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Havila offers a unique and thoughtfully curated dining experience, ensuring that guests enjoy excellent meals each day. Managing to feed all the ships guests breakfast, lunch and dinner needs some organisation behind it. TL;DR This blog post describes how Havila organises its main restaurant for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, whilst serving distinct menus that appeal to all within a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Note - This post refers to the main restaurant - the Havrand, named after the point on the horizon where the sky meets the sea. Breakfast, lunch and dinner is served here to the majority of guests. The Havrand restaurant offers a number of fixed dishes (i.e. are on the menu every day), and an additional number that match the four different coastal regions as the ship sails through. This means that the menu subtly changes during the voyage allowing guests to try something different for breakfast, lunch and dinner every day, whilst always having a few fall back dishes. The regions that influence the food are; Flavours of the Fjords Flavours of the polar region Flavours of the Arctic Flavours of the archipelago Havila Breakfast Breakfast changed between our first and second trips. It is now organised so that you can help yourself to small plates of cold breakfast items. As many as you want and finish. And you separately order hot food and hot drinks, again as much as you want through the dinning assistants. The hot food then turns up to your table a few minutes later. In addition on the second trip the seating had changed - no longer do you have a reserved seat at your preferred time, its now an unreserved seat - so you tend to find yourself with a different set of people each day as there are very few tables for just 1 or 2. Food wise, there is pretty much everything that you'd expect to be served for breakfast. The cold items tended to vary a little each day, whilst the hot menu was the same each day. Havila Lunch Lunch was my favourite. In fact if we had a late breakfast I would tend to hold back a little so I could have a larger lunch! It was a tapas style affair - where you could order as many small dishes as you wanted. We tended to order five or six dishes between us, sharing a few of them, and then have a second or even a third round of dishes. Variety was good and changed every 3 days to match the coastal region being travelled through. Seating and timing preferences are agreed with the restaurant manager once boarded on your first day - so same time and same seat for lunch and dinner through out the journey. I believe you can change where you sit - subject to their being space elsewhere. Havila Dinner Dinner is a 3 course affair starter, main dish, and dessert. I was told via some facebook comments from more recent guests that you can ask for a larger main course if desired. Vegetables are served separately, and you can ask for more of these as well. Again - ordering as much as you finish. Additional Points If you buy a bottle of wine with any meal the dinning assistants are happy to seal, stick a label with your name on it and store at the right temperature for when you want to have another glass. To prevent food waste portions are small - think a thrid of what you imagine they should be, but you can have as many as you want. Best thing is you don't find yourself full struggling to finish half a bowl of cold chips. Havila places an emphasis on using local ingredients, which helps support sustainability. There are also a different range of choices available at the Cafe (Havly) and Fine Dining (Hildring) which I don't cover here. Final Thoughts All this is served in a spacious dining room situated toward the back of the ship, with floor to ceilling windows providing fantastic views. Window seats aren't necessary - the views can be appreciated from any seat in the restaurant. Opening hours Breakfast:  07:00 – 10:00 - Final seating 09:30 Lunch:  11:30 – 14:30 Dinner: 18:00 – 21:00 - Final seating 20:30 Happy travels!

A few weeks ago I was lucky enough to pick up a few tickets to see Pete Doherty using my stash of virgin red points that I mostly collected from taking out their credit card or booking trains. The tickets were a very reasonable 7,500 points - considering I have over 50,000 and very little else to do with them. I find using them for flying doesn’t match my needs as well as AVIOS does. When the offer came up I was pleased to be using them even though I wasn’t familiar with Pete Doherty of the Libertines - not my era. So off to London we popped and made a bit of a day of it. We chose to take a massively long walk on a beautiful day from Euston to London Bridge to soak up the atmosphere, punctuated with drink and food stops. I remember it as a long enjoyable walk - we had all day. The concert was on the roof of the News Building beside the Shard. I’m pretty sure I could see those urinals in one of the restaurants that allow for you to have a wee whilst admiring the London vista. A unique experience. There were only a few hundred people present, and the drinks flowed, though the nibbles were a bit of a disappointment. It was cool to watch the sun go down whilst the support band, and then Pete’s band put on a great show. Music - was good and enjoyable. The gig was also aired live on Virgin radio which book ended the all too short set quite effectively and before we knew it, it was time to depart. Tube back to Euston this time and train home. Collected some more points on those train tickets. Looking out for the next one on Virgin Red. Happy travels!

