Pre-Departure: Azamara Journey Norway Intensive Cruise

A Very Special Journey Begins

At Edge of Wonder Travels Unlimited, we believe that the best journeys are the ones wrapped in meaning, memory, and a touch of magic. This summer, one of those special adventures is about to set sail: a 16-night Norway Intensive Cruiseaboard Azamara’s Journey, departing from Edinburgh exactly one month from today! And it’s no ordinary trip — it’s the fulfillment of a heartfelt promise.

Years ago, I made a promise to my niece and nephews: when each turned 16, I would take them anywhere in the world they wanted to go — within reason (sorry, no war zones or highly restricted areas!). Now, the time has come for my oldest nephew to claim his adventure — and he chose Norway.

Honestly? I couldn’t be more thrilled. Here’s why we’re counting down the days with pure excitement.

Why We’re Excited

Small-Ship Cruising, the Right Way

Azamara’s Journey is the perfect size: intimate, elegant, and experience-driven, carrying just around 700 guests. No mega crowds, no endless lines, no “theme park at sea” vibes. Instead, we’ll enjoy:

  • Longer port stays and overnights
  • Personalized service
  • Authentic shore excursions
  • A real chance to immerse ourselves in the landscapes and local culture

An Epic Norwegian Itinerary

This isn’t just a skim across the surface; it’s a deep dive into the soul of Norway. Highlights include:

  • Edinburgh, Scotland: Pre-cruise adventures in one of my favorite cities
  • Bergen: The colorful gateway to the fjords
  • Flåm: Scenic railway rides and epic hiking
  • Geiranger: UNESCO-protected fjords and cascading waterfalls
  • Trondheim: Gothic cathedrals and Nordic charm
  • The Arctic Circle: Venturing into the midnight sun
  • Honningsvåg & North Cape: The top of Europe — and fresh king crab!
  • Lofoten Islands: Rugged, dramatic, and achingly beautiful
  • Tromsø: The “Gateway to the Arctic”
  • Ålesund: Art Nouveau beauty by the sea
  • Stavanger: Fjord adventures and cobblestone streets

Active Adventures: Hiking and Sea Kayaking

We’re not just admiring Norway’s landscapes from a ship — we’re getting out into them! Our plans include:

  • Sea kayaking among the fjords: Paddling close to waterfalls and soaring cliffs
  • Hiking in Geiranger and Lofoten: Trails with heart-stopping views
  • Exploring secret beaches tucked into dramatic coastlines

Pro Tip: Norway rewards the adventurous. We’re embracing every opportunity to move, climb, paddle, and discover.

The Crab Feast at the Top of the World

One of the moments we’re most excited for? The king crab excursion in Honningsvåg.

We’ll head out with local fishermen, catch fresh Arctic king crab, and then enjoy a seafood feast like no other — right by the icy waters where the crabs were pulled from.

Insider Tip: You can’t VIP yourself into a moment like this — it’s pure magic, curated the Edge of Wonder way.

Why This Trip Matters

This is more than a cruise. It’s a rite of passage, a memory we’ll carry forever. It’s a reminder that travel connects generations, builds bridges, and gifts us stories we’ll tell for decades!

And personally? Seeing the world through my nephew’s eyes, sharing the wonder of new landscapes, new tastes, new adventures — that’s what travel is really about.

Stay Tuned!

We’ll be sharing highlights from our journey — fjord sunsets, Arctic adventures, crab feasts, and all — once we set sail.

Ready to craft your own unforgettable adventure?
🚢 Let’s start planning!