Lofoten Islands

The harbours on the eastern side of the islands are well protected from the heavy storms of the Norwegian Sea and are consequently important to the population of this region. Ferries formerly connected the 2 islands of Vestvågøy and Austvågøy, which made transportation in the area difficult, however years ago bridges were built, one across the tidal current Sundklakken and the other across the Gimsøy Sound.

Arriving on Austvågøy, proceed to Henningsvær, a fishing village built upon a group of islands, connected to the main island by a bridge. The scenery and atmosphere of the Lofoten region has attracted many artists, and at the Karl Erik Harr Gallery you can view a permanent exhibition of well-known works by the painter. There is also a collection of paintings by artists who worked in Lofoten around the turn of the century. Enjoy a slide show depicting the 4 seasons of Lofoten.

At Svolvær you’ll discover the peak of Vågakallen, a famous landmark for fishermen who take their hats off to greet the peak on arrival in Lofoten. The harbour of Svolvær is deeper, more sheltered and the busiest harbour in Lofoten. Here you can enjoy refreshments of cakes and coffee or tea in a local restaurant.

Ballstad is one of the largest and most modern fishing villages in the Lofoten Islands. Home to approximately 1,000 residents, you’ll make a photo stop here to enjoy the views.

As in many of Lofoten’s fishing villages, there are picturesque, traditional, small fishermen’s dwellings, which have been converted into holiday homes. Enjoy the scenic landscape and stop for a photo by Haukland Beach – looking a bit like a tropical island, but not the right temperature for a swim! It is a surprising sight: a white sandy beach in between the green hills and mountains.

Head towards Utakleiv, a small community facing the ocean, before returning to the ship.

Drive along the Flakstad Bay to the charming, small Flakstad Church, painted red in colour and dating back to the 18th century. Head to the old fishing hamlet of Sund, where you can take a closer look at the works of the local craftsmen at the Sund Museum. The museum displays various objects, brought together with much thought and affection, including boats of various kinds, utensils from fishermen's homes, as well as boat engines (still in working order), all dating from the last century.

Nusfjord is one of the most idyllic and best-preserved fishing villages in the Lofoten Islands, and recently it has been turned into an Open-Air Museum. Here, you can observe the architecture of the picturesque wooden fishermen's dwellings, which today are popular holiday homes for tourists who come here to seek peace and quiet.