Welcome to one of the most spectacular cruise destinations on Earth! A voyage through the Norwegian Fjords is a journey through a landscape of impossible scale, where ancient mountainsides surrender to mirror-like waters, so deep and still they perfectly reflect the sky.
This guide is designed to be a single, comprehensive resource for planning that perfect Norwegian Fjords cruise! I’ve done SO much research in planning my own Norwegian Fjords cruises over the years and everything I know about Norwegian Fjords Cruises is on this page!
Many ports in the Norwegian Fjords offer incredible adventures right at the ship’s berth, so there’s going to be plenty of DIY shore excursion opportunities! So if you’re wondering what there is to see and do, then I’ve got you covered as well! Can’t wait? You can jump straight to all my Norwegian Port Guides here.
On This Page
What is a Norwegian Fjords Cruise?
A fjord is an ancient Norwegian term meaning ‘where you travel across’. These are not rivers, but deep, narrow, and elongated arms of the sea, carved out by massive glaciers during the Ice Age and subsequently flooded by seawater.
Norway is home to approximately 1,190 of these geological marvels, creating a coastline of unparalleled drama and beauty.
A Norwegian Fjords Cruise takes you past soaring mountains, vast glaciers, and powerful waterfalls like the iconic Seven Sisters in the Geirangerfjord. Yet, nestled within this epic scenery are tiny, colourful villages with just a few hundred residents, historic stave churches, and reminders of a rich Viking history.
Many of the most celebrated areas, including the Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord, are designated UNESCO World Heritage sites, a testament to their global significance. It’s also a promise that this is truly one of the most amazing places to travel to in a lifetime.
Why a Cruise is the Best Way to See the Norwegian Fjords
While Norway can be explored by land, cruising the Norwegian Fjords offers a perspective and convenience that is simply unmatched. I may be biased but I believe the best way to see the Norwegian fjords is on the water, just as the Vikings navigated these passages centuries ago.
This vantage point provides up-close, uninterrupted views of the towering cliffs and tumbling waterfalls that are often impossible to witness fully from land or air. Gliding silently on the water allows for a full immersion in the tranquil beauty of these natural wonders.
Beyond the superior views, cruising presents a significant logistical advantage. The ship acts as a “floating hotel,” eliminating the daily hassle of packing and unpacking while navigating what can be tiring and circuitous mountain roads.
This is particularly crucial when visiting the most remote and charming fjord villages. Some of these communities have permanent populations as small as 200-300 people, with extremely limited hotel capacity, making a cruise the most practical and sometimes only way to experience their unique local environment (unless you don’t mind driving long distances!)
Best Time for a Norwegian Fjords Cruise
The first and most critical decision in planning a Norwegian Fjords cruise is choosing when to go. The season dictates everything: the character of the scenery, the length of the days, the types of activities available, and the overall cost of the trip.
This is not a simple question of “what’s the best season?” but rather, “what is the best season for the specific experience you seek?” Each time of year offers a distinct trade-off between scenery, experience, and cost.
Summer (May – August): The Land of the Midnight Sun
Summer is the classic and most popular season for a fjord cruise. The primary advantage is the extraordinary amount of daylight. Around the summer solstice on June 21st, the sun barely sets, a phenomenon known as the “Midnight Sun,” which provides nearly 24 hours of light to soak in the spectacular views. It’s absolutely the most fabulous time to go, especially if you’re into hiking and kayaking.
Pros: This extended daylight is invaluable for scenic cruising, as ships may enter fjords early in the morning or sail through them in the evening. The weather is at its most pleasant, with average temperatures between 13-18°C (55-64°F) and highs that can reach around 25°C (~77°F). The landscape is lush and green, wildflowers are in bloom, and the seas are typically at their calmest.
Cons: The popularity of summer cruising means more crowds in port and higher prices for fares and flights. The constant daylight, while a benefit for sightseeing, can disrupt sleep patterns, so pack an eye mask unless you’re in an inside cabin!
My Best Tip: Be prepared for any weather! I did a cruise in mid-June and it was close to freezing in the mornings and under 10°C (~50°F) during the day. A warm, sunny day is a bonus, not a guarantee! A waterproof jacket and layers are absolutely essential, regardless of the forecast. See more below on how to pack.
