Selected because we wanted to see the Northern Lights and the cruise was available in a Black Friday sale. Overall was a excellent adventure but even with a reduced sale price it was still expensive. Northern Lights appeared but if I have small tip it is to use a good phone camera for best results. I have a decent DSLR but a lot of playing with settings. Those with expensive Apple and Samsung phones were achieving far better results just pointing and shooting.

Felt a bit short-changed with the cabin. We upgraded to Outside Arctic Superior (Deck 6) but the size of the double bed resulted in very little free floor space, nowhere to sit other than on the bed or a desk chair, and reduced storage space. Met up with some people who had a suite on Deck 8 and the difference was stunning. I felt we were in Steerage by comparison.

Some elements offered very good value for money, some less so. As with all excursions organised by a cruise company they are expensive and not all are as good as their advertising suggests. That said, Dog Sledding (Tromso) and Ice Hotel (Kirkenes) excursions were both excellent. The Taste of Vesteralen, which I foolishly thought was a culinary expedition (should have read the itinerary more carefully!), was a simple bus trip but is the basis of the review title. Sunny, clear day and absolutely stunning scenery. Meet the Vikings was not good - too long on the coach for what there was at the end. Read more