Introduction to Scandinavia

The trip was in early September so the weather was not expected to be too good but it turned out better than anticipated. Check-in in Newcastle could have been better but it was OK. Staff were, as usual, superb and ere able to handle any problem. Accommodation was excellent. The ship was not full so plenty of room to sit and relax. First stop Oslo was a little disappointing and not helped by the rain. The Introduction to Oslo tour was OK but could have covered more. Helsingborg was next and the tour was interesting and informative. Copenhagen followed and that was fine, showing the best of the city’s sights. Fredericia was next and was very poor. The tour was a waste of time and money. This was a first visit and a better tour itinerary needs to be developed. Due to poor weather the next stop was changed to Aarhus and this was excellent if unexpected and a little cold. The crew entertainment was absolutely fabulous and finished off the trip very well. Overnight the weather changed and a force 8 brought us 24 hours of bad weather. Balmoral behaved excellently and all the staff were attentive to the needs of those travellers who found the heavy seas too much. Late arrival and slow disembarkation niggled but overall the cruise was excellent and for those who had not been to Scandinavia before it was a good introduction. Service, friendliness and customer satisfaction was, as always with Fred Olsen, of the highest order.