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Friday, March 21, 2025

Svolvaer, Norway (continued)

Lofoten: Trollfjord Sea Eagle Safari by RIB Boat

For this excursion, we geared up in wetsuits, wind goggles, and life jackets before boarding a RIB boat from Svolvær Harbor. We then sailed through Raftsundet in search of sea eagles. The rubber boat brought us incredibly close to the islands—and at times, right up to the eagles themselves.

We watched an incredible aerial display: eagles soaring high into the sky, diving into the water to catch fish, feeding, and then resting while drying their wings. When perched on the rocks, they blended in so well with the landscape that they were almost indistinguishable.

Afterward, we continued toward a fjord, passing steep mountains—some capped with snow—before reaching the stunning fjords.

On our way back to town, we made a stop at a tiny island with Viking connections, where we saw a charming little settlement with small houses and boats scattered along the shore.

Finally, as we approached the harbor, we had a fantastic view of our ship docked at the port and the colorful architecture of Svolvær.





Thursday, March 20, 2025

Svolvaer, Norway

This town is like a postcard-perfect setting, ideal for a movie depicting life in paradise. Everywhere I walked, I saw postcard-worthy scenes. I could describe them, but I believe the photos speak for themselves.

I captured these photos as the ship approached the port and during my walk around town. Starting from the port,  I walked around the broad walk, I crossed the   Svinøya Bridge (Svinøybrua). It connects the town center of Svolvær to Svinøya, a small island known for its historic fishing cabins (rorbuer), art galleries, and seafood restaurants. The bridge offers beautiful views of the harbor, surrounding mountains, and the famous "Fiskerkona" statue in the distance.

I walked all the way to the "Statue of Liberty" before heading back. Along the way, I was surrounded by a stunning waterway, colorful houses, and majestic mountains in the background.

The unofficial "Statue of Liberty" known as "Fiskerkona" (The Fisherman’s Wife).  The statue was created by Per Ung, a Norwegian sculptor, and was unveiled in 1999. It represents a fisherman's wife looking out to sea, symbolizing the waiting and longing of those who stayed behind while their loved ones were out at sea. The statue resembles the shape of the Statue of Liberty in New York, with its arm raised, which is why it is sometimes humorously called "Svolvær's Statue of Liberty."