The Telemark Canal, Eastern Norway, Norway

5Gone Walkabout 5:00 PM Jun 1, 2021

The must do of all must do experiences in Telemark
We went only one stop this time from Dalen to Lårdal, but we wish we could go further. The boat Henrik Ibsen was very nice and the crew was delightfully welcoming and helpful. Covid measures were well taken care of and we felt safe in every way. It is a special atmosphere on the canal boats, I have been with them 5 times and it is always a pleasure.

5HowlnBubba 5:00 PM Sep 12, 2013

Wish we could have done the whole thing!
This was a major activity on my wife's wish list, and it was just as good as we read/heard/expected. First, the price was, in my opinion one of the most reasonable in terms of what we got in return for anything we did in Norway. Second, everything we were told to expect, happened as advertised. We showed up at the dock in Skien at the indicated time and parking was plentiful. We got a parking pass in a second, and waited for boarding. Boarding was at the appointed time, as was departure. As we had been advised by a friend, we got on as quickly as possible - without running over anyone - and got to the bow area on the upper deck. Now, it was a little chilly and damp, having rained before dawn, but trust me, if it isn't unbearably cold or actually raining, get the bow seats! They have blankets, and bringing a rain jacket is usually a good idea. We had the best seats in the house, and enjoyed every minute. It remained overcast and damp until we were halfway across Lake Norsjo. Then the sun gradually came out and the ride after Ulefoss was sunny and pleasant. At the Eidfoss locks, passengers are given the opportunity to disembark for a hike along to the Vrangfoss locks. My wife took the walk while I stayed onboard. It gave some unusual opportunities to get photos of each other. The lock operations were interesting and, all too soon, we arrived at Lunde, where we got off. We had to get on with our trip, but we both would have loved to do the rest of the canal to Dalen. For those who consider the leg of the canal from Lunde to Dalen, keep in mind that there are only three more locks, in two locations, so the bulk of the trip is lake and river cruising. We'd do it, but some people are more interested in the locks. Scenery was great, and it was supplemented by pre-recorded PA narratives that were very informative and were in Norske, German and English. We went down to the forward dining salon for Norwegian waffles and jam, and it was really enjoyable. At the landing at Lunde, you can get a bus back to Skien (I think you have to arrange it before leaving Skien (Nkr 150). It is actually about 200 meters from the dock, but there are signs and it's a pleasant walk. This was really worthwhile, and I hope to return for the rest of the cruise.