Autumn (September – November): Fall Colours & Fewer Crowds
Autumn is a “lovely time to visit” for those seeking a different kind of beauty. The season brings crisp air, stunning fall foliage that paints the mountainsides in warm colours, and, most significantly, far fewer crowds than the bustling summer months.
Pros: Cruising the Norwegian Fjords during autumn can lead to a more tranquil experience and potentially lower pricing.
Cons: The trade-off is shorter days and cooler, more unpredictable weather. Average temperatures drop to a range of 3.8-9.3°C (39-49°F). While the outer Oslofjord may retain some warmth in September, conditions cool rapidly as the season progresses. Some seasonal attractions, particularly those at higher elevations, may have reduced hours or have already closed for the season!
My Best Tip: Most mainstream cruise lines only have Norwegian Fjords cruises up till mid-September. You’ll generally find the last two 7-night cruises cheaper. This “shoulder season” is a good compromise, especially if you have no kids! With kids typically back in school in September, you’ll generally find only young toddlers onboard.
Winter (December – February): Chasing the Northern Lights
A winter cruise in Norway is a completely different expedition, undertaken for one primary, magical reason: the chance to witness the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). The experience of seeing the sky dance with green and purple light against a backdrop of snow-covered mountains is absolutely unforgettable.
Pros: The chances of seeing the Northern Lights, especially if you do a minimum 5-7 night cruise, is excellent to almost guaranteed. There’s also loads of winter sports, including husky dog sledding and snowmobile safaris to enjoy.
Cons: Daylight is extremely limited, with only a few hours of twilight in the far north. Temperatures are cold, averaging -6.8°C (19.4°F) above the Arctic Circle and you’ll need multi-layered cold-weather gear. Sea conditions can be rougher, and most of the mainstream cruise lines do not operate their typical fjord itineraries.
My Best Tip: Your best bet for a Norwegian Fjords Cruise are the coastal ferry services like Hurtigruten and Havila, which run year-round. Choose your cruise itinerary “segment” carefully. If you’re after a short trip, the “Tromso <–> Kirkenes” segment is best for Northern Lights.
October/November/March: It’s possible to see the Northern Lights as early as October and as late as March. However, if you’re doing a Norwegian Fjords cruise with the intention to chase the Northern Lights, I would recommend you do it between December and February to maximise your chances.
Spring (March – May): The Awakening of the Fjords
Spring is a season of dramatic transformation. It’s a time when the landscape awakens from winter, with melting snow feeding spectacular, roaring waterfalls. The days grow progressively longer and warmer, and the first signs of green return to the valleys.
Pros: Cruising in late spring, particularly May, can offer a beautiful balance, with blooming wildflowers, fewer crowds than summer, and more attractive pricing. The mainstream cruise lines typically start operating Norwegian fjords cruises from late April or early May onwards – these cruises are usually the cheapest of the season.
Cons: The defining characteristic of a spring cruise is its unpredictability. It is possible to experience “four seasons in one sailing,” with conditions ranging from cold and snowy to mild and sunny. Higher-altitude hiking trails and mountain passes may still be closed due to snow, limiting some shore excursion options.
My Best Tip: Packing for a spring cruise requires maximum flexibility, with layers being absolutely essential to adapt to the rapidly changing conditions. I brought winter gear (eg. woollen hat, gloves, fleece inner layer, waterproof outer layer) as well as my summer gear (eg. T-shirts and shorts for walks/hiking) as I wouldn’t know what weather conditions may bring.
“Best” Cruise Lines for the Norwegian Fjords: Finding Your Cruise Style
Beyond timing, the choice of cruise ship is the single most impactful decision a traveler will make. Experienced cruiser & already got a favourite cruise line? You may want to skip ahead and jump straight to my section below on Norwegian Fjords Cruise Itineraries. But I do cover Hurtigruten and Havila Voyages on their Norwegian Coastal Voyages, which you may not have considered before!
New to Cruising? Then the “best” cruise line for you will almost certainly depend on (a) your budget and the (b) onboard ship experience that you think you’ll like. There will be sea days or “scenic cruising” days on a Norwegian Fjords cruise where you’ll remain on your ship, so it’s important to consider what kind of shipboard experience you want out of your vacation!
