The compact city of Newcastle has plenty to be discovered during a day onshore. Once an industrial hub, it has successfully transformed into a quirky and stylish destination, popular particularly for its vibrant nightlife. But, as well as the restaurants, bars and clubs, you'll find over 2,000 years of history and architecture thanks to the city's Roman origins. Discover the Roman ruins, the Gateshead Millennium Bridge, many museums, parks and galleries to learn more about Newcastle.
Things to do in Newcastle:
Discovery Museum
A scientific and local history museum, The Discovery Museum is located in Blandford Square in Newcastle upon Tyne. There are several local history exhibits there, including the Turbinia ship. Showcasing the renowned maritime history, alongside fashion, science and technology, this diverse museum is fun for all the family.
Newcastle Castle
The castle is situated in the heart of the city, and is a prominent mediaeval fortification that was constructed on the site of an ancient fortress. Within the castle, you’ll find the iconic fortified gatehouse (the Black Gate) as well as the Castle Keep and other impressive features.
Biscuit Factory
Newcastle upon Tyne is home to the contemporary art gallery The Biscuit Factory. The Gallery underwent extensive renovations before opening in 2002, and was originally constructed in the late 19th century. The Biscuit Factory is the UK's largest commercial gallery for art, craft, and design, making it a popular attraction for those visiting the city.
Cruising - Innvikfjorden
DAY 325 Aug 2024
When cruising through Innvikfjorden, you’ll see all the typical delights of the Norwegian fjords. From beautiful waterfalls to lush greenery, the Innvikfjorden is one of the most popular sailing routes in the world. Along the way, you’ll see the well-known sites of Geiranger, Trollstigen, and Vestkapp. Onshore, there’s an array of excursions and activities available including hiking trails, kayaking trips and more!
Olden
DAY 325 Aug 2024
Found at the end of the magical Nordfjord, Olden has a population of just 505 and is home to some of Norway's most breathtaking glaciers. Each point of interest is within walking distance of the cruise port, including tourist information, cafes and a picturesque old church. Take an excursion to the Briksdal Glacier where you can hike to the glacier viewpoint, or hop on the Loen Skylift to the top of Mount Hoven for unforgettable views of the landscape.
Things to do in Olden:
Loen Skylift
If you’re looking to soar high above the Nordfjord, take the impressive Loen Skylift. An aerial tramway, 7 metres per second is the top speed and it is among the steepest in the world with a gradient of up to 60 degrees.
Huaren Viewpoint
Taking 3 hours, this incredible hike takes you up the picturesque Mount Hauren. When you reach the top, you’ll be greeted with an all-encompassing vista of the natural splendour that surrounds Olden. Well worth the effort, you’ll pass a lush forest and other captivating scenery throughout your hike.
Oldevatnet Lake
Located in the valley of Oldedalen, this impressive lake covers just under 8 square kilometres and spans 12 kilometres. Situated between the fjords, the turquoise waters of the lake are like something out of a dream and the surrounding mountains are simply magical.
Andalsnes
DAY 426 Aug 2024
With just over 3,000 inhabitants, Andalsnes is a small but mighty city, surrounded by staggering mountains. On the shore of Romsdalsfjord, it's one of the most scenic ports of call on a Norwegian fjords cruise, and a great place to find a range of outdoor adventures, such as hiking, mountain biking and kayaking. As well as this, you can find a classic railway to explore Andalsnes,and the Vegmuseum which retells the history of the expansive Trollstigen road.
Things to do in Andalsnes:
Gondola
If you want to take in breathtaking views out over the valleys and mountains, the Romsdalen Gondola is the best way to do it. An state-of-the-art electric cable car, you’ll soar 1,679 metres up to Mount Nesaksla, which sits at an impressive 700 metres above sea level. Taking approximately 10 minutes, when you reach the observation point you can enjoy 360 degree views out across the beautiful surrounding landscapes!
Rampestreken
Alternatively, you can hike up to the Rampestreken viewpoint. A fantastic experience, when you reach the top you’ll have breathtaking views 537 metres above sea level. With the picturesque town of Andalsnes below you, this is an experience unlike anything you’ve had before.
Nesaksla
Taking just over 1 hour, the hike to Mount Nesaksla is a must for anyone that loves to walk. And the moment you reach the awe-inspiring 715 metre summit, the photo opportunities are endless!
