Sat on the shores of the Trondheim Fjord is Norways former capital and the so-called Capital of the Vikings: Trondheim. I'll start by talking about some of the reasons this kind of vacation is so popular. This cruise line takes its guests to Norways coastline, where they spend time exploring different areas of the Scandinavian country by visiting places such as Bergen on one side and lesund on the other. This means only all-electric or hybrid ships will be allowed in the fjords, drastically cutting the availability of cruises in the most popular areas. These include Antarctica and Greenland, but also Svalbard. You can expect stops in destinations like Alesund and Oslo on these itineraries, though you'll generally avoid playing the narrow waters of the inland fjords. Then look at the types of cruise available, and some of the country's most popular ports. Witness breathtaking scenery as you glide through majestic Norwegian fjords in the legendary homeland of the Vikings. When hundreds of day trippers visit a village home to just a few hundred permanent residents day after day, the locals quickly feel overwhelmed. Even in a country where a natural wonder is around almost every corner, this is simply an experience not to be missed. If you're taking the full voyage, the company offers a northern lights sighting guarantee. No other regions have anything like them, and not a single landlocked country has their own range of fjords to rival their charm and staggering beauty.

My life mission as the mother of a 9-year-old girl is for her to grow up to be a global citizen. So rather than write thousands more words, I'll just point you towards the online diary of my trip instead! Southern Norway's biggest city and a hit in the summer with domestic tourists. I took a winter cruise on the Hurtigruten earlier this year. If you're after something more adrenaline pumping, you can spot polar bears and the midnight sun on cruises into Norway's arctic reaches. Plus, this is the only time the Northern Lights are visible from the comfort of your balcony. Passengers arriving in Flm are first treated to a sight of the famous Nryfjord and Aurlandsfjord. You can witness the baby birds growing up and many more exciting things right before your eyes! Norway cruise itineraries depart from a variety of cities, though most begin in Bergen or Oslo. Other cruise lines do offer winter cruises in the north of Norway, but there are far fewer departures. Yet, there is plenty to see right here. From Tromso to Copenhagen, this epic 12-day cruise aboard Scenic Eclipse explores the Lofoten Islands and Norwegian fjords, where you will see incredible wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. The biggest problem comes in small communities like Olden and Geiranger. Most major cruise lines and many expedition lines also visit Norway; the notable exceptions are Carnival and Norwegian Cruise Line. For the more adventurous, a Norway cruise to the Arctic just might be the best option. This cruise line allows you to experience Norways natural beauty first hand by visiting many of its best Norwegian fjord destinations. By proceeding, you agree to Cruise Critics, Everything You Need to Know About a Norway Cruise, Help Ukrainian Families in Need: World Central Kitchen Donation Match, The Most Popular Norway Cruise Itineraries, From Bergen to the Fjords and Svalbard: Norway Cruise Port Highlights, The Best Cruises for Viewing the Northern Lights. With the second-longest coastline in the world, Norway boasts thousands of miles of dramatic fjords and unforgettable coastal landscapes. Plus they make for a perfect location for a cruise. Cruise ships offer a unique way of seeing the best of the Norway. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Those off-season cruises will be the best time to take a Northern Lights cruise in Norway. The most popular way to visit the fjord is on the passenger ferry that runs year-round from the Viking village of Gudvangen to Aurland and on to Flm. Norway is a country full of striking natural beauty, rich culture, adventure opportunities, and intriguing history. Enjoy the exhilaration of climbing snow-covered alpine mountains and skiing downhill while taking in Norway's beautiful landscapes. Whether you prefer snowy scenes or the gorgeous Nordic greens of summer, theres no right time to visit Norway. Then wake up for an adventure-packed day just as you pass the charming city of lesund. However, these are the most popular ports of call across a variety of lines. Hurtigruten is a good option as there are daily departures throughout the winter. I'll wait! It lets you explore the world beyond a typical coastal vacation by allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the Norwegians lifestyle. Many passengers combine the trip with a couple of days sightseeing in Bergen or a trip on the world-famous Bergen railway to Oslo. This could be an entire article in itself, in fact that's probably something I will write in the future! Which cruise line goes into the most Fjords and how many can you see on the Hurtigruten trip? Exploring Norway is possible by any means. Last-minute deals: If you are willing to risk missing out, waiting for a last-minute deal can land you with a bargain. Yet theres plenty more to see. The city's beaches are a popular draw. Cruising through these idyllic shorelines under the midnight sun is unforgettable. My life mission as the mother of a 9-year-old girl is for her to grow up to be a global citizen. Read our Kristiansand travel guide for more information. Read our Oslo travel guide for more information. I've accompanied high school students on excursions to Italy, Greece, and Turkey because of my love of travel. At Norway's northern extremes, you can view the midnight sun if you cross into the Arctic Circle during the summer. Their Valhalla dining room welcomes you with open arms for dinner every night! You may prefer to pick your arrival point depending on the most convenient flights to Norwayfor you. Framed by some of Norways highest mountain peaks, a journey into Geirangerfjord deserves its title as one of the most beautiful cruises in the world.

