We're Donovan and Adress — your hosts for this unforgettable Norwegian adventure.

We're seasoned travelers, cruise obsessives, and the founders of E-L-K Travel Co. Between the two of us, we've sailed on more than 40 cruises and explored destinations across the globe. But Norway? Norway stole our hearts when we visited in 2023. The dramatic fjords, the midnight sun reflecting off pristine waters, the charming coastal villages — we knew immediately we had to bring our community here.

Now we're inviting you to experience it with us.

When you join one of our group sailings, you're not just booking a cruise — you're becoming part of our travel family. We'll be there from the moment you start planning, sharing insider tips and local insights we've gathered from our own adventures. We'll help you feel confident before embarkation, show you the hidden gems at each port, and create those spontaneous moments that become your favorite memories.

Expect a relaxed, welcoming vibe. Exclusive perks and surprises along the way. Group dinners where strangers become friends. And two hosts who genuinely care about making your voyage seamless and spectacular from start to finish.

This is Norway the way it's meant to be experienced — together, with people who've been there and can't wait to share it with you.

Ready to join us?

14 Days • Roundtrip from Rotterdam

We're taking you to the top of the world.

This is the Norway sailing we've been dreaming about since our first visit in 2023 — 14 unforgettable days aboard the Nieuw Statendam, exploring stunning fjords, remote Arctic ports, and chasing the midnight sun beyond the Arctic Circle. This isn't just a cruise. It's an adventure to places where daylight refuses to end and nature shows off in ways that'll leave you speechless.

Here's where we're going together:

We'll start in the colorful harbor of Bergen, surrounded by mountains and history. Then sail to Ålesund, where art nouveau architecture meets dramatic coastal views. In Åndalsnes, we'll be dwarfed by some of Norway's most jaw-dropping peaks — trust us, your camera won't do it justice. We'll cruise through the serene beauty of Trondheimsfjord before heading even further north.

Then? We cross into the Arctic.

Tromsø — the gateway to polar exploration, where the energy is electric and the scenery is unreal. Alta — home of the midnight sun and northern lights, where the sky does things you didn't think were possible. These are the moments we've been talking about nonstop since we experienced them ourselves.

And between ports? Pure magic. Relaxed sea days where you'll watch glacier-carved cliffs slide past your window, glassy fjord waters reflecting endless sky, and views that shift every single minute. Onboard the Nieuw Statendam, you'll enjoy world-class dining, live music, and the kind of refined comfort that makes you never want to leave.

This is the Norway trip. The one your friends will ask about for years. The one you'll struggle to put into words because "beautiful" just doesn't cut it.

We're hosting. You're invited. Let's go north together.

Day 1 — Embarkation in Rotterdam, Netherlands
Departs 3:00 PM
Begin your adventure in Rotterdam, a modern port city known for bold architecture and rich maritime history. Explore its lively markets and waterfront cafes before setting sail north toward the Norwegian coast.

Day 2 — At Sea
Relax and settle in as you sail through the North Sea. Enjoy Holland America Line’s signature service, live music, fine dining, and sweeping ocean views — a perfect day to unwind before the adventure begins.

Day 3 — Ålesund, Norway
10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Cruise into one of Norway’s most beautiful harbors, framed by art nouveau architecture and mountain backdrops. Wander the colorful streets or hike up Aksla viewpoint for panoramic views of the islands and fjords.

Day 4 — Trondheim & Scenic Cruising Trondheimsfjord
11:00 AM – 11:59 PM
Steeped in Viking history, Trondheim charms with cobbled streets, wooden wharves, and the impressive Nidaros Cathedral — Norway’s national sanctuary. Enjoy a late evening departure as the ship glides through the tranquil waters of Trondheimsfjord.

Day 5 — Crossing the Arctic Circle
Today marks a milestone — sailing across the Arctic Circle. Celebrate this rare moment at sea as you officially enter the land of the midnight sun. Keep your camera ready for crisp air, blue horizons, and maybe even a glimpse of northern light.

Day 6 — Tromsø, Norway
Arrives 10:00 AM (Overnight)
Known as “The Gateway to the Arctic,” Tromsø blends adventure with Nordic charm. Explore its Arctic Cathedral, ride the cable car for sweeping mountain views, or visit a husky camp for a true taste of northern life.

Day 7 — Tromsø, Norway
Departs 10:00 PM
Enjoy a second full day to dive deeper into Tromsø. Visit the Polar Museum, stroll the harbor, or simply savor coffee and pastries in a cozy café as the Arctic scenery unfolds around you.

