The Journey to the Northern Lights

"We are ‘empty nesters’ for the first time and I do feel a bit guilty," Vicky Roatta, 54, shared with a sheepish smile as we sat down in the Havrand restaurant aboard the Havila Castor. Her husband, Paul, 54, offered a contrasting perspective, emphasizing the newfound freedom they enjoyed, "She feels guilty but I don’t."

The couple had initially planned a family trip to Germany but ended up choosing Norway—a dream destination for Vicky. "I had to see the northern lights—it’s something I’ve dreamed of for years," Vicky explained, her eyes lighting up with the thrill of the chase.

Their journey began with a warm departure from Miami, leaving behind their familiar environment for the stark, breathtaking vistas of the Norwegian coast. As the ship sliced through the Arctic waters, the Roattas settled into their new home on the sea, the Havila Castor, renowned for its intimate yet spacious accommodation and cutting-edge environmental technologies.

The Heart of the Voyage: Environmental and Culinary Commitments

The Roattas were drawn to Havila Voyages not just for the intimate size of its vessels but also for their environmental stewardship, which includes running emission-free through Norway's vulnerable fjords.

Additionally, the onboard dining experience catered perfectly to their needs, with every meal served at the table, respecting their dietary preferences. "The staff have done a good job of adapting our meals and the service is impeccable," Vicky commended.

From the panoramic windows of their cabin, they watched as the landscape shifted from craggy peaks to lush valleys, each view a postcard-perfect scene.

Their days were filled with excursions that took them from quaint coastal villages to the pulsing heart of vibrant cities like Bergen and Trondheim, each offering a unique glimpse into Norwegian life and culture.

Embracing the Local Culture

One memorable excursion led them to the historic city of Trondheim, where they wandered the cobblestone streets, marveling at the medieval architecture and the vibrant market scenes. Another day, they ventured into the wilderness on a guided hike, breathing in the crisp, clean air and pausing to appreciate the silence only broken by the call of distant birds.

As they journeyed further north, the anticipation of the northern lights grew. Each evening, they prepared their gear, ready to dash out onto the deck at the first sign of the elusive lights. The ship’s crew, well-versed in the patterns of this natural spectacle, kept a keen eye on the skies, ready to alert passengers at a moment's notice.

The Elusive Lights

As autumn painted the Norwegian fjords in fiery hues, the couple prepared nightly for a potential sighting of the northern lights. Their persistence paid off spectacularly one evening. "We gotta go!" Vicky exclaimed, pulling Paul from his slumber. That night, they witnessed the aurora dancing across the sky—a sight neither will forget. "Then the northern lights were actually moving; dancing and shifting across the sky. Experiencing it in real life was really, really cool!" Paul recalled with evident awe.

The experience was not just a visual feast but an emotional one as well. Standing on the deck, wrapped in the silence of the Arctic night, they felt a profound connection to the natural world and to each other, their hands intertwined as green and violet hues danced overhead.

Beyond the Lights

Aside from the lights, the Roattas indulged in a variety of other activities. They joined an eagle safari, where they came close to majestic sea eagles swooping down to snatch fish from the water. In another village, they delved into local history, visiting museums that chronicled the rich maritime heritage of the region.

The journey wasn't just about the destinations but also about the moments of tranquility aboard the ship. They spent hours lounging in the observation lounge, sipping hot chocolate, and watching the ever-changing scenery unfold. The nights were spent in the company of fellow travelers, sharing stories of their adventures and plans for future travels.