Svalbard, a remote Arctic archipelago in Norway, offers an extraordinary environment for its inhabitants – including their beloved pets. The lives of dogs and cats in this remote and beautiful location are very different. Spoiler - there are no cats! TL;DR In this blog post, I explore what it’s like to be a dog, and why there are no cats. 🐕 Dogs There are hundreds of dogs in Svalbard. The majority are working dogs used in Dog sledding and guided patrols. The breeds tend to be Siberian huskies, Green land dogs and Alaskan malamutes. These dogs live at the several dog yards outside of Longyearbyen - you can’t miss the dog yards - they are big and noisy. Male and female dogs are separated - to help manage the dogs and aid selective breeding. Each dog has its own wooden kennel, to which its 2 metre lead is attached. The dogs stay here all year - even during the harsh cold winters, some of the dogs even prefer to sleep outside, lying in a circle with its nose tucked under its tail. The dogs are primarily used for dog sledding which is a traditional and popular activity in Svalbard, especially in Longyearbyen, the main settlement - for winter transport, tourism excursions and dog sled racing. Dogs are exercised all year - with wheeled sledges used during the summer when snow covering is absent. In addition, because of the real danger of polar bears, dogs are used as early warning systems in remote areas or during wilderness walks or camping, their keen sense of smell and hearing will alert humans before bears get too close. There are a small number of dogs that are kept as pets, they usually live with the owner. They tend to be breeds that are more suited to living indoors. 🐈 Cats There are no cats allowed in Svalbard. From 1992 they were strictly prohibited from being imported. It’s the same story for ferets. This is due to the risk to the native bird population. However there is a story that a cat named Kesha  lived in the Russian settlement Barentsburg, to get around the law, his owners claimed he was an arctic fox on official documents. After his death in 2021, a handful of other cats still remained in Barentsburg, but no cats are permitted in Longyearbyen Happy travels!

Havila Voyages are committed to sustainability, at the outset they set an ambitious target to maintain food waste on board their ships at less than 75 grams per guest night. This commitment positions them as leaders in waste reduction practices within the maritime sector. TL;DR It was the sustainability efforts of Havila Voyages that first caught my attention when I researched my first journey on the Norwegian Coastal experience, and I was interested in how they were doing against their target Understanding the Challenge of Food Waste In the cruise industry, the potential for food waste is heightened due to the sheer volume of meals served daily. By tackling this challenge head-on, Havila Voyages not only seeks to reduce negative ecological impacts but also creates a more responsible travel experience. Their approach includes various strategies aimed at minimising waste efficiently - which was recently recognised when they were awarded the Q-Meieriene Food Saver of the Year Award 2024. No buffet food on Havila Voyages Implementing Sustainable Culinary Practices One key strategy Havila Voyages uses to limit food waste is sustainable culinary practices. For example, by utilising locally sourced ingredients, they ensure meals are fresh, reducing the likelihood of spoilage. Culinary teams are trained in techniques that minimise waste, such as batch cooking and creatively using leftovers. For instance, by repurposing unsold bread into croutons for salads, waste is minimised while enhancing menu variety. Focus on Guest Engagement Guest engagement plays a vital role in managing food waste at Havila Voyages. Without preaching, or frowning, they educate passengers about sustainable dining. With the exception of some breakfast items food is served directly to guests’ tables - there are no buffets. Guests are served smaller portions from a wide variety of menu options that vary during the cruise. Order what you can finish - you never leave hungry. This approach not only informs but also empowers guests to make mindful choices, fostering a cultural shift towards sustainability during their journey. Its a different approach - but simple and intuitive enough for guests to manage. Innovations in Waste Management Technology Havila Voyages uses food waste tracking systems to monitor waste patterns effectively. With this data, they can make better-informed decisions regarding food purchasing and preparation. For instance, if a particular dish consistently results in leftover food, they can adjust portion sizes or rework the menu to better fit guest preferences. Collaboration with Local Suppliers This practice not only results in fresher produce but also supports local economies. Fresh ingredients mean less spoilage, aligning with the company’s sustainability goals and helping to maintain their waste target. Continuous Monitoring and Reporting To stay on course with their waste reduction aims, Havila Voyages integrates ongoing monitoring and reporting mechanisms into their operations. By regularly analyzing waste data, they can make timely adjustments to improve efficiency. Regular reporting underscores their dedication to sustainable cruising, reassuring guests and stakeholders alike. So How Are Havila Doing? Through sustainable culinary practices, guest engagement, innovative technologies, focused feedback adaptation, and local sourcing, they are making significant strides in waste reduction. Year Waste 2021 60g 2022 71g 2023 58g 2024 68g 2025(Q1) 68g I'm proud that along with reducing food waste, switching our cabin lights off, avoiding frequent towel and bed sheet changes, that we as guests helped contribute to remain under 75g of food waste per guest night. Bravo Havila Voyages Happy travels!

