Leaving Bergen yesterday the Captain informed us of swells ahead and closed some of the upper decks. The motion was lively during dinner at Polo Grill, but seemed to settle later on, and we moored at Lerwick in the Shetland Isles OK. Apparently it was rough south of us, and we have been joined by another cruise ship who could not get into Kirkwall, Orkney Isles. We have also got all the guides and coaches for our Cruise line, so there are a lot of tourists wandering around, some unhappy…

It’s our second visit, and we love the place in summer, During winter life could get a bit rugged, with violent storms sweeping across the islands. Our local lassie guide gave a very personal tour. Apparently the TV series Shetland is popular around the world, for those who watch it you will know the building above, as it’s featured a lot. Some of the buildings go back to the 1700’s, whilst garage roofs are used as boat stores.

The town hall had a magnificent array of stained glass windows. I had not realised that although Scottish their history is mainly Scandinavian, until Included as part of a dowry when King James of Scotland wed a Danish princess. As depicted below

The town is a maze of little lanes, with shops clustered around the harbour. We have a few island souvenirs, fortunately they post as our suitcase is getting heavy, the island knit ware and Sea Otter books being particularly attractive ! Hazel greatly enjoyed her mini Scottish holiday, especially listening to that Scots accent.