Discover the Stunning Beauty of the Norwegian Fjords on Your Next Cruise
Welcome to the Norwegian Fjords, a breathtaking natural wonder that offers jaw-dropping scenery and unique cultural experiences. With deep blue waters flanked by towering cliffs and lush greenery, the fjords are nature's masterpiece, enticing adventurers and serene seekers alike. Fun fact: the Norwegian fjords were shaped by glaciers during the last Ice Age, resulting in their dramatic, steep cliffs and serene depths! A cruise through the Norwegian Fjords is one of the best ways to fully experience this majestic landscape while enjoying the comforts and amenities of an onboard holiday.
Top Major Cruise Lines to Norwegian Fjords
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Holland America Line: With a fleet size of 11, Holland America features 4 ships—Koningsdam, Eurodam, Nieuw Statendam, and Noordam—on itineraries that explore the Norwegian Fjords. Renowned for its commitment to culinary excellence and cultural enrichment experiences, Holland America creates immersive journeys for its guests. Departures frequently occur from international ports like Amsterdam and Southampton, providing convenient access to Norway's stunning fjords.
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MSC Cruises: A popular cruise line with a fleet of 24, MSC has 5 ships—MSC Magnifica, MSC Lirica, MSC Preziosa, MSC Opera, and MSC Virtuosa—offering itineraries showcasing the Norwegian Fjords. Known for their innovative onboard activities and entertainment, MSC guarantees a fun and family-friendly experience. Most departures happen from major international ports including Southampton and Hamburg, ensuring smooth sailing into Norway's gorgeous landscapes.
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Cunard: With a fleet of 4 luxury ships, Cunard features 3 vessels—Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Victoria—offering stunning Norwegian Fjords itineraries. Known for their elegant onboard service, afternoon tea, and refined dining experiences, Cunard provides a top-notch cruising experience. Departures typically occur from major ports like Southampton, facilitating an effortless journey to the fjords' natural beauty.
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P&O Cruises: Featuring 7 ships, P&O has 4 vessels—Britannia, Azura, Ventura, and Arcadia—that offer sailings to the Norwegian Fjords. Known for their exceptional family-friendly atmosphere and diverse onboard activities, P&O ensures a delightful cruise experience for guests of all ages. Departures often occur from key UK ports such as Southampton, allowing an easy path to Norway's breathtaking vistas.
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Princess Cruises: With a fleet of 17 ships, Princess has 4 vessels—Regal Princess, Caribbean Princess, Sky Princess, and Emerald Princess—offering itineraries to the Norwegian Fjords. Known for their fantastic onboard entertainment and variety of dining options, Princess Cruises promises guests a wonderful sailing experience. Departure ports are primarily international, often including Southampton and Copenhagen, providing seamless access to the stunning fjords.
Top Luxury and Small Ship Cruise Lines to Norwegian Fjords
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Viking Ocean Cruises: Operating a fleet of 11, Viking features 5 vessels—Viking Saturn, Viking Neptune, Viking Sky, Viking Star, and Viking Sea—offering unique itineraries to the Norwegian Fjords. With a focus on cultural immersion and destination experiences, Viking creates truly engaging journeys for their guests. Departures are commonly from international ports like Bergen and Greenwich, making for seamless travel into the stunning fjords.
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Silversea: With a fleet size of 12, Silversea features 6 ships—Silver Dawn, Silver Spirit, Silver Whisper, Silver Explorer, Silver Shadow, and Silver Moon—offering luxurious itineraries to Norway. With impeccable service and high-quality dining options, Silversea guarantees an elite cruising experience. Most departures occur from popular international ports such as Copenhagen and Tromsø, providing an easy pathway to Norway's majestic beauty.
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Oceania Cruises: With 8 ships in their fleet, Oceania offers 4 vessels—Marina, Riviera, Sirena, and Regatta—on itineraries including the Norwegian Fjords. Known for their gourmet culinary experiences and destination-rich voyages, Oceania immerses guests in local culture throughout their journeys. Most departures typically occur from key international ports like Southampton and Reykjavik, ensuring seamless connections to Norway's enchanting landscapes.
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Azamara Cruises: Sailing with a fleet of 4, Azamara features 2 vessels—Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest—offering cruises to the Norwegian Fjords. Celebrated for their immersive experiences and late-night stays in port, Azamara enables guests to fully explore local culture and customs. Departures often take place from Copenhagen and Leith, creating convenient options to experience the fjords.