I recently bought a new cycling helmet from Amazon - here's my quick review. Let's start with my affliction - a huge head. Its as big as the moon. This is me... Here's the helmet. You can find it on Amzon here - https://amzn.to/4oqGgoy And here is how I look in it. It fits nicely and has a little more space if I need it. Straps are comfortable, and the netting at the front helps keep the flies off my head. That's about it. I did buy this attachment for the back - its a red flashing light. Didn't like the plastic clip in, and difficulty to charge - so sent it back for a refund from Amazon.

Airport Dad mode engaged early in the day - ensuring tickets and passports were all in place and all formalities had been completed. Should I wear my gilet? Leave House 12:40. Traffic to the station quieter than normal. Walk through the train station like it’s the first time that you have ever been let out of the house, let alone travel. Present airline boarding card to ticket gate - and wonder why it isn’t working. Tutt loudly before realising its me not the ticket machine. Correct quickly as I notice the station guard approaching and nod to him confidently as the barrier opens. Train is already at the platform. Is that definitely our train - could it be a an earlier one. Go with daughter’s suggestion of ‘just get on’ Search for optimal seats in quiet carriage facing forward with good air con. Panic and totally ignore previous plan and plonk ourselves in a crowded carriage with no air con. The guy across the carriage starts watching his reels without any AirPods and the woman behind starts by phoning Alison, working her way through her contacts quickly making it to Fred "I'm on the train Fred, Fred?, Fred I said I'm on the train". The train pulls into Birmingham International. Didn’t make the same mistake at the ticket barrier leaving the station. Quietly congratulate myself for getting it right this time. Monorail to airport. Airport dad now turned up to 11/10 - high vigilance - we are entering the airport! Lose sight of daughter, find daughter, lose sight of daughter - we’ve only just got off the monorail! Hear wife’s voice in head - check I’m not wearing AirPods - nope, it is my internal wife voice - ‘She’s 20 and quite capable of travel’ Present train ticket instead of boarding pass check before security, take less time this time around to correct mistake - quietly congratulate myself. Follow clear rules on poster on what needs to be done for security search, whilst those around demonstrate that they didn’t read or couldn’t read the signs. Confused when security agent changes those rules and asks for belt to be removed. Shrug. Navigate through duty free - they have extended it, get a little lost and dizzy with the smell of perfume. Find lounge with full expectation that my entry with a priority pass will be refused. Rehearse planned conversation with AMEX about benefits not really being beneficial, and why I was thinking of closing my account. Priority Pass would be accepted - really? Try not to sound too shocked. Delete previous thought from head. Look blankly when asked for boarding pass - start looking in app. Reminded by daughter that its in my apple wallet - as I put it there. Lounge is a zoo. New noise reduction AirPods work a treat. Congratulate self for smart purchase as Lewis Capaldi starts to bang out some tunes in my head. Realise that these AirPods probably can do other new stuff - make note on to do list to remind myself to research, whilst acknowledging not a lot of people would approach it that way. Start writing blog post. Check watch 15:28, 32 mins before alarm going off, for moving from lounge to gate for 16:35 boarding time. Ponder on why my new AirPods can’t mask out the other people’s children that won’t sit still around me. Think that I might be onto something and consider a quick tweet to Mark Zuckerberg - I’d buy his glasses if they could filter out children that never stay still. Decide this could be a unique selling point, as much as noise reduction was when it first came out. What a great idea, congratulate myself - I could have been an inventor. Get lost writing post. Rudely interrupted by random man telling me that I’d left my ‘coat thing’ behind at the seat we had first sat at. Daughter needed power outlet - so we had moved. ‘Coat thing’ didn’t compute. Ah gilet - bloody gilet, should have left it at home - it’s not like I’m wearing it. Feel bad about harsh words to gilet and give it a gentle stroke it, congratulate oneself for another good purchase. Consider mentioning the benefits of a gilet in this blog, that you only appreciate in your 50s…. Alarm goes off at 16:00 - gate not showing until 16:25. Reset alarm to 16:20 Leave lounge, head down, lost daughter, found daughter, lost daughter. Inner voice reminds me to just assume she is keeping up as it’s too difficult to walk in a stright line, and continuously check without bumping into someone. Get to usual gate 16, at other end of terminal. That’s odd - gate isn’t open. Consult information board. Gate 56. Doh. Should have paid attention to main board and not got distracted by managing daughter as suggested by inner voice. Get to gate sweaty. Should have carried not worn, regardless that it looks nice on me, the gilet. Wait another 30mins before we get to board. Propeller plane - no air con on plane until engines are started. Bag stored above. Beloved gilet carefully folded and placed underneath seat in front. Heat making people that little more aggravated than usual. Inner voice wants to bet someone is about to lose it. Does he know something I don’t , is he about to kick off, am I about to kick off? Force thoughts about random stuff to distract. Seems to work. Sit on tarmac for what seems a lifetime, before taxing off, and then serenely soaring into the blue sky above - well as much as a twin propeller Aer Lingus regional plane can.

