On your e-bike!

One of the more exciting ways of getting out and exploring a port of call is on one of our e-bikes. During his recent cruise with us, special guest and master chocolatier Mark Tilling, hopped on one of our e-bikes and he shared his experience of exploring the sights on two wheels…

“I had the privilege of using the Saga e-Bikes on my latest cruise to the Northern Lights aboard Spirit of Adventure.

I booked the e-bike the day before we arrived in Flåm and was asked a time I would like the bike from so the Health & Hygiene Officer could go through how to use the e-bike beforehand. I agreed 9.00 am and was advised to collect the key for the bike from Reception just beforehand. I also found the safety video on the cabin TV so decided to watch this before collecting the key.

We arrived in Flåm on Sunday, which ended up being a slightly grey day with light rain – not the best of days to cycle but still I gave it a go!

I headed down to the gangway and made my way off the ship to see the e-bikes lined up alongside. I met Brezel who is the Health & Hygiene Officer, which means you are in safe hands! He showed me around the bike, pointing out all the safety features and how the multiple gears, speeds and – most importantly – the brakes work! It has a speed monitor on the handlebars which shows you the speed you are on, as well as many more things.

As it was raining, the e-bike was wiped down by one of the stewards and I was ready to go. I was also told the bike was mine for the day so there is no problem going back on board and returning if the weather is bad or if you feel like going back out again.

I found it very easy to ride and was taken aback at how quick it was! So, from my experience, start at power one and slowly increase the power. I had a ride around the town to get a feel for it – it is just like riding a regular bike, but with a lot more power which helped greatly as it has been sometime since I have been on a bike! I ventured out of town where it became hilly but that was no problem for this bike which makes it much more relaxing, allowing you to concentrate on road safety and take in the scenery when safe to do so.

Using this e-bike was so much fun and easy to use. I was never out of breath, and I only managed to get up to level three on the power which was fine for me!

Huge thanks to Brazel for the safety information which we know is so important. The only thing I would add is make sure you think about the country you’re cycling in as road safety is so important, read up on local road signs, etc.

Try it on your next Saga cruise (but make sure it’s better weather then I had)!”