Top attractions include the old wharf area with museums, shops and restaurants; the Bergen Fish Market; an array of art museums; and a funicular, which climbs up Mt. The star of any Norway cruise are the Norwegian fjords, along the nation's west coast. There's plenty of variety available in Norway, so let's take a look at some of the most popular options: The distinctive red, black and white Hurtigruten ships are a true icon of Norwegian travel, so much so that there's even a museum at Stokmarknes! Can you suggest some smaller packet type cruises that would travel the whole coast of Norway with a small number of passengers but suitable accommodation. It is sometimes overlooked by travelers but is definitely a destination that should not be missed! Cruise ships absolutely do not want to sail with empty rooms, so big discounts can be had in the weeks and days before departure. Get your camera ready for this North Norway cruise which follows the path of more than one kind of whale as it travels amongst the fjords of Troms. We are fully committed to low impact travel that not only preserves but gives back to the amazing places we visit. Norway Cruises: How To See The Best Of The Norwegian Fjords, Norway cruise deals: How to find a bargain, Departures On Norways Bergen Line Railway May Be Cut, Norways Espen Jrstad Wins World Series of Poker, Tusenfryd Theme Park Undergoes Major Modernisation, How to Enjoy the Lofoten Islands by Public Transport. Weve gone four-wheeling in Denali, seen the sunrise in Acadia, kayaked in the Everglades, and trekked through the Great Smoky Mountains. It's good to know that you can easily travel within Norway by other modes of transport. There's also optional excursions offered at most ports. This means you might want to take most of your big meals on the ship, and save your spending money for more affordable snacks or special treats. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); TOP 15 LAST MINUTE CRUISE DEALS YOU WILL LOVE, Get your Bahamas Digital Brochure Guide For a Yacht Experience to Remember. A picturesque and historic city on the west coast. Come aboard Le Bellot for an 8-day cruise and sail along the Norwegian coastline, whose vertiginous cliff faces have been sculpted by the wind and the sea, giving rise to many unspoiled fjords. Sights include Voringfossen, which is one of the nation's most iconic waterfalls, Hardangervidda National Park and numerous places to hike and kayak. (Don't think that means you won't get wet -- Norway is still a rather damp place, even in the summertime). Cruise across Norway's fjords and Arctic Svalbard on a 16-day expedition aboard the National Geographic Resolution, and explore the wilderness, wildlife, and scenery on Bergen, Tromso, Lofoten Islands, Tysfjorden and Bear Island. With a local expert travel consultant, we can help you decide your starting point, destinations, and your route. I can't answer this for you as people's expectations differ wildly. For that reason I won't go into detail here, but I will share the most common bits of advice. Bergen, Norway: Both a homeport and a port of call, Bergen is rich in history and art, and it's easily navigated on foot or via public transportation. You might need a bus to reach the downtown area, but once you're there the compact area is relativey easy to get around on foot. Of course, you can enjoy unforgettable experiences off the boat too. Breathtaking landscapes and compelling Viking history await you in Norway. How do cruise lines fill their unsold cabins. In addition to their coastal voyages, Hurtigruten offer sailings to more remote places. The other sees fewer fjords but goes up to the north cape. They are offering a free pre-cruise stay in various destinations in Western Europe, including Amsterdam and the United Kingdom. Our personal expertise & experience, local partners in our destinations, & access to over 150 small ships are all invaluable to designing your unique journey. The main cruise port along Norway's Nordfjord, Olden is a starting point for journeys to the Briksdalsbreen glacier. Nidaros Cathedral is a must-see, whether you have the time to enter or not. 19952022, The Independent Traveler, Inc. Fall Foliage: Canada Cruise Ports to Visit This Autumn, Surfing in Mexico: 7 Cruise Shore Excursions That Let You Hang Ten. One of the most rewarding itineraries for a Norway cruise takes in the awesome geography of the Aurlandsfjord and Nryfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Travel blogger Mary Jo joined one of Viking's Midnight Sun cruises and said you'll never want to leave.

