Bergen cruises | Explore the most stunning fjords of Norway

Bergen is the gateway to Norway’s well-known fjords, where dramatic mountains meet crystal-clear waters. From short sightseeing cruises around the city to full-day fjord adventures with Viking village visits, waterfalls, and rail journeys, Bergen offers unique ways to discover the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

What to expect on Bergen cruises

Hanseatic wharf in Bergen, Norway with colorful wooden buildings along the waterfront.
Boat cruising through Mostraumen fjord with steep cliffs and lush greenery in Norway.
Osterfjord Norway winter reflection with snow-covered mountains and calm water.
Viking village with wooden houses and mountains on a Guided Fjords tour.
Flåm Railway train at snowy station with red buildings in Norway.
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Easy cruise or coach boarding

Whether you’re stepping aboard a high-speed catamaran in Bergen harbor or joining a comfortable coach before boarding a fjord ferry, the process is seamless. Clear meeting points, smooth check-in, and professional staff ensure your journey starts stress-free.

Striking views of the fjords

Sail deep into Norway’s legendary fjords, such as Mostraumen, Nærøyfjord, and Hardangerfjord. From towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls to mirror-like waters, every moment on the fjord offers breathtaking natural beauty.

See iconic places in and around Bergen

Depending on your tour, you may explore historic Bergen from the water, stop at Stegastein viewpoint for panoramic vistas, admire Kjosfossen and Tvindefossen waterfalls, or discover the charm of Flåm. Some itineraries even take you to a traditional apple farm or the reconstructed Njardarheimr Viking Village.

Enjoy guided experiences

Expert English-speaking guides and live audio commentary bring history, culture, and legends to life on your Bergen cruise or day tour. From the tales of Viking warriors to insights on Bergen’s maritime past, every tour is enriched by storytelling and local knowledge.

Extended tours come with add-ons

Long duration tours include bonus experiences such as a ride on the iconic Flåm Railway, ferry crossings, stops at famous viewpoints or waterfalls, onboard lunches with dessert and coffee, or guided walks through Viking heritage sites. These inclusions make your trip both comfortable and comprehensive.

Things to know before booking your Bergen cruise tickets

  • Types, of experiences vary: You can choose from a short1-hour city cruise, a 4-hour fjord cruise to Mostraumen , or more immersive half- and full-day adventures (6-12 hours). Longer tours offer a well-curated itinerary combining fjord cruises with stops at Viking villages, scenic bus rides, train journeys, and waterfalls.
  • Peak time to book: Summer (June-August) and holiday periods are the busiest. Tickets for popular tours like the Flåm Railway + Nærøyfjord Cruise sell out weeks in advance, so secure your spot early.
  • Meeting points: Cruises typically depart directly from Bergen harbor, while full-day tours start at designated meeting points in the city, where you’ll board a coach. Always check your ticket details carefully.
  • Transportation options: For cruises, expect modern sightseeing boats, high-speed catamarans, or eco-friendly electric ferries with comfortable seating. Full/half-day tour experiences combine multiple modes of travel like fjord boats or ferries, modern tour buses, and the famous Flåm Railway.
  • Guides and commentary: Some cruises include live commentary or audio guides in multiple languages, while full-day tours often include an English-speaking guide for deeper insights.
  • Food & drinks: Short cruises don’t include meals, but many day tours offer refreshments such as coffee, cake, or lunch onboard. You’re also free to bring your own snacks.
  • Seasonality: Bergen cruises and tours operate year-round, but schedules vary with the seasons. Summer offers long daylight hours and lush scenery, while winter brings snowcapped peaks and fewer crowds.

Which Bergen cruise ticket is best for you?

Colorful historic buildings in Bergen, Norway, along the sightseeing cruise route.

Sightseeing cruises

Ideal for: Travelers with limited time or seeking a gentle introduction to Bergen’s beauty.

  • Choose a 1-hour city sightseeing cruise for a quick yet memorable glimpse of the harbor, or a 4-hour fjord cruise to Mostraumen for dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and mountain scenery without committing your whole day.
  • These options are especially popular with families, couples, and travelers on tight schedules.

Recommended tickets:

  • Bergen Historic City Sightseeing Cruise
  • From Bergen: Mostraumen Fjord Cruise
Aerial view of a cruise ship navigating Mostraumen Fjord, surrounded by steep cliffs and blue water.

Half or full-day tours from Bergen

Ideal for: Travelers who want to immerse themselves fully in Norway’s landscapes and culture.

  • These experiences often combine fjord cruises with scenic train rides, visits to Viking heritage sites, and stops at breathtaking waterfalls and viewpoints.
  • Expect a full day of discovery, blending natural wonders with cultural highlights for an unforgettable adventure.

Recommended tickets:

  • From Bergen: Full-Day Tour of Viking Village, Nærøyfjord Cruise & Flåm Railway
  • From Bergen: Scenic Hardanger Fjord and Waterfalls Guided Bus Tour

What you will see on a Bergen boat trip

Colorful wooden buildings along Bryggen wharf in Bergen, Norway, with forested hills in the background.

Bryggen Wharf

Sail past a row of brightly painted wooden houses with sharp gabled roofs, leaning slightly as if whispering secrets to one another. From the fjord, they glow against the hillside, their reflection shimmering across the harbor.

