the regions that we visit.
Staff & Crew:
Our crew and expedition team act as stewards of the environment and are well versed in the strict environmental protocols on board and on land. All of our travellers are thoroughly briefed in these protocols before being allowed to participate in excursions and are always supervised by our team when on shore.
4-stroke Outboard Engines:
In an effort to drastically reduce environmental pollutants 4-stroke outboard engines have been installed on all of our Zodiacs. Our 4-stroke outboard motors use less fuel and produce less noise pollution than 2-stroke engines. Since there is no mixing of oil and gas the exhaust is intrinsically much cleaner and friendlier to the environment.
Planeterra Foundation
Through our commitment to responsible tourism we have developed the Planeterra Foundation, a non-profit organization that supports local community projects and small-business owners worldwide.
Sea Chart Auction:
At the end of each departure, the Captain's Sea Chart is auctioned and all proceeds are donated to the Planeterra to support our community initiatives in places G Adventures travels to.
Our end goal is to minimize the potential negative impact of tourism in the areas in which we operate while maximizing the positive impact of instilling a widened understanding and appreciation of these regions. During our voyages, we ask all our passengers that they see their visit to these areas as a privilege and that they share their newfound knowledge and experiences with others when they return home. We also hope that by bringing people to these regions that they continue to act as ambassadors and stewards of these areas.
Minimum age of 10 years for this trip.
Onboard our expedition ships you'll find a diverse offering of gourmet international cuisines prepared and catered by professional chefs. All meals are included in the price of your expedition cruise. Dining is casual, tables are unassigned and the dining room is capable of seating the entire passenger compliment at one time. There is always a selection of different meals available, and vegetarians will find plenty of options. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice, please advise us at time of confirmation. Coffee, tea and water are all provided free of charge. All other beverages, alcoholic and non-alcoholic are not included and can be purchased in the dining room, pub, or in the lounge.
Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)
Expedition:
• Binoculars (highly recommended)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Credit cards (Please note the Expedition is cashless and only accepts credit cards for payment.)
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Drybag (To protect your camera and belongings on Zodiac landings)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Recommended for Antarctic camping)
• Fleece jacket or warm layer
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear (good gripping) (Please note that open toed shoes are not allowed in public spaces on the Expedition.)
• Hat
• Long pants/jeans
• Moisturizer/lip balm
• Moneybelt
• Motion sickness tablets
• Outlet adapter (Electricity onboard is 220AC electrical outlets, with European 2 pin round holes, as well as 110-volt shaving sockets in the bathroom for electric razors only.)
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Scarf (Or neck warmer.)
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Sunblock (Antarctica is a desert!)
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Thermal base layer
• Thermal underwear
• Toiletries (Shampoo and shower gel are provided aboard the Expedition.)
• Walking poles (if desired)
• Warm hat
• Warm waterproof gloves
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof pants (Mandatory for all Zodiac landings)
• Wool/Heavy socks
Health & Safety:
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
Note: It is recommended to bring hiking poles for excursions on this itinerary.
While you are on board the G Expedition, we know that keeping in touch with your family and friends is important to you. We want to ensure you have the tools available to keep you connected in some of the most remote regions of the world. We have a satellite system, which allows our travellers to connect to the internet or make phone calls with the purchase of personal data credit. Travellers may use our computer room or use any Wi-Fi enabled device to connect to our network, which is available in public areas on Decks 4 and 5. Satellite phone service is available and private calls can be made from our phone booth. Due to using a satellite connection and travelling in remote regions, internet can be slow and sometimes unavailable. The connection in the high Arctic is particularly challenging and no connection is available while in and around South Georgia Island.
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.
VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.
A carefully chosen team will lead our voyage. The G Expedition boasts an international team of professional naturalists and lecturers. Their goal is to provide an informed and balanced interpretation of the destination, accomplished through stimulating lectures, day-to-day briefings, and informal discussions. Your lecturers and Expedition Leader will cover all aspects of the voyage including ornithology, marine biology, geography, geology, history and the environment, as well as practical things like photography. The expedition staff work conscientiously with you on deck and in the field, improving your observational skills to allow you to experience all that the destination has to offer. Their strong sense of ethics and ecological knowledge make for stimulating and mindful conversation whether onshore or at the dinner table. The expedition staff will are experienced drivers who will pilot the Zodiac landing crafts used for shore landings and Zodiac cruises in a responsible manner consistent with our safety standards on board.
12 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 12 dinners
Aboard the G Expedition, laundry is available to be serviced by our shipboard team at an additional charge.
Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. It is an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your expedition. The industry standard and suggested amount is USD $10 - 15 per person per day spent on board. Of course, tipping is a personal choice and the suggested amount is set only as a guideline. Crew tips may be settled using most major credit cards (VISA, Mastercard and AMEX) by the ship's Purser. The money is collected by the Hotel Manager at the end of the voyage and distributed amongst the crew and Expedition Staff. The Officers choose not to participate in the tipping pool.
Max 134 aboard the G Expedition.
We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier and contact us as soon as possible. If you have a pre-booked transfer, and you have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.