The Large or Mega-Ship Experience (e.g. Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, MSC, NCL, P&O)
If you envision your trip as a relaxing holiday on a floating resort with a huge variety of dining, entertainment, and activities, then a large ship experience is for you. These large vessels, carrying 2,000 to over 5,000 passengers, are essentially floating resorts.
Onboard Vibe & Amenities: These ships offer a vast array of amenities, including multiple swimming pools, a wide selection of bars and restaurants, large theatres with Broadway-style productions, casinos, spas, and comprehensive kids’ clubs. The atmosphere is high-energy and can be crowded and noisy, especially in central areas like the buffet and pool decks.
Itinerary & Traveler Profile: Due to their size, mega-ships are restricted to the largest ports and cannot navigate the narrowest or most remote fjords.Their itineraries are fixed and focus on popular, high-traffic destinations. This style is ideal for first-time cruisers, families with children, and multi-generational groups who prioritise onboard activities and entertainment over deep destination immersion.
Price Tag: Compared to the price of a land holiday in Norway, you’ll generally find a Norwegian Fjords cruise on a large ship very attractive.
Is This For You? A big ship experience isn’t for everyone. If the thought of being onboard a ship with thousands of other holiday makers fill you with dread, then a large ship is certainly not for you!
My Experience: I cruised on P&O Iona last year – my first P&O cruise. (But I’ve gone on a few since then…) At over 5,000 passengers, it was by far the biggest ship I have ever sailed on. I was apprehensive to say the least, spending a week on what some cruisers have nicknamed the “Fjords bus”, as the P&O Iona does 7-night Norwegian Fjords cruises week-in-week-out roundtrip from/to Southampton.
But I really enjoyed my cruise! The ship was absolutely humongous, so it never felt crowded. Even on a bad weather sea day, I managed to find seats in indoor public areas to enjoy the views. The Iona was very stable and was designed specifically to sail potential rough seas to/fro Southampton through the North Sea to the Norwegian coastline. Normally I do get seasick on choppy seas, but not on the Iona! I loved the Iona so much that I’m booked for another cruise on the Iona next year!
The Mid-Size Cruise Ship Experience (mainly UK cruisers)
For those who prefer a more intimate and traditional cruise experience, these lines cater primarily to UK-based, English-speaking cruisers, with most sailing directly from the UK:
- Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines: Known for its Norwegian heritage and friendly atmosphere.
- Ambassador Cruise Line: A newer British line offering great value and traditional cruising.
- Saga Cruises: Exclusively for guests over 50, offering a boutique, all-inclusive experience.
Is This For You? You’ll generally find very few families (except for designated multi-generational sailings) onboard these lines and the average guest age would be higher than you’d find in most mainstream cruise lines.
The Small & Luxury Ship Experience (e.g., Viking, Seabourn, Silversea, Ponant)
Accommodating between 100 and 900 guests, these smaller vessels prioritise the destination, offering a more refined and intimate experience.
Onboard Vibe & Amenities: The focus on these lines is on comfort and enrichment. Service is highly personalized, and the atmosphere is quieter and more sophisticated. Onboard features often include enrichment lectures from historians or naturalists, high-end cuisine, and more all-inclusive pricing that may cover drinks, gratuities, and even some excursions.
Itinerary & Traveler Profile: The key advantage is access. Smaller ships can sail deeper into narrow fjords like the Nærøyfjord and visit smaller, less-crowded ports that larger vessels cannot reach, getting passengers closer to the scenery. This style appeals to seasoned travelers, couples, and those seeking a quiet, educational, and immersive journey. The price point is significantly higher.
Note on Price Comparisons: If you’re new to cruising, it’s often hard to compare pricing on cruises. This is because the most expensive suites on large ships (eg. the Iconic Suite on Celebrity Apex) is just as expensive, with just as much included amenities than most cabin grades aboard the luxury cruise lines.
So when I compare prices and say “one is higher than another”, I typically compare a standard balcony on a mainstream cruise line to a standard balcony on a luxury line (as most luxury lines don’t have inside cabins), even though a “standard balcony” on a luxury line will almost certainly be larger in size. And that’s why I wrote this guide from an onboard experience, rather than from a price-point perspective.
