Lisa’s Norwegian Dream: A Cruise to Remember

I checked into Superior Ocean View cabin 6079, which has a large picture window. The cabin was very spacious and had a very comfortable double bed.

The evening began with cocktail making and dinner in the main Ballandoch restaurant. We had a three-course meal with various choices there, and the food was excellent.

Following dinner, tonight's entertainment was a comedian named Paul Boardman from Liverpool, who has performed worldwide and played most major venues on the comedy circuit. There was also quiz time and a game show. It was interactive fun, and everyone could join in and dance to Jukebox sounds, so if you have any requests, they will play it.

Today's port of call is Olden. Olden is a small village located in the Nordfjord region of western Norway. It has stunning natural scenery, including towering snowcapped mountains and beautiful fjords. We visited Barksdale Glacier by Troll car, which was stunning and one of the trip's highlights, so it is a must-do.

In the afternoon, we experienced Wine and cheese tasting with Sommelier Marsh in the Colors and Tastes Restaurant.

Tonight's dinner was held in Vasco Restaurant, which was Goan cuisine which offered a nice alternative to dining in the main restaurant. Evening entertainment followed with an 80-themed night of music and dance by the Balmoral Show Company in the Neptune Lounge. There was also quiz time, bingo and Jukebox sounds in the Lido Lounge.

Haugesund is a coastal town in southwestern Norway between Bergen and Stavanger. It is known for its maritime history and was once a hub for the Viking Age and later a centre for herring fish. The town offers picturesque waterfront views and charming wooden houses, and the nearby Haraldshaugen monument commemorates Norway's first King, Harald Fairhair. This is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

On arrival back on the ship, we had a tour of the boat, visiting the Kitchens, Laundry rooms and the Bridge, where we met the Captain. Evening entertainment Quiz Time, Karaoke and Jukebox sounds.

Ulvik is a small village in the Hardanger region of Norway. It offers stunning natural beauty and is surrounded by steep mountains, lush orchards, and serene waters. The area is famous for fruit farming, particularly apples produced for cider. Ulvik is a popular outdoor spot for hiking, kayaking, and exploring the Fjords. It offers visitors a peaceful, picturesque retreat with a charming rural atmosphere.

We visited Syse Fruit Farm, enjoyed cider tasting, and had an opportunity to buy the cider.

Evening entertainment was The Balmoral Show Company presenting Balmoral High, a show to shake, Rattle, & Roll as boy meets girl Rock & Roll romance.

Stavanger is a city on Norway's southwestern Coast, known as the Oil Capital of Norway. It features well-preserved wooden houses and provides a gateway to natural attractions like Pulpit Rock and the Lysefjord. The city has a vibrant cultural scene, hosting festivals and museums.

We explored the colourful streets, shops, cafes, churches, and parks. A formal night followed, followed by dinner in the Colours and Tastes Restaurant (Asian Cuisine), followed by Quiz time, a Rock the Room gameshow, and Jukebox sounds.

WHO WOULD THIS TYPE OF TRIP BE SUITED TO?

This Fred Olsen cruise would be suited to an older clientele who enjoys stunning scenery and those who enjoy the outdoors, such as walking and hiking.

BEST EXPERIENCE FROM THE TRIP?

I visited Olden and the Briksdale Glacier on a troll car excursion, which was stunning. I also swam in the Fjord in Ulvik - a truly amazing experience!

Favourite Restaurant Visited:

Colours and Tastes.

AIRLINE / CRUISE COMMENTS:

Turkish Airlines offers very comfortable seating, even in the economy seats. The food is beautiful and plentiful, and the service is very good.

General Comments and Tips:

The ship was beautiful, the Superior Ocean View Cabin was lovely and spacious, and the excursions were well organised. My Favourites were Olden and Ulvik, which were stunning. The food and restaurants were all of amazing quality, and the choices were plentiful.

The main selling point is the size of the ship (it is a smaller ship). The service on board is amazing. Less able guests will not have a problem, as the ship caters to guests with mobility issues; disembarkation was quick and very well organised. Gratuities are charged at £5pp per day and are automatically charged to your account.