We were in the port of Bodo as part of our Havila Pollux cruise for only a couple of hours and couldn’t decide what to do. At the last minute, we decided to do the Saltstraumen maelstrom rib boat excursion. We were fully kitted out in an impressive type of dry suit and also provided with some goggles. It was actually a pretty warm and sunny day and it was actually a bit too hot before we took off. However, once we were underway, I was very grateful for the protection from the wind. The maelstrom is the strongest in the world and was awesome. Our guide was friendly and informative. I would recommend doing this if you have time whilst in Bodo.

Wow! A wonderful force of nature. We took a loval bus from Trondheim (number 300) which took us to the bridge. A great walk up and over the bridge followed by a walk around the shoreline. The holiday site opposite was a great place to buy ice lollies on a scorching hit day.

Saltstraumen has one of the strongest tidal currents in the world. Up to 400 million cubic metres (110 billion US gallons) of seawater forces its way through a 3 km (1.9 mi) long and 150 m (490 ft) wide strait every six hours. Vortices known as whirlpools or maelstroms up to 10 m (33 ft) in diameter and 5 m (16 ft) in depth are formed when the current is at its strongest. At this point, one source claims that the tidal current can reach 40 km/h (25 mph). This is my second visit here, but I still haven't seen the tidal currents at their peak. Maybe next time. Regardless, this is a must see if in Bodø.