Pack your binoculars and bird books: Hurtigruten is featuring two Arctic Birding Safaris along the gorgeous Norwegian coast in the spring of 2009, when bird-watchers can set their sights on flocks of birds native to Norway, such as kittiwakes and Razor-billed auks. You might also spot Sea eagles and a variety of seabirds, shorebirds, waterfowl, and birds of prey.If you're really lucky, you might spot the rare Norwegian worm tern. (OK, I made that up, but you never know...)
Far more knowledgeable birding experts than I will accompany the cruises, a 12-day voyage departing Bergen for Kirkenes March 28, 2009, and a six-day voyage departing Kirkenes -- near the Russian border wa-a-a-ay up north and east -- for Bergen April 3, 2009. (For those who haven't figured it out yet, the six-day cruise is actually the return portion of the first cruise.)
In either or both directions, you'll cruise fjords, stop in remote fishing settlements, and sail past the Top of Europe, with snow-capped peaks -- and, one hopes, lots of birds -- in the background.
Besides expert naturalists aboard, the cruise will be accompanied by art and photography instructors, who will teach you how to draw, paint, or photograph your own wildlife scenes.
Double occupancy fares start at $1,099 for the six-day cruise and $1,899 for the 12-day cruise. Fuel surcharges ranging from $36 to $72 per person are not included. These fares apply to North American residents only.
For more information or bookings, go to the Hurtigruten website or call 800/323-7436 or a travel agent.
Photo courtesy of Hurtigruten.
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