Queen Victoria Cunard & Norwegian Fjords

Experiencing my first cruise on Cunard as we left Southampton with the sounds of the ship's band playing and accompanied by many small boats escorting us from the port, I felt quite emotional. I was very impressed with the layout of the ship, she is very grand. I've never seen so many Grand Pianos in one place! There were also plenty of bars (12in total) and three main restaurants.

The journey up to Bergen was very smooth. We arrived in fantastic weather, which continued all week. Bergen, a UNESCO World Heritage City, is Norway's second largest port. We disembarked from the ship along the Northern Quay, which is lined with timbered Hanseatic houses. Most of these have been converted into craft shops. Lots of leather, crystal and hand knitted beautiful sweaters. In the centre of the city is the Fisketorget (fishmarket) which was a feast for the eyes, all locally caught fish. Bergen was quite lively with a band playing in the shopping centre. We found a small bar, but the drinks however were expensive compared to the UK.

The following day we arrived at Hellesylt, the views from our balcony were amazing. We continued sailing along the deep narrow fjord,viewing stunning waterfalls on the way to Geiranger. We took the excursion to the Geiranger Fjord Centre (very interesting) and then up to the Eagles Bend by coach.The views of the Seven Sisters waterfall are magnificent. Photos just do not do the area justice!

Saturday and Aalesund; we docked right next to the marina. The town is very pretty built in the Art Nouveau style, colourful houses line the area. We tried the local delicacy Klippfisk (salt cod) and Svele (a crisp pancake), both of which were delicious. I've never seen so many Trolls!

Our last destination, Stravanger. The fourth largest city at the mouth of Gandsfjord. A very scenic harbour with wooden buildings and cobbled streets. We took a cruise from Strandkaien to Lysefjord. It was a relaxing afternoon viewing dramatic scenery, covering a part of the 31 mile Fjord.

The cuisine on the ship was excellent and the service superb. Nothing we asked for was too much trouble. There were comprehensive daily activities with something suitable for every guest as well as activities for those choosing not to go on shore excursions.

A great holiday with some amazing and unforgettable memories!