Small-ship cruising is the way to go if you’re hoping to get up close to this beguiling Scandinavian country’s iconic, awe-inspiring scenery. While there are more than a thousand fjords throughout Norway, these rank as our favorites and the ones that you’re likely to see on an upscale small-ship cruise line.
Geirangerfjord
The granddaddy of Norwegian fjords, Geirangerfjord sits on the UNESCO World Heritage List, along with Naeroyfjord. Marvel at the De Syv Søstre, Friaren and Knivsflåfoss waterfalls, and small, abandoned farms clinging to the hillsides, as you sail through the 10-mile-long landscape. If given the chance, travel the famous Trollstigen mountain road to get to Dalsnibba, where you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the fjord from 5,000 feet up.
Sognefjord
Sail this longest and deepest of the Norwegian fjords as it follows sheer cliffs for 120 miles. Jostedalsbreen, Europe’s biggest glacier, is at its end. From here, you can venture to Jotunheimen National Park (home to 24 of Norway’s 25 highest peaks), Flåm, Balestrand, and Solvorn. From glacier walks to fishing to unforgettable hikes, Sognefjord offers an exciting experience for all visitors.
Naeroyfjord
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the narrowest of the inlets of the Sognefjord and is an arm of the Aurlandsfjord. Its staggering cliffs jutt almost 6,000 feet into the air around you, making you feel like a mere dot on the landscape. Considered one of the top two fjords to visit in Norway (the other being the Geirangerford), 10-mile-long Naeroyfjord is a sight to behold all year-round, from its emerald-green glacial meltwater in spring to wildflower-strewn meadows in summer.
Aurlandsfjord
Most small-ship cruises include Aurlandsfjord, which includes the towns of Flåm, Aurland, and Undredal. Flåm is home to the namesake railway, one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys. Don’t miss the one-hour ride across bridges and through tunnels as it descends nearly a half-mile at a 55% grade.
Lysefjord
Home to the world-famous Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen), a flat-edged cliff heart-stoppingly high above the water, Lysefjord is the southernmost of the popular fjords and the closest one to Oslo. You’ll also find Mount Kjerag here, which you may recognize from social media feeds - it has a boulder impressively wedged between its cliffsides some 3,000 feet in the air. Another fun thing to do here - climb the 4,444-step Flørli wooden staircase, the world’s longest.
Hjørundfjord
What’s more majestic than a massive fjord? A massive fjord lined by Alps. The Hjørundfjord splits the Sunnmøre Alps in two, revealing small villages on mountainsides, some of which are only connected to the outside world by boat. The 20.5-mile-long fjord is a favorite of hikers and skiers, as well as those who love to explore adorable towns like art nouveau Ålesund or the romantic Øye.
Hardangerfjord
Second only to the Sognefjord in length, Hardangerfjord is 110 miles long and offers access to the Trolltunga (“Troll’s Tongue), Folgefonna National Park, Steinsdalsfossen and the small towns of Jondal and Sundal. Known for its bountiful fruit trees, particularly cherry and apple, Hardangerfjord is also known for some of the world’s tastiest cider.
If you’re dreaming of fantastical vistas of deep water, gushing waterfalls and characterful Norwegian towns, let’s chat about a fjord cruise. There are ample choices depending on your travel interests and goals, some including overnight stays in towns such as Flåm and Geiranger, so that you have plenty of time for exploration. I look forward to planning the perfect Norwegian cruise experience for you.