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Grand Fjords & Iconic Shores
  • 710Racing
  • Marisa Fabbri
  • 710Racing
  • Marisa Fabbri

Grand Fjords & Iconic Shores

A 40-day adventure by 710Racing & Marisa. Read more
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  • Trip start
    May 26, 2026
    Grand Fjords & Iconic Shores
    Enjoying a beer at Dam Square
    Enjoying a beer at Dam SquareOur home for three nightsEnjoying our private courtyardFriendly neighborsTypical side streetWestertorer - A towering beauty that can be seen from afar2Vincent1Van Gogh painted 3 versions of his bedroom. One resides in Amsterdam, one in Chicago, one in ParisCity of canals ...1... bikes and flowersPretty Dutch windowGirl in the mirror - Rijksmuseum1A finely decorated bike2Yum....herring

    Amsterdam - We made it!

    May 27–30 in the Netherlands ☁️ 72 °F

    After what seemed a very long set of flights, we finally made it to Dam Square in the heart of Amsterdam. We enjoyed our beer and sightseeing before heading to the airb&b. Our pictures capture some of our favorite sites. We love this city. ❤️Read more

  • Grand Fjords & Iconic Shores
    The Maritime Museum which pays homage to fishermen lost at sea.
    The Maritime Museum which pays homage to fishermen lost at sea.The Danish Fisherman and Rescuer is a prominent bronze sculpture located at the harbor1Modern day fishing boatsWhat remains of the Sand-Covered Church1Most of the houses in central Skagen have the themed yellow paint and clay tiled roof

    Skagen, Denmark

    June 1 in Denmark ☁️ 55 °F

    Skagen is a charming fishing town at the very tip of Denmark and the northernmost point of continental Europe. Despite having only about 7,500 residents, it attracts nearly 2 million visitors each year.

    One of the town's biggest draws is Grenen, where the North Sea and Baltic Sea meet in a spectacular display of crashing waves. It's also fascinating to learn that more than 300 ships pass the tip of Denmark every day, making this an important maritime crossroads.

    In the late 1800s, Skagen became a haven for artists who were drawn by the area's unique light, beautiful landscapes, and dramatic sea shores. Their influence can still be seen throughout the town today.

    We also made a visit to the Sand-Covered Church. Built in the 14th century, the church was gradually buried by drifting sand dunes, forcing its closure in the late 1700s. Today, only the white tower remains visible above the sand.    Read more

  • Grand Fjords & Iconic Shores
    Tim and troll
    Tim and trollOslo city streetThe Oslo Opera HouseThe Munch MuseumSculptures from the Vigeland Sculpture ParkThe Holmenkollen Ski Jump stands 440 ft tall and requires the skier to have a license.Troll sculpture facing the Holmenkollen Ski Jump stands 22 ft tall

    Oslo, Norway

    June 2 in Norway ☁️ 63 °F

    Oslo, Norway was a wonderful surprise for a one-day visit. We were greeted with cool, clear weather and, most importantly, no rain—a gift in a city known for its unpredictable skies.

    Our day began with a city tour that took us past some of Oslo's most recognizable landmarks, including the striking Opera House and the modern Munch Museum. Both buildings showcase the city's blend of contemporary architecture and cultural heritage.

    The highlight of the day was visiting Vigeland Sculpture Park, the world's largest sculpture park created by a single artist, Gustav Vigeland. The park contains 212 sculptures crafted from bronze, granite, and cast iron. Walking through the grounds was fascinating, especially across the bridge, which alone features 58 bronze sculptures depicting a wide range of human relationships and emotions.

    One of the most interesting aspects of Vigeland's work is that all of the figures are nude. This was an intentional choice by the artist to make the sculptures timeless and universal, free from the influence of fashion or specific historical periods. The result is a collection that feels as relevant today as when it was created.

