We have travelled with Fred Olsen before, often to Norway, and have always enjoyed our holidays. We chose this trip to accompany some friends who were new to Fred and Norway and we always enjoy a visit to the fjords so this was perfect.
Embarkation from Newcastle was easy with lots of pleasant, helpful staff. There seemed to be lots of first timers on this trip, first cruise, first with Fred and first time to Norway and, perhaps because it was school holidays, there seemed to be a lower than normal (for Fred) age range, with families (some three generations) and younger couples amongst the 'oldies'. There was an excellent friendly atmosphere on board and I can honestly say that I heard barely a complaint at all.
As we have always found, the staff on Fred were fantastic, they really cannot do enough for you and the show company were excellent, one of the best we have seen.
This cabin was fine for the reasonable price that we paid. Two single beds in L shape, plenty of wardrobe space and hangers. Little light from portholes but that was what we expected - no problem as we spent little time in the cabin. Shower was very good with endless hot water. Cabin girl was brilliant and everything was spotless.
Adjacent cabins are a three and four berth - we heard no noise but I think there were couples in there so might be noisier if they were fully occupied.
Bergen is an interesting city to visit and quite compact for walking around. Can recommend a visit to the Fish Market on the harbour (inside and out) and, if feeling energetic, take a trip on the funicular to the top of Mount Floyen and after spending some time at the top walk down through small woodland then past the modern and old wooden houses (allow about 40 minutes for the walk).
Small town with a few discount outdoor shops and one nice gift/general shop. Highlight of our visit here was the Mount Hoven skylight from Loen - tickets available for skylight and shuttle bus from quayside (if not on your ship). This is a stunning experience, not to be missed, amazing views and lovely walks at the top of the mountain and a very nice cafe/restaurant. Not to be missed!
Very small town at the top of the Hardanger fjord. Few shops including a nice yarn/gift store. Look out for the ladies selling hand knitting and hand quilted items on a stall near the shops - lovely items at reasonable prices for the work involved. If not doing an excursion there is a very pleasant walk to the Viking Burial Ground.
In the past have done excursions to the Sima Power Plant and Voringfoss Waterfall which were good - understand there are good new viewing platforms at Voringfoss.