Norwegian Fjords: Whales and Northern Lights · Nov 2026
Traditional sailing, hands on
What makes the voyage of the Segelschoner Meander to Northern Europe special?
Through the long winter nights in the far north of Norway, we keep watch for the most spellbinding displays of the northern lights. By day we take in the wild scenery and respectfully observe the varied wildlife.
The fish-rich fjords north and east of Tromsø draw vast shoals of herring in winter - and with them orcas (killer whales) and humpback whales, which hunt here from October to February. Above the coastal cliffs soars the white-tailed eagle, Europe's largest bird of prey. Harbour seals and grey seals bask on skerries and rocks, and with a little luck you may also spot otters along the stony shoreline.
With no more than twelve guests aboard the Meander, we are a small, intimate group. The polar night lies over us - yet the December snow reflects what little light there is so strongly that it stays surprisingly bright even in the evening and night hours. Whenever weather and ice conditions allow, we go ashore in quiet bays and set out on snowshoe walks through the wintry stillness.
In the evenings we gather in the cosy saloon, where expedition leader Birgit Lutz shares stories from her wealth of experience: of polar research, of the behaviour of whales, and sometimes from her books. Unless the northern lights begin to dance outside - in which case everyone is back on deck.
What is the route of the sailing voyage aboard the Segelschoner Meander to Northern Europe?
8 nights round trip from Tromsø, including Coastal waters around Tromsø.
Tromsø
8 nights
Tromsø
Typical route (may vary with wind and weather):
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Tromsø · Embarkation
Tromsø, the "Paris of the North", lies 350 km north of the Arctic Circle. The Arctic Cathedral, the midnight sun from May to July and intense aurora activity in winter make Tromsø the northernmost university city in the world.
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Coastal waters around Tromsø
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Tromsø · Disembarkation
The stops shown are options from which the captain will choose according to wind and weather. The route of a sailing voyage may change without giving rise to mutual claims.
Climate & best time to sail
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air °C | 4 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 13 | 16 | 17 | 17 | 14 | 11 | 7 | 5 |
| Sea °C | 7 | 6 | 6 | 7 | 10 | 13 | 15 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
| Rain mm | 190 | 150 | 170 | 110 | 106 | 132 | 148 | 190 | 283 | 271 | 259 | 235 |
Long-term monthly normals · Reference: Norwegian coast / Scotland (Bergen)
What are the highlights of the sailing voyage aboard the Segelschoner Meander to Northern Europe?
Highlights of this route: Tromsø · Küstengewässer um Tromsø
Tromsø
Tromsø, the "Paris of the North", lies 350 km north of the Arctic Circle.
Küstengewässer um Tromsø
Northern Norwegian sea area around the island city of Tromsø, far above the Arctic Circle in the realm of fjords.
Destination
What does the Segelschoner Meander offer?
The Schooner Meander is a historic expedition ship with real character. Built in 1946 at a Hamburg shipyard and converted into a comfortable sailing ship in 1995, this two-masted staysail schooner with an ice-strengthened hull is specifically equipped for Arctic expeditions. Over her long career she has weathered storms of up to Beaufort force 11 in the Drake Passage.
Impressions of the Segelschoner Meander
What cabins does the Segelschoner Meander offer?
Standard
Cosy double cabin with a bunk bed and its own washbasin in the cabin. Two standard cabins each share a separate shower and WC.
Comfort
Double cabin with a private bathroom (shower and WC) as well as a washbasin. More privacy for discerning guests, with only two comfort cabins on board.
What does the deck plan of the Segelschoner Meander look like?
What does the sailing voyage aboard the Segelschoner Meander to Northern Europe cost?
From € 3,995 p.p., 8 nights, departure 18.11.2026.
Prices per person in double cabin. Subject to availability.
What is included as standard in the ship voyage of the Segelschoner Meander?
On board
- Cabin in booked category
- Full board
- Onboard program
- Port fees
Not included
- Travel to/from ship
- Shore excursions
- Beverages
- Gratuities and personal expenses
This voyage on other dates
Similar route, different departure
- 18.11.2026 – 26.11.2026 from € 3.995 view →
- 18.11.2026 – 26.11.2026 this page
- 25.11.2026 – 03.12.2026 from € 3.995 view →
- 25.11.2026 – 03.12.2026 from € 3.995 view →
- 18.11.2027 – 26.11.2027 from € 4.295 view →
- 18.11.2027 – 26.11.2027 from € 4.295 view →
- 25.11.2027 – 03.12.2027 from € 4.295 view →
- 25.11.2027 – 03.12.2027 from € 4.295 view →
Frequently asked questions
How do I book the voyage aboard the Segelschoner Meander to Northern Europe?
Send an enquiry to IVENT-SAILING via the booking form on this page. Our team of experienced travel experts will be in touch shortly with a personal offer. We would be glad to advise you.
What is included in the price?
The base price per person (twin cabin) includes the cabin in your chosen category, full board, all port fees and the onboard programme. Flights and transfers are quoted separately. 8 nights from EUR 3.995 p.p.
How many guests sail on the Segelschoner Meander?
A maximum of 12 guests - extraordinarily intimate compared to standard cruise ships. The high crew-to-guest ratio ensures personal attention throughout the voyage.
Can the itinerary change?
Yes - all itineraries are subject to weather, port availability and the captain's decisions. This is part of the charm of small-ship cruising: flexibility allows for unexpected discoveries.
Are there specials for early bookers or solo travellers?
Yes. Early bookers receive discounts for timely booking. Solo travellers often benefit from a reduced or waived single supplement. Simply mention your preferences in the enquiry.
Is my booking protected?
Yes. As a German tour operator, ivent-sailing provides a travel protection certificate (Reisesicherungsschein) under German law. Your payment is fully insured.
What about flights and transfers?
We arrange flights and transfers on request as part of your personal offer. This allows us to find the best connections for your specific departure date and home airport.
Are there shore excursions?
Yes. All cruise lines offer shore excursions - from guided cultural tours to nature experiences. The concepts vary by fleet. We are happy to provide details on available excursions for your chosen voyage.
What water sports and activities are available?
Depending on the ship and route: snorkelling, kayaking, stand-up paddling, diving, and Zodiac landings (on expedition voyages). Many ships have a marina platform for direct access to the water. We will be happy to tell you exactly what is available on your voyage.
When is the best time for a sailing voyage to Northern Europe?
The best time to sail this route is May to September.