The Norwegian Coastal Express (Hurtigruten & Havila)
This is its own unique category and a true Norwegian adventure. They are not traditional cruise ships but working coastal ferries that have served as a vital transport link for Norway’s coastal communities for over a century, carrying local passengers, mail, and cargo to 34 ports between Bergen and Kirkenes.
Onboard Vibes & Amenities: It’s less a “cruise” but the cruise does have cruise-like amenities with included meals and panoramic observation lounges. (But there’s no large theatres, casinos or formal nights.) Cabins are typically functional and comfortable, ranging from small bunk bed style cabins to suites with private balcony with jacuzzi (especially on Havila Voyages).
Itinerary & Traveler Profile: You’ll be traveling alongside locals and stopping at dozens of tiny villages and towns that are inaccessible to other cruise lines. But note that port stops can vary from just 15 minutes to several hours. This is the definitive way to see the coast during the winter and hunt for the Northern Lights.
My Experience: I did a mid-winter voyage on Hurtigruten, traveling all the way to Kirkenes. I saw the Northern Lights, to varying degrees of intensity, every night on deck. But it was hard to plan & purchase excursions except with the cruise line because of short port stops along the way.
Both Hurtigruten and Havila’s own excursions will typically pick you up from one port and drop you back off at another port, because the ship has sailed from the original port in the meantime. I found that booking excursions & tours with third party operators were virtually impossible, because they don’t want to drop me off at another port at the end of the tour. Because of short port stops, DIY excursions are only possible for very limited number of ports.
Choosing the “Right” Ship: Guide to Fjords Viewing
For a Norwegian Fjords cruise, you need a “cold climate ship.” This means prioritising ships designed to maximise indoor and sheltered viewing opportunities is paramount.
Ships built for warm-weather sailing, with a focus on expansive open-air pools and bars, can feel less comfortable and offer fewer prime spots to watch the landscape glide by.
Here’s what I look for when I decide whether a ship is suitable for a Norwegian Fjords cruise or not:
The Observation Lounge: Your Front-Row Seat
Your number one priority should be a large, preferably forward-facing observation lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows. And I would look for multiple locations around the ship with this feature. This is your warm, front-row seat to the fjords. Grabbing a coffee and watching the world glide by from here is a core part of the experience, especially during the early morning sail-ins.
For example, I would rate the Celebrity Apex as an excellent ship for a Norwegian Fjords cruise. Both the Solarium (Deck 14) & Eden Bar/Cafe Eden (Deck 5 Aft) are large indoor spaces with floor-to-ceiling windows. If the weather is good and not too windy, the Rooftop Garden (Deck 15) provides an excellent panoramic view. If you’re a Retreat Guest, then the Retreat Sundeck (Deck 16) provides another fabulous vantage point for fjords viewing.
Not sure the ship you’re considering is a “cold climate ship”? Then just head to YouTube and search for a ship walkthrough video.
Other Key Features to Look For
- Sheltered Promenade Deck: A traditional, covered promenade allows you to get fresh air and take photos, protected from the wind and rain.
- Indoor Pool or Solarium: A pool with a retractable roof means you can still enjoy a swim, whatever the weather is doing.
The Balcony Debate: A Private Oasis or Poor Value?
Balconies can be magical for private scenic cruising, but ask yourself if you’ll use it enough in cooler weather to justify the cost. If a balcony cabin is within your budget, then absolutely go for it and you can stop reading now!
- The Argument For: For those who treasure privacy, having your own personal outdoor space to watch the world-class scenery is priceless. It allows you to escape the crowds that will inevitably gather in the public viewing lounges during the most scenic moments.
- The Argument Against: The weather can be cold, windy, and wet, even in summer, which may limit the amount of time you comfortably spend on your balcony. There’s usually a significant price difference between an inside or ocean-view and a balcony cabin.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal travel style and budget. I tend to cost out the difference and decide whether I would prefer to spend the difference on excursions and specialty dining. On all the Norwegian Fjords cruises I’ve done, I have compromised on my cabin grade, including being in a single cabin on a Hurtigruten ship. Instead I splurged the difference on excursions & onshore spend. There’s no right or wrong answer!
