Curator’s statement
This past year, I fulfilled one of my lifelong dreams: taking a cruise through the fjords of Norway. Describing the breathtaking beauty of this region is a challenge. Prepare to be captivated! Although I had seen numerous pictures and videos online, nothing could compare to the experience of being amidst the majestic cliffs and stunning landscapes. I would like to share my experience and insights regarding my cruise and visited cruise ports: Ålesund (Hellesylt, Geiranger), Flåm, Bergen, and Haugesund.
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Exploring Norway's fjords by cruise is an enchanting experience, providing one of the best ways to appreciate this stunning region up close! Each port presents its own unique charm, featuring breathtaking views, thrilling adventures and rich cultural experiences.
Ports and Experiences:
Ålesund (Hellesylt/Geiranger)
My experience: I booked an excursion that took visitors by bus from our cruise terminal in Ålesund to Hellesylt, Geiranger and other scenic areas of the region. The landscape was magnificent! We had stops for photo opportunities and souvenir shopping (don’t forget to bring home a troll!). Following the bus portion of the tour, we took a boat ride through the fjords on our return to port. I highly recommend this excursion to anyone.
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Scenic Views and Hiking: Ålesund is known for its unique architecture and stunning surrounding scenery. A popular activity here is the hike up Mount Aksla, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city, fjords and mountains.
Local Culture and History: Ålesund’s distinctive architecture, rebuilt in Art Nouveau style after a fire in 1904, is fascinating to explore. The Art Nouveau Centre provides a detailed look at this style and the city’s history.
Your cruise may offer a port stop in Geiranger or Hellesylt directly. These two ports are roughly ten miles apart. A ferry can be used to go between the two. I recommend taking a fjord cruise or a kayak tour for a closer look at the dramatic waterfalls like the Seven Sisters. Geiranger is also famous for its scenic viewpoints such as Flydalsjuvet and Ørnesvingen.
Flåm
My experience: Flåm truly captured my heart! This small fjord village left a huge impression. I took a ride on the world-famous Flåm Railway. The train journey provides stunning views of the mountains, numerous waterfalls and the valley below as it ascends in altitude. I ended my ride at the Myrdal station and made my way to the Flåm Zipline-Scandinavia’s longest zipline. The breathtaking views from the top to the bottom are simply spectacular, although the exhilarating ride lasts only about ninety seconds. After the zipline, I embarked on a roughly nine-mile bike ride back to the cruise port. Taking in the beautiful views and stopping to take pictures seen here along the way. I highly recommend this experience for those seeking a combination of adventure, adrenaline and an appreciation of the natural beauty of Flåm all in one port day.
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Visit Ægir BrewPub: Known as one of the best craft breweries in Norway, with the building modeled after a traditional stave church. The pub is located just a short walk from the cruise port.
RIB Boat Ride: For those craving adventure, Flåm offers high-speed RIB (rigid inflatable boat) tours. These tours take you along the fjords at thrilling speeds, with a chance to spot wildlife like seals and porpoises.
Take a bus ride to the spectacular Stegastein Viewpoint. Take in panoramic view of Aurlandsfjord from the viewing platform located over 2,100 feet above.
Bergen
My Experience: I clearly have a love for being on the water whenever possible. I chose to embark on another boat tour through the fjords to explore the stunning Mostraumen fjord. Take in some of the most breathtaking scenery in western Norway, complete with waterfalls and majestic mountains. It is yet another wonderful experience!
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Bryggen and Mount Floyen Funicular Tour: Explore the UNESCO-listed Bryggen Wharf, famous for its colorful wooden buildings and rich history. Then, take the Floibanen Funicular to the top of Mount Floyen for breathtaking panoramic views of Bergen and its surrounding fjords.
Edvard Grieg’s Troldhaugen: Visit the home of Norway's beloved composer Edvard Grieg. Troldhaugen is a charming villa turned into a museum, nestled by a serene lake. You can enjoy a guided tour of the house, the composer’s cabin, and even attend a live piano recital.
Lysverket: Choose to have a meal at this Michelin-starred restaurant offering modern Norwegian cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients.
Haugesund
My experience: While Haugesund may not have been as picturesque as the other ports of call, this city offers a wealth of Viking history. Harald Fairhair, known as the first King of the Vikings, has a statue and burial mound located nearby.
I visited Avaldsnes Viking Village to learn more about the Vikings. Be prepared to gain much insight from a period-dressed guide and how popular television shows and movies depict life during the Viking era. Also located at Avaldsnes is the Nordvegen History Center. It is a Viking Museum located underground to preserve the landscape. I also visited St. Olav’s Church, a medieval stone religious structure built in the 13th century. The adjacent graveyard filled with headstones was fascinating to explore.
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Visit Viking Planet Haugesund- An interactive museum with 3D artifacts and a timeline about Viking history and culture.
Go shopping in Haugesund's city center: Find souvenirs and gifts in the charming and boutique shops lining the city streets.
Need to know
Why is a cruise vacation the best for seeing the fjords? It is easy and convenient! A cruise takes the stress out of travel logistics. You can wake up each day in a new, beautiful port without needing to coordinate transportation, accommodations or multiple bookings. Cruising lets you relax and fully enjoy the journey between destinations, which is often as or more stunning as the ports themselves.
Plus, there is no better view than your stateroom's balcony! The Norwegian fjords are a UNESCO World Heritage Site for a reason: they’re filled with some of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural beauty. Cruising allows you to sail directly into these narrow, steep-walled fjords. This gives you unparalleled views of cascading waterfalls, towering cliffs and tranquil waters that would be difficult to see from land.
Ready to plan your cruise through the fjords of Norway? Please reach out. I have more information and cruise tips to share with you!
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Norway page.
Travel Advisor
Lindsey Scanlon
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