We didn’t get to see much of Rotterdam! It was very rainy, cold and blowing a gale! Many of the attractions were closed due to the weather, though the museum was open. The weather however was against us. We did learn how to catch the Metro and work out our travel to Bruges after the cruise finishes.

The ship sailed from Rotterdam in the rain and wind, the beginning of another seven-night cruise, to Norway. The North Sea produced a windy, cold and rough, grey and sombre atmosphere for a night at sea. Apparently many people were quite ill, but we, as seasoned travellers now, just continued drinking champagne until it was time for bed!

The ship picked up another complement of tourists in Rotterdam, most of whom seem to be Dutch, in comparison with the previous cruise which was about half and half Dutch and American, with some Canadians and Australians into the mix. There are a lot of families on board, meaning, lots of children and especially teenagers. Too many, according to one of the ship’s officers who offered to buy us a drink last night! (That is another story – I said, ‘Sorry, I’m not having any more drinks tonight’, which did not please Chris, when the officer left after my refusal! Foot in mouth!

The planned entertainment for this cruise is pretty much the same as the last, so we may not partake. Our shore excursions to the fjords will be the highlights for us, and sampling Norwegian culture, past and present.

Tonight is gala night, where everyone gets dressed up and goes for dinner. Photos are taken and it is supposed to be a special occasion. I had my hair cut and styled today, so I look the part!