We are so excited you will be joining us on the Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas. This will be a memorable trip viewing majestic fjords and exploring old-world cultures. We know you will make many memories with your fellow trip achievers and Stampin’ Up! leaders.
21 May....................Depart from Southampton, England
22 May....................Cruising at Sea
23 May....................Haugesund, Norway
24 May....................Geiranger, Norway
25 May....................Olden, Norway
26 May....................Stavanger, Norway
27 May....................Cruising at Sea
28 May....................Arrive in Southampton, England
The itinerary (schedules, destinations, and other aspects of the cruise) is subject to change without prior notice.
For the most accurate port times and excursion activities in each port, please refer to the Royal Caribbean Website and your reservation booking (available by end of April).
The port city of Southampton is protected from English Channel storms by the Isle of Wight. Much battered over the centuries—and particularly during World War II—it presents a patchy mosaic, but the historic parts near the waterfront are well worth seeking out.
Spend some time walking the city walls and seeing the archaeology and maritime museums, the Mayflower memorial (it, as well as the Titanic, sailed from Southampton; the Mayflower returned to Plymouth for repairs and began its trans-Atlantic crossing from there), the old Norman arches (called the Bargate) and the Medieval Merchant's House. One of the favorite sights in town is the well-preserved Tudor House.
Southampton is located 70 mi/115 km southwest of London.
A historic town with a vibrant past, Haugesund is home to epic Viking tales, a dramatic coastline, and spectacular fjords. Here, Viking Kings ruled until the 9th century when King Harald Fairhair united Norway into a single kingdom. Today, Haugesund continues to bring the country together by hosting The Norwegian Film Festival and Slidajazz Music Festival. And with so many things to do, it’s the perfect place for history buffs and thrill seekers. Cruise to Haugesund and visit a Viking village replica in Avaldsnes to learn everything about Viking life. Experience the wonder of Langfoss Waterfall, considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world. Or trek through scenic landscapes to Himkånå for spectacular views of Lysevatnet lake.
Welcome to the Jewel in the Crown of Norway's fjords. Geiranger Fjord was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005, but the area has been luring tourists since the turn of the 19th century. Take the Waterfall Walk to the heart of the cascades. Climb the Skywalk for Europe's highest fjord view with Norway cruises. Explore Geiranger by bike or on foot, or hop in a raft or kayak for a view from the water. Once you've taken in your fill of mountain air, stroll the quaint village center. Indulge your sweet tooth at the local artisan chocolate shop, or sit back at a cafe with a coffee and a krumkake — a rolled cake with whipped cream in the center — and enjoy the view.
Fresh air and icy beauty are the hallmarks of Olden, known as the Gateway to the Glaciers. Come here to explore the Jostedal Glacier — not only can you take in views of this natural wonder, you can also head to Jostedalsbreen National Park and hike the blue ice yourself. Thanks to Olden's location at the northern end of Oldedalen Valley, you'll find an unexpectedly dramatic landscape dotted with valleys, waterfalls and mountains. Explore the town by foot, boat or bike, and head into a gallery to discover why Olden is an emerging center for contemporary design. Cruise to Norway to check out the Old Olden Church for a unique look into local religious traditions.
Perched on Norway's dramatic western coast, Stavenger is a city full of historic architecture, quaint cafes and ocean views. Check out Gamle Stavanger, the picturesque old town, where you'll find well-preserved wooden buildings dating back to the 18th century painted in unique pastel hues. Cruise to Stavanger to learn more about the Vikings at the Museum of Archaeology, or visit 12th-century Stavanger Cathedral — thanks to a series of rebuilding efforts over the years, it features architectural elements from Romanesque to ornate Baroque. Then, take the short trip to Prekestol, the "Preacher's Pulpit," a rocky natural viewing point overlooking Lyse Fjord.