Bergen Fjord Cruises: Which One to Choose (Local Guide)

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As the “gateway to the fjords”, there are many fjord cruises from Bergen to choose from. It can be a little overwhelming knowing which one is the right fit for you. But I’m here to help!

I have lived in Bergen for more than 8 years now, and grew up just a few hours from here (right by the fjord in Aurland). As a result, I’m the perfect person to share the best fjord cruises leaving from Bergen!

In the past I have covered some of the great tours and excursions in Bergen, but the ones on this list are focused on just the fjords.

There are a few fjords within easy reach near Bergen, such as the Hardangerfjord, the Sognefjord (with its arms) and Osterfjorden. Some of these are amongst the best fjords in Norway, in my opinion.

I have selected 5 options for you, starting with the one that many believe is the best fjord cruise from Bergen. I hope this helps you choose which way to explore the fjords during your trip!

Which Fjord Cruise from Bergen Should You Choose?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the fjord cruise options from Bergen, you’re not alone. They can look quite similar at first glance.

Here’s the simple breakdown I usually give friends and family visiting me:

• Short on time (3–4 hours): Go for the Mostraumen fjord cruise. This is the easiest and most popular option, and still gives you that classic fjord experience with waterfalls and narrow passages.
• Want the most iconic fjord scenery: Choose a cruise to the Nærøyfjord (a UNESCO-listed fjord). It’s more dramatic and “famous,” but also requires a longer day trip from Bergen.
• Prefer something more private or unique: Book a private fjord cruise or RIB boat tour. These are more expensive, but give you a more personal and flexible experience.
• Traveling in winter or off-season: Stick with Mostraumen. It runs year-round and is the most reliable option.

If you’re only in Bergen for a day or two, I personally recommend the Mostraumen cruise. It’s easy, beautiful, and doesn’t take up your entire day.

What is a fjord cruise?

In my Norway travel guide I have explained in detail what a fjord is, so I won’t spend too much time on that here. In short, a fjord is a body of water connected to the ocean, that was created by the glaciers of the last ice age.

There are over 1700 named fjords in Norway, which is quite insane to think about. It is not hard to understand why Norway is the official land of the fjords.

So, what is a fjord cruise?

There are two types of fjord cruises. One type of fjord cruise is a large cruise ship going on a several days long trip along the Norwegian coastline and into the fjords. Cruise lines like P&O, Costa, MCS and Viking Cruises all have cruises to the Norwegian fjords.

Many of them even go to Flåm and the area where I grew up!

However, the Bergen fjord cruises we are focusing on today are slightly different. They are also what most people think about when they hear the term.

Fjord Cruises in Norway are just Scenic Boat Rides

A fjord cruise is a fancy name for a boat trip on the fjord. It has gotten its name because you are cruising silently on a fjord – and probably to make it sound a little more inviting than just “boat trip”.

But, basically, these are the Norwegian equivalent of the party boats in Punta Cana or the catamaran cruises in Cancun.

The cruises can take any shape or size, from large electric vessels to small, fast-paced ones. All though the latter is often called a “Fjord Safari” instead.

No matter where in Norway you go, you are likely to come across a fjord cruise, as they are a great way to explore the country’s famous inlets. Whether that’s Flåm, Geiranger, Stavanger or even Oslo.

And of course Bergen. Which is the focus of this article.

Side note: Oslo’s fjord cruise might be a little underwhelming if you start your trip in western Norway. Head to my Oslo vs Bergen breakdown for which city is the better choice for you!

5 Best Fjord Cruises from Bergen

With Bergen being the largest city in western Norway, and within easy reach of several of the best fjords, it’s only natural that there are loads of fjord cruises to choose from.

That being said, which one should you choose?

Below I have outlined the best fjord cruises from Bergen – and highlighted details about each of them. That way, you can decide which is the perfect one for you!

Going on a fjord cruise is one of the most popular things to do in Bergen, and an absolute must when you visit. All of these start from the docks in the center of Bergen, and are round trip cruises. Unless otherwise specified.

The dock area in Bergen (where most of these cruises start) is located right by the Fish Market and the Bryggen UNESCO site, so these all depart from the same(ish) place!

Tip: This one tends to sell out first during peak season.