Norwegian Fjords Cruise Itineraries: Must-See Ports, Fjords & Experiences
While Norway boasts over a thousand fjords, cruise itineraries understandably focus on a select few that are renowned for their accessibility and spectacular beauty. Understanding these key locations will help you evaluate and compare different cruise itineraries.
Not All Fjords Are Created Equal: The “Big Five” You Need to Know
Geirangerfjord: A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Geirangerfjord is the postcard image of Norway and is often called the “world’s most beautiful fjord“. It is famous for its dramatic, S-shaped waterway and iconic waterfalls, including the “Seven Sisters” and its counterpart across the fjord, the “Suitor“. 🛳️⚓ Ships usually dock in Geiranger, with larger ships docking at Hellesylt.
Sognefjord: Known as the “King of the Fjords,” the Sognefjord is Norway’s longest (204 km) and deepest (1,308 m) fjord. Its immense scale is breathtaking, and it features several famous arms, or branches, that are destinations in their own right, with the most famous branches being Nærøyfjord, Sogndalsfjord and Aurlandsfjord. 🛳️⚓ Most ships visiting Sognefjord will do scenic cruising. If it docks, it will usually dock at Skjolden or Flåm, situated at the end of Aurlandsfjord.
Nærøyfjord: A branch of the Sognefjord, the Nærøyfjord is also a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its raw, dramatic beauty. It is one of the narrowest fjords in the world, measuring just 820 feet (250 meters) across at its tightest point, with sheer cliffs rising over 5,000 feet on either side. Sailing through this passage is an intimate and humbling experience, making one feel “so tiny” in comparison to the towering peaks. 🛳️⚓ Most ships visiting Nærøyfjord will do scenic cruising. If it docks, it will usually dock at Gudvangen and Vik (Vikøyri) but these are small ports, reserved for small ships only.
Aurlandsfjord: Running parallel to the Nærøyfjord, this is another stunning arm of the Sognefjord. 🛳️⚓ It is most famous for being the location of the village of Flåm and the spectacular Stegastein Viewpoint, which juts out over the water for panoramic views.
Lysefjord: Located near the 🛳️⚓ city of Stavanger, the Lysefjord is famed for one of Norway’s most iconic natural landmarks: Preikestolen, or Pulpit Rock, a massive cliff with a flat top that towers 604 meters above the water.
Your Ports of Call: A Guide to the Highlights
Most Norwegian Fjords cruises will hit at least two or three of these ports of call. I’ve given you some highlights below. If you’re doing research for different cruise itineraries, read my detailed port guides (links below)! You can also find all my Norwegian Port Guides on my Norway Page. Listed in alphabetical order:
Ålesund: The Art Nouveau City
After a devastating fire in 1904, Ålesund was completely rebuilt in the fashionable Art Nouveau style, giving it a unique and beautiful architectural character.
Must-Dos: Climb the 418 steps to the Aksla Viewpoint for a panoramic vista of the city spread across its islands; explore the fascinating history at the Art Nouveau Centre (Jugendstilsenteret). Don’t like steps? Read my Alesund Cruise Port Guide: DIY Art Nouveau & Aksla Viewpoint for alternatives.
Bergen: The Gateway to the Fjords
A vibrant city steeped in history, Bergen is surrounded by seven mountains. It is a cultural hub and a beautiful port to explore.
Must-Dos: Wander through the colorful, historic wooden buildings of the UNESCO-listed Bryggen Wharf, and take the Fløibanen funicular up Mount Fløyen for stunning panoramic views of the city and harbour. Read my Bergen Cruise Port guide: Bryggen Wharf, Fortress & Funicular for more details.
Flåm: The Adventure Capital
This small village is nestled at the very end of the Aurlandsfjord and serves as a hub for some of Norway’s most famous activities.