A popular myth about the archipelago of Svalbard is that it is illegal for individuals to be born or to die there. This misconception not only grabs one's attention, but also highlights the uniqueness of life in such a remote location. TL;DR In this post, I'll clarify this myth (because it is sort of true) and explore the relevant realities of living in Svalbard. The Myth: Is It Illegal to Be Born in Svalbard? It isn't illegal, but expectant mothers are transferred to the Norwegian mainland a few weeks before the baby is due, as Svalbard does not have the suitable medical facilities. The Myth: Is It Illegal to Die Svalbard? It isn't illegal. When someone passes away unexpectedly, the remains are generally sent to the mainland for burial. Ashes can sometimes be buried locally with permission. Individuals nearing end-of-life or with serious illness are sent to mainland Norway for treatment. Few people actually pass away in Svalbard. The Hospital According to their website, Longyearbyen Hospital as of 2023 had 22 full-time employees, of which four are doctors and six are specialist nurses. There are also physiotherapists/manual therapists, public health nurses, midwives and a dentist at the hospital. The optician is present twice a year. The hospital has six beds, including one intensive care bed with ventilator facilities and one bed for isolation in case of infectious disease. The hospital only hospitalises patients in case of acute incidents/emergency care. The hospital has round-the-clock emergency preparedness with an on-call team consisting of a doctor, nurse anaesthetist and surgical nurse.  Permafrost Burials are not permitted because the permafrost prevents bodies from decomposing safely. This policy was adopted after researchers found bodies from the 1918 flu epidemic had neither decayed nor neutralised the pathogens. Final Thoughts The belief that it is illegal to be born or die in Svalbard is wrong. While the realities of childbirth and death here are unusual due to logistical challenges, they are not prohibited. Whether you are planning your next travel destination or just curious about Svalbard's unique life and culture, this extraordinary place is sure to leave a lasting impression. Happy travels!