Day 8 — Alta, Norway
8:00 AM (Overnight)
Welcome to Alta — a land of Sami culture, river canyons, and sweeping tundra. Visit the Northern Lights Cathedral, tour prehistoric rock carvings, or opt for a thrilling Arctic adventure like snowmobiling or dog sledding.

Day 9 — Alta, Norway
Departs 2:00 PM
Spend the morning exploring more of Alta’s striking landscapes before your ship sails south again. As you leave the Arctic, take in views of endless sky and sea — pure Norwegian magic.

Day 10 — Scenic Cruising: The Arctic Circle
Re-cross the Arctic Circle as your voyage heads south. Bundle up on deck with a warm drink and watch the rugged coastline pass by — a serene day to reflect on your time above the Arctic.

Day 11 — Åndalsnes, Norway
8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Nestled among dramatic peaks, Åndalsnes is known as the “Alpine town by the fjord.” Ride the famous Rauma Railway for some of Europe’s most breathtaking scenery or visit Trollstigen, Norway’s legendary mountain road.

Day 12 — Bergen, Norway
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Once a Hanseatic trading hub, Bergen’s colorful Bryggen Wharf and Mount Fløyen views capture the essence of Norway’s charm. Shop for woolen goods, sample local seafood, or wander through centuries of maritime history.

Day 13 — Stavanger, Norway
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
In Stavanger, stroll cobblestone lanes lined with white wooden houses and soak in the relaxed coastal vibe. Don’t miss the Viking House experience or a visit to the nearby Lysefjord, home to the dramatic Pulpit Rock.

Day 14 — At Sea
Your final day at sea offers time to recharge, relive the highlights, and toast to new friendships made along the way. Enjoy a leisurely dinner and a last sunset over the North Sea.

Day 15 — Disembarkation in Rotterdam, Netherlands
Arrives 7:00 AM
Disembark with full hearts and unforgettable memories — from the fjords to the far north, this journey has captured the true spirit of Norway and the Arctic.

MS Nieuw Statendam
Elegant. Modern. Designed for Discovery.

The Nieuw Statendam blends classic Holland America Line elegance with modern innovation, offering a refined atmosphere at sea. As one of the line’s Pinnacle-class ships, she’s built for travelers who appreciate both comfort and connection — whether that’s live music, fine dining, or quiet moments surrounded by stunning views.

Onboard, guests can enjoy five distinct music venues, including the Rolling Stone Rock Room, Lincoln Center Stage, and BB King’s Blues Club — each bringing a different rhythm to your evenings. Dining is a highlight, with everything from elevated steakhouse fare at Pinnacle Grill to world flavors at Rudi’s Sel de Mer and Tamarind.

During the day, unwind by the pool under the glass-covered Lido Dome, visit the Greenhouse Spa & Salon, or simply watch the fjords drift by from your private verandah. Every detail — from the artwork to the service — is thoughtfully curated to create a cruise experience that feels indulgent yet personal.

Whether you’re sipping coffee in the Grand Dutch Café, catching a sunset from the Observation Deck, or enjoying a show on the World Stage, Nieuw Statendam is the perfect ship to explore Norway’s dramatic landscapes in comfort and style.

Let's talk about the food — because honestly, it's one of our favorite parts of sailing.

Dining on the Nieuw Statendam isn't just about eating. It's about savoring every moment, whether you're dressed up for an elegant evening or grabbing a casual bite between adventures. Every restaurant celebrates global flavors and fresh, high-quality ingredients, with warm service and those incredible ocean views that make even a simple meal feel special.

Here's what we love:

The Dining Room is where we go for those classic multi-course dinners — seasonal dishes, regional specialties, and that timeless cruise elegance we can't get enough of. When we're feeling indulgent (which is often), we book a table at Pinnacle Grill, Holland America's signature steakhouse, or Rudi's Sel de Mer for refined French seafood that's worth every bite.

Craving bold flavors? Tamarind serves up Asian cuisine in a serene, beautiful setting. Want comfort food done right? Canaletto brings authentic Italian dishes to sea — the kind that remind you why you fell in love with pasta in the first place.

And when we're keeping it casual? Lido Market has fresh, made-to-order everything. Dive-In makes gourmet burgers that hit differently when you're eating them poolside. And the Grand Dutch Café? Specialty coffee and Dutch treats — it's become our morning ritual.

