Norwegian Cruises

When one thinks of taking a vacation, it isn’t too far outside the realm of possibility that their ultimate choice will be to take a cruise. What is unique is that some people decide not on the sun-drenched isles of the Caribbean as the place to unwind, but Norway, land of Vikings & fjords. On closer examination, the choice to cruise Norway becomes a little clearer. For the nature enthusiast, or the history buff, a cruise around the fjords & coastline of Norway can be just what the doctor ordered in terms of relaxation, not to mention cultural enrichment.

The best time to go on a cruise

A lot of the feel & character of your Norwegian cruise depends on when you decide to go. Norway (if you don’t know by now) is in northern Europe. This means that if you are from the southern hemisphere, the seasons will be reversed, with winter occurring (approximately) from December through February, and summer lasting from May through August. This is important, because winters in these latitudes can, at times, be quite harsh. This means, for those of you who choose to cruise during the winter months, there won’t be much poolside lounging. Don’t let this stop you from exploring! The history of Norway is replete with fascinating things, from cathedrals to Vikings, and you don’t want to miss it. If you cruise during the summer, the same thing applies, just with better weather. There are two unique and beautiful meteorological phenomena associated with Norwegian cruises which you may not be aware of: For winter cruisers, the aurora borealis, better known as the Northern Lights, will turn your night sky into a light show of epic beauty. For the cruisers who go during the summertime, there is an event simply called “the Midnight Sun”. Due to the extreme latitudes you will be cruising in, the sun literally never sets during the summer months - you will be enveloped in 24 straight hours of daylight - all the better to socialize & explore!

Activies onboard the cruise ship

Much of the draw of Norwegian cruises isn’t what you’ll do while you’re aboard ship (fun in and of itself), but what you’ll do during your port excursions! Every so often, your ship will stop at a port of call, which might be an ancient city with elegant cathedrals, an equally old (and equally prosperous) fishing village, or even a town with a Viking museum! However, even without setting foot on land, there’s plenty to see & do. Restaurants, shows, and social scenes aboard your cruise ship will fit you like a finely-tailored suit, whether you’re an energy-filled twenty-something, or an elderly sophisticate. Food offerings include everything from burgers to paté, and shipboard entertainment often runs the gamut from jazz to classical to Top 40, and even Broadway-style shows!

As if that isn’t enough, even when you’re lounging around (and who doesn’t like a bit of a lounge now and then?), the views you see from your stateroom or deckchair will be truly spectacular. The rugged coastlines & lovely fjords of Norway are some of the most beautiful natural sights in world, and your eye will not go wanting, if you just take the time to drink it all in.

A final word before you go start packing: Most cruises are all-inclusive. That’s good news for you, because all you’ll have to take care of is your airfare and souvenir money! Everything else, including gratuities, is taken care of.

So, now that you know a little more about Norwegian cruises, it’s time to start packing. Have a good trip!