Yesterday - I received some snail mail from Hurtigruten. It was most like a flyer that summarised some of their current offers. One that grabbed my attention was The Coastal Express route - including free return flights from the UK to Bergen, and transfers to/from the ship. What a great idea. TL;DR Read along as I summarise Hurtigruten's recent offer of flights and transfers included - and why its not for me. Benefits of the Hurtigruten Offer Hurtigruten's package offer simplifies, and de-risks the travel experience. The moment you've got to the airport - your travel worries will melt away, as with this offer, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with air travel, such as cancellations or delays. Instead of stressing about when you'll reach Bergen, whether you need and overnight before and after, transfer to the ship - its all in Hurtigruten's hands. This convenience is especially beneficial for travellers who may feel overwhelmed by the complexities of planning a trip. I've seen Bergen a few times now, and whilst its very nice - it doesn't need to be part of my Coastal Express trip. So that was where my head was before I looked a little further. Digging Deeper Cost With Hurtigruten's offer you can avoid the expense of flights - maybe £200 per person, and accommodation, meals etc before and after the boat trip - maybe another £200 per night for a couple. So for a couple - lets say £800 saving. However the cost difference to the equivalent standard trip with Havila is £600 per person - so £1200. So on very rough maths the convenience of the package is £400 for a couple. Risk We've never had any issues with flying to and from Bergen for our trips, so having not been stung by delayed or cancelled flights, I'm probably not as conscious of how it can impact on the holiday experience. Experience on board - the difference between Havila and Hurtigruten I haven't a clue about this, as we have only travelled the route with Havila - twice. And we loved it. Whilst the Hurtigruten package, and the comfort of their ships looks very similar, the risk of the unknown in Hurtigruten is a concern for me. My View I'd rather arrange the package myself, and book as I have before direct with Havila. I'm retired so I can take my time and enjoy the night in Bergen before and after the trip, taking flights the day before departure and the day after arrival back in Bergen. I am concerned though that I haven't tried Hurtigruten and might be missing out - but not happy to take the risk of being disappointed. Is This Offer Right for You? Choosing whether Hurtigruten's offer is a smart move comes down to your personal preferences, how much time you have and your travel priorities. For travellers looking to simplify their journeys, this package certainly deserves consideration. However, take time to balance the convenience it provides with the potential trade-off of reduced exploration time in Bergen. If you thrive on spontaneity and freedom during your travels, this structured approach might not align perfectly with your style. Final Thoughts In summary, if minimising risks and enjoying direct travel appeals to you, and if you are eager to explore the Norwegian coastline, Hurtigruten's offer could be a fantastic opportunity. Just be sure to evaluate your preferences alongside what both Hurtigruten and Havila have to offer, which will help you make a well-informed choice that suits your travel desires. Happy travels!

This is a great place to hang out at any time of year - warming in the chilly weather conditions of a winter cruise, and a welcome vantage point in the summer months of endless sunshine. There are two on each ship - the plural of jacuzzi is jacuzzis isn't it? TL;DR The setup of the Jacuzzis is the same on each ship. In this blog post, we'll delve into the jacuzzis available on Havila ships, describing the set up and how they tend to be used. The jacuzzis on Havila Voyages ships are modern in design. There is a central short stair case, then small deck, with a step into a jacuzzi on each side. They are sheltered from the wind with a glass surround, they have controllable jets, and are lit with colourful lights at night. Enjoying a jacuzzi while on board is not to be missed. Unfortunately I didn't get a photo of the jacuzzis. The changing rooms are the same as used for the saunas - so separate for both male and female. Location and Practical Advice Here is the information that I wanted to see before boarding the ship; There are two saunas on deck 8 Anyone can use either of the two jacuzzis. We felt that one was sometimes warmer than the other. Advertised as open between 06:00 and 24:00, but closures could take place for maintenance or very adverse weather. I sat in it during rain, sleet and snow - and loved it. The changing area contains the sauna, a large shower area, and 8 lockable cabinets You can reach the sauna changing area by either of two doors - internal and external, making it both accessible from within the ship and from the outside deck Its a 6 to 8 metre walk from the changing rooms to the jacuzzi The area is shared with sauna users They jacuzzis are free to use - no reservation is required There is a spectacular view Each jacuzzi will fit 4 comfortably, up to maybe 6 or 8 if you are friendly Using the Havila Jacuzzi Besides the sauna we also enjoyed spending time in the Jacuzzi, here are my tips; Ensure its warm - stick your hand in before you get changed Have a shower before entering Combine the experience with the sauna Wear a swimming costume. Towels are available from guest services. Suite guests have robes and slippers supplied. Cabin users could pack robes - but personally I feel this is unnecessary. Wear a beanie hat Warm up in the sauna before and after the walk to the Jacuzzi Stay hydrated and don't use the jacuzzi if you have been drinking alcohol Final Thoughts The jacuzzi on Havila Voyages ships are a great place to relax. We loved that we could sit and watch the stars on the winter trips that we've done. No experience of how it might be during the summer months. Make sure to set aside time during your journey to have a jacuzzi - especially when the sun goes down - its a lovely relaxing and refreshing thing to do. Happy travels! For more posts relating to Havila Voyages - click here; https://www.retiredcormac.co.uk/blog/categories/havila