On special nights, you'll find fine dining venues that genuinely rival the best restaurants on land. No exaggeration.

Whether it's a romantic dinner for two, a lively meal with new friends from the group, or a quiet breakfast overlooking the fjords with a cappuccino in hand — every meal becomes a moment you'll remember.

Trust us. You're going to eat very well on this trip.

After a day of exploring Norway’s fjords and Arctic landscapes, your stateroom aboard Nieuw Statendam is the perfect retreat — thoughtfully designed, stylishly modern, and exceptionally comfortable. Whether you prefer a cozy haven or a spacious suite with a private verandah, you’ll find a space that feels like home at sea.

Interior Staterooms starting at $2,584 per person (double occupancy)

💰 E-L-K Travel Co. Exclusive Rate: $2,584 per person
💸 Save $590 compared to Holland America’s direct rate of $2,879 pp

Smartly designed for comfort and function, Interior staterooms feature Holland America’s signature Mariner’s Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattress, elegant modern décor, and ample storage. Perfect for travelers who spend their days exploring and prefer a quiet, restful space to unwind.

Family Oceanview Staterooms starting at $3,324 (double occupancy)

💰 E-L-K Travel Co. Exclusive Rate: $3,324 per person
💸 Save $400 compared to Holland America’s direct rate of $3,524 pp

Ideal for families or travelers who enjoy extra space, these rooms feature large picture windows, a full-size sofa bed, and comfortable seating. Natural light fills the room, while thoughtful touches — like premium linens and daily housekeeping — make it an inviting place to relax together between adventures.

Verandah Staterooms starting at $3,275 per person (double occupancy)

💰 E-L-K Travel Co. Exclusive Rate: $3,275 per person
💸 Save $1,178 compared to Holland America’s direct rate of $3,834 pp

These guest favorites combine indoor comfort with outdoor serenity. Floor-to-ceiling windows open onto a private balcony — perfect for morning coffee as you sail past the fjords or a quiet glass of wine at sunset. Each Verandah Stateroom includes a sitting area, Mariner’s Dream™ bed, and a full bath with premium amenities.

Vista Suites starting at $3,884 per person (double occupancy)

💰 E-L-K Travel Co. Exclusive Rate: $3,884 per person
💸 Save $2,680 compared to Holland America’s direct rate of $5,194 pp

Offering a step up in space and style, Vista Suites feature a private teak-lined verandah, larger living area with sofa and sitting space, and Holland America’s signature Mariner’s Dream™ bed with Euro-Top mattress. Bathrooms include a glass-enclosed shower (no whirlpool), plush cotton robes, oversized towels, and Elemis bath products. Guests also enjoy a pillow menu, fresh fruit on request, and complimentary shoe-shine service — elegant touches that make your stay feel extra special.

No matter which stateroom you choose, you’ll enjoy Holland America Line’s refined comfort, thoughtful design, and exceptional service — ensuring every night at sea is as memorable as every day in port.

Reserve early for best stateroom selection — availability is limited in each category.

A refundable deposit of $300 per person (up to $1,200 per stateroom) secures your place on this incredible journey.
Prefer a smaller upfront payment? Opt for the $199 per person reduced non-refundable deposit instead.
Final payment is due by August 2, 2026.

Here's what makes traveling with us different:

We believe your cruise should feel effortless from the moment you book. That's why every E-L-K Travel Co. sailing is designed to maximize value, minimize stress, and let you actually enjoy your vacation. When you join our exclusive group aboard the Nieuw Statendam, nearly everything is already taken care of — and we mean everything.

What's Included with Your Cruise Fare:

Your Room: Choose from beautifully appointed staterooms or suites (we'll help you pick the perfect one). Daily housekeeping, 24-hour room service, and all the comfort you need to recharge between adventures.

Your Meals: A wide range of incredible restaurants are included — multi-course dinners in the Dining Room, casual bites at Lido Market, gourmet burgers at Dive-In, and our beloved Grand Dutch Café. You won't go hungry. Trust us.

Your Entertainment: Live music every single night across multiple venues. World-class shows on the World Stage. There's always something happening, and it's all included.

Your Activities: Enrichment talks, cooking demos, fitness classes — it's all part of the experience. Learn something new or just enjoy the vibe.

Your Service: Holland America's crew is known for their attentive, genuine hospitality. They'll remember your name and your coffee order by day two.