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Viking River Cruises: With a large fleet of 66, Viking River Cruises has 3 ships—Viking Eir, Viking Alruna, and Viking Skaga—offering itineraries to the Norwegian Fjords. Known for their unique river cruising experience, Viking provides guests with an all-inclusive atmosphere and access to charming coastal towns. Departures typically occur from international ports like Basel, making travel to the fjords easy for cruisers.
Must-Visit Harbours in Norwegian Fjords
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Ålesund: Famous for its Art Nouveau architecture, Ålesund provides a picturesque waterfront and unique hiking opportunities. When your cruise docks here, take a stroll through the charming streets, visit the local aquarium, and hike up to Aksla viewpoint for stunning panoramas of the surrounding islands.
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Stavanger: This historic city is known for its charming old town and proximity to natural wonders. Explore the picturesque wooden houses of Gamle Stavanger, visit the striking Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) and take some time to discover the great food scene—fresh seafood is a must-try!
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Tromsø: Located above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is known as the "Gateway to the Arctic." Visitors can explore the fascinating Polar Museum, take a scenic ride up the Fjellheisen cable car for breathtaking views, and, during winter months, witness the stunning Northern Lights.
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Olden: A quaint village nestled at the end of the Oldenfjord, Olden is famous for its stunning scenery and access to the Briksdal Glacier. While in port, hike up to the glacier, enjoy bike rides along the fjord, or relax at the charming cafes offering local treats.
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Eidfjord: Surrounded by legendary fjords and steep mountains, Eidfjord serves as a great base for outdoor adventures. Visit the Hardangervidda Nature Centre, explore Vøringsfossen waterfall, or take part in various hiking and kayaking activities along the fjords.
Top Harbours Typically Visited by Cruises Going to Norwegian Fjords
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Amsterdam, Netherlands: A popular departure point, Amsterdam is well-known for its iconic canals and rich cultural heritage. While in port, visit the Anne Frank House, explore the Van Gogh Museum, or take a leisurely bike ride along the picturesque waterfront.
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Copenhagen, Denmark: Often a stopover on itineraries, Copenhagen boasts stunning sights and a vibrant atmosphere. Be sure to explore the Nyhavn waterfront, marvel at the Little Mermaid statue, and take a stroll through Tivoli Gardens, where you can relax and enjoy live performances.
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Southampton, England: As a key cruise port, Southampton provides guests with a wealth of experiences before or after their cruise. Discover the SeaCity Museum, explore the historic Old Town, or enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants nearby!
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Reykjavik, Iceland: Frequently visited on cruises to Norway, Reykjavik offers a unique cultural experience. Explore the Sun Voyager statue, visit the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, and take a short trip to the famous Golden Circle area to witness natural wonders like geysers and waterfalls.
Best Times to Cruise to Norwegian Fjords
The ideal time to cruise the Norwegian Fjords typically falls between May and September, when temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, providing perfect conditions for exploration and outdoor activities. Summer months also offer the midnight sun experience, allowing for extended daylight hours to soak in the beautiful landscapes and natural wonders. For a quieter experience with fewer tourists, consider cruising during the spring or autumn shoulder months April and October, when temperatures are still mild (around 10°C to 15°C) and the scenery remains just as breathtaking.
Costs of Cruising to Norwegian Fjords
A typical one-week cruise to the Norwegian Fjords usually starts off at around $2,100, while a two-week journey can set you back approximately $4,300. For a luxury cruise experience, expect prices to begin around $5,800 for a week. Dining costs in Norway can vary widely, with meals generally ranging from $20 to $60, and drinks costing around $7 to $15, allowing you to indulge in delicious local fare without overspending.
Alternative Regions Worth Considering for Your Next Cruise
If the captivating Norwegian Fjords have captured your imagination, consider these alternative regions for your next cruise adventure:
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Scandinavian Coast: Explore the enchanting coastal towns of Sweden and Denmark, experiencing a rich blend of history and culture along the way.
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Baltic Sea: Journey through charming cities like Tallinn and St. Petersburg, where you can immerse yourself in unique experiences and vibrant local culture.
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British Isles: Experience the captivating charm of the British Isles, with the chance to explore iconic landmarks and beautiful landscapes across England, Scotland, and Ireland.
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Arctic: For those seeking adventure, an Arctic cruise presents incredible landscapes, wildlife experiences, and opportunities for breathtaking photo captures.
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Western Europe: Offering access to charming towns and cultures across France and Belgium, Western Europe presents a unique blend of history and delightful culinary experiences.
Are you ready to set sail on an unforgettable journey through the magnificent Norwegian Fjords? Book your cruise with Cruise1st today and immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty and rich culture that awaits you in this spectacular region!