    Even with only one day in Oslo, the city left a lasting impression. Between the beautiful weather, impressive architecture, and thought-provoking art, it was a memorable stop and a place we would gladly visit again.    Read more

  • Grand Fjords & Iconic Shores
    On our way to Lindesnes
    On our way to LindesnesRocky shoresTim, and what would be the lighthouse on a sunny dayThe original lighthouse that used tallow candles

    Kristiansand, Norway

    June 3 in Norway 🌧 57 °F

    Our ship docked in Kristiansand and we hopped on a bus to the Lindesnes Lighthouse, located at the southernmost tip of Norway. It was a memorable experience despite the rainy morning. The weather may have been gray and damp, but it added a dramatic atmosphere to the rugged coastline and crashing waves.

    Lindesnes Lighthouse is a special place, not only because of its location where Norway meets the sea, but also because it is the only manned lighthouse still operating in the country. Standing on the rocky cliffs, it was easy to appreciate the importance of this lighthouse to generations of sailors navigating these waters.

    The rain didn't stop us from exploring the grounds and taking in the stunning coastal views. We even made it to the top of the lighthouse!    Read more

  • Grand Fjords & Iconic Shores
    Harbor view of some of the houses. The dark sky are rain clouds
    Harbor view of some of the houses. The dark sky are rain cloudsPlenty of cobblestone roads in the old part of town1Murals are on many of the buildings, though someone doesn't think it's art!Lovely outside cafesMore cafes along the wharf1I love these guys :)Footprints of the 14th Dalai Lama who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989The watchtower built between 1850-1854 on the highest point of the city was used to spot firesA model of the oil rig built for the Gullfaks oil and gas field in the North Sea

    Stavanger, Norway

    June 4 in Norway 🌧 55 °F

    Stavanger, Norway, felt like a city that never wanted the day to end. With sunrise at 4:33 a.m. and sunset at 10:33 p.m., the long summer daylight gave us plenty of time to enjoy this beautiful harbor city.

    We learned how Stavanger evolved from a fishing and canning center into Norway's oil capital after the discovery of North Sea oil. A visit to the Norwegian Petroleum Museum helped bring that history to life, with interesting exhibits explaining how the oil industry transformed both the city and the country.

    The harbor was a highlight, lined with colorful buildings, boats, and outdoor cafes. Along the waterfront, we also discovered the footprints honoring Nobel Peace Prize winners and peace advocates, a unique reminder of Norway's connection to promoting peace around the world. The Peace Prize is the only prize awarded in Norway while the others are awarded in Sweden.    Read more

  • Grand Fjords & Iconic Shores

    Flåm, Norway

    June 5 in Norway 🌧 52 °F

    Flåm, Norway is one of those places that looks like a postcard in every direction. The day started with a visit to the Stegastein Viewpoint, where the platform extends out over 2100 feet over the fjord and offers incredible views of the mountains, water, and tiny villages below.

    In the afternoon, we boarded the famous Flåm Railway for a relaxing train ride through steep valleys, waterfalls, and dramatic mountain landscapes. The difference in altitude is a little over .5 mile. The steepest incline is 55% and there are 20 tunnels. The Norwegians say you can experience three seasons in one day. Even with the changing weather we experienced, the scenery was spectacular from start to finish.    Read more

  • Grand Fjords & Iconic Shores
    1Bergen city center
    1Bergen city centerBergen at 2:30 amNykirken churchNykirken church alter and baptismal angel which can be dropped from the ceilingOleana promotional posterKnitting machineWaiting to be sewn togetherMachine that stitches sleeves to sweater bodyButton station2Waiting for the last quality check

    Bergen, Norway

    Jun 6–7 in Norway ⛅ 57 °F

    Bergen, Norway, was a beautiful stop filled with history and coastal charm. It is the second largest city in Norway with 700K people and the rainiest city in Europe where it rains 2 out of 3 days.

    We enjoyed visiting Nykirken, a historic church near the harbor that reflects the city's maritime heritage. This church has gone through multiple centuries of rebuilding as there were several instances of fires over the years  plus an explosion during WW2.

