Day 4 Bronnoysund to Svolvaer, the Lofoten islands

What an amazing day we had today. My question about whether we could possibly continue with such an awesome journey as day 2, was definitely answered, day after day! Each day was different, but each day memorable and special. The sunlight sparkling on the crystal blue waters of the fjords was mesmerizingl

As were the beautiful, elegant swirls of water as we turned a corner.
Believe it or not, the water and sky were actually so blue!
We reached the Arctic Circle early in the morning! Who would have ever guessed from the temperature!
There was a special and rather silly ceremony on top deck. Those who wanted Arctic initiation could opt to have icy water poured over them. I can't say I was keen!
Others sat and sunbathed. There were a lot of very red bodies by the end of the day!
Our main stop today was Bodo, voted European capital of culture in 2024. It's the northernmost city in Europe to be selected. I'm not sure of the criteria. It didn't seem to offer as much as Tromso for example.
I did have quite an interesting little salmon museum, with some very interesting facts.
And the city is also famous for its street art, although I only found this one.
I thoroughly enjoyed a walk to the pier to get wonderful views over the harbor. It was incredibly hot.
The pier featured some very attractive stone carvings with extensive views along the shore.
After Bodo we enjoyed some exceptionally calm open sea, and 
arrived in Vesteralen and the magnificent Lofoten Islands.
How gorgeous, and how lucky to be here in perfect weather conditions.
As we sailed into the very picturesque fishing village of Svolvaer, we passed the statue of The Fisherman’s Wife, said to represent the many women who lost their husbands at sea, and bringing good fortune to sailors who passed her by.
Standing out in the late evening sun,  it was actually 21.20, were the racks used to dry the fish. The fish were taken down when the snow melted, usually late April.
With only 40 minutes on shore, we lost no time getting to the Ice bar, where we got a very tasty cocktail, served in an ice glass. With thick coats and gloves, we could cope with the 5 below zero temperature. The exhibition of ice carvings was excellent.

It was all a bit of a rush, but well worth it!
This incredible day was certainly not over yet. At just after 10 pm we headed out into the most glorious fjord, made even more spectacular by the stunning sunset.
What an unforgettable experience this trip is. I have never ever seen such breathtaking scenery. And probably the most spectacular place was still to come, The Troll Fjord.
This Fjord is one of the narrowest in the area, being between 600 and 1,100 metres wide, and 2 kilometres long. We glided along and at the end did an amazing 180 degrees turn. 
The cliffs are sheer, and from the top deck you get the impression you could reach out and touch the sides.
We were so fortunate to be able to go in to the fjord, which is only done when the weather is good and the sea is calm. 
It was a late night, but well worth the lack of sleep!




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