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Excellent service from Heathrow to Oslo, I used the fingerprint check-in at Oslo airport, which was great, got to the gate and wandered past the queues pressed my finger as before and I was through and in my seat.
Arrived in Tromso and was pleased to see mountains of snow. Transferred to the dog sledging excursion, which was out of this world. A 45 minute sledge ride with 10 huskies pulling through snow covered hill-tops. Perfect. Our group then went for into the Lavvu (a Norwegian teepee) next to the fire with our lamb soup and lamb broth which was nice and warmed me up. We then transferred to the ship the MS Polarlys and embarked about midnight. My cabin was an L grade on deck 5; it was comfortable and offered a good view out of the window.
The next day i went on the Harsted city tour and through to Sortland, which was very interesting and offered an insight into the vast history of Norway and this section of the coast. The rest of my day was spent in the observation lounge and out on deck taking in the wonderful sights and sounds of the surrounding area. Docked in Svolvaer and visited the ice bar and gallery there, which was amazing, the ice sculptures and ice bar were great to see.
Day 3 was spent simply relaxing and marveling at the coastline and many ports of call along the way, i spent a little time in each port simply having a wander around and seeing the varying towns and villages.
Day 4 was my last onboard the MS Polarlys, we docked in Trondheim at around 9am and i was booked on the Trondheim city tour, lead by another local guide who shared her extensive knowledge about the area and its history, we had a walk through the city and to the magnificent cathedral which was unfortunately closed but it gave us time to look at the many intricate carving and sculptures on the outside. It was then time to say goodbye to the friends we made onboard and travel home via Trondheim and Oslo airports. Back into Heathrow early evening with no trouble.
A fantastic holiday, allowing the option of a relaxing holiday simply watching the world go by or being active and getting off in every port and seeing Norway at its best.
The excursions were well worth the extra, especially the dog sledging which i would recommend to anyone and everyone.
Superb food on the ship, buffet breakfast and lunch giving many choices and also second or third helpings.
Very helpful staff onboard and information on ports can be found from the cruise director and each port embarkation and disembarkation times are announced giving you enough time to get to your cabin, get a warm jacket (which you WILL need.) and be ready to make the most of each port of call.
