Packing is easy when sailing from Southampton!

Written by Nicki Quintana - Sales Development Manager, Royal Caribbean International

I was very excited to be getting back on Anthem of the Seas as I was lucky enough to be on one of the British sailings last year. Thinking of what to pack for my weeks cruise to the Norwegian fjords was easy as travelling from Southampton I did not have to worry about the weight or if I wanted to take another case. I love walking and wanted take my boots and I know Bergen is known for rain so I packed a raincoat - well I pretty much had all bases covered and to my surprise and delight we had lovely weather with a lot of sun.

Anthem of the Seas in Geiranger

I was onboard after a speedy check in – 4 hours from when I left home enjoying lunch in the windjammer buffet restaurant with a nice glass of wine. After lunch I was able to go to my stateroom which was a large ocean view, very spacious and great views of the scenery as we sailed to the fjords. To my surprise and delight my luggage was waiting for me outside my door.

North star view of Stavanger

I explored Anthem getting my baring’s again from the stunning Adults-only Solarium at the front of the ship to the 270 lounge at the back of the ship via the promenade where I grabbed a Starbucks to go up on deck for sail away.

I bumped into Joff Eaton the cruise director who is a firm favourite with the Brits – His morning TV show is a must before you set off for the day as he has great tips for what to do on board that day and evening.

The Solarium onboard Anthem of the Seas

Stavanger was our first port where it was a National Holiday in Norway – Constitution day, it was so lovely to see all the locals dressed in their national costume and the marching bands. That morning I went up in the North Star which was complimentary when the ship is in port to have great views over Stavanger and the snow topped mountains.

Our next stop was Geiranger – which is now up there as one of my favourite ports to visit – I was told by Joff on his tv show to get up early and be on deck at 7.30 to see the 7 sisters waterfalls as we sailed in to Geiranger – the scenery was breath taking, even though a little chilly but I was soon warmed up with a cup of chocolate which was served on deck. Geiranger had a port web cam where I was able to wave to colleagues, family, and friends – my mum even managed to log on and see me wave. It had some lovely walks from the ship and visits to Glaciers and kayaking available if you booked a shore excursion on board.

Our next stop was Olden, again a beautiful port of call with snow-capped mountains and waterfalls plus plenty of souvenir shops.

Stavanger parades

Bergen was a final port of call where we had a 10-minute walk into the town. Well worth a visit is the lovely Floistuen park which you get to by the Floibanean funicular, it has amazing views of the city and port area – oh and it didn’t rain!

My final day at sea I went to see the West End Show We Will Rock you, complimentary with a front row seat – one of the best shows that I have seen onboard a cruise ship. I also booked my next cruise on board taking advantage of the extra deals on offer. Soon it was time to pack to go home, I had bought plenty of souvenirs, but I didn’t need to worry about the weight of my case as I was sailing back to Southampton!