cymrucat23

Whilst we enjoyed thoroughly our Northern Lights cruise in March, I had a bit of a problem with the air con. We had an ocean view cabin, which was fine, but I found after a few days that my skin became extremely dry and my eyes became puffy toward the end of the cruise. Always turned down the temperature to quite cool when going to bed as I can't sleep in a hot stuffy room. Anybody else had this? I'm feeling I might have to shell out for a balcony if we go again 😞

Different cruise, but we went on the Northern Lights cruise in March, booked several trips through FOCL. As it turned out we could not dock in Bodo (sadly bad weather conditions) and as we had booked a tour to the Saltraumen maelstrom and sea eagles through FOCL we were immediately reimbursed. We also got insurance cover for missed ports so were compensated financially for this (though would still have far rather done the excursion). With hindsight it's probably a bit risky booking independently (though it appears cheaper, which is very annoying). However, in Tromso, a couple we shared a dinner table with had booked Independently a cycling trip - this was successful for them. FOCL never really seem to publish times in port (as you say a bit vague) and I would be nervous of booking something unless I was absolutely certain of the times.

Yes I keep looking at this and thinking is it too early to book! I really would like to go on this one but may hold out a bit longer (need to save a bit more)

Well I think it depends on what you plan to do. We went beginning of March (1st - 10th) and as we went to Narvik and Tromso and did the Arctic Train and dog sledding - then yes snow boots required. Other ports I managed OK with regular boots, didn't take my 'walking boots'. Even if you are not doing an activities, I would pack winter boots, there is still plenty of snow around even through April. Hope this helps.

No problem, enjoy you cruise. We bought an adaptor with 3 USB connectors incorporated into it - this was very useful 🙂 as you say, we need so many chargers nowadays!

The sockets are 2 pin and yes there are face flannels. We were on Balmoral 4 weeks ago 🙂

We also stayed at Premier Inn by the dock a 3 weeks ago, we also booked parking at Premier Inn through parkingspace.co.uk which was good (and much, much cheaper than through FOCL). We did plan to go into Newcastle, but were quite tired by the time we got there (travelling from west Wales), so just had an early meal and retired to our room!

Thank you for all the info and photos - we had a wonderful time (despite not being able to dock in Bodo 😞 - adverse weather conditions and rough seas). We didn't use any cash! Want to go again!!

Thank you so much, wonderful photos....really looking forward to it - not sure if we will have time to do much walking around Tromso, as we are booked for a a dog mushing experience! Do hope to do some walking around Alesund..... 🙂

Thank you - these were pretty much my thoughts 🙂

Off on our first ever cruise next week - Northern Lights 😍. Is there any point in getting local currency? We have cards and it seems most places take cards. We've booked 3 excursions, but would like to do a bit of walking around on our own as well. Thanks 🙂

Thank you Izzywiz 🙂

Booked the northern lights in March on Balmoral - I did read somewhere that there is a launderette - any information would be appreciated - don't want to have to buy/pack 9 sets of thermals etc! thank you 🙂

Just out of interest - I don't drink alcohol, so this is not of interest to me other than the water. Is bottled water the only available water, or is there potable, non bottled water available - maybe I should bring my own bottles of water for our anticipated cruise in March!

Oh dear, yes just discovered this! Thank you Tring, never mind....as you say, next time (I hope there will be one)!