Viewpoint

19 km from Madeira at an altitude of 633 meter you will find the hidden village of Curral da Freiras. The name Nun’s valley comes from the nuns who escaped Funchal through a secret, narrow footpath into the valley where they hid from the French pirates who invaded Madeira. The only road going to the village was made in 1959. It twists and turns through the valley and the scenery is amazing.

There a lot of hikes on the island. Most of them are on the Levada’s. These are irrigation ditches created by the slaves in the 15th and 16th century. It was created to get the water from the wet to the dry areas. Today these Levadas have become hiking paths. You need to plan a hike like this ahead and it is wise to contact the local tourism information for the latest updates on them.

Sailing into Haines is an experience you cannot miss. Your ship will be sailing in one of the largest fjords of North America. Be surrounded by the snowy mountain tops, bald eagles and glaciers in the far distance. Make sure to be on the outside deck 1 hour before arrival and for about 1 hour after departure.

Whatever you do, don’t miss the opportunity to see your ship sail into Valletta. This truly is one of the most scenic approaches in the world. The ship goes into the natural harbour of Valletta while this and the 3 cities are coming by your window.

This picture was shot while sailing out of Naples. It shows the city’s beautiful skyline and its cruise port. But this is not the only thing to see when sailing in and out of Naples. Your ship will also be close to Mt. Vesuvius and the island of Capri. Keep an eye outside when sailing in and out and keep your camera ready.

The Flydals viewpoint is not very high but it will already give you that exquisite view over the fjord. Make sure to stop when driving by or even walk up. From port it is 4 km / 10 min drive to the south.

The waterfall walk is a new simple walk/staircase that opened up in July 2014. In about 20 minutes you can walk from the camping at sea level all the way up to the Norwegian Fjord Centre. The staircase will take you up with spectacular views over the waterfall, the fjord and your ship. Find the start at about 500 meter from the pier at the Geiranger camping.

The most famous waterfalls of all is the Seven Sisters Waterfall in the Geirangerfjord. About 15 minutes before your ships reached Geiranger and 15 minutes after it departs from Geiranger your ship will sail past it. Make sure to be ready to admire this magical waterfall. You can also visit the waterfall when you book the rib cruise or when you are going kayaking. Book these activities through the tourist information. Click on this item to be linked through.

Dalsnibba is the most famous mountain top in the area. Lots of bus tours will make a stop here. Do realise it is 1500 meter above sea level and therefore sometimes it could be you are in the cloud like you see on this picture. If you are lucky enough to have a clear day, you are able to see all the surrounding mountain tops and your ship all the way in the distance at anchor. Mt Dalsnibba is about 45 minute drive from the dock. From port is 38 km / 45 min drive to the south.

AT OWN RISK: If you are interested to shoot this picture go the Flydals view point. Find the public bathroom and step over the small fence here AT OWN RISK. 10 meters in front of you you’ll see where and how to take the picture. From port it is 4 km / 10 min drive south.

There are two roads going in and out of Geiranger. Geirangervegen or Gearing Road is the road going in south. Driving this road is an experience in itself. The hairpins bends you’ll have to negotiate and the ever changing landscapes along the way never fails to impress. The road goes up into the mountains to about 1500 meter above sea level. Find the start Geirangervegen in Geiranger. It is the road going south.

At the end of the Eagle’s road you’ll find the Ornesvingen viewpoint. This one should definitely be on your list when visiting Geiranger. It gives you a view over Geiranger, your ship, the fjord and the seven sisters waterfall. From port it is 7 km / 15 min. drive to the north.