My Trip To Norway 2019

Trip To Norway 2019

Some of you will remember that I have wanted to go on a cruise in Norway for some years, travelling along the coast on a ship, admiring the beautiful scenery, even more so since visiting , Mykle and Jean some years ago, so this year I decided was the time.
Life has been busy and complicated for some time, so I felt it would be a great way to get away and relax. So first I asked my friend Brian, but he had lots on. In passing I mentioned it to my half-sister Pat, she felt it was a great idea and something she had previously tried but there had been issues with the ship, so she had never made the trip. She was also waiting for a knee replacement operation, but interested. We discussed going to see the Northern Lights, Brian said at that time of the year, it was very dark and cold , so end of April or early May seemed a good alternative, . My friend Geoff also said he was interested, but that he gets seasick, so it was agreed he needed to make a sea trip to see how he managed.

Well eventually Pat had her operation and the all clear from the consultant, Geoff still had not had his sea trip but wanted to go, unfortunately he then was diagnosed with a problem with his eye, it seemed to be that he may not be able to go, but eventually was told was okay to do the trip, they both sorted out their insurance, so I started to look at the Norwegian cruise company Hurtigruten, this was because they visited the smaller ports and it was felt we would see more of the coast than we would on the larger cruise ships. Around the end of April and the start of May seemed to be a good time to make the most of the trip. I offered to find out about accommodation routes and costing. I mentioned to both to sort out passports and travel insurance, because we would be around the time of Brexit which could affect the trip.

It seemed there were about 12 ships in the Hurtigreten fleet all doing the same route, after discussion it seemed our preference was a 12 day round trip starting at Bergen travelling to the top of the country, then back to Bergen. Pat said she was happy to share a cabin with me as it would reduce the cost for each of us, but Geoff preferred to be on his own. I checked the company's brochure for types of cabins, service and costs. Then looked at options to fly there and we decided on the 30 April 2019 on the MS Trollfjord, in outside cabins, possibly with overnight accommodation, both on the way out and return. I also contacted Sue at Ace travel, to see if she could arrange a package, plus my friend Mykle in Norway for advice on options.

Eventually I spoke first via e email then phone to a man at the cruise company and agreed a package, but we would sort out flights, and Sue sorted us a package out. The payments were sorted and all was going well, it was agreed Pat would come over the night before and stay at Geoffs as it would be an early start, we had decided to fly out and join the ship rather than have an overnight stay in Bergen

The a couple of days before we were due to fly, I discovered that our airline SAS, had a pilots strike, Sue tried all sorts to re book, in the end she sorted alternative flights to travel a day later to Trondheim stay a night there then to pick up our ship the following day, the only problem was the delay and huge cost of the changed flights and cost of hotel at Trondheim on the way out. Hopefully we will get a refund from the airline and something from travel insurance on our return.

Day One

All went well with trip to airport and flight to Oslo, then managed to lose Pat and Geoff whilst transferring through the airport, eventually found them at the boarding gate, just in time to board, so luckily all went well in the end, flight okay, taxi soon had us at hotel, there was a problem as first room was a double rather than a twin, quickly resolved, we had a nice room and free coffee and waffles on arrival, made a pleasant start at long last we were in Norway We went for a walk round the city, was not to cold and pleasant after the long trip, plus a chance to stretch our legs

Day Two

Next morning after breakfast, Pat had decided she wanted to stay at hotel and relax I went with Geoff for walk round the cathedral. Inside, stained glass windows very good apart from fact were not allowed to take photos and they still charged a compulsory £10. Afterwards had a pleasant walk through the streets, which were very quiet, then back to hotel to check out, then off in taxi to ship.
On arrival at ship, HS Trollfjord the only problem was our cabin was not ready for an hour, so had a chat and coffee. Cabin compact but enough, storage space and bed comfortable, bathroom tiny. So unpacked had a shower and settled in First meal was lunch, self-service buffet, good range of food.

We then explored the ship, there are nine decks we were on the lowest passenger deck 3 and Geoff level four, oddly his cabin was larger than ours, dining was level five, there was a more expensive restaurant also on this floor as are the shop, one of the cafes and the lecture theatre, levels 6 and seven were mainly cabins, deck 8 had a large observation area at the front where people could sit under cover watching the changing scenery, Also on deck eight is the explorer section for information and to book trips as well as a library and quiet lounge. On deck 9 there was another panoramic seating area a café, fitness gym, sauna all under cover, area for events, outside seating area, two outdoor spas and an area to watch the coast as we cruised along with plenty of seating.


