Note: I can only add the above photo due to the poor WiFi signal aboard the ship. Once we arrive in Nevada in early September, we can post our photos from Edinburgh and this cruise. Of course, we’ll continue to try to add photos each day! We are sorry for the inconvenience. Perhaps, when this cruise ends, we can start posting photos while on the upcoming Celebrity cruise in 9 days. We’ll continue taking photos and writing text daily, if possible.
It’s been odd for me to prepare posts without photos for the past several days. I am looking forward to arriving at a new location that will allow me to catch up, adding the corresponding photos to the posts, and listing the links for those who like to see photos to return to each post and catch up easily. It will be a one-click process.
Many have written and asked if we’ll see the Northern Lights, and with much disappointment, we discovered early on that we will not. Norway is known as “The Land of the Midnight Sun,” as described below from this site:
“What is the Midnight Sun?
The Midnight Sun is a natural phenomenon that occurs north of the Arctic Circle at 66º33′N during the summer months: beyond this latitude, the sun never completely sets below the horizon. Why is that? As the Earth rotates on a tilted axis relative to the sun, the North Pole is angled towards the sun during summer. This also means the further north you go, the higher in the sky the sun is at night. As a sizable portion of its territory, located above the Arctic Circle, Norway is well known as the Land of the Midnight Sun. The Midnight Sun is the same sun we see during the day! However, it’s something you must see for yourself. The reddish yellow light is something that will mesmerize you, like a never-ending sunset…
Where can I see the Midnight Sun?
Northern Norway is probably the best place to experience the Midnight Sun. Tromsø, Senja, the Lyngenfjord region, and the Lofoten islands are a must-see during the Arctic summer. Imagine it’s 11 pm, and you’re sailing through the fjords of Norway, the golden light caresses your face while you enjoy the beautiful scenery passing before your eyes. For the more adventurous ones, the Midnight Sun is also best experienced from the top of a mountain. You can go to Sommarøy, the “summer island” and the world’s first time-free zone (people officially asked the government to abolish civil time, understandable when the Midnight Sun gives you the impression of endless days!), and hike to unique viewpoints overlooking the Caribbean-like beaches. Around Tromsø, an all-time favourite place to enjoy the Midnight Sun is Ersfjord and its dramatic scenery.
When can I see the Midnight Sun in Norway?
The Arctic is truly special during the Midnight Sun season, which basically runs from mid-May to late July. Depending on where you find yourself above the Arctic Circle, the Midnight Sun period might differ: the further north you go, the longer it lasts! That’s why Svalbard, halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole, has the longest period of Midnight Sun: 4 months!”
I suppose this is somewhat of a trade-off for being unable to see the Northern Lights. In any case, we’re enjoying Norway, and today, we’ll disembark the ship to walk around the village for Tromso, as described below in the ship’s brochure:
“Tromso offers a captivating blend of nature and culture. Explore the mesmerizing Northern Lights, embark on thrilling Arctic adventures, and indulge in local delicacies. This vibrant city with its warm-hearted locals awaits, promising an unforgettable experience in the Arctic wonderland. Discover the magic of Tromso and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.”
With a map of Tromso in hand, it appears there is plenty for us to see when we walk through the quaint little village. Our ship arrives in Tromso in an hour, and we’ll be getting off to see the attractions that appeal to us the most.
Tonight, we’ll leave the ship again around 7:00 pm to head out on buses to a venue where we’ll be entertained by local artists, returning to the ship around 11:00 pm. Azamara refers to these off-the-ship entertainment venues as Az-Amazing. Cute, eh?
Last night, we sailed through the fjords for an exciting adventure, during which we took many photos to share in the future. The fun continues.
Be well.
Photo from ten years ago today, August 9, 2013:
