CRUISE line P&O is calling in the SAS to satisfy adrenaline junkies’ thirst for adventure on Norwegian fjord sailings.

Shore excursions available from new ship Iona will include thrills created exclusively for guests by former SAS personnel.

Led by expert survival guides, passengers begin by taking an exhilarating RIB ride from Hellesylt to Ljøkaia.

The experience then includes kayaking along the glassy waters of Geirangerfjord before stopping for a wilderness BBQ lunch.

A five-hour hike up Blåhornet mountain is the last stop before guests finally make their way back to Geiranger.

P&O Cruises newest ship will set sail for its maiden season in the fjords on April 9, with guests able to join exclusive experiences designed to explore Norway’s unique landscape.

They include kayaking on Nordfjord and mountain biking down from Lake Djupvatnet to Geiranger, both of which I tried out on a sneak peek visit, and which you can read about here.

Both were thrilling expriences that will live long in the memory, particularly the long ride down the mountain – you can see part of the route below – and all excursions are run with full safety protocols.

There’s a hike up Sugarlump Mountain, climbing to the 314m summit, and yoga in Olden’s Blue Mountain Hall, a unique space partly formed by a huge boulder that fell from the mountains in an avalanche 6,000 years ago.

P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow says: “We’re delighted to see Iona embark on her first season in the fjords. These holidays offer both adrenaline experiences and tranquility.

“Norway is a destination best experienced by sea and with new, memorable experiences both on board and on shore, guests can embrace an exciting wilderness and wellbeing adventure or simply sit back and enjoy the panoramas.”

Iona, sailing weekly from home port Southampton, boasts the Epicurean restaurant, where an exclusive six-course fine dining taster menu has been designed by award-winning restaurateur Kjartan Skjelde.

The ship has more than 30 places to eat and drink, with Take That’s  Gary Barlow as music director of The 710 Club, an intimate music bar showcasing new talent and eclectic live performances.

Seven-night fjord cruise itineraries start from £649, based on a September 3 departure, including full board meals and entertainment on board. Excursions start from £40 a head. For itineraries see www.pocruises.com.

Read more: Check out my previous posts about P&O’s newest ship Iona in the cruises archive here.