The P&O Cruises offer incentives for booking with them as well. Almost all of Norway's towns and cities are by the coast, but lesund takes things up a notch. So which cruise should you choose? You should also think carefully if you have kids, as facilities for children are limited. Known for its imposing Nidaros Cathedral and the trendy district of Bakklandet, its also a favourite departure point for coastal cruises in Norways north. You don't need to miss out on the coastal experience! Local newspapers have been full of headlines through the summer 2019 season complaining about the impact of overtourism. And well book all of the must-see experiences, take care of accommodation, and handle any extras for you. The two wooden churches are popular sights for those choosing to stay in the village. Your email address will not be published. Tell us your travel interests, dreams and desires, then let our experts tailor the perfect trip for you! Read our Bergen travel guide for more information.

However, with the upcoming release of Frozen II, keep your eyes open! Or, if you prefer a walk, visit the ancient Viking farms that dot the forests alongside the shore. Deciding between 2 Cruises: one visits a lot of the fjords, going up to Molde. Read on for our expert tips and get inspired for your ultimate Norway cruise adventure. Related: Nine Reasons to Cruise the Norway Fjords. The nearly vegetation-free, volcanic island nation is included on itineraries as short as 11 days, though some last two weeks or more. While far from guaranteed, the possibility to see a polar bear is an undoubted draw on these trips. In summer, bask in the perpetual light of the midnight sun. Read our Troms travel guide for more information. The ship also allows passengers to try new international cuisine options such as Japanese hibachi grills, Brazilian barbecue stations, or Indian tandoori ovens!

Ive traveled to over 30 countries and have a lifelong passion for the natural world. When it comes to cruising Northern Europe, a Norway cruise should not be overlooked. A few lines offer earlier spring or later fall cruises, and Hurtigruten sails year-round. A magnet for tourists from all around the world, Geiranger is home to cruise ships galore every day throughout the summer. Which would you recommend for a first time visitor? One of the most remarkable options is to take a cruise west from Trondheim to Kristiansund, a city spread across 4 serene islands. Her blog post is a great read if you're considering this line. While a road trip can absolutely take you to some fantastic viewpoints, nothing beats seeing the fjords from the water. Just factor in that the cost of flights may well be higher so close to departure. With Hardangerfjord to the south and the entrance to Sognefjord not far north, this ancient city is the perfect base for the best Norway cruises. Its easiest and most rewarding to visit the fjord by cruising in from lesund, Norways art nouveau city. For most travelers, the most memorable part of the Norway cruise is getting to see and experience these fjords while relaxing on the balcony. Of course, you don't have to spend all 12-days aboard the vessel. Don't wander into their gardens to take photos, or peer through the windows. :There was just something so magical about experiencing Norway by cruising that made it all the more memorable. How to get free stuff on a royal caribbean cruise, If there is one word to describe Norway, it would be fjords.. Its time for you to plan your journey. Required fields are marked *. Let's go.



