7/5/12 day 71: Tromsø, Norway

Escorted a RIB tour of the area around Tromsø. RIB is a semi inflatable boat with a fiberglass hull. We donned expensive cold water gear (think high tech thermal onesy, $8000 a piece) and piled into these badass boats for a cruise. We made a couple loops of an island not far from town where the local university is researching Musk Oxen. There are only 30,000 in the world apparently. These creatures have survived from the ice age so everyone is curious to figure out why. We didn't spot any (maybe thats why they survived) but we would stop periodically for a little history of the area. We also stopped by the place where a famous nazi warship was bombed. Then we headed back to the dock. We had beautiful weather today. Cloudless sky. Great day to be out on the water. I even got a little sun on my face. It was still cold though and we were all glad we had the thermal suits.

After the tour, Jason (who was co-escorting the tour) and I went in search of the Mack Brewery. I had read about it in my travel book. I think its one of oldest family owned breweries in Norway and definitely in Tromsø. We sampled some delicious brews and then went to the Rock Bar down the street which the bartender called the "best burgers in town." They were decent. It wasn't an all beef burger and the blue cheese sauce was more like a dill sauce. It was good though. I think we were both just stoked to NOT eat on the ship. Burger with fries and a beer? Yes please. Needless to say, today was not a gym day. Thats alright, tomorrow i have IPM so ill make it up then.

Randomly met up with Chris and Liam who walked into the restaurant 15 minutes after we did and the posse was complete. It was almost just like 4 friends met up for lunch; no ship, no work, good times. Turns out the bartender is a singer/songwriter who has management in Norway. Im definitely going to reach out and see about playing some of the summer festivals next year. Made it back to the ship for a power nap before my set.

Japanese inspired menu this evening in the restaurant upstairs. Delicious again Peter. I stopped in between sets. Lobster tempura, beef teriyaki, and tapioca pudding with green tea ice cream? Yes please. Today was definitive not a gym day.