#2 Sognefjord Cruise from Bergen

The Sognefjord is known as the “king of the fjords”, and with good reason. It is the longest fjord in the world (with the exception of one in Greenland that is frozen – so it doesn’t count, in my opinion). It is also the deepest.

In addition to this, it has some pretty famous fjord arms. Fjord arms are basically smaller fjords that “stick out” of the bigger fjord.

If you imagine your arm and hand being the main fjord (i.e. the Sognefjord in this case), your fingers would be the fjord arms.

This is how I usually explain the fjords and fjord arms when I guide for Adventures by Disney (I work as a Disney Adventure Guide in Norway every summer, and it’s the best job in the world, after travel blogging!).

At the end of the Sognefjord you will find the Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord, both world heritage fjords and a world heritage site. The latter is listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List together with the Geirangerfjord (further north).

This is also where I grew up (in Aurland, a great alternative to Flåm if you are spending the night)!

Therefore, traveling through the Sognefjord from Bergen is a great way to see the length of the world’s biggest fjord. However, it is a full-day trip – so expect to leave Bergen early (at 8 in the morning), and to get back late (around 9 in the evening).

This includes a 2-hour stop in Flåm. I recommend having lunch at the bakery and going on a stroll along the fjord during your time there.

Basically, this is a return ticket on the express boat from Bergen to Flåm. It runs only in the summer months. Many locals don’t consider it a fjord cruise, but a mode of transportation (we actually use it to travel to the outer areas of the Sognefjord).

But, as we established above, a fjord cruise is simply a boat on the fjord – so you’re good to go!

You can also consider getting a return ticket for the next day, and spend the night in Flåm! There are some great hotels in Flåm to choose from, and this would give you a chance to explore the village and region more. Note that accommodation is not included in the boat ticket.

• Best For: independent travelers / transport + experience
• Duration: 13 hours
• Fjords: Sognefjord, Aurlandsfjord (sneak peek into the Nærøyfjord)
• Max travellers: 150
• Cost: $310 (round trip) / $210 (one way)
• Advance booking needed: Yes
• BOOK HERE

#4 Viking Ship Fjord Cruise (Summer only)

If you want a more unique, and exclusive experience cruising the fjords in Bergen, this might be the cruise for you.

Sailing on an authentic Viking ship with just 12 travellers on board is a great way to explore the harbour and sights outside of Bergen. Whilst it doesn’t take you far from the city, and thus not into any of the more dramatic fjords, this can still be worthwhile if you want to go off the beaten path.

During this 1,5-hour sailing you’ll be treated to a hot drink, and some lovely views of the city. Definitely a must for families or Viking enthusiasts!

If you consider yourself the latter, I hope you’ll head on over to read my guides to Nordic symbols and their meanings, Norse Goddesses and of course the most famous Vikings of all time!

• Best for: unique / cultural experience
• Duration: 1,5 hours
• Fjords: Bergen harbour, Puddefjorden
• Max travellers: 12
• Cost: $120
• Advance booking needed: Yes
• BOOK HERE

Honorable Mention: Hurtigruten or Havila Cruises

If you’re looking for a longer coastal journey rather than a day trip, the classic Hurtigruten and Havila coastal cruises are also worth considering.

These ships travel the historic coastal route between Bergen and Kirkenes, stopping at dozens of small towns and ports along the Norwegian coastline. While they are technically working coastal ferries rather than traditional cruise ships, they offer a comfortable and scenic way to experience Norway’s dramatic landscapes.

For travelers who enjoy slow travel this can be a wonderful way to see Norway and the fjords. You’ll sail past fjords, islands, and remote fishing villages, with opportunities to step ashore at many of the stops along the way.

This is also ideal for those looking for longer adventures, whether that’s a full 2 weeks or a 7 or 5 day fjord cruise from Bergen.

However, since the full journey takes several days, Hurtigruten and Havila are better suited for those with more time to spare, rather than travelers looking for a quick fjord experience from Bergen.

More Fjord Cruises from Bergen

Of course, this list includes only the 5 best fjord cruises departing (and ending) in Bergen.

However, there are more. I just chose these 5 because they are considered the “best” for various reasons, but it might be that you find another one that suits your needs and travel style.

Below you’ll find more Bergen fjord tours to choose from, in case you wanted more options!

Bergen Fjord Cruises FAQ

Below are the most frequently asked questions about fjord tours from Bergen – answered by a local!