with Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at USF
Imagine sailing through Norway's breathtaking fjords, surrounded by rugged mountains and dramatic Arctic landscapes. As daylight fades, you look toward the northern sky hoping to see one of nature's most spectacular displays—the Aurora Borealis dancing overhead.
This 14-day Holland America Line Arctic Circle & Northern Lights cruise, departing October 16, 2027, invites OLLI-USF travelers to experience the remarkable beauty, culture, history, and natural wonders of northern Norway.
Travel above the Arctic Circle, discover charming Norwegian communities, experience spectacular fjords and coastlines, and learn about the traditions and landscapes that have shaped life in Norway's far north. October's longer nights also provide opportunities to witness the Northern Lights, adding an unforgettable possibility to an already extraordinary journey.
More Than a Cruise—It's an Opportunity to Explore Together
Travel and lifelong learning are natural companions. Every destination offers something new to discover: a different culture, fascinating history, extraordinary geography, local traditions, and a new perspective on the world.
That's what makes this journey such a natural fit for the OLLI-USF community.
You'll have the opportunity to explore Norway alongside fellow travelers who share your curiosity and enthusiasm for discovering new places. Spend your days experiencing the destination and your evenings enjoying the comfort of your Holland America Line ship—all without continually packing and unpacking as you travel deeper into Norway.
Why You'll Love This Norway Adventure
🌌 The Northern Lights — Longer Arctic nights create opportunities to look for the incredible colors of the Aurora Borealis.
❄️ Cross the Arctic Circle — Venture into Norway's remarkable far north and experience a part of the world few travelers get to explore.
🏔️ Spectacular Norwegian Scenery — Discover dramatic fjords, rugged mountains and beautiful coastal landscapes.
🛡️ Norwegian Culture & Traditions — Experience communities shaped by centuries of history, maritime traditions and life in the north.
📚 Travel That Inspires Curiosity — Norway offers fascinating opportunities to discover more about Arctic geography, history, culture and the natural world.
🚢 Explore in Comfort — Experience an extraordinary region aboard Holland America Line while unpacking just once.
🤝 Travel with the OLLI-USF Community — Share the discoveries, conversations and memories with fellow travelers who are just as curious about the world as you are.
Could This Be Your Northern Lights Moment?
There are trips you remember because of the places you visited—and there are trips you remember because of the moments you experienced.
Standing beneath an Arctic sky waiting for the first streak of green to appear. Seeing a Norwegian fjord surrounded by towering mountains. Discovering a community very different from your own. Sharing dinner at the end of the day and talking about everything you've just experienced.
This is that kind of journey.
Join OLLI-USF and Armadillo Travel Adventures for an unforgettable exploration of Norway, the Arctic Circle and the Northern Lights in October 2027.
🌌 Your Arctic Adventure Awaits
14-Day Arctic Circle & Northern Lights
Holland America Line
Embarking October 16, 2027
Cabins starting from $3,364 per person
Space and current group pricing are limited and subject to availability.
Ready to experience Norway?
→ View the Full Itinerary & Pricing
Or contact Armadillo Travel Adventures with questions about the cruise, cabin options, travel protection, airfare, or preparing for your journey.
Karen Wright - OLLI Travel Opportunities Committee
Come curious. Return inspired.
🌌 Will we definitely see the Northern Lights?
The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so sightings can never be guaranteed. However, traveling into Northern Norway during the longer, darker nights of October gives us opportunities to look for the Aurora Borealis during our journey. Weather, cloud cover and solar activity all affect visibility.
❄️ How cold will Norway be in October?
Temperatures will vary depending on how far north we are and the weather conditions. Expect cool to cold fall conditions, with colder temperatures as we travel into the Arctic. Layers, a warm waterproof jacket, comfortable shoes, gloves and a hat will be important. Armadillo Travel Adventures will provide more detailed packing guidance before departure.
🚢 Why is a cruise a good way to experience Northern Norway?
Norway's coastline is vast and many of its most spectacular communities and landscapes are separated by considerable distances. Cruising allows you to experience multiple destinations while returning each evening to the comfort of the ship—without repeatedly packing, changing hotels or arranging transportation between cities.
👥 Do I have to be an OLLI-USF member to join the trip?
Not at all! While this is an OLLI-USF travel opportunity, you do not have to be an OLLI-USF member to join us. Friends, family members, neighbors, and fellow travel enthusiasts are welcome!
In fact, adventures are often even better when shared. Invite a friend, bring a family member, or encourage your favorite travel companion to come along. You'll also have the opportunity to meet and connect with other curious travelers throughout the journey.
The more, the merrier—come experience Norway together!
🧳 Is this trip appropriate for travelers with limited mobility?
The cruise itself offers a comfortable way to explore Norway, but individual ports and shore excursions can vary considerably in walking distance, terrain and accessibility. Travelers with mobility concerns should speak with Armadillo Travel Adventures before booking so we can discuss individual needs and appropriate excursion options.
💰 What is included in the advertised cruise price?
Cruise fares begin at $3,364 per person based on double occupancy and the applicable cabin category. The exact inclusions and final price will depend on the stateroom selected and any Holland America promotions available at the time of booking. Armadillo Travel Adventures can provide a personalized quote before you make your reservation.
✈️ Is airfare included?
Unless specifically stated in your individual booking, airfare is not included in the advertised starting cruise fare. Armadillo Travel Adventures can assist with flight arrangements and any pre- or post-cruise accommodations you may need.
🛡️ Is travel protection included?
No. Travel protection is not included in the cruise fare and is highly recommended. Holland America offers protection applicable to eligible Holland America arrangements, or Armadillo Travel Adventures can provide quotes from preferred travel protection partners for your total eligible trip cost, which may include airfare, hotels and other prepaid nonrefundable arrangements.
🛏️ Can I choose my cabin?
Yes, subject to availability within the group inventory and Holland America's current inventory. Armadillo Travel Adventures can help you compare cabin categories and locations so you can choose the option that works best for you.
📅 When should I book?
If this trip is on your wish list, earlier is better. Group space and specific cabin categories are limited, and cruise pricing and availability can change as the sailing fills. Booking earlier also gives you a better selection of cabin locations.
☎️ Who do I contact if I have questions or want to book?
Armadillo Travel Adventures will be your travel resource for this OLLI-USF journey. We're here to help with cabin selection, reservations, travel protection, airfare, pre- and post-cruise arrangements, and questions along the way.
You can also reach out to Karen Wright - OLLI Travel Opportunities Committee: jwrigh15@tampabay.rr.com
🌌 Still Have Questions?
We're happy to help. Contact Armadillo Travel Adventures to learn more about traveling to Norway's Arctic Circle with OLLI-USF—or to reserve your cabin.