While you'll retrace your steps at the end of the day, often with a slowdown by the famous falls, the light will be more photo-friendly in the morning, and fewer people will block your view. It surely gives you a delightful experience of cruising through these dreamy waters! The Telemark canal is a series of connected lakes and waterways that takes visitors from Skien deep into Norway's heavily forested Telemark region. Get in touch with us to launch your Norwegian voyage. The phenomenon is most visible between September and April. But your experience will be quite different depending on when you choose to go. Its easy to be drawn to the Norwegian Fjords with the magnificence of its mountainous, craggy shorelines. The dramatic granite mountains of the Lofoten archipelago rise from the sea like a giant stone wall. Keep checking back for regular updates. For your peace of mind, well provide dedicated 24/7 support along the way too.

Cruise from Oslo to Bergen with stops in ports of Gothenburg, Arendal, Stavanger, Olden, Geiranger, and Alesund. This is becoming such a problem that Norwegian authorities have announced plans to make the fjords zero-emissions zones within the next decade. You can cruise into Lysefjord from Stavanger, one of Norways oldest Viking cities and now a bustling cultural hub. Many also choose to take a trip on the famous Flm railway, a remarkable one-hour journey up the lush green valley to Myrdal, a tiny station on the Oslo to Bergen line. Explore more travel destination possibilities and experience the world first hand. Experience Norway and the awe-inspiring Svalbard archipelago from aboard LeBoreal. Our Hurtigruten cruise has been rescheduled for mid September 2020. This allows you to get up close to the waterfalls and old farmsteads.

Pull up a comfy chair because we're going to dive into some serious planning detail! Get expert advice, insider tips and more. There are websites, forums and books dedicated to finding the best deals on cruises. Cruises to Norwegian fjords generally include smaller, scenic ports like Stavanger, Geirangerfjord, Eidfjord and Flam. Continue reading for the best tips on how to plan your Best Cruise for Norwegian Fjords Cruise! Hurtigruten a Norwegian cruise line that journeys from Bergen as far north as Kirkenes is one of the best options for this route. Take advantage when the sun is out, and, if it's raining, don't be afraid to push back an activity to later in the day -- often a rainy morning will turn sunny later on (or vice versa). My wife and I are looking forward to finding a suitable Norway cruise but the Hurtigruten cruises seem too large for us. Plan your trip here with our complete guide to Norway's cruises. You won't get a luxury experience, but you will get to spend time in more communities and get closer to the coastline than with any traditional cruise line. Norway's most unique town and one of my personal favourites, thanks to its distinctive architecture and waterside location. Or find a cafe serving Norwegian waffles with jam made from local berries or the region's caramel-flavored brown goat's cheese. Norway Fjords Wildlife & Safari Exploration. But Jan Mayen offers a stark and beautiful arctic environment that welcomes the adventurous traveler. Some major cruise lines only offer a few departures, while others -- such as Celebrity Cruises, Fred. Plan your Norway trip for July to catch the Molde Jazz Festival. Known for their picturesque villages and phenomenal sea views, the islands are an irresistible destination for photographers and nature lovers. Your email address will not be published. View Map. Great article. Very well written and comprehensive. Just steps from the cruise terminal, the beautiful old town is perfect for a casual wander. But before you book your Norway tour, there are some important options to consider.

The Lonely Planet once called it the worlds most beautiful voyage. The rugged terrain is largely covered by icepack & glaciers, granting opportunities for unique adventure activities. Unfortunately, cruising is a big culprit. Norway is a terrific place for outdoor activities like kayaking, biking and hiking. Eidfjord, Norway: Situated deep inside Hardangerfjord, the tiny village of Eidfjord is a fantastic spot to explore the inland rivers and waterfalls that have cut through Norway's landscape for milennia. Or visit at any time to experience the Molde Panorama, a view of 222 majestic mountain peaks. In winter, your journey along these fjord-torn coasts may offer you a glimpse of the aurora borealis. Dont miss this UNESCO World Heritage Sites most graceful waterfalls. How to see the best of the Norwegian fjords from the comfort of a cruise ship. Embark Viking Cruises in Stockholm, Sweden, and make your way toward Bergen, Norway on this 15-day cruise. This summer, I'll take my first group of eighth-graders to Costa Rica, where they'll assist local scientists with sea turtle research.

