Because of a recent change to our itinerary, Viking Sky docked early this afternoon in Stavanger, Norway, instead of the Shetland Islands, Scotland, as originally planned. Tim and I had previously visited both ports, so we were not at all disappointed with the change. In fact, it worked to my advantage as I will explain.
Tim and I began our day with a special breakfast for World Cruise guests at the Kitchen Table. Executive Chef Alastair was on hand to prepare omelets, and Chef Tony treated us to delicious pastries.
 |
| A Very Special Breakfast |
During our sail-in to Stavanger, we were treated to a panoramic view of the city. As a bonus, we were able to dock within walking distance of everything we wanted to see.
 |
| Sailing in to Lovely Stavanger |
Stavanger lies on Norway’s southwest coast, where fjords meet the North Sea. Founded in the Middle Ages, Stavanger became known for herring fishing and shipping in the nineteenth century. Today, Stavanger is Norway’s oil capital due to its pivotal role in the nation's oil and gas industry, following the discovery of oil in the North Sea in the late 1960s.
Because I had not been feeling well prior to our stop in Stavanger in 2022, I only saw a small section of the city on my own. Today, Tim had decided to take the day off, but I signed up for the included excursion, “Stavanger Walking Tour & Oil Museum,” to explore more of Old Town Stavanger. The excursion was described as follows:
Get well acquainted with Stavanger and its beautifully preserved old town on this included tour. From our berth right in the heart of town, you can walk with ease to Gamle Stavanger, or Old Stavanger. In this attractive pedestrian district, stroll cobblestone streets among close to 250 buildings protected by a conservancy. They range in date from the 18th to the early 20th centuries and are considered the best kept wooden houses in Northern Europe. Destined for demolition during the 1950s, they were saved largely by the city's architect, Einar Hedén. You will also visit the Norwegian Petroleum Museum. Browse its fascinating exhibits about geology, technology and harnessing the power of oil. You will learn about life on board oilrigs and the drama of everyday life at sea. After, linger in Stavanger at your leisure and return the short distance to your ship on your own.
My walking tour began with a climb up the narrow cobblestone streets to visit the beautifully preserved Old Stavanger. The historic wooden houses here were once home to sailors, craftsmen, and merchants when Stavanger’s wealth came from fishing and shipping. Today, most have been restored by private owners. All the beautiful spring flowers only added to the picturesque character of this neighborhood.
 |
| Gamle Stavanger, or Old Stavanger |
From there, we walked along the lively waterfront and admired the wooden houses that have been converted into shops, restaurants, and cafes.
 |
| Along the Waterfront |
Our destination was the Norwegian Petroleum Museum, where we were greeted by Viking representatives offering a traditional local beverage. I was interested in the design of the museum building which, I learned, represents “a symbolic interpretation of Norwegian bedrock, the open coastal landscape facing the sea, and the oil offshore installations.”
 |
| Norwegian Petroleum Museum, with Liquid Refreshments Courtesy of Viking |
I admit that I was less interested in the museum exhibits about oil, however, and I soon bid farewell to my guide. Exploring the city was more up my alley, so I began to wander through some of the back streets and happened upon one that is famous for its brightly painted houses. It was quite a contrast with the mostly white houses in Old Stavanger. The walk back to the ship was so pleasant on such a beautiful day.
 |
| A Colorful Walk in Stavanger |
 |
| The Walk Back to the Ship Was also Colorful |
Tonight, Tim and I dined at The Chef’s Table where we enjoyed the menu for Great Britain: Cuisine from an Island Nation. This menu featured traditional British recipes with a touch of modernity. Fish and chips and mushy peas never tasted so good.
 |
| Great Britain: Cuisine from an Island Nation Menu, with Descriptions of the Five Courses Pictured Below |
 |
| Amuse Bouche, First Course, Granita, Main Course, and Dessert |
No comments:
Post a Comment