Must-Dos: Take a ride on the Flåm Railway (Flåmsbana), one of the steepest and most scenic train journeys in the world; experience the fjord at high speed on a RIB (rigid inflatable boat) tour; or take a bus to the breathtaking Stegastein Viewpoint. Find out more on my Flam Cruise Port Guide: Flam Railway & Scenic Fjords Wonders
Geiranger/Hellesylt: The Heart of the UNESCO Fjord
Geiranger and Hellesylt are two tiny villages sit at opposite ends of a ferry route through the magnificent Geirangerfjord and are the primary access points for its wonders. Mid-size ships can dock in Geiranger but larger ships typically dock in Hellesylt.
Must-Dos: Visit the iconic viewpoints of Flydalsjuvet and Ørnesvingen (Eagle’s Bend) for classic photo opportunities; for a more active experience, kayak on the serene fjord waters for an up-close look at the Seven Sisters waterfall. For more details, read Geiranger Cruise Port: UNESCO Heritage Geirangerfjords Views and Hellesylt Cruise Port: Waterfalls & Geirangerfjord Wonders.
Olden: The Gateway to the Glaciers
A peaceful village situated at the end of the beautiful Nordfjord, Olden is the primary base for excursions to Europe’s largest mainland glacier.
Must-Dos: A trip to the magnificent Briksdal Glacier is the quintessential Olden experience; for an alternative, the Loen Skylift whisks you to the top of Mount Hoven in minutes for incredible views of the fjord and Loen Lake. You’ll find more details on my Olden Cruise Port: DIY Guide to Loen Skylift, Briksdal Glacier & Troll Cars.
Stavanger: The Oil Capital with Viking Roots
Norway’s fourth-largest city offers a compelling blend of a modern, prosperous energy hub and a beautifully preserved old town.
Must-Dos: Stroll the charming, cobblestoned streets of Gamle Stavanger (Old Stavanger) with its 173 white wooden houses; take a boat trip on the Lysefjord to see Pulpit Rock from below; and visit the “Swords in Rock” monument commemorating the unification of Norway. All the details are in my Stavanger Cruise Port Guide: Fjords, Old Town and Three Swords
Smaller Norwegian Fjords Ports
If your choice is to head to the Norwegian Fjords in a small to medium sized ship, you may find these smaller Norwegian Fjords ports on your itinerary:
Skjolden: Gateway to Glaciers and Giants
Skjolden, nestled at the head of the Lustrafjord, the innermost arm of the mighty Sognefjord, is a tranquil village that serves as a gateway to some of Norway’s most spectacular national parks.
Must-Dos: Visit Feigumfossen Waterfall, one of Norway’s highest waterfalls. Hang out with the local Llamas at the Llama farm.
Eidfjord: Gateway to Waterfalls and Wilderness
Located at the end of the Eid Fjord, an inner branch of the Hardangerfjord, Eidfjord is a small village surrounded by towering mountains and stunning natural beauty. It is the gateway to the magnificent Vøringsfossen waterfall and the vast Hardangervidda mountain plateau.
Must-Dos: Head to Vøringsfossen Waterfall and marvel at one of Norway’s most famous waterfalls as it plunges 182 metres into the Måbødalen canyon.
Ulvik: The Orchard of the Hardangerfjord
Known for its “Fruit and Cider Route”, Ulvik is a charming village which embraces “slow living”.
Must-Dos: Walk the Hardanger Cider Route and sample local ciders and apple juices at the fruit farms along this scenic route.
Other Popular Ports: Haugesund, Kristiansand & Oslo
Other popular ports of call include the historic town of Haugesund, the “summer city” of Kristiansand, and of course, Norway’s capital, Oslo.
Norwegian Fjords Shore Excursions: DIY vs Ship Tours
So how do you decide to book a ship-sponsored shore excursion or to explore independently at these Norwegian Fjords port of call?
There’s no single right answer. My own strategy is to adopt a hybrid approach, making a calculated decision in each port based on logistics, cost and personal preference. Some ports and excursions are easier than others and that’s why I always give a rating on all my port guides, so you can see at a glance whether a DIY shore excursion is easy or not.
Here’s what I did on some of the above ports:
Flåm: Go DIY. The famous Flåm Railway is a public train, and tickets can be booked independently online in advance. Local operators offering RIB boat tours and fjord cruises are readily available right at the pier.
