Norwegian Fjord Cruises

Explore the Majestic Norwegian Fjords with Cruise1st

The Norwegian Fjords are a spectacular tapestry of towering cliffs, blue waters, and lush landscapes that are calling out to be explored. These stunning natural formations, carved by glaciers over millions of years, offer some of the most breathtaking scenery you'll ever witness. Fun fact: Norway has over 1,000 fjords, and the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord is one of the most famous! Opting for a cruise to the Norwegian Fjords gives you the unparalleled opportunity to see these wonders up close while enjoying the comforts of your floating hotel.

Top Cruise Lines Sailing to the Norwegian Fjords

• Holland America Line: With a fleet of 11 ships, Holland America sails 4 that explore the Norwegian Fjords, notably the Rotterdam and Nieuw Statendam. These ships are renowned for their exceptional service and immersive cultural experiences onboard. They also offer diverse dining options, from gourmet to casual, so you can indulge on your journey. Departing often from Rotterdam or Dover, you'll find convenient access to the fjords from major ports in Northern Europe.
• MSC Cruises: This line boasts a fleet of 23, with 4 offering itineraries to the Norwegian Fjords. Look for MSC Poesia and MSC Preziosa, both known for their family-friendly amenities and vibrant entertainment. Cruises typically depart from Copenhagen or Warnemünde, giving you a fantastic starting point for your fjord adventure.
• P&O Cruises: Featuring 7 vessels, P&O has 4 that cruise the Norwegian Fjords, including the beloved Aurora and Britannia. Known for their tailored family experiences, these ships provide an excellent mix of relaxation and entertainment options. Most of their cruises depart from Southampton, making it convenient for travellers from the UK.
• Cunard: With 4 ships in its fleet, Cunard has 3 vessels offering fjord itineraries; look out for Queen Mary 2 and Queen Anne. These ships offer an elegant cruising experience complete with fine dining and classic British charm. Cruises often depart from Southampton or New York, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Norway.
• Princess Cruises: Princess operates 17 ships in total, with 4 voyages focused on the fjords, especially the Sky Princess and Crown Princess. Known for their charming atmosphere and dedicated onboard service, these ships create memorable experiences at sea. Departures usually occur from international ports such as Southampton or Dover, with some domestic departures available from Australia.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to the Norwegian Fjords

• Silversea: With 12 ships in their fleet, Silversea has 4 that explore the Norwegian Fjords, including Silver Dawn and Silver Spirit. These luxury vessels boast spacious accommodations and exquisite dining, focusing heavily on tailored experiences for discerning travellers. Most cruises depart from Copenhagen or New York, enhancing the trip with refined city experiences before the fjord explorations begin.
• Oceania Cruises: Oceania operates a fleet of 8 vessels, featuring 3 that offer itineraries to the Norwegian Fjords, including Sirena and Vista. These ships are celebrated for their culinary excellence and destination-focused itineraries. Departures often occur from Southampton or Edinburgh, making it easy to blend metropolitan adventures with fjord experiences.
• Seabourn: With 6 ships, Seabourn has 1 that journeys to the fjords, the Seabourn Sojourn. Known for its intimate and luxurious feel, this ship promises exceptional service and upscale amenities. Departures generally take place from London or Reykjavik, perfect for those looking for a stylish and exclusive adventure.
• Azamara Cruises: Featuring a fleet of 4, Azamara has 2 ships—Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest—that explore the fjords. Their focus on immersive experiences allows passengers to connect deeply with the destinations they visit. Cruises typically depart from Copenhagen or Leith, offering guests a vibrant start to their fjord cruising adventure.

