A Magical Christmas at Sea
A Magical Christmas at Sea
Experience the magic of Christmas with Havila Voyages this December. Celebrate the season at sea with authentic traditions, festive flavors, and unforgettable moments along the Norwegian coast.
A Coastal Christmas
Along Norway’s winter coast, the nights are long, the stars are bright, and the sea carries centuries of tradition. Onboard Havila Voyages, Christmas is more than a season — it is a journey. From the first candle of Advent to the last song of New Year’s Eve, our ships become floating celebrations of light, flavour, and togetherness. Welcome to Christmas at sea — where Norwegian traditions meet the magic of the coast.
Norwegian traditions at sea
We bring Norwegian traditions to life, so you can experience an authentic Christmas at sea.
Why Celebrate with Havila?
Christmas with Havila is unlike anywhere else. Here, centuries-old Norwegian traditions meet the quiet magic of the sea. Our ships wrap you in comfort and warmth, while the coast outside tells its timeless winter story.
To celebrate with Havila is to slow down, breathe in the winter coast, and carry home memories that shine long after the season ends.
Our Northern Lights Promise
From October to March, the Northern Lights – or Aurora Borealis – dance vividly across the skies of Northern Norway.
See the lights or sail again for free with our Northern Lights Promise.
No lights, no problem. If you don’t witness the lights during your 12-day Round Voyage between October and March, you get another 6- or 7-day voyage — free of charge.
Enjoy Christmas Ashore
Meet Rudolph and his friends
Where: Tromsø
When: Winter / Spring
Here you can meet the reindeer up close – and even join a magical sleigh ride through the snow-covered landscape. The journey concludes with a visit to a traditional Sámi gamme, where you’ll be welcomed with stories, traditions, and a hospitality that has been passed down through generations. Read more here.
Experience the Norwegian Christmas Markets
Here you’ll find an overview of some Christmas markets occurring in November and December. Additional markets may also be available.
Bergen Christmas Market
21 November - 22 December
Opening hours: 12:00 - 21:00
Welcome to Bergen’s magical Christmas Market, set in the heart of the city at Festplassen. A visit to Bergen Julemarked is the perfect way to soak up the holiday spirit on Norway’s west coast.
Christmas Program Onboard
During December
- Winter walk ashore (weather permitting) with hot cocoa and snowman-building hosted by the Expedition Team.
- Reading of the Christmas Gospel with the Captain for those who wish.
- Optional Christmas church service ashore (sometimes torchlit walk to a local church).
- Christmas tree lighting gathering in the atrium with guests and crew.
Advent
From the First Sunday of Advent (late November/early December)
- The ships are dressed for the season: evergreens, warm lights, and carols drifting through the lounges.
- Cozy evenings with festive menus, candlelit moments, and relaxed music.
December 13: Lucia Day
- Procession with crew and guests, saffron buns ("lussekatter") included.
December 20–23: Getting into the Spirit
- Daily gløgg (non-alcoholic mulled wine) & Christmas cookies in Havly and Havblikk lounges.
- Christmas workshop and puzzles arranged by the Expedition Team.
- On December 23: Julegrøt (Christmas porridge) with the hidden almond — find it and win a prize!
Christmas
December 24: Christmas Eve
- Traditional Norwegian Christmas dinner onboard.
- Coffee & cake buffet in Havblikk to end the evening.
December 25: Christmas Day
- Festive breakfast and Christmas dinner.
- Coffee & cake buffet after dinner.
December 26–30: Between the Holidays
- Candlelit evenings with live music and sing‑along in Havblikk Bar & Lounge.
December 31: New Year’s Eve
- Gala dinner and festive celebrations.
- Live music and dancing into the small hours.
- Midnight toast under the northern sky, followed by a cake buffet in Havblikk.
January 1: New Year’s Day
- Reflective atmosphere as the ship sails the winter coast.
- Farewell dinner to close the season.
*The program is subject to change without prior notice.
Find Your Christmas Voyage
- Geirangerfjord*
- North Cape
- Lofoten
- The Arctic Circle
- Tromsø
- Bergen
- Tromsø
- Lofoten
- The coast of Helgeland
- Nidaros Cathedral
- The Atlantic Ocean Road
- Geirangerfjord*
- Ålesund
- The arctic circle
- North Cape
- Tromsø
Cozy activities ashore
