32 Offbeat Cruise Excursions That Go Way Beyond Sightseeing

25. Forage with a Sami Guide in Arctic Sweden

A cruise into the remote reaches of Arctic Sweden, especially around the Luleå port, opens the door to an unforgettable cultural and culinary experience: foraging with the indigenous Sami people. On this unique excursion, you’ll join a Sami guide on a tranquil walk through boreal forests and tundra, learning to identify wild herbs, berries, roots, and mushrooms that have been staples in Sami traditions for generations. Along the way, your guide shares stories of reindeer herding, ancient nomadic practices, and how traditional medicine and cuisine are deeply tied to the land. After your foraging, you’ll enjoy a rustic tasting or cook a traditional meal over an open fire in a lavvu (tent). Pro Tip: Dress in layers, even in summer—it can still be chilly. And bring a small notebook or phone to jot down edible plant tips you can use back home!