    A tour of the Oleana knitwear factory was another highlight, showcasing traditional Norwegian designs and craftsmanship. It’s situated in a building from 1875, that once housed the first textile mill in west Norway, built on top of a river, right by the fjord. Inside it's like a whole universe to explore. This family owned business focuses on innovation, quality and pride.    Read more

  • Grand Fjords & Iconic Shores
    The town of Eidsdal
    The town of EidsdalAt the top of the mountain is a lake. While frozen all winter, not suitable to walk on nowBreathtaking viewDressed for ribbingThe black boat is our rib. What fun!Out and about on the fjordWaterfalls aboundThe stone memorial in the center of town for those that died in the 1930 tsunamiSalmon hatchery1

    Eidsal, Norway

    June 8 in Norway ☁️ 63 °F

    The small town of Eidsdal is nestled between towering mountains and the deep blue waters of Norddalsfjorden. With only a few hundred residents, the village is known for its farming traditions, especially dairy and goat farming, while tourism has become an important part of the local economy. 

    Our morning excursion took us to various vantage points for some great pictures that don't do the scenery justice, and our afternoon was spent on the water on a RIB getting up close to some of those beautiful waterfalls.    Read more

  • Grand Fjords & Iconic Shores
    Arctic Wolf1Lovely serenadeArtic fox with most of his white fur sheddedWolverine1Happy BearsGrumpy BearMuskoxLynx

    Narvik, Norway

    June 10 in Norway ☀️ 63 °F

    Narvik is situated in Northern Norway, above the Arctic Circle at 68° North. It's a small Arctic city with a big role in global trade. About 14,000 people live in the city center, with roughly 24,000 in the surrounding area. Its deep-water harbor stays ice-free year-round, making it an ideal shipping port for Swedish iron ore. More than 21 million tons of ore pass through Narvik each year.

    The city is also known for its dramatic northern location. For about two and a half months each winter, the sun never rises above the horizon, while summer brings long days and nearly endless daylight.

    A highlight of our visit was Polar Park, the world's northernmost animal park. Set among forests and mountains, the park provides large natural habitats for Arctic animals such as wolves, bears, lynx, wolverines, moose, and reindeer.    Read more

  • Grand Fjords & Iconic Shores
    Fish drying in the open airAfter months of drying, they are sorted by qualityStacked and ready for boxing and shipping1A new friend

    Leknes (Lofoten Islands), Norway

    June 11 in Norway 🌬 54 °F

    Leknes and the Lofoten Islands archipelago is made up of about 80 islands, many connected by bridges and tunnels, making it easy to travel throughout the region.

    Fishing remains a way of life here, especially the production of stockfish. Beginning in February, cod is hung outdoors for four months in the cool, dry air, and about 3,000 tons are exported each year, with Italy being the largest customer.

    At 68 degrees north, above the Arctic Circle and on the same latitude as parts of Alaska and Siberia, the climate is mild thanks to the Gulf Stream. During summer, the midnight sun shines for nearly two months, providing endless daylight to enjoy Lofoten's stunning mountains, fishing villages, and coastal scenery.    Read more

  • Grand Fjords & Iconic Shores
    Scenes of city center1Anyone for a reindeer hotdog?Tromso Cathedral1The Brewery1Glass Blowing

    Tromsø, Norway

    June 12 in Norway ☁️ 63 °F

    Tromsø is home to about 78,000 people, it was founded in 1794 and has grown into the largest city in northern Norway. Located well above the Arctic Circle, temperatures typically range from around 25°F in winter to 59°F in summer, although conditions can vary. Our temperature today was in the mid- sixties, making it perfect for a walking tour of the city center.

    The brewery most visitors see in Tromsø is Mack Brewery, which was founded in 1877 by Ludwig Markus Mack. It is famous for being the world's northernmost major brewery and has been a symbol of northern Norway for nearly 150 years.

    We also stopped at a glass-blowing workshop and watched skilled artisans transform glowing molten glass into beautiful works of art—a fascinating process to see up close.    Read more

  • Grand Fjords & Iconic Shores
    The port of Honningsvåg
    The port of HonningsvågOur safari boat1Ready for the wind and rainOne of the many little islands we pastA rew of the winged residentsThe birds definitely like to hang out togetherGrey sealsWhite tail eagle1A puffinOur theatre event1Norwegian waffle with brown sweet cheese, jam, & sour cream1Beer on tap

    Honningsvåg, Norway

    June 13 in Norway ☁️ 54 °F

    Honningsvåg, at 71° north, felt like a true Arctic outpost. About 3,200 people live on the island, where fishing has long been the foundation of life and tourism now brings more than 300,000 visitors each year. During World War II, nearly every building in town was burned, with only the church surviving.

