The most memorable experience!
Sailing with Hurtigruten on part of their Signature Voyage from Oslo to Tromo, Norway, was nothing short of incredible. From the landscapes and scenery, to the food and service everything was executed to perfection.
We often visited two ports in a day, enjoyed scenic sailing through iconic Norwegian Fjords, enjoyed immersive excursions and more, all making for a week of exploration into Norwegian culture and landscapes.
DAY 1: We embarked MS Trollfjord in Oslo, the capital city of Norway, in the early evening to the sun setting. We were greeted onboard by some of the Hurtigruten team, including Reception Manager, Linda, who checked us in and told us all our key information about the ship before showing us to our cabins. My cabin for the week was an Arctic Superior on deck 4. It was a perfect size, the bed was incredibly comfy and ideal to fall into after a full day of exploring… and not to forget the heated bathroom floor which was perfect for warming up socks before popping on my walking boots!
DAY 2: After an early wake-up and a delicious breakfast with endless selections of pastries, fruit, cooked breakfast and so much more to fuel us for the day, we headed on our excursion to a local vineyard and basketmaker followed by visiting the most southern point of mainland Norway, Lindesnes.
We enjoyed a gorgeous wine tasting at the local vineyard, where the wine was made solely by one gentleman and his wife- who was one of only 6 basketmakers in Norway. After we had learned about the history and making process of their wine, we headed back on the coach to a beautiful lighthouse down in Lindesnes. A lighthouse keeper spoke to us about the dangerous weather endured at the lighthouse and the effect it has had over the year, which was followed by a small walk up to the top of the hill where the lighthouse stood, before heading up the lighthouse for the most beautiful views. Finally, we finished off the day with a visit to Under, the world's largest underwater restaurant. They have a Michelin star, so believe me when I say that the food is out of this world, but not only that- they act as a marine research centre too and all their food and produce is sustainably sourced. It was truly mesmerising, and I would highly recommend that if you are ever in this area of Norway to pay them a visit!
Day 3: Once again after a delicious breakfast, followed by some time exploring the ship some more, testing out the gym and the ocean facing sauna, it was soon time for a delicious lunch! Arran- the traditional Simi restaurant- became a personal and group favourite! As soon as we finished lunch, we headed back to our cabins to wrap up warm before heading out for an afternoon on the top deck. This afternoon we were sailing through iconic fjords, fitting into small bays where no larger ships could fit, and watching the world go by- which was so simple and peaceful. It was a real treat of an afternoon and to be able to say you have sailed through the fjords is what a lot of people long to say!
Day 4: Another day, another beautiful lighthouse to head up! Once again the view was absolutely beautiful- windy but beautiful. Although this wasn't the highlight of today… On day 4 we were lucky enough to dine in the suite restaurant, Rost. We were treated to a fine dining, 6 course tasting menu with perfectly paid local and international wines- and the entire experience simply blew me away. The food was cooked and created to perfection, with all the different flavors of each course having their own unique taste and experience. And as if this wasn't enough of a highlight today, we experienced the most beautiful sunset as we headed further up the coast of Norway toward the Arctic circle! After having my favourite for dinner, mussels coupled with a nice glass of white wine in Arran, we all joined for a drink in the main lounge before what was perhaps to be the most exciting part of our trip yet. We were heading towards the Arctic Circle, which meant only one thing- we had to prepare for our Arctic Circle ceremony and our baptism as we crossed into the Arctic. As everyone crowded on top deck and gazed over the side of the deck as we waited patiently for the captain to say that we were near and as we passed the globe monuments we could officially say we were in the arctic circle. This was followed by lots of cheering and merriment before it was time for our baptism. This entails receiving a baptism with ice water (a ladle full of the coldest water I have ever felt) down your back followed by a shot to warm you up! You can then purchase postcards to keep as a memory or to send back home with an Arctic circle stamp to be awaiting you when you get home! If you are hesitant in whether to take part in the baptism… go for it! There were people onboard who couldn't decide, but were so glad they did. You never know if you will get the chance to do it again!
Day 5: Our final full day! The morning of our final day was one filled with excitement, not because it was our last day but because we were heading out on a Sea Eagle Rib Safari! This was an excursion at an added cost however I could not recommend it more!
TOP TIP: Remember to book early for the sea eagle rib tour and all other excursions when you are onboard to save missing out.
We got all wrapped up in our waterproof suits, armed with what can only be described as clear ski goggles (not my best look!) and took our seats in the zodiac. After 15 minutes riding the icy waves at top speed, we reached our first destination to view the sea eagles. Seeing over 30 of these amazing birds in their natural habitat, up close flying over the zodiac and right next to us as they were fed was incredible. It was truly a once in a lifetime opportunity. After an hours experience out on the rib, we returned to the ship to quickly warm up before heading to Arran again for lunch, all with huge smiles on our faces.
TOP TIP: Wear a warm hat on the rib that covers your forehead, as the wind and water can make it feel as if you have brain freeze!
Don’t forget that on a Signature sailing on board MS Trollfjord with Hurtigruten drinks are included at all times of the day, including spirits, wine, sparkling wine, soft drinks, beer and more. Dining in both Arran and the main dining room, Flora, are included for lunch and dinner every day, Flora also hosts breakfast daily. If you are a suite guest, you can also dine in Rost daily for all meals, however for non suite guests there is a small cover fee for dining in Rost, priced at around $50 per person, which is amazing value for the level of service and the tasting menu experience.
TRAVELLERS TOP TIP: Reserve a table in Arran if you are wanting to dine there either for lunch or dinner- it is extremely popular and we would hate for you to miss out!
Ellie and I had an amazing time onboard Hurtigrutens Signature product exploring everything Norway's coast from Oslo, across the Arctic Circle, to Tromso, had to offer. From magical fjords, to towering lighthouses and underwater restaurants, there is nothing not to love about Norway and all that lies within.
