Shore excursions program for below cruises

As you leave the port and pass the little airport at Leknes, your first view will be of the so-called “Himmeltindan” mountains, the tallest mountains on the island, 914 metres above sea level. We will head for Borg, the site of the ancient Viking farm that was discovered by a farmer plowing his land in the early 1980’ies. Today it has been reconstructed and is called “Lofotr”. The main building has a length of 83 metres and all around there are various exhibitions and reconstructions. After the unique audio visual presentation visitors will be left with a very realistic impression of the living conditions in these bygone times. Outside you will see samples of the livestock they had in those days, boars, fjord horses, sheep etc. Afterwards we drive via Stamsund – a fishing village founded by Mr. Julius M. Johansen at the beginning of the 20th century. Up to date quays, modern fishing equipment, a cod-liver‑oil refinery, shops, fishermen’s' dwellings as well as a church were all built and provided by the self‑made man who became Norway's largest supplier of dried fish and guano. From Hagskaret viewpoint you have views both to the Norwegian Sea and towards the wide Vestfjord between the mainland and the islands and from Einangen viewpoint there is a superb possibility to photograph your ship down on the Buksnes fjord.

As you approach the Lofoten Islands and see an approx. 190 km range of mountains with a sheer drop into the sea, you will be seduced by the breathtaking scenery but, at the same time, will be surprised to discover the rich green vefetation in the valleys and the small villages. Leaving the port you will head for the Flakstad Bay to visit the charming little, red painted Flakstad church, dating back to the 18th century. Next on the list is Sund with its interesting fishery museum. During the visit you will have a closer look at the works and collections of the local craftsman - the black‑smith. He has collected various objects, brought together with much thought and affection: boats of various kinds, utensils from fishermen's homes as well as boat engines (still in working order) from the beginning of this century. It is fascinating to see a blacksmith at work, perhaps creating a cormorant, the bird that made the former blacksmith Hans Gjertsen famous in Norway. This bird is a symbol to the fishermen in this region and therefore of great significance. Continue the tour by returning to Vestvågøy Island and Utakleiv. A small community facing the open sea which was elected by the Times as having the most romantic of Europe’s Best Beaches in 2005.