Fjords Cruise Deals

A cruise is without a doubt one of the best ways to explore the Norwegian Fjords. Travelling around Norway’s coast by cruise ship enables you to get up close to view the dramatic mountains, glaciers and waterfalls of this beautiful region. And it is breathtakingly beautiful.

Suggested Read: Why a fjords cruise is the best way to see Norway

What are the Norwegian Fjords?

The fjords formed during the Ice Age when glaciers retreated and left U-shaped valleys which then flooded with seawater. Nowadays they are virtually ice-free and ready to be explored. The banks of the fjords are often mountainous, up to 2000 metres high and capped with snow. Dotted with picturesque fishing villages, mountainside farms, waterfalls and fruit trees, a sniff neck from gazing in wonder is a common side-effect of visiting this area.

What is the weather like?

All this talk of glaciers and snow-capped mountains and you’d be forgiven for thinking that Norway is freezing. However, the Norwegian Fjords are milder than other countries at the same latitude because of the Gulf Stream. Summer temperatures are typically around 20 degrees Celcius, perhaps up to 25 degrees on the warmest days. So you’ll certainly need to pack shorts and t-shirts, as well as some layers if you plan to be outdoors in the evenings. The weather in winter, however, can be brutal.

What can I do on shore days in Norway?

Whilst you’ll have great views of the fjords from aboard your ship (balcony staterooms are highly recommended here), you’ll experience the true culture of Norway on port days. Taking a guided sightseeing tour by coach, hop-on-hop-off bus or with a private tour guide are all great ways to see the highlights of each port. For a closer look at the fjords themselves, opt for a boat tour or hire a kayak. If you’re feeling active, hiking trips, horse riding tours and even dog-sledding tours are available.

When to see the Northern Lights or the Midnight Sun

The Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, are visible in Norway between late September and March. Mother Nature’s very own light show will make your winter Fjords cruise even more special.

The Midnight Sun, however, is a summer phenomenon. If you go north of the Arctic Circle between May and July, you’ll see that the sun never dips below the horizon, giving 24 hours of daylight.

See Northern Lights Cruises

Popular ports of call in Norway

• Alesund – This attractive Norwegian fishing port is known for its art nouveau style as most of the town was rebuilt following a fire in 1904.
• Bergen – For the best views, take the funicular railway 1000 feet up to the top of Mount Floyen.
• Flam – Enjoy an encounter with nature as you visit this beautiful town which is nestled in a tributary of the world’s longest and deepest fjord.
• Geiranger – The views of the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord are out of this world. For the best vista, head to the viewpoint overlooking the Seven Sisters waterfall
• Kristiansand – This large city is perfect to explore on warm summer days.
• Skjolden – A small village at the head of Sognefjord, it’s a great spot for viewing glaciers, mountains and farms.
• Stavanger – A charming blend of modern city and fishing village, the Domkirke Cathedral is one of Norway’s most beautiful buildings.

Fly-cruise or sail from the UK?

The choice is yours. Norway really isn’t that far from the UK, and it’s possible to sail to the fjords and back from Newcastle in as little as five days. However, a cruise of 10 days or more will let you explore much more of the region, particularly if you choose to sail from a port in the South of England such as Southampton. If you choose a fly-cruise, you might fly to Copenhagen or Stockholm to start your cruise.

See Fjords cruises from the UK

The Norwegian Fjords are a favourite cruise destination of travel writer Gary Buchanan. Read his recommendations here.