Fjord Cruise and Sami Reindeer Camp

Sunday, March 24, 2024
By Sophia & Haila

Fjord Cruise

This morning we had an early start with our morning meeting at 9:10. We went through our COLD Opening — “Celebrations/Callouts, Obstacles, Looking forward, and Daily query. This opening helps the group bond, recognize each others kindness, and support one another in a foreign country.

After our opening we boarded a boat to go on a 4-hour fjord cruise. This boat ride featured beautiful snow-covered mountains, a clear blue sea, and a brief visit to a fishing town on an island called Kvaløya. In this town, we learned about past and current fishing methods, the goods that sustain Norway’s trading economy, and how to preserve fish. As we traveled back to Tromsø, we watched the fjords fade away and were able to see the view underwater from a drone. After getting off the boat, we had some free time to experience Tromsø. Some people traveled to the northernmost McDonald’s, others went to a local crepe cart, and more. Then we all returned to the hotel to get ready to visit a reindeer camp run by a Sami reindeer herding family; the Sami are the indigenous people of Norway.

Sami Reindeer Camp

Upon arriving at the reindeer camp, we had a short introduction from two Sami people before we petted and fed the reindeer. We learned that male and female reindeer will shed their antlers at different times of the year, and whoever has their antlers is in charge. Additionally, when the Sami people kill the reindeer, they ensure to use every part of the animal. Unfortunately, we couldn’t ride the sleigh because the ground was too icy. However, petting and feeding the reindeer was an awesome experience. Afterward, we had salmon salad, reindeer stew, and chocolate cake for dinner. Finally, we learned more about traditional Sami culture and listened to some traditional Sami music and stories before heading back to the hotel for bed.