Back from the Fjords

Just back from a cruise to the Norwegian Fjords on board the Emerald Princess that went in and out of Southampton. It was my first time in Norway and the cruise was fantastic. The Emerald is a nice ship with everything that you need to entertain 2 small children, from the swimming pools on board, the kids club and sport court. Now the food is not the greatest we have had, choice in the buffet is ok but not great. Main restaurant is nice but again the choice in the menu is limited and the food quality could be better, however when we booked to the Crown Grill, twice, paying the $30 cover charge that was an amazing experience, the quality of the steaks and the taste was superb, one of the best we had, but you have to pay for it. The cabin was spacious and we had a restricted view outside which was not an issue, we can see the view and day light so that was fine. Service on board is good and efficient but not with a smile. The entertainment can be better although a couple of shows were not bad. The itinerary was good, first port of Stavanger, very pretty town which you can just get off the ship and walk to it, so that was ok, and we took lots of photos and also sat down for a coffee. Nest port was Olden which we got off and took a local tour in a coach to see some Fjords which was fantastic. The next day was Skjolden which is a very beautiful place with lakes and mountains but we did not book anything there so found that there were no tours available to book on the spot locally and like hundreds of others we ended up walking around the lake and back to the ship. Next port was Bergen which I really liked, again you can just get off the ship and walk, very nice town with superb views from the top of the mountain after taking the funicular that takes you to the top and back, you can sit for a coffee at the top, take some pictures and there is a nice playground for the kids. Back to Southampton very happy after a fabulous cruise we have had. Very much recommended!