Hurtigruten has been sailing the Norwegian seas for over 130 years so it is no surprise that they have unparalleled knowledge of Norway and its distinctive culture. Carolyn, Retail Manager in our Blackpool store, experienced this first hand as she embarked on a 6-night Signature Voyage from Oslo to Tromsø.
Day 1 – Embarking MS Trollfjord
Carolyn had return flights from Manchester and embarked straight onto the ship after arriving in Oslo, staying aboard the MS Trollfjord. Carolyn had a Superior Ocean View cabin, which she described as having “a lovely cosy feel to it”.
MS Trollfjord has 3 Restaurants (Flora, Arran and Rost), a 2 storey Bar called 1893, free Wifi and a sauna & fitness room. So there is lots to do while you are sailing along the beautiful waters of Norway.
There were plenty of lounges and overall the ship had a great relaxed atmosphere. We were greeted with beautiful sunsets each evening too!
Day 2 – Kristiansand
Carolyn’s first stop was in the fifth largest city in Norway, Kristiansand. What better way to explore this vibrant city than by taking an expert-led excursion around the South Cape. Carolyn started off her day in Skoddeland Winery and watched the historic artistry of basket weaving before testing out the sparkling white wine and apple cider. She said
It [Skoddeland wine & cider] was delicious even if it was 10am, but hey, it’s 5 o’clock somewhere right?!
She then visited the oldest working lighthouse in Norway, first lit in 1656, Lindesnes Lighthouse. After climbing to the very top, she was met with views of the vast blue ocean and a coastline speckled with craggy coves.
Carolyn’s lunch stop was truly a unique experience as she visited the only underwater restaurant in Europe and the largest in the world, named Under. Inspired by the ocean that surrounds it, this is a truly immersive dining experience. The food is inspired by traditional Norwegian cuisine and is all seasonally chosen.
After heading back to the ship, Carolyn enjoyed yet another lovely evening meal in the restaurant Flora. Carolyn had pickled haddock, followed by cod and new potatoes and finished off with a crème brûlee.
With all that delicious food, I went to my cabin that night extremely satisfied.
Day 3 – Cruising The Fjords
With this being a sea day, Carolyn had the chance to scope out all the exciting things you can do on board a Signature Voyage. Surrounded by spectacular views as they sailed through the mesmerising fjords of Hardangerfjorden, Carolyn spent the afternoon taking it all in…
They [cliffs and mountains] towered above us as the ship sailed through small gaps, it felt like they were close enough to reach out and touch.
Around the ship you can take part in lots of fun activities such as beer tasting and fascinating lectures on Marine Life and Conservation or spend time in the fitness room on the top deck.
This evening Carolyn had the delight of dining in the restaurant Arran, indulging in a delicious ribeye steak. Carolyn spent her evening relaxing in bar 1893:
Bar 1893 has a really great atmosphere and there was a singer every night who was great fun. They interacted with the passengers and even took song requests!
Day 4 – Ålesund & Alnes
Aboard the MS Trollfjord , you can enjoy a hearty breakfast with lots of choices from a Full English, to pastries, smoothies, cereals, and so much more. So with Carolyn fueled up for a fun day ahead she took a trip around Ålesund on a Saga Islands bus tour to Alnes. First stop was the saga island of Giske, where vikings once roamed and a visit to the Giske Church, built out of pearly white marble by one of Norway’s most powerful families in the 12th century.
Then it was off to the quaint fishing village of Alnes where Carolyn took another steep climb up to the top of a lighthouse. With views of breathtaking rolling green hills, Carolyn reported that the climb was so worth it, and the experience is something not to be missed.
Temperatures were now at -1°C so Carolyn wrapped up warm and spent yet another night watching the golden rays of the sun slowly disappear into the ocean, marine life teeming just below the surface.
Day 5 – Brønnøysund & Crossing the Arctic Circle
Today’s stop was in the quaint town of Brønnøysund, with lots of options for activities. You can do a walking tour, Kayaking and several Bus tour options. Carolyn decided to soak up all the stunning scenery she could and opted for the walking tour. Famous for amazing sights, such as Torghatten Mountain (with a hole pierced in its centre), Carolyn stated
I savoured all the natural beauty in front of me. It was simply unforgettable.
Sailing to the Arctic Circle this afternoon, Carolyn decided this was the perfect time to enjoy the sauna. A choice she would later feel grateful for as this evening was the Arctic Circle Baptism. This is a ceremony where the captain and another crew member throw ice down your back to get you ready for the icy Arctic Circle. Carolyn said
Talk about a baptism of fire… well ice! Let’s just say I was definitely ready for my cosy warm bed that night.
Day 6 – Svolvær & the Lofoten Islands
Next stop: Svolvær. Home to picturesque snowy white mountains, tranquil silence and crip clean air. Carolyn remarked:
You could definitely tell we were within the Arctic Circle now, it was like waking up in a Christmas card.
She visited the Lofoten Islands where you’ll see dramatic panoramic landscapes, experience a vibrant art scene, and discover the rich local fishing heritage. There are lots of different things to do with Hurtigruten’s experts here, you can go Kayaking, sample the RIB & Sea Eagle Experience, Winter Fishing, Mountain Hiking and Snowshoeing to name a few.
Day 7 – Homeward Bound From Tromsø
Despite the ship continuing on to Bergen, Carolyn was disembarking in Tromsø.
I woke up to more beautiful crisp snowy mountains, which made leaving even harder.
After another fantastic Norwegian breakfast of ginger shots and smoothies, Carolyn headed off to the airport for her direct flight home to Manchester.
What a trip!
A Hurtigruten Signature Voyage is without a doubt the best way to see the beauty of Norway, really learn about their history and embrace their way of life. But, “What did Carolyn really think?” we hear you ask…
I would certainly recommend Hurtigruten, and I would love to sail with them again. The staff were so friendly, the ship was much more plush than I expected. I really liked how the ship had a relaxed and personal feel to it and because of Hurtigruten’s expert knowledge we were able to visit lesser known ports and see the ‘real’ Norway.
If you’re interested in your own Norwegian adventure, get in touch with our friendly team of Cruise Experts on 02380 658 386, or find your Signature Voyage here.
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