After a day of losing myself in the historic town of Bergen, Norway, with its narrow alleyways and charming wooden houses, I felt a wave of anticipation as I prepared to board the majestic Havila Castor in the early evening.
The thought of embarking on a journey into the unknown filled me with excitement. Approaching the dock, I was ready for a six-day luxury adventure leading me to Kirkenes, in the Arctic Circle, in the far north of Norway.
What makes seeing a country like Norway by sea so special is the journey through its various fjords. I was awestruck by how close we sailed to the high, forest-clad cliffs and towering waterfalls, all while taking in the majesty of the mountains, many of which remain dotted with snow and glaciers year-round.
The highlight of my voyage was the 16km journey into the Geiranger Fjord, a Unesco World Heritage site. This long, narrow arm of the sea is flanked by towering mountains on both sides. One notable sight was the Seven Sisters, a series of seven waterfalls cascading side by side into the fjord. My land excursion into Geiranger included a thrilling scenic bus tour to the impressive Trolls Ladder, culminating in a fine dining experience at the elevated Eggen Restaurant, which offers a grand, expansive view of the fjord.
What makes seeing a country like Norway by sea so special is the journey through its various fjords
I was thoroughly impressed with Havila Voyages, which offers 26 unique, luxury travel experiences that immerse you in Norwegian culture. During a three-hour stop in the charming town of Trondheim, I walked over the Old Town Bridge to the magnificent Nidaros Cathedral, built in 1070. Other memorable stops included Bodø, Tromsø, and a visit to the Troll Museum. I dined with a Viking chieftain, explored Tromsø by e-bike, and had an intimate experience visiting the indigenous Sami people, sharing a meal with a Sami family and learning about their rich culture and history.
Life on the Havila Castor was a luxurious experience. My spacious cabin, with a large panoramic window, offered a perfect retreat for relaxation at any time. The ship featured fine dining options, a state-of-the-art gym, two outdoor Jacuzzis with the best views in the world, and beautiful, comfortable lounges both indoors and outdoors, including two cozy fireplaces. It was a perfect blend of comfort and indulgence.