I love a bit of exercise, and whilst we went for long walks at each of the available ports, the extra indulgences consumed within the restaurant and lounge bar would need further working off, if I was to be the same size when I disembarked. TL;DR The setup of the Havila gym and fitness room is the same on each ship. In this blog post, we'll delve into what is available on Havila ships in terms of exercise, describing the set up and how they tend to be used. Its lovely to work out with a view - and with the machines positioned along the windows - you don't miss out on the panoramic view whilst taking some exercise. Location and Practical Advice Here is the information that I wanted to see before boarding the ship; There are two exercise rooms on deck 7 Cardio - has 2 treadmills, 2 bikes, and a rowing machine Strength training - free weights, benches and weight machine Whilst the areas are quite small - my wife found space for an online pilates class They are shared spaces - so we were able to exercise together We never found them shut There are no changing facilities or cabinets The view is excellent Each room could accommodate 4 people comfortably Using the Havila Gym Having spent a little time exercising, so much for the good intentions, here are my tips; Before going glance in to make sure its not crowded. We always found that it was quite empty when we wanted to use it. Stay hydrated, there is a water machine outside with room temp water and cold water. Pop out to the deck for a quick blast of refreshing cold air - if you get too hot. Clean down the equipment after use with the spray and paper towels available Additional towels are available from guest services. Final Thoughts 'Everything in moderation' - that was my intention setting out on the trip, we had a great time, just regret not burning off those calories as I went along with more visits to the gym. Happy travels! For more posts relating to Havila Voyages - click here; https://www.retiredcormac.co.uk/blog/categories/havila

Travelling with your bike is a hassle, but we aren't going to leave it behind are we? My previous go to was a large plastic bag - the idea being that if they know it's a bike they will handle it with care. Then the airlines gradually stopped allowing it - insisting on a hard case. TL;DR My Thule 100502 Hard Bike Travel Case, also known as the Thule RoundTrip Road Bike Travel Case is now my preferred option for flying with any of my bikes. This review dives deep into its specifications, features, and highlights why it stands out in the realm of bike travel cases. Technical Specification of Thule 100502 The name Thule says so much. I've found all their products to be bullet proof and if something goes wrong - they have spare parts readily available and easy to fit. Thule RoundTrip Road Bike Travel Case is a tough hard-shell design that balances durability with lightweight portability - weighing in at 17.69kg. With dimensions of 137.16 x 39.37 x 93.98 cm , it accommodates most bike frame sizes, making it suitable for both road, touring bikes and mountain bikes. The outer material is made from high-impact polycarbonate, which is resistant to scratches and dents, essential for protecting your bike during travel. It's worth looking at some of the many Youtube videos that show off its features - such as the inbuilt stand. Interior Protection and Padding The Thule 100502 uses an inbuilt rail - to securely fasten the bike, meaning that cushioning or foam padding is not required. The bike stays safe and secure. You can customise the fixing based on your bike's dimensions for a perfect fit. Additionally, integrated straps and semi padded wheel bags keep your accessories organised, reducing the risk of loss or damage. This attention to design significantly minimises potential wear and tear, giving you added confidence during travel. There is also space for mudguards and racks - if packed carefully. Its worth putting some additional padding around any lose items so that the inevitable plane vibrations do not cause damage. Ease of Use and Transport Did I say it has wheels? You pull it along by using the robust handle on the front, and a set of back wheels will take the load. This could be improved, especially when fully loaded, by having wheels similar to a shopping trolley on the front. Loading and unloading your bike is straightforward, The integrated rail and stand makes this so easy - your bike doesn't touch the ground until it has both wheels back on. It fits in a standard car - though will require for the back seats to be down. It is heavy though - especially with a steel touring bike inside - so may take two people to load and unload from the car to avoid any scratches. Recommendation for Adventurers Typically when touring I fly out with my wife - bike box fully loaded, have a short holiday together, she flies home with the empty bike box, and I arrive back a few weeks later needing a hair cut and beard trim. While it may be pricier than some alternatives on the market, the quality and peace of mind it offers make it a worthwhile expense - I'll say it again - bullet proof. Final Thoughts on a Smart Investment In summary, the Thule 100502 Hard Bike Travel Case impresses me everytime i use it with its blend of robust protection, smart design, and user-friendly features. If you are searching for a reliable solution that eases bike transport while ensuring the utmost security for your valuable gear, this case will exceed your expectations. Do check your tickets weight and dimension restrictions with your airline - these vary considerably, and I've heard of a few people being caught out by them. Here's my amazon affiliate link - it you do end up buying - costs you the same, and provides me with a few pennies that will help cover my overheads - https://amzn.to/4maATZ2 Happy travels!