For breakfast and lunch it was a buffet meal with a good range of food, it was a free for all, as with most places with serve service buffet type meals, not quite sure why as there was enough seating and food for everyone. For the evening we were allocated a time and table with waiter service. This meal was enjoyable but small portions,(which was just as well given all the other food I ate at breakfast and lunch). each day was a range of local produce some quite unusual for us

Day Three Artic Circle

Very cold today, ship at times swaying as it made progress, Geoff ill so he took strong seasick medicine and stayed in cabin.
Snowed on and off all day, mountains looked beautiful from the warmth of the ship.
Breakfast was usual sort of buffet style food, unusual to see salmon as a normal portion of food, lunch reasonable range food and dinner enjoyable to have waitress service.
Went on deck number of times to take photos, most people stayed inside, brave couple used the spa.
In the morning there was a ceremony to celebrate us crossing the Arctic Circle, those brave enough had ice cubes put down their backs, I preferred to video and take photos, later we each received a certificate to prove we had crossed the Circle.
We have 2 portholes in the cabin to see out, only problem is at night due to position in world does not go dark until very late, at this time of year, so lots of light coming in, so started to close the large heavy covers each night on at least one, more of a problem the following day to raise them again as they were very heavy, my bed very comfortable to lie on, found got tired easily so fair bit of day rested, but then it got to warm at times and needed to go for walk on deck and have fresh air.

I kept promising to go and listen to the lectures, provided by the Explorer team each day in the afternoon, but again today fell asleep and only woke later
We seemed to have a mixture of weather, at times it was very cold and snowed, then the sun would come out.

Day Four Tromso

More snow today and ship making progress, but lots of swaying up and down and side to side, Geoff seemed okay with this, no problem for Pat or I, In the afternoon we arrived at Tromso, Geoff and I got off the ship to stretch our legs and look round. Went up on cable car to top of mountain, then visit to the Artic Cathedral and Polaris museum to show development of this part of the world over the centuries

There was snow on the ground so I did not make much progress when walking, although we had fresh air and had wrapped up well to protect from the cold, this was fortunate because suddenly the snow started quite heavily, was good to get back to the ship and the warmth.

Seem to remember spent time resting in cabin whilst Geoff and Pat chatted on deck.

Day Five

Not quite sure what we did this day other than sample the apple pie on deck quite cold but days longer and brighter, think it was today Pat went to see the husky dogs, shame that none of us could go for a ride with the husky’s or on the snowmobiles.

Day Six Ice Hotel

This morning Geoff and I wanted to see the Ice Hotel and Pat had booked to go to the Russian Border, we got off the ship at Honningsvag, after a short walk we came across a taxi company, that took us to the Ice Hotel, Geoff was interested by the snow mobiles that were parked up, sadly seems not enough snow for them to be safe to use.
In hotel had to wear special boots, we wandered from room to room, it did not seem to cold, the young lady said that if people stayed they were provided with very thick waterproof sleeping bags.
In each room the bed ends had been sculpted out of ice and the decoration on the walls were a range of fairy story and other ice sculptures, we did notice a particular room had a do not disturb sign for Santa, (so that's where he gets to) At the end of the passageway was reception again, carved out of ice
After changing boots we went into the shop to be given a warming drink and frankfurter roll, it was a shame we had run out of time and the taxi arrived to take us back to the ship, a very pleasurable experience.
Pat had a trip to the Russian Border which she had also enjoyed.
We had asked about seeing Aurora Bolaris but it seems it is now to light, maybe a good idea for another trip.

Day Seven
By now we were travelling back down the coast but unfortunately, many of the stops in port were brief or early morning, so just relaxed and took photos

This evening we had one of the spectacular sunsets, such a shame so few people were on the deck about nine in the evening for about three quarters of an hour

Day Eight

We seemed to be a long time at sea today, there were lots of excursions but none apart of us apart from Geoff, had gone off with others for a walk that included a bus and boat ride. he seemed to enjoy this trip. By now I was worrying that with all the food I would need to do a lot of dieting when got home, but sadly this did not stop me. Got up early today, weather seemed much warmer on deck but most still wrapped up in their winter clothes. Was a quiet day, got off ship at Stokmarknes had a look round and a walk nothing really to see, but at least a chance to stretch legs. Later caught up with Geoff seems he had enjoyed walk in deep snow. Evening meal chaotic, no waiter service and because serving had started earlier so we were late, only limited range of food which was not that hot, such a shame after previous days.

Day Nine

Cannot remember what we did today apart from further rest and reading in the afternoon, After meal went on deck took photos and enjoyed the scenery, interesting how late it has been light. Spent time catching up with blog on tablet.

Day Ten

This morning sun shining, yet again we crossed the Arctic Circle but this time travelling South, was more laid back ceremony than previous, many people on deck not sure if was the free drink or special moment in life for many. The sun reflecting from the snow on the mountains is something special.
Spent time on top deck enjoying the view, later went to listen to talk about whales, seemed quite interesting, only problem was young woman spoke very fast, so hard to follow, think I nodded off briefly.
Had lunch with Geoff and Pat, then up on deck again, on this trip South, seems to be mainly small stops, saw Seven sister mountain range, just past Sandnessjoen, then noticed had lost neck loop for microphone, think unlikely will be noticed or handed in, came down to cabin for a read, sleep and catch up with blog.