Tourists on a cruise ship deck enjoying views of Nærøyfjord's mountains and water.
Mostraumen Fjord Cruise boat sailing through narrow fjord with rocky cliffs and trees in Norway.
Colorful wooden buildings along Bryggen wharf in Bergen, Norway, with forested hills in the background.
Colorful wooden houses along Wharf Skuteviken in Bergen, Norway, with hillside backdrop.

Highlights of your day tour from Bergen

Tourists on a cruise ship deck enjoying views of Nærøyfjord's mountains and water.
World War 2 German U-boat base in Bordeaux with concrete structure and water.
Bergen fish market with stalls and visitors, set against colorful buildings and mountains in Norway.
Tourists on a cruise ship deck enjoying views of Nærøyfjord's mountains and water.
Hallstatt village by the lake with mountains in Austria.
Colorful wooden buildings along Bryggen wharf in Bergen, Norway, with forested hills in the background.
Aerial view of Bergen city at sunset with harbor and surrounding mountains.
Cruise through Mostraumen Fjord near Bergen, Norway, with scenic mountains and houses.
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Nærøyfjord 

Cruise through one of Norway’s narrowest fjords, with vertical cliffs rising on both sides and waterfalls plunging into the water.

Flåm railway ride

Ride through steep valleys and mountain tunnels, with panoramic windows framing rivers, farms, and forested slopes.

Kjosfossen Waterfall 

Enjoy a stop at this thundering waterfall where mist rises from the cascades, creating a dramatic natural spectacle.

Stegastein viewpoint

Some tours involve visiting this striking platform extending out from the mountainside, offering sweeping views across the Aurlandsfjord far below.

Tvindefossen Waterfall 

Admire the tiered flow of this 110-meter cascade, often photographed for its fairy-tale look.

Njardarheimr Viking Village 

Step into a reconstructed Viking-age settlement, complete with wooden longhouses and interactive storytelling.

Hardangerfjord 

Travel along the “Queen of the Fjords,” surrounded by mountains, glaciers, and fruit orchards along the shoreline.

Fjord ferry crossings 

Enjoy short ferry rides that connect your coach journey, giving you more time on the water with breathtaking views in every direction.

Plan your Bergen Cruise experience

Tourists on a cruise ship deck enjoying views of Nærøyfjord's mountains and water.

General timings:

  • From Bergen: Mostraumen Fjord Cruise: 9am - 3pm
  • Bergen Historic City Sightseeing Cruise: 12:45pm
  • From Bergen: Full-Day Tour of Viking Village, Nærøyfjord Cruise & Flåm Railway: 8am
  • From Bergen: Scenic Hardanger Fjord and Waterfalls Guided Bus Tour: 9am
  • Late spring to early autumn (May to September): The weather during these months is pleasant, the landscapes are in full bloom and you will experience longer daylight hours. The temperature ranges from 9°C and can go up to 20°C during July and August. These two months attracted maximum tourists as it is warmer and all of nature’s colors are visible throughout the landscapes.

  • December to February: For a quieter experience and if you’re interested in spotting killer whalessnow-clad mountains, and frozen water, these months are perfect. Since the days are shorter and the weather is colder, it is better to check the cruise or tour schedule before booking,**** as sometimes they might not operate due to the weather conditions.

  • Modern boats and catamarans with spacious indoor lounges and open-air decks
  • Audio guides and live commentary on most cruises
  • Cafes or snack bars on certain boats and ferries
  • Heating and covered areas for the winter months cruises
  • Professional guides on full-day tours for historical context, cultural stories, and local insights
  • First-class tour buses with reclining seats, air conditioning, and panoramic windows
  • Tours offer opportunities to disembark at certain stops, including waterfalls, villages, and viewpoints, for photos and exploration.
  • Free Wi-Fi on selected boats and buses
  • Arrive at the harbor or meeting point at least 15-20 minutes before departure to avoid missing your tour.
  • Dress in layers and bring a waterproof jacket, as the weather in Bergen and the fjords can change quickly.
  • Carry a camera or smartphone with extra storage and battery as the landscapes are highly photogenic.
  • For longer tours, pack a reusable water bottle and some snacks, even if meals are included.
  • If traveling in peak summer season, book tickets well in advance to secure your preferred date and time.
  • Keep cash or a card available, as some cafés or small village shops may not accept all payment methods.
  • Motion sickness can occur on Bergen fjord cruises; bring medication if you are sensitive to boat travel.

Frequently asked questions about Bergen cruises

How long does a standard Bergen cruise last?

Bergen city sightseeing cruise takes 1 hour, the Mostraumen Fjord cruise is 4 hours long, while full-day tours last 8–12 hours with multiple experiences/stops included.

What languages are available for audio guide or commentary?

Most tours provide English commentary, with some boats offering multilingual audio guides.

Are the Bergen cruises and tours guided?

Yes. Cruises often feature audio guides or live commentary, while full-day tours include English-speaking guides sharing local history, culture, and landscape insights.

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes. Popular tours like the Flåm Railway and Nærøyfjord Cruise often sell out weeks ahead, especially in summer. Booking early secures your spot.

Can I see wildlife during the cruises?

Yes. You may spot seabirds, seals, and occasionally porpoises along the fjords. Wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed but are a frequent highlight.

Are meals included on the tours?

Short cruises don’t include meals. Full-day tours may provide lunch, coffee, or snacks, depending on the package booked.

How far from Bergen are the fjords visited on cruises?

Destinations like Nærøyfjord, Hardangerfjord, and Flåm are a few hours away, reached easily by bus and ferry as part of the tour.

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