With a setting based on many famous Norwegian landmarks, the Disney movie was given as the reason for a rapid rise in tourism in the years after its release. Scenery and towns that are postcard-perfect. This cruise line has a Discover Norway itinerary, which lasts nine nights. You can start by checking out the above options; you are sure to find something that suits you. With a wide variety of itinerary lengths and ship types, from mainstream to luxury and expedition, cruise travelers have a lot of choices to tailor Norway cruises to their interests. Food prices especially are much higher than most travelers might expect. Norway's capital city. I've traveled to over 30 countries and have a lifelong passion for the natural world. Bldshfi 20 In general, Norway weather is the best in the summer months, with temperatures that are warm (and occasionally hot). Four brand new environmentally friendly ships are under construction to service the route. Their cruises visit some of the most spectacular Norwegian areas, including the Nryfjord, Geirangerfjord, Trollstigen, and many more. These villages may be pretty, but they are not museums. When is the best time to go and visit Norway. You get a taste of everything: the urban life in Bergen to the fjords in Geiranger.. You don't have to have big meals out to sample Norway's unique foods. Aquariums, train rides and interesting parks all add to the appeal for children. Ships on these routes will head inland from Bergen, sailing between towering cliffs and mountains that plummet steeply into the sea. Viking Ocean Cruises: Founded by a Norwegian in 1997, the company unsurprisingly offers a range of Nordic and Baltic cruises that incorporate several ports of call in Norway. I plan to travel with wife and grown up children in April/May 20, and visit Oslo and Bergen. Meanwhile some of the countrys most magical experiences from the northern lights to snow-dusted views are best saved for winter. Youll wave goodbye to the city and enjoy a night aboard ship. For passengers who want an authentic experience, Hurtigruten is the way to go.

For the best cruisers experience in Norways fjord region, it is advisable choosing Norwegian Cruise Lines as your best cruise ship for Norwegian fjord cruise. Thanks for your reply, Carol. A Norway cruise offers a tranquil adventure that brings you within touching distance of the countrys most arresting scenery. Along the way, you can explore Fantahl (Vagabonds Cave) and the 400-metre (1,312-foot) Hengjanefossen waterfall. Hurtigruten cruise seems good but a reviewer said they would have liked going into more Fjords. Norway's energy capital is also the gateway to the Lysefjord and the famous Preikestolen cliff. Bergen is the main city on most fjord itineraries, though some may include Oslo as well. Ive accompanied high school students on excursions to Italy, Greece, and Turkey because of my love of travel. It's worth setting an alarm and getting up early to watch the ship sail in. A great option if youre hoping to explore Norways west coast is a voyage north from Bergen to Molde. My husband and I have been traveling with her since she was 18 months old, with our current concentration being on visiting the many National Parks that dot our wonderful country. Olsen, Holland America, MSC Cruises and P&O Cruises -- provide multiple sail dates and itinerary options. My best advice based on what I've seen from cruise visitors in such destinations is simple: respect the locals. North Norway, Aurora Borealis, Hike & Kayak & Sail. What can you expect on a Norway fjords cruise itinerary? There's also the environmental impact to take into account, particularly in the fjord region. The reason is simple: the scenery is the principal attraction! Although a relative newcomer to the ocean cruise market, Viking has been carrying passengers on river cruises for many years so they know their stuff. Journey along northern Norway's rugged coastline on this 8-day roundtrip expedition cruise aboard Rembrandt van Rijn from Tromso. This small country has more fjords in its region than the rest of the world! For now, I'll include answers to the most common questions I receive about Norway cruises. While foreign visitors may treat these journeys like regular cruises, staying onboard for five, six or the full 11 nights, daytrippers use the same vessels as ferry service between ports, and crewmembers unload freight and mail at most stops. In 3 hours, a cruise line will transport you from the citys charming port deep into this spectacular fjord. This is the longest and deepest fjord in Norway. Her verdict? Could you suggest a day cruise on a fjord from Bergen w which ends at Bergen in the evening. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Words of Norway tells the stories of Norway to the world, and helps Norwegian companies do the same. This most tranquil of fjords cuts between the Sunnmre Alps, mountains that leap 1,500 metres (4,900 feet) into the air. Its known as the most beautiful train journey in the world for good reason. You might still find a bargain, however! Excellent article. The Hurtigruten offer has remained broadly the same for many years, butthings are about to change. Don't miss the Bakklandet neighbourhood and the old town bridge. Happy sailing!

