Nordnorge Cabins

The Nordnorge has 214 cabins in 11 categories. There are two two-room suites measuring 301 square ft. and 12 junior suites at 215 square ft., all with a queen-size bed, separate sitting area, TV and stocked minibar.

The majority are 107-square-ft. outside cabins that vary primarily by location and upholstery color -- either red or blue. Overall, the decor is Scandinavian-efficient and immaculately maintained. My Deck 2 cabin had two portholes, rather than the window in most Deck 3, 5 and 6 cabins. Considering Norway's 20-plus hours of daylight in summer, I was fortunate to be able to close the portholes and sleep in a dark room. The window curtains are not the blackout kind, and several friends on higher decks complained about the light at night. But by day, they had the better view.

The cabins on Deck 5 look out on the Promenade Deck. Not to worry, the windows are tinted so that passers-by can't see in. All of these cabins have two beds, one that folds up against the wall during the day and one that converts to a couch. (In three-bed cabins, two fold to the wall). There is a desk/vanity with a chair and a small table. Closet and shelf space is ample for a casual cruise. A phone doubles as a radio and PA system. There is no TV (only in suites) or minibar. Lighting is excellent.

The bathroom is small and basic and has a shower. I found the wall-mounted hair dryer to be on the weak side. Interestingly, you can heat the bathroom floor by pushing a switch. There is a 115/230-shaver outlet in the bathroom; otherwise it's all 230 voltage.

There are 21 small (86 square ft.) inside cabins on Deck 3, 5 and 6. Three cabins are designed for the disabled; these are located on Deck 3 near reception.

Maid service occurs once a day, in the morning. The first night I was surprised to find that no one had opened my bed during dinner as the porter does on a train. Later, I learned that the cabin crew has other duties at night, and it's easy enough to pull down your own bed and flip on the duvet.

Hint: A shampoo packet, tiny bar of soap and shower cap are the only toiletries supplied. If you use conditioner, regular-size soap, hand lotion, a washcloth or even Kleenex, bring them from home. The same goes for bathrobes, as none are provided, except in suites and junior suites.

Critic's Caveat: Cabins on the starboard side are quieter. The gangway and car garage door are on the port side, and the ship stops at several ports during the night, every night.

A laundry room on Deck 3 uses tokens available from the purser for about $1.45 each for washers or dryers.

Next: Nordnorge Dining

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