Lerwick
- Shetland Museum visit
12 nts aboard the G Expedition. Meeting point to ship transfer. Zodiac and land excursions with our expert expedition team. Lectures and educational programs. Ancient ruins guided tour (Orkney Islands). Shetland Islands visit. Bergen city tour. Flåm Railway excursion. Ålesund visit. Geirangerfjord visit. Trondheim excursion. Vega Island visit. Local village visit (Lofoten Islands). Tromsø city tour. Insulated, waterproof boots supplied for USA sizes 4 - 16. Expedition parka.
The G Expedition departs in the late afternoon, sailing towards Kirkwall.
The expedition begins near Scotland's incomparable capital city. Board the ship this afternoon in the suburb Port of Leith, to embark on a voyage to the Arctic. The G Expedition departs in the evening through a lock which leads down to sea level, before heading out to sail down the Firth of Forth. While on deck, keep a lookout for common eiders and northern gannets.
Please make sure to arrive at the Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket before 13:00 as luggage will be transferred separately to the ship. Meet back at the hotel no later than 15:00 for a group transfer to the Port of Leith for 16:00.
Visit historic and mystical sites by coach. Explore the Standing Stones of Stenness, the intriguing Ring of Brodgar, and the village of Skara Brae.
There are few places in the world that offer as much as the Orkneys. Only six miles off the coast of Scotland, the islands are famous for their abundant marine bird life and dramatic coastal scenery. Enjoy an afternoon to explore the ancient history of the people of these Scottish Isles.
Continue northwards to the remote Shetland Islands. Opt to visit Jarlshof or join the Puffin Bus to focus on puffins and seabird photography at Sumbrugh Head (weather dependent). Enjoy additional time to explore Lerwick.
The Shetland archipelago is an engaging mix of Scotland and Scandinavia blessed with spectacular coastlines, varied and abundant birdlife and a number of archaeological sites that date back thousands of years.
Cross the famous North Sea to reach Norway. Opt for a historical walking tour of the city, or enjoy a funicular ride for amazing views of Bergen, then explore on your own for the afternoon.
Hop on the Flåm Railway, travelling through valleys and mountain passes to reach the scenic fjord of the Flåm district.
Cross the famous North Sea to reach Norway. Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful Art Nouveau district of Ålesund, or take the 418 steps up to Fjellstua for the best view of the city, islands and bay. Opt to visit the Ålesund Museum and learn about the culture and history of the town, including the fire which destroyed the city in 1904.
Sail deep into one of Norway's most beautiful, and most visited, fjords. Enjoy a coach tour to Dalsnibba, soaking in the views at this UNESCO World Heritage site. For the more adventurous, opt for a 10km mountain hike exploring the area and taking in amazing views of the fjord from above.
Continue on to Trondheim. Choose between hiking in Bymarka Nature Reserve before visiting the Sverresborg Folk Museum, or enjoying a city tour including the Folk Museum and the elaborate Nidaros Cathedral, built between 1070 and 1300. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore the area on your own.
The rugged coastline of central Norway features some of the world's most beautiful scenery. Hike up to the famous hole in the mountain, with fantastic views of the region. Keep an eye out for Norway's mythical trolls. In the afternoon, head to the quaint and picturesque Vega Island, a UNESCO site. Wander the fishing villages, go on a guided nature hike, and appreciate the slow pace of life.
The mountain scenery and coastline offer breathtaking views. The goal is to visit Torghatten, one of the most bizarre rock formations in Norway and a significant local landmark.
Visit Svartisen, Lovund, and Vikingen, to see beautiful glaciers and a globe sculpture which marks Vikingen as a point directly on the Arctic Circle.
The Lofoten archipelago is an enchanting area of picturesque villages by the sea backed with jagged peaks. Go ashore by Zodiac for a day trip of the area. Start by visiting the Tørrfiskmuseum to learn about traditional work of the islands before visiting Nusfjord, one of Norway's oldest and best-preserved fishing villages for lunch at a local restaurant. After, stop in Henningsvær for time to see local art or explore the quaint fishing village. In the evening, stay on deck as you cruise into one of Norway's most famous fjords, the short yet dramatic Trollfjord. Search the cliffs on your continuing quest to spot trolls.
Tromsø, the capital of northern Norway, is known as the "Gateway to the Arctic" as it was the embarkation point for many Arctic expeditions. Learn about past Arctic expeditions and opt for some hiking or to explore the city on your own.
Disembark the G Expedition in the morning.
Transfers to the Clarion Hotel the Edge or Tromsø Airport will be offered to all passengers with flights scheduled after disembarkation.
After disembarkation you will be transferred to either the airport or the Clarion Hotel the Edge, depending on the time of your flight.
Those transferred to the hotel will have an opportunity to explore the town centre on their own, and then be transferred to the airport later in the day as per flight schedules. Transfer times will be confirmed, and communicated onboard prior to departure.
Luggage storage at the Clarion Hotel the Edge will be available until time of departure.
Details
Duration: 13 Days
Physical Grading: 2 - Light
Travel Style: Marine
Merchandising: Planeterra Project
13 day Marine tour
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