A Fairytale.

Magical was the right word choice for the view, and was a promise of what was to come. I struggle to find the words to describe this afternoon. It seems we went from a postcard into a fairytale.

Firstly the sun broke through, the sky cleared and we sailed through a narrow passage strewn with small rocky islands, some boasting grasses, some with lights or light houses. Between two of these larger rocky outcrops we turned to port and the enchantment began as we entered Kristansund.

Snow covered mountains provided a backdrop for gentle slopes of steep pitched roofs sprinkled with snow, on houses painted rust red or mustard yellow. The conifers that filled the gardens and parks and roadside, were dusted with snow, the waters sparkled in the sunshine and the marinas were filled with yachts and work boats that glistened in the clear light.

Our first sunset lit this beautiful setting with perfect golden light. The whole ship was enchanted, even crew members were on deck taking photos, and the crisp air did not prevent most people venturing outside with their cameras, or just to gaze in wonder.

Undoubtably this is the most picturesque harbour we have entered. We stopped for 20 minutes or so, just long enough to offload supplies for the town and we were on our way again. The last of the sunset turned the sky orange and made this afternoon a fitting finale to a wonderful voyage.