Olden: Ship Tour or Third Party Tour Recommended. The Briksdal Glacier is the star attraction, but its remote location makes it difficult and risky to reach independently on a tight cruise schedule. A ship-sponsored or third-party tour is the most practical and secure option to ensure you see the glacier and get back to the ship on time. Same with the Loen Skylift.
Geiranger: Hybrid Approach. The spectacular viewpoints like Flydalsjuvet and Ørnesvingen are best accessed via a coach tour (either from the ship or a local operator). However, activities within the village itself, such as kayaking on the fjord or browsing the shops, can easily be done on your own.
Bergen, Ålesund, & Stavanger: Go DIY. These are highly walkable cities where the ships dock conveniently close to the main sights. The Bryggen Wharf in Bergen, the Art Nouveau district in Ålesund, and the old town in Stavanger are all best explored on foot at your own pace.
But Don’t Let the Must-Dos Sway You: To make your own plan, use my port guides to decide what you’d like to do first. Just because a popular excursion is counted as a “must do” doesn’t mean you’re necessarily interested.
How Much Does a Norwegian Fjords Cruise Cost? A Budget Breakdown
I won’t go into detail about what’s included in your cruise fare (and what’s not) here. This is because each cruise line is slightly different and each cruise line has its quirks. Experienced Cruiser? You can skip this section as you’ll know this already.
For mainstream cruise lines, the base fare will include accommodation, meals in the main dining rooms and the buffet restaurant, basic beverages like tap water, tea/coffee at the buffet and usually some juices during breakfast. You’ll also have access to loads of onboard entertainment, but some cruise lines may have a surcharge on special shows or for special seating.
Luxury lines like Silversea or Viking will have a more inclusive model, with all beverages (including at least some if not all alcoholic beverages onboard), specialty dining, onboard gratuities and sometimes select shore excursions.
Factoring in the Extras: A Realistic Budget Checklist
Use the following checklist to calculate the true, all-in cost of your Norwegian Fjords cruise:
Cruise Fare: This is the largest single expense and can vary dramatically, depending on your cruise line and the cabin grade you choose. A 7-night cruise can range from as little as £500 / ~US$700 (if booked at least a year in advance) per person for a twin-share inside cabin. I’ve paid as little as £750 traveling solo in an inside twin-share cabin, including the single supplement.
Flights & Pre/Post-Cruise Stays: Many Norwegian Fjords cruises depart from the UK (Southampton) or mainland Europe (Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Hamburg). So budget for return flights to one of these major cities. Don’t forget to budget for any necessary pre- or post-cruise hotel nights plus meals and transfers for those additional nights.
Onboard Gratuities & Service Charges: If you’re a new cruiser, know that onboard gratuities aren’t optional, unless of course, your cruise line stated that gratuities are included in your cruise fare. A full discussion on the topic of gratuities on cruises is beyond the scope of this guide but you can easily find lots of guides online and on YouTube!
Drink Packages & Specialty Dining: For most cruisers, drinks and specialty dining will be a big ticket item contributing to your onboard spending. So be sure to budget for these!
Shore Excursions & Independent Activities: On a typical Norwegian Fjords cruise itinerary, you’ll find that there’s free things to do at most ports but they may not be the ones you’ll like to see. Norway is expensive! So if there’s a budget that you’ll like to stick to (and don’t we all?), then have a read of my hybrid approach above. I’ve also found Norwegian ports are well served by third party tour operators (unlike some Mediterranean ports). Booking a tour through a third party operator in most instances will save you money.
Travel Insurance: This is a non-negotiable expense. Most standard travel insurance policies do not provide adequate coverage for cruise vacations (ie. no missed port coverage) but the important thing is that your insurance covers you for emergency medical expenses as well as cancellation expenses (ie. cost of travel expenses paid if you can’t travel.)
Miscellaneous Costs: This category includes onboard Wi-Fi, laundry services, souvenirs, and any personal spending in port (eg. lunch & snacks). If you’d like 24X7 internet coverage, you’ll need to use the onboard Wi-Fi. You may think that the ship would sail close to land in the Norwegian Fjords but there will be no mobile/cell coverage in between small towns in the fjords. That said, onshore mobile/cell coverage is excellent in Norway and I’ve just relied on my mobile/cell data for sending emails/photos/messages when the ship is at port in Norway.
