Voyaging North

We are on the MS Richard With. This vessel is one of thirteen Hurtigurten ships which navigate up and down the Norwegian coastline. These are working ships, meaning that they make stops to transport goods, in addition to conveying several hundred people in a cruise-like setting. Many of you are seasoned "cruisers", but this is my first and I am pleasantly surprised. Clearly this is NOT the typical, large, Caribbean cruise ship. It only holds roughly 350-400 people; but the berths are great, and there are many lounges in and out, a fancy restaurant, cafe, jacuzzis, and a small shop. We'll be on board for four nights, and are traveling with quite a large number of German's, in addition to a smaller mixed bag of Norwegians, Americans, Brits, French, etc...

MS Richard WithThe geography of Norway is obviously rugged and mountainous (which explains why we traversed 90 tunnels on our road trip the other day). So a coastal voyage is the obvious solution to seeing the beauty of this specific region, and it's nearly a necessity if you want to visit some of these fantastic coastal cities along the way. As for the temperatures... they are starting to get cooler, and the nights are shorter. Currently its 12:30AM and it's still just a bit light; then around 3-4AM the dawn appears.

The people on board are just like you and I. It's interesting, and sort of amusing, because just like most people they like to talk a lot. But the fun part for me is that I don't understand a word of it. So instead of hearing their conversations, it's more like listening to music. Actually, in my home town there is a substantial percentage of folks with a German/Pennsylvania Dutch heritage. Now I can grasp the nearly identical appearance, mannerisms, and overall spirit of those genetics. If we were to hit the "Mute" button, I'd swear I was at home.
Just like home

So, I'll be gathering more photos for us of this majestic coastline. This voyage is really geared towards those on-board, so they have diversions and excursions to appease everyone. Tomorrow morning I've rented a bike to explore the third largest, and second oldest, city in Norway... Trondheim.

Finally, I'd like to take a moment to thank everyone for traveling with me. It's challenging to have one foot at home and one foot in Norway, but you are doing a splendid job. We've quite a number of surprises yet to come...

PS, Lingonberries taste like cranberries. I've had a "fish ball"... sort of like a soft meat ball. That was almost yucky. OH, and what do Trolls like to eat?... I want to be prepared for when I meet them