Norwegian Fjord Cruise

The Emerald Princess crew were some of the finest on all cruise lines (including Oceania and Crystal) that we experienced.  Quite frankly, it was the crew that made the cruise great.  

The ship was well designed to enhance the activities and entertainment.  It didn't seem like 3000+ customers on board as the offerings were varied and kept people moving about.  The ratio of customers to staff didn't hinder the attentiveness of the crew.  They were always available and proactive in making our trip very nice. 

You have to want a cruise and ship experience to enjoy 14 days at the North Cape and Norwegian Fjords.  The weather is terrible and there isn't a lot to see and do.  The ports become very similar quickly.

We experience a very dangerous tour to Pulpit Rock in Stavanger which could have resulted in people being hurt or worse.  We were allowed to hike to the top in torrential sideway rain, high winds and intense fog without the proper guides to advise where we were on the trail.  The tour guide told us they advised the ship to cancel the tour due to the worst weather they had experienced at this time of year. The ship was delayed departing Stavanger almost 24 hours and we did not make our next port, Flaam due to VERY bad weather.  It's all too bad because it was one of the reasons we chose this itinerary was to climb Pulpit Rock.  We advised the ship of the experience since it appeared they really didn't know how bad the situation was.

The food is good, not fabulous.  Purchasing a Suite we should have been able to visit the specialty restaurants whenever we desired.  They didn't seem very utilized. The service by waiters/servers made up for the "good" food.  They made the experience always delightful.

All in all the cruise was a nice experience.  As I mentioned, the crew made all of the difference.  The entertainment was also good.

We spent a lot of time in the gym (a good one) and walked the promenade often.  Well designed to get your exercise.