    The highlight of the morning was visiting the tiny village of Gjesvær, home to just 64 residents, where we boarded a boat to nearby bird cliffs. We spotted puffins, razorbills, and even white-tailed eagles soaring overhead. The island is also home to more than 3,000 reindeer each summer before they migrate back toward Finland for the winter, even swimming across fjords along the way. A special thank you to Richard Lovelock, our ship's wildlife expert, for sharing the puffin and eagle photos.

    Our afternoon was spent enjoying a play put on by some of the town's aspiring actors. We enjoyed the performance while eating a Norwegian waffle and sampling local beer.    Read more

  • Grand Fjords & Iconic Shores
    Coordinates for Longyearbyen
    Coordinates for LongyearbyenHouse on a sledPretty rugged areaCamp Barentz dog sled campThe dogs live outside year round and love itOur guide giving dog sled instructionTim loving Diablo, and no, the dog can't come home with usAnother dog camp in the foregroundReindeerWhen passing this sign, you are going past the settlement safe zone and must carry a weaponColorful housingBeautiful skyline and settlement housing. Could that be an eagle flying about?On our balcony at 2am. Love the midnight sun, but oh so bright.City center LongyearbyenCute little cafe to bask in the sunSo long to Longyearbyen

    Longyearbyen, Svalbard

    Jun 15–16 in Svalbard and Jan Mayen ⛅ 41 °F

    Longyearbyen, Svalbard is located about 650 miles from the North Pole and this tiny settlement of 2500 people is unlike anywhere we've ever visited. There are no native people here, but residents from more than 50 nationalities call it home, with the largest group coming from Thailand. Many of the younger adults we met were here doing scientific research through the local university, including a fellow Chicagoan studying Arctic toxicology.

    The landscape is rugged and fascinating. The colorful houses are built on stilts with exposed pipes running above ground because of the permafrost. In summer, the midnight sun shines from April 20 through August 23, while in winter the island experiences polar night for nearly four months. Longyearbyen was a coal mining town for over 100 years until the mines closed last year, and today science and tourism have become major parts of life here.

    One thing you quickly learn is that nature is in charge. The southern part of Svalbard is slightly warmer because of the Gulf Stream, while the eastern side is colder and is where polar bears are more common. In town, you're generally safe, but once you leave the settlement, carrying a rifle is required and warning signs mark the boundaries. It's illegal to kill a polar bear, so guides often rely on flares first and only use firearms as a last resort.

    We also visited Camp Barentz, home to about 250 sled dogs that are a mix of Greenlandic dogs and huskies. In the summer they only eat once a day, but during the busy winter season they eat three times a day to keep up their energy.

    Life here requires planning because almost everything has to be shipped in and virtually nothing grows naturally. Even alcohol is rationed with purchase quotas. We also learned about the Global Seed Vault, built in 2008, which now protects more than 1.3 million seed varieties from around the world as a backup for future generations.

    Longyearbyen is one of those rare places that constantly reminds you how small humans are compared to nature. It's remote, beautiful, a little wild, and definitely a place we'll never forget.    Read more

  • Grand Fjords & Iconic Shores
    Family outing

    Ísafjördur, Iceland

    June 19 in Iceland 🌬 41 °F

    Iceland has a population of about 382,000 people, with most residents living along the coastline since much of the island is mountainous. In fact, nearly 80% of the country is uninhabited. The dramatic landscape we see today was shaped by the forces of volcanoes and glaciers over thousands of years.

    Ísafjörður is our first stop in Iceland. Located in the northwest corner of the island, just south of the Arctic Circle, we won't see a sunset tonight. Our guide joked that there are only two seasons here: eight months of winter and four months of disappointment!