The Norwegian Coastal Route (Kystruten in Norwegian), is one of the most scenic cruises that you can embark on. Stretching over 1,240 miles along the coastline, this route operated by cruise ferries, connects 34 ports, showcasing Norway's breathtaking natural beauty, charming villages, and rich maritime history. TL;DR Whether its summer or winter, against the backdrop of majestic fjords, towering mountains, the journey promises an experience that will remain etched in your memories for years to come. This post contains the briefest summary of what to expect. The Allure of the Coastal Journey Also known as the Norwegian Coastal Express, the complete route spans from Bergen in the south to Kirkenes in the far north. The beauty of this route lies not just in its stunning views but also in its subtly changing landscapes. As you travel along the coast, you'll witness everything from lush green islands in the south to stark mountain ranges in the north, all punctuated by coastal towns and ports. The route still serves as a partial lifeline for many small communities with both freight and local passengers being carried alongside cruise passengers. The numerous stops and proximity to the coast offers a glimpse into the daily lives of the locals. It’s not merely a transport service or cruise experience; it’s a cultural experience that allows travellers to move slowly and experience Norwegian beauty. . The Scenic Stops Along the Kystruten Route One of the best aspects of the Norwegian Coastal Route is the variety of stops along the way, each offering something unique. Here's a few of my favs; Bergen: The Gateway to the Fjords Your journey typically starts in Bergen, which is actually a UNESCO World Heritage site and the known as the gateway to the fjords. You will have seen pictures of the historic wooden houses in Bryggen. In addition Bergen offers plenty of attractions, including the Fløibanen funicular that gives fantastic panoramic views of the city. Ålesund: A Town of Art Nouveau Architecture Ålesund greets you with a stunning collection of Art Nouveau buildings homed on the surrounding islands. Here, you can hike the 418 steps to Aksla viewpoint for sweeping views of the archipelago. The harbour is also a great place to visit and enjoy fresh seafood. Tromsø: The Gateway to the Arctic As you continue toward northern Norway, you'll reach Tromsø, known as the "Gateway to the Arctic,". This busy but small city is surrounded by stunning mountains and offers insights into the culture of the indigenous Sámi people. You can visit the Polar Museum or the Arctic Cathedral, and during winter, you might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. A breathtaking fjord surrounded by rugged mountain terrain. Hurtigruten and Havila in parnership and competition Under contract granted by the Norwegian government, Hurtigruten and Havila Voyages collaborate to operate the service. The route requires a fleet of 11 cruise ferries for daily departures, with Hurtigruten currently operating seven of these vessels. Havila operates the remaining four ships on the route. The ships sail to the same schedule - visiting the same ports at the same times each day. Outdoor Activities and Experiences The Norwegian Coastal Route offers numerous opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. From a simple walk around the port town, to hiking the scenic trails, there’s an adventure around every corner. There are also plenty of excursions offered by the two operators. For the wildlife enthusiasts, the coastal waters are teeming with life. You might spot whales, seals, seabirds, making for captivating photo opportunities. Culinary Delights Along the Route A journey along the Norwegian Coastal Route wouldn't be complete without indulging in the local cuisine. Each port has its own specialties that reflect the rich maritime heritage of the region. In Bergen, sample traditional dishes like fish soup or "matpakke," an open-faced sandwich, while in Ålesund, try the famous "klippfisk" (dried and salted cod). Tromsø is known for its reindeer and fresh seafood, providing a delicious culinary journey that showcases the region's abundance. The Midnight Sun and the Northern Lights Depending on the time of year you choose to travel, you may witness two phenomena that showcase the magic of Norway: the Midnight Sun and the Northern Lights. During summer months, the sun never fully sets, bathing the landscape in a endless light and endless exploration. Conversely, if you visit during winter, the northern regions might provide a display of the Aurora Borealis. Both experiences are brilliant. Planning Your Trip To make the most out of your exploration of the Norwegian Coastal Route, proper planning is essential. The best time to travel is from May to September for the Midnight Sun, while October to March is ideal for witnessing the Northern Lights. Booking accommodations and securing your place on the cruise ferry in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons. Some travellers opt for a northbound trip, or southbound trip, others such as myself pick the complete round trip, You'll also see lots of passengers choosing specific segments to explore in depth. Conclusion The Norwegian Coastal Route offers a magical and relaxing journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in the world. So why wait? Book your journey along the Norwegian Coastal Route and embark on an adventure that promises memories to last a lifetime! Happy travels!