Alesund
DAY 527 Aug 2024
The artistic, quirky and historic town of Alesund is not only a great stop off on your way to explore the Geirangerfjord, but a hidden gem in itself. Boasting unique Art Nouveau architecture throughout the town, you'll find an abundance of boutiques, bars and eateries surrounded by the backdrop of the picture-perfect Sunmore Alps. Whether you're on a leisurely stroll through town or enjoying outdoor excursions, Alesund is an unforgettable port of call on a Norwegian Fjords cruise.
Things to do in Alesund:
Storhaugen
If you’re looking for beautiful panoramic views of Alesund and scenic walks, Storhaugen park is a must visit. A picturesque green space high above the port town, you can take in sights of the quaint town centre, alongside Sunnmoresalpane mountain range and Sula.
Fisheries Museum
Whether you want to learn about the captivating fishing history of Alesund or you’re simply looking for an activity that’s a little more unique, the centrally located Fisheries Museum is just the ticket.
The Art Nouveau Town
Wonder through the beautiful town and discover all of the breathtaking Art Nouveau buildings, from houses to churches. A picturesque walk, there are often tours offered around the area, which will inform you all about the history of Alesund, alongside the captivating architecture.
Newcastle
DAY 729 Aug 2024
The compact city of Newcastle has plenty to be discovered during a day onshore. Once an industrial hub, it has successfully transformed into a quirky and stylish destination, popular particularly for its vibrant nightlife. But, as well as the restaurants, bars and clubs, you'll find over 2,000 years of history and architecture thanks to the city's Roman origins. Discover the Roman ruins, the Gateshead Millennium Bridge, many museums, parks and galleries to learn more about Newcastle.
Things to do in Newcastle:
Discovery Museum
A scientific and local history museum, The Discovery Museum is located in Blandford Square in Newcastle upon Tyne. There are several local history exhibits there, including the Turbinia ship. Showcasing the renowned maritime history, alongside fashion, science and technology, this diverse museum is fun for all the family.
Newcastle Castle
The castle is situated in the heart of the city, and is a prominent mediaeval fortification that was constructed on the site of an ancient fortress. Within the castle, you’ll find the iconic fortified gatehouse (the Black Gate) as well as the Castle Keep and other impressive features.
Biscuit Factory
Newcastle upon Tyne is home to the contemporary art gallery The Biscuit Factory. The Gallery underwent extensive renovations before opening in 2002, and was originally constructed in the late 19th century. The Biscuit Factory is the UK's largest commercial gallery for art, craft, and design, making it a popular attraction for those visiting the city.
Customer reviews for Balmoral
4.3
Based on 113 reviews
Cabin
4.3
Service
4.3
Excursions
4.3
Dining
4.3
Activities
4.3
Value for money
4.3
Entertainment
4.3
Staff were wonderful, good staff to customer ratio, and food was amazing. Entertainment was Ok. Lots of activities were on offer. Our fellow cruisers were mainly elderly. We were lucky with good weather. It is a small ship so for the less able easier to get around, although in bad weather it would probably have been more uncomfortable. It was the staff and their service which made the trip memorable.
couple
2-5 cruisesSuperior Interior Room
15 May 2023
Used the cruise to visit family and friends in the Netherlands. The disembarkation location in both Amsterdam and Rotterdam were perfect - every sight in walking distance or by shuttle bus.
couple
10+ cruisesOcean View
9 May 2023
The staff are excellent, very friendly and helpful. However, I preferred the food menus on a previous trip I'd taken on Balmoral.
couple
2-5 cruisesSuperior Ocean View
13 Apr 2023
Very friendly, both passengers and crew. Nothing seemed too much trouble. Ship was clean but older. A paper copy of the port where we docked would have made a huge difference, as it was difficult to navigate our way with no guidance. Staff suggested the local 'tourist information' but we didn't know where that was.
All offers and prices are subject to change and availability at time of enquiry. Prices are based on two passengers sharing unless otherwise stated and are subject to the Tour Operator's terms and conditions. Cabin and Flight supplements may apply. Other supplements may apply in addition to the price shown above. Flight details, timings and routing may be subject to alteration. Other tour operator charges may also apply. Any Onboard Spending money or drinks package value shown will be per cabin, again based on two sharing.
Note: On 13 January 2018, new European legislation is being adopted in the UK which as result will mean that we may change our required method of payment at our discretion, irrespective of how any deposit or prior payment was made.