    This morning, we set out on a scenic tour to the beautiful Dynjandi waterfall. Thankfully, the rain had stopped, allowing Tim to capture some wonderful photos of this impressive cascade. The landscape here is extraordinary.

    The drive itself was an adventure as we experienced Iceland's unique tunnel system. The tunnel is roughly five miles long and features a remarkable three-way intersection deep inside the mountain where the different branches meet. Much of the tunnel is only a single lane, with periodic pull-outs and passing bays. Thanks to well-established right-of-way rules, everything runs surprisingly smoothly.

    On our way back to the ship, we stopped in the small fishing village of Suðureyri, where we sampled one of Iceland's finest exports and got a taste of the country's fishing heritage.    Read more

  • Grand Fjords & Iconic Shores
    Turf house constructed from stones, a timber frame and thick layers of insulating sod
    Turf house constructed from stones, a timber frame and thick layers of insulating sodEntry to the turf house. People were alot shorter back then.Tiny Luthern churchViðey House - a beautiful building that is the first one built out of stone in IcelandJust a pretty little lighthouse seen from our ship while enjoying dinner

    Reykjavik, Iceland

    June 20 in Iceland ☁️ 57 °F

    Reykjavík is the biggest city in Iceland and the world’s northernmost capital. It is located in the southwest of Iceland. Reykjavík has a population of around 140,000 as of 2026, and the surrounding Capital Region has a population of around 252,000, constituting approximately 64% of Iceland's population.

    Our morning was filled with a bus tour of the city which really doesn’t help with getting a true flavor of what the city has to offer. We did make a stop at the Árbær Open Air Museum. It is Iceland's home to a fascinating collection of historical buildings, most of which were relocated from Reykjavík’s city center. Each of the buildings has a story to tell.

    Our afternoon was filled with partaking in an Icelandic tradition, bathing in a thermal lagoon. Sky Lagoon, located on the outskirts of Reykjavík, features a dramatic ocean-front infinity edge and a signature 7-step thermal ritual. Each step designed to take you through a “healing journey”. We loved the experience. They need to have these in Chicago!!    Read more

  • Grand Fjords & Iconic Shores
    1
    1We stand on volvano ruble where the streets named Landagata once stoodThe rebuilt townTim minding his lupin field. Plants are not indigenous to Iceland, but transplants from Alaska1Acoustics are amazing!

    Heimaey, Westman Islands, Iceland

    June 21 in Iceland ☁️ 50 °F

    Heimaey is a small island about 4.5 miles off Iceland's south coast and is home to around 4,500 people. It was formed by volcanic activity and covers about 5 square miles. Despite its rugged landscape, the island has fertile soil and supports plenty of plant and bird life especially Puffin, that come here every year to breed.

    A major landmark is Eldfell Volcano, which erupted unexpectedly on January 23, 1973. The eruption lasted for several months, covering parts of the town with lava and ash and forcing all residents to evacuate. Many later returned and rebuilt their community. The town has memorialized that period in their history by establishing the earthquake museum which includes various artifacts.

    We spent our time hiking to the top of Eldfell for great views of the island and coastline as well as taking a boat ride around some of the smaller islands.    Read more

  • Grand Fjords & Iconic Shores
    The herring tankThe soloist singing her Icelandic folk songThe Eggs of Merry BayIt was a very windy day!

    Djúpivogur, Iceland

    June 22 in Iceland ☀️ 52 °F

    Djúpivogur is a tiny town of about 480 people that fully embraces the art of slow living. Its name means "Deep Bay," which is a bit ironic since the bay itself isn't particularly deep. Located on Iceland's east coast, the town was once an important trading post and remains a charming, close-knit community.

    Despite its small size, Djúpivogur has most of the essentials, including shops, cafés, a grocery store, a church, a school through age 16, and both a doctor and nurse. The nearest towns are more than 40 miles away, which is where students attend high school. One ongoing challenge is a lack of housing. It seems surprising given the amount of open land, but apparently government regulations play a role.

    We spent the day hiking and soaking in the stunning scenery, fresh air, sunshine, and, of course, Iceland's ever-present wind. We also made a few memorable stops around town.