What to Pack for a Norwegian Fjords Cruise: The Essential List
I won’t throw a comprehensive cruise packing list here! (A cruise packing list is available on 1,001 travel blogs, so I doubt I’ll add value by giving you another one.) However, I will help you to pack specifically for port days in Norway based on my personal experience.
Norwegian weather is famously changeable and the key to comfort is flexible laying that allows you to adapt to sun, wind and rain sometimes all in the same day!
Clothing: The Layering System is Non-Negotiable
A three-part layering system is the most effective way to dress for the fjords.
Base Layer: Start with a thin base layer. If you’re visiting during summer, this can be a T-shirt or whatever top you’d like to wear. (Hikers may want to wear a quick-dry sports top, designed to pull sweat away from the skin.) If it’s during winter, then consider a thermal top. I wear Uniqlo’s Heat Tech tops.
Mid Layer: This is your insulation layer. A fleece jacket or a wool sweater provides warmth without bulk.
Outer Layer: This is the most critical piece. Bring a waterproof and windproof jacket if you have one even in summer. You’ll be surprised how cold it can get on deck while sailing, especially early mornings and late evenings. Don’t bother with waterproof trousers unless you’re planning a full day hike.
Cold Weather Accessories: A warm hat, gloves, and a scarf are essential for all seasons except perhaps the very peak of summer. Even then, they are highly recommended for early morning or late evening scenic cruising on the open deck when the wind can be bitingly cold. I definitely needed my hat and gloves on a windy day in mid-June, sailing in and out of Stavanger into Lysefjord!
Kayaking: If you’ve planning to kayak, then most tour operators will outfit you with all the equipment you need. You don’t need to bring your own water shoes or waterproof trousers. Even in June, I was provided with a dry suit. (And I needed it, because the water was close to freezing!)
Rib Boat Rides: If you’ve booked a Rib Boat Ride on your Norwegian Fjords cruise, you don’t need to worry about bringing your own gear. Just wear what the tour leader gives you! You’ll typically be given everything from a waterproof jumpsuit with hood, waterproof boots, life jacket and safety goggles. There’s very chance of you getting wet, except for the odd spray of sea water on your face!
Your Next Step: Choosing a Specific Itinerary
Now that you know all the basics – when to go, what type of ship to choose, how to budget and what to pack – the final step is to dive into the details and specific cruise itineraries.
However, the term “Norwegian Fjords cruise” can be deceptively simple. In reality, itineraries vary dramatically from one cruise line to another, and even between ships of the same line. The combination of ports, the amount of time spent scenic cruising, and the overall focus of the journey can create vastly different holiday experiences.
Got a favourite cruise line? Then you can go and search on its website straight away. Curious about interesting Norwegian Cruise Itineraries? Then read my guides below. I’ll tell you more about the more unusual Norwegian Fjords cruise itineraries you may not have considered before.
Explore In-Depth Cruise Itinerary Reviews
Note: I’m in the process of building out this section. Please bear with me while I build put posts about various cruise lines!
A cruise line’s brochure might list “Norwegian Fjords,” but what does that actually mean for your trip?
Some lines are masters of the classic, 7-day roundtrip hitting the most iconic ports. Others, like Holland America (HAL), are known for offering a wide variety of port calls, sometimes visiting more unusual or less-frequented destinations that provide a different perspective on the region.
Meanwhile, a line like Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) might package a few fjord stops as part of a grander voyage to Iceland—a fantastic option, but a very different trip from a dedicated fjords immersion.
Focus (& Limitations) of my Reviews: I can’t review every single cruise itinerary, but by analysing representative and noteworthy itineraries, I aim to highlight these crucial differences. These deep dives will help you understand the unique philosophy behind each cruise, so you can choose the one that truly aligns with your Norwegian Fjords dreams.
- Holland America: (Coming soon! – I’m writing this one now.)
- P&O Cruises: P&O Iona Norwegian Fjords Cruises: Itinerary & Horizon Newletters (For my North American readers, P&O Cruises is a Carnival owned cruise line in the UK.)
Featured Photo by Chuck Henjes
