Early Steps to a Hurtigruten Cruise

Those who say that it’s the journey, not the destination obviously don’t fly or travel for that matter.
My journey to Copenhagen from the US went relatively well. But, this truly was the first time that I felt that I had a middle seat even though in actuality I sat by the window. But that is a different story.

My early arrival into Copenhagen allowed me plenty of time to explore that fabulous city before my charter flight to Greenland where I would meet the Hurtigruten Fram.

Flying from the Midwest of the US, I suffered a bit from sleep deprivation, so opted for a day room at the Scandic Palace, perfectly situated for future on-foot exploration of the city. My short time allowed me just enough hours to walk aimlessly around without a map. I headed in the general direction of Nyhaven, that touristy spot with colorful restaurants and sailing ships in the port. I headed back to the hotel after my brief interlude with Copenhagen and met some fellow passengers for a quick lunch.

A quick taxi ride returned us all to the airport where we awaited another 4 hour flight to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, where Fram awaited guests. Darkness made it difficult to see much of the landscape, although the full moon gave a hint that “stark” would be an appropriate word to describe the terrain. The unpaved and ungraded road led us to the awaiting tender boats. This was my first time boarding a ship by tender boat and boarding so late in the day – or night- as was the case.

Being a smaller ship and with just about 150 passengers on board, Fram’s registration process was relatively effortless – the most difficult part was staying awake. At registration, the clerk advised that we go to a room and get fitted for the wind and water resistant expedition jackets provided by the ship. I followed the instructions and suddenly I belonged to a group of red jackets.

Sail Away