Norwegian fjords and Alaska cruises

The Norwegian fjords and Alaska are some of the most popular ‘cold weather’ cruises around, although that can be something of a misnomer, as the temperatures on a good day can rival some Mediterranean itineraries.

What to watch out for in a Norwegian cruise is an itinerary that takes in Geiranger, one of the most impressive fjords, which has massive waterfalls that descend from cloud level into the sea in a mind-blowing display of power. Murmansk is a good port call because it’s the city north oft he Arctic Circle. Spitsbergen is also a key stop as half of its island mass is under glaciation and there’s a very good chance that this is the port call on which you’ll be able to see a polar bear or two.

Alaska has become less popular with cruise lines of late, owing to strong legislation against pollution its international waters, but there’s no evidence that it’s becoming less popular with cruise passengers, so book early if this is your cruise choice, as with fewer ships, it’s going to be tougher to get the cabin you want if you leave it late. Skagway and Ketchikan are bustling port calls, but a taxi ride away you can be in complete wilderness. Key excursions to watch out for are those running to the Misty Fjords national park – a not to be missed chance to see some of the most impressive cold climate scenery in the world.

You can even sail to the Arctic circle from the UK – Fred Olsen have a sailing that leaves Tilbury and takes in the Svalbad archipelago,Spitsbergen and North Cape as well as Lerwick in the Shetlands and Stornoway on Lewis.