Other popular departure cities are found across northern Europe, including Copenhagen, Amsterdam, Hamburg and a variety of U.K. ports (Southampton, Harwich, Dover and others).

Svalbard is an archipelago situated in the Arctic waters just north of Norway. The main difference between them boils down to your itinerary and style of cruising: The Oceania Cruise takes you through the fjord region of Norway by showcasing one passing glimpse after another. You might find a Disney cruise to Norway (sometimes including Iceland), though they are few and far between. The Norwegian Fjords are exquisite in themselves but coupled with charming villages and breathtaking landscapes in between. Seals, porpoises, and even whales may greet you in this Arctic oasis. Start with day one. Discover the beauty of the Norwegian fjords. Or in winter, seize the chance to see our planets most enchanting phenomenon: the northern lights. From here, options for shore excursions include the climb up to the awe-inspiring Pulpit Rock, a flat-topped formation that hangs over the fjord. The long Norway nights offer travelers on this expedition an excellent chance to take in the beauty and wonder of the Northern Lights aboard Rembrandt van Rijn. From summer 2021, new operator HavilaKystruten will take the place of Hurtigruten on some of the daily departures from Bergen. It's also home to some unique museums, including the Norwegian Canning Museum and the Norwegian Petroleum Museum. This a cruise that cries out for some time on-land too. We'd love to give you the same amazing travel experiences as you read about in our blog! Alternatively, take the shorter hour-long trip from Geiranger to Hellesylt. For an idea of what to expect, you can listen to an episode of the Life in Norway Show all about adventure tourism in Svalbard. Whether you stop at one of the small ports or simply sail on past, Lofoten is somewhere you'll want to make time for. Its a glorious voyage along the Norwegian coast that navigates the tight sounds between western Norways idyllic islands. Thank you very much. Wanderlust has taken Emma across much of the world, but it was Scotland that she made her adopted home. It offers one of the best views in all of Norway. We've gone four-wheeling in Denali, seen the sunrise in Acadia, kayaked in the Everglades, and trekked through the Great Smoky Mountains. When the Adventure of the Seas called at Trondheim recently, guests were greeted with cannon fire and a local band. Many mainstream and luxury lines offer itineraries to these ports, though the cruises typically last two to three weeks and may include some southern Norway destinations, too. Oslo, Norway: Culture fiends will find that one day in port isn't enough time to see all of Oslo's attractions. A stay in the Kirkenes Snowhotel? Fish markets in many ports sell more than just fish, and you can get samples of elk, reindeer and whale from the vendors. +354 578 20 80 So what's the best way to take a Norway cruise in a sustainable way? Travel blogger Faith joined a 7-day cruise on what she called the gorgeously massive Serenade of the Seas. Holland America: Combine a visit to some of Norway's best coastal towns with a cruise in the Nordic and Baltic countries, the UK, and even the Mediterranean. Alternatively, take a wildlife tour into Trollfjord, whose entrance at 100 metres (328 feet) is even narrower than the Panama Canal.