What's Not Included:

Specialty dining (like Pinnacle Grill or Rudi's Sel de Mer), shore excursions, spa treatments, most beverages, and gratuities (unless you've added a package that covers them) are extra. We're happy to help you budget and plan for these.

The bottom line?

From the moment you step onboard to your final farewell dinner, we've got you covered. Your E-L-K Travel Co. hosts (that's us) and Holland America's exceptional crew handle the details — so all you have to do is show up, explore, and soak in every unforgettable moment.

This is how cruising should feel.

When you book with us, you get perks you won't find anywhere else.

This isn't just another cruise booking. When you join our hosted group sailing, you're unlocking exclusive amenities that are only available through E-L-K Travel Co. — the kind of extras that make a great trip absolutely exceptional.

Here's what you get when you're part of our group:

✨ Exclusive private cruise rates — We've negotiated special pricing that saves you money. Period.

💰 Up to $75 onboard credit — That's $75 to spend however you want. Specialty dining? Spa day? Extra cocktails with a view? It's yours.

🗣️ Direct access to us before you sail — From the moment you book, Donovan and Adress are here to answer questions, share tips, and make sure you feel totally prepared and excited.

🎉 Hosted events onboard — Private group gatherings, meet-and-greets, and those spontaneous moments that turn travel buddies into lifelong friends. This is where the magic happens.

🎁 Exclusive welcome gifts and keepsakes — Because we love a good surprise. You'll get something special that marks this trip as uniquely ours.

🚢 Private group-only excursions — Shore experiences designed just for our travelers. These aren't available to the general public.

The truth? You could book this cruise anywhere. But you'd miss out on all of this — and on being part of a community that makes every sailing feel like traveling with friends.

So why book anywhere else?

Make your cruise even more effortless with Holland America Line’s Have It All package — available for just $60 per person, per day. It bundles the most popular amenities into one simple, value-packed upgrade, so you can relax knowing everything’s taken care of.

Here’s what’s included when you add Have It All:

• Signature Beverage Package – Enjoy a wide selection of beer, wine, spirits, cocktails, soda, and specialty coffee (up to $11 per drink).
• Specialty Dining – Indulge in 2 premium dining experiences at restaurants like Pinnacle Grill, Tamarind, or Canaletto.
• Shore Excursion Credit – Receive $200 per person in Shore Excursion Credits to use on adventures ashore.
• Wi-Fi Surf Package – Stay connected with basic Wi-Fi access for browsing, social media, and messaging.

That’s more than $100 in daily value for just $60 per person — and it’s fully refundable before final payment.

Upgrade to Have It All when you book your stateroom and enjoy the best of Holland America’s premium experience, bundled and simplified.

We don't just book your cruise and disappear. We're with you every single step.

When you book through E-L-K Travel Co., you're not getting a confirmation email and a "good luck." You're getting a dedicated travel team (that's us — Donovan and Adress) who genuinely care about making this trip seamless, personal, and unforgettable.

From the second you reserve your stateroom to the moment you're back home scrolling through photos, we've got you covered.

Here's exactly how we support you:

✈️ Flights & Pre-Cruise Hotels — We'll help you find the best flight options and recommend trusted hotels near Rotterdam so your embarkation day is smooth and stress-free. No scrambling. No confusion.

🧳 Travel Insurance — We'll walk you through your coverage options in plain English, so you can protect your investment and travel with total peace of mind.

🚖 Transfers — Need to get from the airport to the port? We'll arrange private or shared transfers that match your timing and budget. One less thing to worry about.

🛶 Shore Excursions — This is where it gets fun. We'll help you choose the best excursions — whether it's a scenic fjord tour, a local food experience, or something totally unique. We work with Holland America and our own vetted partners to make sure every port day is incredible.

💬 Ongoing Support — Before, during, and after your trip, you have a direct line to us. Questions about packing? Wondering what to wear to dinner? Curious about a port stop? Just ask. We respond fast and we actually care.

Here's our promise:

Your vacation should feel effortless. That's why we handle the logistics, answer the questions, and sweat the details — so all you have to do is show up excited and ready to explore.

This is what it means to travel with us. This is the E-L-K difference.

Space is limited for this exclusive Norway & Arctic Circle sailing hosted by Donovan and Adress of E-L-K Travel Co..

Secure your stateroom early to lock in exclusive perks — including up to $75 onboard credit!

We’ll handle every detail — from flights and hotels to excursions and travel insurance — so all you have to do is pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey north.