Sunday 26/11/2017
Svolvaer to Bronnoysund.
Sunrise 9.33am. Sunset 2.26pm. -1C.
Sadly, our third last day on board the Nordnorge.
At last the sun is back. We now have an extended dawn and dusk, this morning it was light by 8 am, but the sun didn’t rise until 1.10 pm. Don’t blink or you’ll miss it – it set at 2.30 pm, leaving beautiful dusk colours streaking the sky. The snow line has risen significantly, and only the tops of the mountains are white.
Last evening we had an hour’s stay in Svolvaer, a miniscule village who’s only claim to fame is the Hurtigruten Museum. We had a very quick walk through the display of assorted bits and pieces associated with the history of the company. One of their historic ships is dry-docked there, and it was interesting to see how passengers travelled in days gone by. The ship is very cramped, low ceilings and miniscule cabins, but were once been the pride of the fleet. There’s absolutely no comparison between then and now; today we certainly travel in the lap of luxury.
This morning at 9.15 am we crossed the Arctic Circle. There was a ceremony on board which entailed suffering the indignity of consuming a tablespoon of Norwegian Cod Liver Oil in return for a free souvenir spoon. The looks on peoples’ faces was worth many thousands of words!!! My camera failed at the crucial moment and a photo of Pete’s face didn’t happen. Happily there was a lovely cold glass of celebratory champagne on hand to wash away the awful taste. No-one went back for seconds!
A long day at sea, and then we docked at Bonnysund for an hour. Fifteen minutes would have been quite sufficient. Tiny place, only two blocks in all directions, no map needed, and as it’s Sunday everything is closed, even the souvenir shop. Everyone is at home, hunkered down in the warmth. It’s minus 1, with a clear sky, and the moon shining brightly.
Ilze xo
Reception and bling shop on the ship
Breakfast fruit. So so.
The stairs. PS Note the lift is next to them.
Panorama deck
Ritual humilliation
Cod liver oil on the Arctic Circle.
On the Arctic Circle
Today the sun came back.
The cabin
dipidydoo 
What a wonderful experience to see the Aurora like that – superb pictures. You will be sad that your journey is nearly over. Back to the heat!!! Love Pat and Allan
Hi Guys, wonderful reading, the photos speak for themselves, what an amazing experience to see those lights. You will bring home once again some wonderful memories of this trip. Wishing you a safe trip home. David called today with an invitation to join the family over Xmas. Wouldn’t miss it, Boxing Day sounds about right for us !! Really looking forward to catching up with you and hearing more Arctic stories. Take care Luv Dol and Ray xx