    Our first stop was the Museum of Stones, which showcases Iceland's incredible geological diversity. The collection includes volcanic rocks, minerals formed in different geological environments, and fossils from various periods of Earth's history. It was surprisingly beautiful.

    Next, we visited a former herring storage bin—thankfully long since cleaned out—where a local woman serenaded us with a traditional Icelandic folk song. The acoustics were remarkable and made for a unique experience.

    Before leaving, we checked out Djúpivogur's famous Eggs of Merry Bay, a public art installation featuring 34 oversized granite eggs. Each one is an exact representation of the shape, size, and color of a local bird species that nests in the area.    Read more

  • Grand Fjords & Iconic Shores
    The port of Seydisfjördur
    The port of SeydisfjördurEider ducklingBe sure to cover your head as the birds will dive bomb youIcelandic rhubarbPuffin ProudGreylag GooseOne of three creeks the bus crossesA Stephen King novel

    Seydisfjördur, Iceland

    June 23 in Iceland ☁️ 45 °F

    With a population of only about 700 people, Seyðisfjörður is one of Iceland's most picturesque little towns, tucked away at the end of a long fjord and surrounded by waterfalls and steep mountains.

    We embarked on a scenic drive to Skálanes Nature & Heritage Center to take in the beautiful sites. The once-abandoned farmstead was purchased by Ólafur Örn Pétursson’s family in a collaborative effort to manage and protect wild eider duck populations. In 2005, the property was formally established as an experimental nature and heritage center. The family transformed the dilapidated historic farm into a fully restored base of operations dedicated to conservation, education, and cultural history.    Read more

  • Grand Fjords & Iconic Shores
    The little port of Hưsavik
    The little port of HưsavikThe crevices between the North American and Eurasian tectonic platesThe Dettifoss waterfallInteresting contrastsSteaming vents

    Akureyri, Iceland

    June 24 in Iceland ☁️ 52 °F

    Our port today is Akureyri, nicknamed the "Capital of the North" and Iceland’s second-largest city, with a population of about 20,000. Today, we ventured beyond the fjords to explore some of northern Iceland’s most remarkable landscapes.

    Our journey began along the coast to the village of Húsavík, known as Iceland’s whale-watching capital. We watched groups of travelers bundle up in full weather gear before climbing aboard RIB boats in search of whales. We were perfectly happy wandering the fishing town before continuing on our way.

    From there, we headed inland to experience some of Iceland’s most dramatic natural wonders. Ásbyrgi Canyon greeted us with its impressive geology, and not far beyond, we visited Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe.

    The adventure continued through the geothermal area of Námaskarð, where steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and brightly colored mineral deposits create an otherworldly landscape. We then passed through the Lake Mývatn region, stopping to take in views of lava fields, volcanic craters, and terrain shaped by ancient eruptions. Each stop revealed another layer of Iceland’s fascinating volcanic history.

    All in all, it was a very interesting day and a wonderful glimpse into the forces that shape Iceland.    Read more

  • Grand Fjords & Iconic Shores
    Remembering those who died in the avalanche
    Remembering those who died in the avalanche1The Icelandic folks are troll crazy, but personally, I think this is a Keebler elfThe stolen churchA fountain memorial dedicated to fishermen lost at seaWhile this is supposed to be artwork made of driftwood, I think it's Iceland's StonehengeLast look at the Iclandic fjordGoodbye to Iceland

    Ísafjördur, Iceland

    June 25 in Iceland 🌧 46 °F

    Hello again, Ísafjörður! Our last stop in Iceland is also where our Iceland adventure began just a week ago.

    Today we learned more about one of the biggest challenges of living in this rugged landscape: avalanches. While the town of Ísafjörður itself escaped direct casualties during the devastating avalanches of 1995, the nearby villages of Súðavík and Flateyri were hit hard, forever changing avalanche safety in Iceland.

    On January 16, 1995, a massive avalanche struck Súðavík, burying homes and claiming 14 lives, including eight children. In the aftermath, much of the town was relocated, and the remaining homes in the avalanche zone cannot be occupied during the winter. Today, a memorial stands as a reminder of the lives that were lost.

