Arctic Circle exit - Bronnoysund
Friday was a quiet day, starting with flurries of snow at breakfast. Soon after, there was a ceremony outside, as we passed the globe-shaped marker of the Arctic circle, heading south towards Trondheim. This time it wasn't water down the neck, but a spoonful of cod liver oil down the throat, though at least we get to keep the Hurtigruten spoon.
Lesley had a call with the company's PR guy, for a piece she will write for FOOC.
There was a certain amount of sitting about with books, until it was time for the Bridge Visit. About 15 passengers crowded on to the bridge, while the ship was moored at Sandnessjoen. We were shown the navigation screens, radar, helm controls and the docking station on the port side. The Captain revealed he will retire next year aged 70, and he is v sad that his ship will be removed from her current service.
Then an alarm rang and we were politely given orders to leave the bridge, as they were about to set off.
We passed the mountains known as the Seven Sisters, whose heads were topped with cloud. The weather did improve a bit as the day wore on and the sun rode relatively high in the sky, signalling we are in lower latitudes.
It is quite sad to be heading south. Every time a north-heading Hurtigruten ship passes, people wave and both ships' horns are sounded. It feels like we are saying goodbye. This time waved from inside as it was raining.
Next stop was Bronnoysund, where it was raining on arrival. We nipped out for a walk in slush to the Norway mid-way point, a closed church and an open charity shop. Bought a shot glass and a pack of Hurtigruten cards.
And then tonight was the official last dinner, a hefty 5 courses, because many people will be late to dinner tomorrow, us included, thanks to a late excursion to the marble mines. Our table mates suggested a group photo.
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