Your Guide to Norway’s Fjord Cruises: Embark on a Majestic Fjord Adventure
Your Guide to Norway’s Fjord Cruises: Embark on a Majestic Fjord Adventure
Norway is famous for its rich culture, enticing food, sprawling natural beauty and renowned fjords (two of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites). Fjords are found in regions with a history of glacial activity—they were carved out as a result of the glaciers retracting. They have long, deep, and narrow bodies of water with enchanting mountains (or steep cliffs) on either side.
There are many ways to explore fjords—hiking, kayaking or driving around them. I most enjoy experiencing Norway’s fjords by cruise!
A Norway fjord cruise offers breathtaking views and unique excursions, making it the perfect way to see many of Norway’s natural wonders.
In this article, I’m covering the best fjords in Norway, what makes them unique and the top cruises I recommend doing once (at least!).
Sognefjord Cruise
A majestic view of the Sogneford village in Western Norway.
Take a scenic journey through the large, deep fjord known as the “King of the Fjords.”
That’s quite the epic title, right?
Towering mountain walls that rise to 1,000 meters (3,300 feet) surround The Sonefjord. This scenic haven branches off into unique narrow “fjord arms.” You’ll also see cascading waterfalls and several small villages, like Flåm and Balestrand.
The Sognefjord is a popular fjord in Norway, so there are many cruises to choose from.
Insider Tip! Hop on a Norled ferry and go from Bergen or Flåm to deeper into the fjord so you can see the most of the Sognefjord.
Visit Balestrand, an idyllic fjord village, where visitors can enjoy cider tasting (with delicious food!) and a stay at the iconic Kviknes Hotel.
Lysefjord Cruise
An aerial view of the Lysefjord in Southwest Norway.
The Lysefjord, located in Southwest Norway, is a stunning natural paradise famous for its spectacular cliffs. The most notable one being the Preikestolen (The Pulpit Rock).
Adventurers especially like to cruise through the Lysefjord, which offers views of sheer granite walls, waterfalls and a vast wilderness.
Insider Tip! There are plenty of opportunities for hiking at Lysefjord—and even a hike leading straight up to The Pulpit Rock. Find out about more hiking trails and the best time to visit Preikestolen.
Geirangerfjord Cruise
Geirangerfjord is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed fjord known for its exceptional natural beauty.
Enjoy Geirangerfjord’s lush landscapes and vibrant blue waters. You can visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed fjord from the Sunnmøre region of Møre og Romsdal county in western Norway.
With a cruise, you’ll have plenty of time to take in views of the windy roads leading to small, picturesque villages. You can also spend the day kayaking, hiking or simply enjoying the perfect afternoon picnic.
Insider Tip! Join a waterfall walk that starts from the Storfossen waterfall. Go past the Norwegian Fjord Centre, which features an exhibition on the West Norwegian fjords. “The only area in Norway inscribed on UNESCO’s prestigious World Heritage List for its natural significance.”
Hjørundfjord Cruise
The awe-inspiring Hjorundfjord in Western Norway.
Go off the beaten path at the Hjorundfjord, a truly hidden gem on the west coast of Norway. Here, you’ll find steep mountains, still waters and remote villages.
A cruise through Hjorundfjord is a scenic and serene experience. The Sunnmorsalpene mountain range serves as an awe-inspiring backdrop. You’ll come across impressive mountain peaks reaching 1,700 meters (5,600 feet) up from the fjord.
- Ålesund-Hjørundfjord Fjord cruise
- Cruise the fjord by kayak
- Ride local ferries that connect small villages along the fjord. Find schedules and book at Frammr.
Insider Tip! The Hjorundfjord might be one of the smaller fjords, but there’s still plenty to do! Enjoy hiking up to one of two summits, Slogen and Saksa. Then, relax in the Saebo or Urke sauna—or take a refreshing dip in the fjord!
Trollfjorden Cruise
A cruise ship sailing through the Trollfjord in Norway’s Lofoten Islands.
In the Lofoten Islands, the Trollfjorden is a narrow fjord with steep-sided mountains, crystal-clear waters and abundant wildlife. The fjord’s name comes from the word “troll,” a nod to Norse mythology, where trolls dwell in mountains or caves.
Although you won’t find any trolls here (at least, I don’t think so!), the shorter, 2-kilometer (1.24 miles) fjord is a must-see in Lofoten!
Insider Tip! For the most authentic Lofoten experience, stay at a “rorbu,” a house on stilts and a traditional fisherman hut. Notable places to stay include the Eliassen Rorbuer in Reine, Nusfjord Arctic Resort in Nusfjord and Svinøya Rorbuer in Svolvær.
Hardangerfjord Cruise
The lush landscape of the Hardangerfjord—the fifth longest fjord in the world.
The Hardangerfjord stretches from the North Sea into the mountains of Norway. It’s the second longest fjord in Norway (the first is The Sognefjord).
A cruise through the Hardangerfjord brings you through picturesque villages and fruit orchards. And you’ll enjoy magnificent country views!
Insider Tip! Enjoy a local cider from one of the fjord’s fruit orchards and local cuisine at Siderhuset Ola K.
Oslofjord Cruise
A different (and still spectacular!) view from the Oslofjord in Oslo, Norway.
The Oslofjord stretches from Norway’s capital city to the North Sea’s many islands, forests and landmarks. Although you won’t find as many mountains here, you can experience unique cultural and historical sights.
Relax and take in the panoramic waterfront views on a cruise through the Oslofjord. You’ll sail past iconic buildings, historic landmarks and the stunning beauty of the surrounding islands.
Book your Oslofjord cruise at GetYourGuide.
Insider Tip! Take a winter version of the fjord cruise to experience being out on the water surrounded by a whimsical wintry snow globe.
Get more insider tips like this, exclusive discounts, early access to content, a behind-the-scenes look and more ONLY on Patreon
Ready to cruise Norway’s best fjords?
We’ve covered my top picks for Norway fjords, what they’re famous for and my handpicked cruise recommendations. Now, all there’s left to do is book your fjord cruise and set sail!
Of course, you’ll want to build in time to explore the area’s hiking trails and indulge in the local cuisine.
Don’t forget to check the fjords’ weather before you leave! Be sure to read my complete (and seasonal) Norway packing list before you go. The best time to visit Norway fjords is any time—as long as you’ve packed the right clothing and gear!
If you’re not sure which fjord and cruise are the right fit for you, I can help.
Book my tailor-made tour planning service, where you get:
- a day-by-day itinerary,
- a summary of your tour,
- must-know insider tips,
- vetted recommendations, and
- answers to all your questions so you have a smooth and memorable trip.
Let the adventures begin! Set sail on your epic Norway fjord cruise today!
Your friend in Norway,
Pål
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