DAY ONE

DEPARTURE

I checked into Superior Ocean View cabin 6079, which has a large picture window. The cabin was very spacious and had a very comfortable double bed. 

The evening began with cocktail making and dinner in the main Ballandoch restaurant. We had a three-course meal with various choices there, and the food was excellent.

Following dinner, tonight's entertainment was a comedian named Paul Boardman from Liverpool, who has performed worldwide and played most major venues on the comedy circuit. There was also quiz time and a game show. It was interactive fun, and everyone could join in and dance to Jukebox sounds, so if you have any requests, they will play it. 

DAY TWO

AT SEA

Today, we had a presentation and a tour of the ship. Following this, we had afternoon tea in the Observatory accompanied by D' Power of Trio, playing classical and contemporary melodies. This was a beautiful experience and provided views from the large windows. 

Tonight was formal night, and the Captain had the welcome party in the Neptune Lounge, where Captain Steffan Ravneng introduced himself and his senior officers. Dinner was in the Ballandoch restaurant, followed by a silent disco. 

DAY THREE

OLDEN

Today's port of call is Olden. Olden is a small village located in the Nordfjord region of western Norway. It has stunning natural scenery, including towering snowcapped mountains and beautiful fjords. We visited Barksdale Glacier by Troll car, which was stunning and one of the trip's highlights, so it is a must-do.

In the afternoon, we experienced Wine and cheese tasting with Sommelier Marsh in the Colors and Tastes Restaurant. 

Tonight's dinner was held in Vasco Restaurant, which was Goan cuisine which offered a nice alternative to dining in the main restaurant. Evening entertainment followed with an 80-themed night of music and dance by the Balmoral Show Company in the Neptune Lounge. There was also quiz time, bingo and Jukebox sounds in the Lido Lounge. 

DAY FOUR

HAUGESUND

Haugesund is a coastal town in southwestern Norway between Bergen and Stavanger. It is known for its maritime history and was once a hub for the Viking Age and later a centre for herring fish. The town offers picturesque waterfront views and charming wooden houses, and the nearby Haraldshaugen monument commemorates Norway's first King, Harald Fairhair. This is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. 

On arrival back on the ship, we had a tour of the boat, visiting the Kitchens, Laundry rooms and the Bridge, where we met the Captain. Evening entertainment Quiz Time, Karaoke and Jukebox sounds.

DAY FIVE

ULVIK

Ulvik is a small village in the Hardanger region of Norway. It offers stunning natural beauty and is surrounded by steep mountains, lush orchards, and serene waters. The area is famous for fruit farming, particularly apples produced for cider. Ulvik is a popular outdoor spot for hiking, kayaking, and exploring the Fjords. It offers visitors a peaceful, picturesque retreat with a charming rural atmosphere. 

We visited Syse Fruit Farm, enjoyed cider tasting, and had an opportunity to buy the cider. 

Evening entertainment was The Balmoral Show Company presenting Balmoral High, a show to shake, Rattle, & Roll as boy meets girl Rock & Roll romance.

DAY SIX

STAVANGER

Stavanger is a city on Norway's southwestern Coast, known as the Oil Capital of Norway. It features well-preserved wooden houses and provides a gateway to natural attractions like Pulpit Rock and the Lysefjord. The city has a vibrant cultural scene, hosting festivals and museums. 

We explored the colourful streets, shops, cafes, churches, and parks. A formal night followed, followed by dinner in the Colours and Tastes Restaurant (Asian Cuisine), followed by Quiz time, a Rock the Room gameshow, and Jukebox sounds. 

DAY SEVEN

LAST DAY

We attended Kitchen Creations and watched a demonstration of making a Cappuccino Chocolate cake. This was followed by a game of Baggo in the Lido Bar on Deck 8. Evening entertainment included Live Name That Tune, Karaoke, and dancing.