04.11. Kirkenes - the turning point at the Russian border

We wake up to relatively calm seas and anchor in Kirkenes as planned shortly before 9 o'clock.

We did not book the possible bus excursion to the Russian border and instead stroll through the small town. The wind brings cold and constantly hits us in the face with snow.

Kirkenes is located in the northwest of Norway, not far from the Russian border. The town, situated on the so-called Arctic Ocean front, was heavily contested during World War II. Today, a museum in an air-raid shelter called 'Andersgrotta' still reminds us of that time.

The town with its colorful wooden houses is in hibernation. There are a few shops but few visitors. We admire the locals' means of transportation, the kick sleds.

With the weather beautiful but icy, we are back on board. Kirkenes is the turning point of the Hurtigruten route and we are heading back towards Tromsø.

In the afternoon, we receive the next storm warning on board for the evening and night.

For dinner, this time we are docked in the port of Båtsfjord and can enjoy the delicious menu. There are daily themed meals with products from the respective region, today Norwegian-Russian with tender reindeer roast from Finnmark.