Hurtigruten Expeditions Science & Serenity at Sea - From New England to Panama

10-day itinerary

Day 1: Revolutionary Boston 

Commence your expedition adventure in the historic city of Boston, the capital of Massachusetts. There is so much for you to experience while here. Visit the site of the famous Tea Party and walk the Freedom Trail to discover the city’s revolutionary role in shaping modern-day America.

Indulge in the city’s culinary classics including steaming bowls of seafood chowder and fried clams, while also making the most of the inviting bars which are scattered around the city.

Experience the city’s outstanding colonial-era and revolutionary history, or alternatively visit some of the most respected and influential universities in the world. You will then be enjoying an overnight stay in a centrally located hotel ahead of your exciting adventure.

Day 2: Embarking from Boston

Discover the city’s rich historical importance as the onboard team takes you on a scenic tour of this intriguing region. Boston’s abundant history is infused into many of its districts, with impressive colonial-era buildings intertwined with its modernised centre.

The expedition ship, MS Fram, will then be awaiting your arrival in the Portland Harbour as your guided tour of Boston reaches its conclusion. Before setting off, take this opportunity to familiarise yourself with your cabin and the ship’s facilities, as well as meeting your Expedition Team. Be prepared to fully immerse yourself with the upcoming sights, sounds and science of the sea.

Day 3-9: At one with the ocean and nature

Unwind and open your mind to the wonders of the sea

Over the course of the next few days of travel, spend time gaining insights and knowledge about the wonders of the sea. Take the opportunity to completely relax and de-stress as you embark on your oceanic retreat.

Oceanography and science at sea 

During this journey, you’ll have opportunities to study the changes in the sea and the effect of ocean currents, like the Gulf Stream, in guided workshops and lectures delivered by the onboard team. Discover how marine life is impacted by their position in the sea, whether that be along the continental shelf or the deep ocean. Be sure to visit the Science Centre to also observe seabirds and analyse water samples.

Navigation old and new  

Explore celestial navigation, astronomy, and how this compares with modern-day electronic instruments. Find out about how previous explorers managed to navigate the seas using equipment such as sextants, and also how the Vikings amazingly used optical calcite and the stars.

Conservation and Citizen Science 

A crucial part of this adventure is bringing more awareness to the issues caused by pollution in our waters, and how we can aid conservation going forward. Passengers will have opportunities to join Citizen Science programmes, which may include: whale spotting for Happywhale, a global tracker; noting cloud and sky conditions for the GLOBE observer in conjunction with NASA; or taking seabird counts. The Expedition Team will also reaffirms their commitments to the environment and the steps being taken to improve sustainable travel.

Connecting with nature 

Appreciate the peace and serenity all around you as you scan for the iconic variation of wildlife in the region. Consider yourself to be a bird enthusiast? If so, be sure to attend bird and sea life observations out on deck with the onboard naturalists, witnessing the sheer beauty and harmony of their movements. As research shows, people who feel more connected to nature are more likely to take actions to promote environmental health and conservation, whilst also being healthier and happy as a result. Therefore, utilise this trip to fully immerse yourself with nature.

Oceanic arts and crafts 

Disconnect from the stresses of modern life by taking part in one of the many arts and crafts workshops available onboard. These activities are proven to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, while also enhancing overall happiness. Be sure to also combine science and art by joining a specialist workshop, whereby you will be able to inspect samples under a microscope before painting them.

Rest and relaxation 

Along with all of this, don’t forget to take advantage of the excellent facilities aboard the MS Fram. Indulge in relaxing spa treatments, unwind in the Explorer lounge and bar, swim in the infinity pool, or even work out in the onboard gym. The Expedition Team will also be hosting quizzes and game nights in the evenings for you to enjoy, as you take time to savour some well-deserved relaxation.

Day 10: Conclusion of your adventure

Your science and relaxation cruise will end in the bustling port town of Colon. A cosmopolitan centre with a variation of wonderful local restaurants, hot springs, and a thriving handicraft scene to experience, the town of Colon is the ideal way to conclude your adventure.

Located at the Caribbean entrance to the Panama Canal, it’s also a good jumping off point to further explore Panama, the Caribbean or South America.

Feel as tough you want to explore more of what the city has to offer? Join an optional post-programme package to discover more of Colon.

Hotel

• Overnight in Boston before the expedition cruise, including breakfast

Transfers

• Transfer from the hotel to the ship in Boston before the expedition cruise

Expedition cruise

• A stay in a cabin of your choice
• Breakfast, lunch and dinner including beverages* in restaurant Aune
• À la carte restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests
• Complimentary tea and coffee
• Complimentary Wi-Fi on board†
• Complimentary reusable water bottle
• English-speaking Expedition Team who organise and accompany activities on board and ashore
• Range of included activities
• Complimentary wind and water-resistant expedition jacket

Onboard Activities

• In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team
• Full access to the ship’s Science Centre
• Citizen Science Programme allows guests to assist with ongoing scientific research
• Professional onboard photographer gives tips and tricks for the best landscape and wildlife photos
• Informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings

Notes

• All planned activities are subject to weather conditions
• Excursions and activities are subject to change
• Please make sure you meet entry and boarding requirements
• No gratuities expected

What’s not included

• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Luggage handling
• Optional Post-Programmes with our local partners

MS Fram