5th August Maloy - Bergen: What a wonderful evening! After such a busy day yesterday, we tumbled out onto the deck last night to watch as the day began to close and the sun settled on Nordfjord.
The mountains took on a smoky grey silhouette whilst the sky had more than a hint of pink. The fjord itself was still, mirror-like, except for some passing boats - a tranquil scene for any keen photographers and fishermen or even for those simply happy to take some time drinking in the beauty of this part of western Norway. It was magical. But, as with all things, the peace was shattered by the call from another vessel that was experiencing engine trouble.
No sooner had the call been made, than the engineers on board the Lord Nelson sprung into action and having located the boat, tools in hand, launched the DOTI boat and proceeded to come to their rescue. Well done guys, once again you've made us so proud!! (a special thank you to Eddie too!) It made for a rather late evening for some ......and a rather early start for others. Yep, once we had breakfasted to our fill (bacon, eggy bread and baked beans being on the menu), all hands were called to prepare for coming alongside in Olden.
Once again the scenery is simply breath-taking - and anyone not having travelled to these parts, it really is an absolute delight! We are at the innermost end of Nordfjord, where the mountains are high around us and dip down majestically into the fjord. It really is the kind of scene you imagine has been orchestrated for a calendar or postcard - except it really is just like that! The mountains are dark green from the forests and reflected in an almost aqua/turquoise fjord, which we learnt today is alive with brown trout and salmon! There are a few houses scattered around but the overwhelming feeling is one of tranquillity. Having come alongside and secured our mooring lines, we assembled the gangway with everyone putting their new found knowledge of 'heaving' and 'easing' and 'well' and 'come up' into practice. Our arrival brought a few visitors alongside too, particularly some who witnessed the assisted climbs, including the local press and a guy called 'Yens' who having watched us having our voyage photo taken too (with this wonderful backdrop - did I mention it?) invited all those who wished to, to join him on a trip to the local glacier this afternoon, courtesy of the town! You may have guessed - but Yes, the trip was full! A coach arrived straight after lunch to take us along the Lake of Olden (spectacular!), past the snow capped mountains(fantastic!), with waterfalls cascading down(marvellous!), through hairpin bends(yikes!) and onto the glacier(absolutely magic!). What an absolute treat!
Apparently the local area is alive with many reindeer too - which probably accounts for the occasional gun shots sounds -although Rachel's 'is it grouse season then?' left Cookie Wendy in fits of giggles imagining the size of gun and the poor bird! Oh well - best stick to nursing!!
Of course, we can't keep the magic of the Lord Nelson a secret either, so being gluttons for punishment, we had an impromptu 'open ship' for the townsfolk of Olden this evening, allowing them to come and visit us and hear our new voyage crew tell of the wonders of this amazing ship, whilst the more hardy (younger!!) voyage crew have taken to a dip in the fjord!!
Honestly it really is only Day 3 but the camaraderie is great and the buzz on board is almost tangible - so here's to the next few days - we'll keep you posted......
Update By: Rachel MP LN