Must-Visit Harbours in the Norwegian Fjords

• Ålesund: This charming town is famous for its art nouveau architecture and stunning coastal views. When you dock, take a stroll through the picturesque streets, explore the Atlantic Sea Park, or hike up to Aksla viewpoint for a panoramic view of the surrounding fjords and islands.
• Stavanger: Known as the gateway to the Norwegian fjords, Stavanger boasts a lively food scene and beautiful beaches. Explore the charming old town, Gamle Stavanger, with its well-preserved wooden houses. If time allows, venture out to Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) for one of the most breathtaking views in Norway—just a short hike away!
• Olden: This idyllic village is a popular stop for fjord cruisers. Visit the nearby Briksdal Glacier, where guided hiking tours take you right up to this magnificent sight. Don’t forget to check out the local shops for unique handicrafts or sample traditional Norwegian dishes at local eateries.
• Tromsø: Known as the "Gateway to the Arctic," Tromsø is filled with cultural experiences. While docked, visit the Polar Museum for insights into Norway’s Arctic history, or venture outside the city to explore nearby fjords. If you're cruising in winter, you might even catch the mesmerizing Northern Lights!
• Haugesund: Renowned for its rich Viking history, this coastal town is a great place to explore local culture. Cruise passengers can visit the Nordvegen History Centre to learn about Norway's Viking past, or just enjoy the lively waterfront and beautiful parks in the area. The nearby islands are perfect for a day trip as well!

Consider These Ports Before and After Your Fjord Cruise

• Rotterdam, Netherlands: A vibrant city known for its modern architecture, start your journey by exploring the famous Markthal, a foodie paradise, or take a harbor tour to see the stunning skyline. Don’t miss the historic maritime museum to learn about Rotterdam’s rich seafaring past!
• Dover, England: Famous for its white cliffs, Dover offers a wealth of history. While docked, passengers can explore the impressive Dover Castle or take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque waterfront.
• Copenhagen, Denmark: Known for its iconic Nyhavn waterfront and charming streets, Copenhagen is the ideal spot to start your fjord adventure. Spend your time visiting attractions like the Little Mermaid statue and the historic Tivoli Gardens before boarding your cruise.
• Istanbul, Turkey: The city where East meets West is a must-see. While there, explore the breathtaking Hagia Sophia, shop in the Grand Bazaar, and enjoy delicious street food at one of the many local stalls.
• Kotor, Montenegro: With its stunning fjord-like bay, Kotor offers rich history. While docked, explore the medieval architecture, climb the fortress for stunning views, and sample local delicacies at one of the charming restaurants.

Best Seasons to Cruise the Norwegian Fjords

Cruising the Norwegian Fjords is beautiful year-round, but certain seasons offer unique experiences! From May to June, temperatures are pleasantly mild, around 10-20°C—perfect for exploring towns and hiking. July to August brings warmer days, reaching up to 25°C, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts wanting to enjoy the great Norwegian nature. Autumn, from September to October, offers a mix of cooler weather (around 5-15°C) and beautiful fall colours, making it perfect for photography enthusiasts and those looking to avoid the summer crowds.

Cost Insights for Norwegian Fjords Cruises

A week-long cruise to the Norwegian Fjords typically ranges from $1,800 to $3,000 AUD, while two-week options can cost between $3,500 and $6,800 AUD. For luxury cruises, budgets start around $5,500 AUD for a week and up to $12,000 AUD for two weeks. Dining on board is often included, but if you’re keen on exploring local culinary delights, expect restaurant prices to range from $25 to $50 AUD per meal, complemented by drinks typically costing around $10-15 AUD.

Alternative Regions to Consider for Your Cruise

If you're mulling over a cruise to the Norwegian Fjords, consider these exciting alternatives:

• Alaska: Known for its pristine wilderness and stunning glaciers, Alaska offers enthralling wildlife, scenic fjords, and rich indigenous culture—perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
• Adriatic Sea: Famous for its beautiful cities and stunning coastlines, the Adriatic Sea is a fantastic alternative for those who want a blend of culture, history, and relaxation by the sea.
• Arctic: For those looking for unique polar experiences, an Arctic cruise presents incredible wildlife sightings and breathtaking landscapes, with an added focus on adventure and exploration.
• Scandinavia: Exploring Scandinavia combines stunning nature and fascinating culture. Visit iconic cities like Stockholm and Oslo, all while enjoying the wild beauty of the Nordic countries.
• Baltic Sea: Perfect for history buffs and culture seekers, the Baltic region features iconic cities like Tallinn, Helsinki, and St. Petersburg, rich with history and gorgeous architecture.

Your ideal adventure awaits in the Norwegian Fjords! With Cruise1st, you'll sail through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. Let us help you chart your course to these stunning destinations!