The Polar Bear Club
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Haven
Hammerfest, Noorwegen
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Inspanningsniveau
Moderate
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Excursietype
All
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Rolstoeltoegankelijk
No
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Vanaf
$109
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Minimum leeftijd
Information Not Currently Available
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Duur
Approximately 2 Hours
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Maaltijden inbegrepen
Meals not included
Hammerfest is situated at 70°39′48″ north and is the world's northernmost city. Approximately 11,300 people live here, and Hammerfest's principal industries are oil and gas, fishing and trade. The sun stays above the horizon 24 hours a day from May 17 until July 28 — these are the White Nights. The dark period lasts from November 21 until January 23. Perhaps not surprisingly, Hammerfest was the first town in Northern Europe to introduce electric streetlights in 1891. In latter years, it has also become the central point for the petroleum industry in northern Norway.
At Forsøl, a tiny fishing village, take a few photos before returning to town via the same road. Approaching Hammerfest, you'll detour up to Mount Salen — barely even a hill at just 262 feet above sea level, but nonetheless boasting a wide view over the town, the fjord and the islands.
You'll pass through the town center and suburbs with attractive small homes rebuilt after the town was destroyed during World War II.
Stop to visit the Royal & Ancient Polar Bear Society. The Society was founded in 1963 to preserve Hammerfest's proud tradition as a base for research, hunting and fishing in Arctic waters. The small exhibition exhibits has a collection of stuffed animals and artifacts and tells the story of the sheer willpower, spirit and creativity of the people who live and face challenges in severe Arctic conditions. If you so choose, you will have the opportunity to buy a life membership in the society.
Notes:
Although much of Hammerfest is readily accessible on foot, Holland America Line has partnered with a tour operator here to offer a local perspective and commentary that would not be present when exploring on your own. Outside revenue sources are scarce in small villages such as Hammerfest, and the local population benefits from tour participation. Children under the age of 3 must be secured in a child's car seat on the transportation. These are not available through the tour operator; you must bring your own from home.