Tonight we have our farewell dinner, it's later, not sure what to expect after last night's poor meal.
Next stop Bronnoysund, then shortly after Fjellet Torghatten and the hole in the middle of the mountain, I spotted this quite quickly, not sure some the other passengers did, as they congregated, the captain kindly turned the ship so people could get a better view. From previous experience, I knew that standing in the spa area which was raised helped. I was to busy watching for a second view as well as others who followed me so had not noticed, was that a youngish couple had chosen this time to have a relaxing spa, but now were surrounded by overdressed people pointing cameras all over the place. It will be interesting to see how well the photos come out. I had tried to show Geoff where to look for the hole, finally he saw when could clearly see daylight through the mountain.

Day Eleven

Last day today farewell meal in the evening, was special, nice touches, by staff singing and different service, earlier had been to talk about the sights we had seen on the cruise

Day Twelve Trip to Bergen

Up early case packed and weighed, went for breakfast, took cases to be transferred, sat on deck nine in the sun as usual, most people wrapped up in winter wear although quite warm. Landscape now changing to green and more houses.
Next meal was lunch, usual mixture of food, took our time, relaxed in lounge until we arrived at Bergen. Ship was early docking but we had to wait the longest as on bottom deck. Fortunately luggage was quickly retrieved and outside we went to get taxi, everyone else’s transport seemed to turn up but then realized ours was not due for another 15 minutes.

Soon at hotel, much as I remember from my last trip to Bergen, only problem again mix up with our room, was not twin, soon sorted and so nice to have lots of space and a large bathroom, plus nice towels. Went down for chat and coffee, suggested walk round town and up the funicular to see the beautiful views round the town.
Pat decided to stay and rest, so off we set, when reached the top views were as good as I remembered and we could see our ship still in dock. Went for a walk, so pleasant and quiet, then back down walk to marina and the small lake was nice to see daffodils in bloom.

Off for something to eat, walked across to station to cafe, but Geoff decided he preferred a McDonald's, so we did that, then back to hotel for a coffee and an early night. Pat had packed her case so did mine, had early night after a long day.

Day Thirteen Return Home

Up early had shower, finished packing then down for breakfast, dining room elegant and quiet with nice range of food. Took our time, then took Pat for a walk into town. On return checked out, taxi already waiting so off to airport. No problems there apart from Geoff having left his toiletries in hand luggage, so these were all confiscated, no wonder his large case weighed lighter.

Now sat waiting to board plane to Oslo, will take about an hour, then a couple of hours delay, before final flight to Manchester and to get to own home.
At Oslo all went well, got drink and baguette, then I managed to spill coffee down my trousers, only time have not had spare pair in hand luggage, just had text to say plane delayed by 45 minutes, hope no more issues apart from fact that I smelt of coffee.

Finally back at Manchester, with help, cases, quickly retrieved, went to toilet, then could not find the other two, searched all over the place, sent text to Geoffs daughter in the end, got phone call from his son in law, seems they were worried about taking my cases through duty free option, Pat not happy, took lift to car, loaded and of home.

Have now downloaded photos to computer and named and dated them, will arrange for showing of them with Geoff and Pat, hope you enjoy those I have attached

Having now had time to think about holiday, thought it may help others if planning a similar trip if I mention points here

Firstly I think if well planned the 7 day trip could fit most things in and one or two of the smaller cruise companies go closer into the fjords, but its down to how much time and money you have. Also investigate if staying at certain ports rather than doing the whole trip will enable you to do those special excursions, By using a taxi we were able to do the Ice Hotel for a fraction of the cost, but also remember if you miss the ship its your problem to catch up on a cruise.

If you are prone to seasickness, there are times that the ship is moving at speed in the open sea with a lot of rocking despite stabilisers, so make sure you have the right medication in advance.

Choose the time of year you want to go carefully, we were to late for the Aurora Bolaris and there had been insufficient snow to go on a snowmobile or husky trip, as we travelled further north, the days got longer and longer, but generally it was not to cold, as I understand it is when its winter, when its very cold and there is lots of snow, but then you may find it to dark or dangerous to do certain trips.

I use hearing aids and found that there is no provision for this on the cruise or trips, so at times missed things in particular the frequent passenger announcements about things that were happening, or in the talks and communicating with staff, whilst on board the ship, whereas for those with mobility issues the ship was good.

The ship we were on was looking like it needed a refit as some of the chairs in lounges and carpets were well worn, not what I would of expected for a holiday at this price

If you can try to give yourself an extra night in Bergen, to see this beautiful place, allow for the fact most of your first day is going to involve, flying from your home, then going through the process of embarking and settling on board the ship, so effectively you have lost a day.

On the way back remember you have to vacate your cabins early in Bergen although the ship does not dock until the afternoon.
These ships are quite different to the large cruise ships, that provide all day entertainment, these are working vessels and often only call in ports for half to a couple of hours at the most, so unless you have excursions booked that will catch up with the ship further down the cost, you could be left stranded. If you enjoy watching beautiful scenery and peace and quiet then these are more likely to appeal, but generally apart from a couple of laid back events there is no special entertainment particularly if you have young children, maybe on some ships or in the summer things are different, its worthwhile checking out

I would totally recommend a trip to Norway on a cruise to explore the coast, there are some really magnificent views as the ship travels up and down the coast

Hope you have enjoyed the Blog and photos.