    Nearby is the aptly nicknamed "Stolen Church." Originally built in a now abandoned village, the small church was carefully dismantled, transported across the fjord piece by piece, and rebuilt in its current location—earning its unusual nickname.

    And just like that, our final day in Iceland comes to an end. It's a country of breathtaking landscapes, fascinating history, and some of the warmest, most welcoming people we've met. What a wonderful place to visit.    Read more

  • Grand Fjords & Iconic Shores
    The local church1It's like the typewriter keys got stuck when this street was named

    Qaqortoq, Greenland

    June 28 in Greenland ☁️ 39 °F

    Qaqortoq is the largest town in South Greenland and the fourth largest in the country, with a population of about 3,200. Over the centuries, Vikings led by Erik the Red, Inuit, and later Danish settlers all called this area home.

    We arrived early on a chilly Sunday morning. It was a bit of a shame the weather didn't cooperate, as Qaqortoq is the kind of place that invites you to wander its quiet streets, admire the colorful houses, and soak in the charm of this small Greenlandic town.    Read more

  • Grand Fjords & Iconic Shores
    Monument to Leif ErikssonYep, this is the townVikings aheadWork hutHow yarn was woven into fabricWho the heck is this guy that's gonna hit me in the head?Love the way tree branches were used for fencesReplica of a Viking vessel

    L'Anse aux Meadows, New Foundland, Canada

    June 30 in Canada ⛅ 48 °F

    L’Anse aux Meadows is the site of the first known Norse settlement in the Americas. Leif Eriksson’s voyage from Greenland in the late 10th century predated Columbus by nearly 500 years.

    This ancient settlement offers a fascinating glimpse into the day-to-day lives of the Vikings who crossed the North Atlantic. Each dwelling was built with a wooden frame and covered in sod, helping protect it from the harsh coastal climate.

    The site was rediscovered in 1960, when a local resident pointed out a series of grassy mounds that he and his neighbors had long believed were part of an ancient Indigenous camp.

    It is believed the Norse remained at the settlement for roughly 10 years before burning the structures and leaving.

    Today, the village of L’Anse aux Meadows is home to just 27 people — a quiet place with an extraordinary place in history.    Read more

  • Grand Fjords & Iconic Shores
    One of the most photographed lighthouses in Canada
    One of the most photographed lighthouses in CanadaLobster traps1When you have a choice between ginger cake and rhubarb pie, what do you do?Foggy morning1

    Peggy 's Cove, Nova Scotia, Canada

    July 2 in Canada ☁️ 61 °F

    Our stop at Peggy's Cove was short—just about an hour—but it was more than enough time to see why it's one of Nova Scotia's most photographed spots.

    The tiny fishing village is home to fewer than 40 year-round residents, yet it welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. The iconic lighthouse perched on massive granite rocks is exactly what you picture when you think of the Canadian coast. We wandered around the smooth boulders, watched the waves roll in, and enjoyed the fresh ocean air while taking plenty of photos.

    The village itself is charming, with colorful fishing boats, weathered homes, and a relaxed coastal feel. Even with the crowds, it still felt peaceful. Just be careful on the rocks—they may look dry, but unexpected waves can be dangerous.    Read more

  • Grand Fjords & Iconic Shores
    Halifax city center
    Halifax city centerJust a little island by our ship's dockingSt. Mary's Cathedral BasilicaHalifax town clock. The 3 bells were cast at the bell foundry which also produced the Liberty BellFairview Lawn Cemetary where 150 graves for Titanic victimsHalifax is a shipping port

    Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

    July 2 in Canada ☀️ 82 °F

    Halifax was a great half-day stop and a nice introduction to Nova Scotia. Our sightseeing tour took us through the city's historic waterfront, past the impressive Citadel, and into neighborhoods filled with beautiful old homes and tree-lined streets.

    We also learned about Halifax's strong maritime history, including its connection to the Titanic and the devastating 1917 Halifax Explosion. It was a relaxing afternoon that combined beautiful coastal views with plenty of interesting history.    Read more