At a Glance
Quick OverviewBergen is Norway’s undisputed gateway to the fjords—a city where dramatic mountain scenery meets historic waterfront charm, and where countless fjord adventures begin each day. In 2024, Bergen welcomed 590,944 cruise passengers, making it Norway’s second-busiest cruise port after Ålesund. From the UNESCO-listed Bryggen wharf, travellers can access world-famous Sognefjord, picturesque Hardangerfjord, and the narrow straits of Mostraumen—all within easy reach of this historic harbour city.
Whether you have half a day or half a week, Bergen offers fjord cruise options to match every schedule and budget. The classic Norway in a Nutshell tour departs daily, electric vessels pioneer sustainable fjord tourism, and express boats connect Bergen to remote villages impossible to reach by road. This guide covers every option for experiencing Norway’s fjords from Bergen, complete with practical advice for planning your perfect fjord adventure.
Bergen: Gateway to the Fjords
Why Bergen Is the Best Starting Point
Geographic advantages:
- Central location in Fjord Norway region
- Direct access to multiple major fjord systems
- Well-connected harbour with diverse cruise options
- International airport with European connections
- Rail connections to Oslo via scenic Bergen Railway
- Ferry terminals for coastal and fjord voyages
2024 cruise statistics for Bergen:
| Statistic | Data |
|---|---|
| Cruise passengers | 590,944 |
| National ranking | 2nd (after Ålesund) |
| Peak month | July |
| Growth vs 2023 | +4% |
| Cruise calls | 350+ |
Bergen Harbour Departure Points
Main cruise departure locations:
| Terminal | Location | Cruises |
|---|---|---|
| Strandkaiterminalen | City centre | Mostraumen, Sognefjord express |
| Hurtigruten Terminal | Nordnes | Coastal voyage departures |
| Zachariasbryggen | Fish Market area | Day cruises, RIB boats |
| Bergen Railway Station | Central | Norway in a Nutshell trains |
| Skolten Quay | North harbour | Various ferry services |
Most departures are within walking distance of each other in central Bergen, making it easy to combine activities or make last-minute changes.
Fjord Cruise Options from Bergen
Overview of All Options
| Tour | Duration | Distance | Highlights | Price Range (NOK) | Price (GBP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mostraumen | 3.5 hours | 27 km | Narrow strait, waterfalls | 700-900 | £50-65 |
| Norway in a Nutshell | 12-14 hours | 200+ km | Sognefjord, Flåm Railway, UNESCO | 2,000-3,500 | £150-260 |
| Hardangerfjord Express | 5-6 hours | 100+ km | Orchards, waterfalls | 1,200-1,800 | £90-135 |
| Sognefjord Express | 5-6 hours | 150+ km | Deep fjord, villages | 750-1,200 | £55-90 |
| RIB Safari | 1.5-3 hours | Various | Speed, wildlife, waterfalls | 900-1,800 | £65-135 |
| Hurtigruten Coastal | 6-12 days | 2,400 nm | Multi-port, Trollfjord | From 29,540 | From £2,200 |
Norway in a Nutshell
The classic Norwegian experience:
Norway in a Nutshell combines Norway’s most famous scenic experiences in one comprehensive journey. Departing Bergen, the tour encompasses mountain railways, UNESCO fjords, and dramatic bus routes—all in a single memorable day.
The full itinerary:
| Stage | Route | Duration | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bergen to Voss (train) | 1.5 hours | Valley scenery, river |
| 2 | Voss to Gudvangen (bus) | 1 hour | Stalheimskleiva hairpins |
| 3 | Gudvangen to Flåm (ferry) | 2 hours | UNESCO Nærøyfjord |
| 4 | Flåm to Myrdal (Flåm Railway) | 1 hour | World’s steepest railway |
| 5 | Myrdal to Bergen (train) | 2.5 hours | Mountain plateau crossing |
Norway in a Nutshell details:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Total duration | 12-14 hours |
| Price | NOK 2,000-3,500 (£150-260) |
| Season | Year-round (seasonal variations) |
| Booking | fjordtours.com |
| Starting point | Bergen Railway Station |
What makes it special:
- Combines multiple iconic Norwegian experiences efficiently
- Self-guided flexibility or guided options available
- UNESCO World Heritage fjord included (Nærøyfjord)
- Flåm Railway—amongst world’s steepest and most scenic
- No car required; all public transport connections
- Can be done in reverse direction
- Overnight options for a more relaxed pace
Nærøyfjord cruise highlights:
- 250 metres wide at narrowest point
- Cliffs rising 1,700 metres on either side
- Historic farms clinging to cliffsides
- Waterfalls cascading from heights
- Electric vessel option (Future of the Fjords)
Mostraumen Fjord Cruise
Quick fjord fix from central Bergen:
For travellers with limited time, the Mostraumen cruise delivers authentic fjord scenery within a half-day excursion. Departing directly from Bergen’s central harbour, the cruise navigates through Osterfjord to the narrow Mostraumen strait—a dramatic passage between steep cliffs.
Mostraumen cruise details:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3.5 hours |
| Price | NOK 700-900 (£50-65) |
| Departure | Zachariasbryggen, Bergen |
| Season | Year-round (reduced winter) |
| Operator | Rodne Fjord Cruise |
What you’ll experience:
- Departure past historic Bryggen waterfront
- Navigation through scenic Osterfjord
- Passage through the narrow Mostraumen strait (ship reverses through)
- Close approach to waterfalls (seasonal—best in May-June)
- Mountain scenery and cliff walls
- Wildlife spotting opportunities (seals, seabirds)
- Return past islands and coastal scenery
The Mostraumen strait: The highlight is the dramatic 150-metre-wide passage where the boat must carefully navigate—and sometimes reverse—through the narrow opening. Watch from the deck as steep cliffs close in on both sides. The captain’s skill in manoeuvring creates a thrilling experience.
Best for:
- Limited time in Bergen (half-day available)
- First-time fjord visitors wanting a taste
- Those not planning additional fjord tours
- Families with young children
- Anyone wanting a quick fjord experience without extensive travel
Sognefjord Express Boat
Norway’s longest and deepest fjord:
Express boats connect Bergen directly to villages along mighty Sognefjord—the 204-kilometre king of Norwegian fjords reaching depths of 1,308 metres. These high-speed ferries offer practical transport and stunning scenery combined.
Express boat routes from Bergen:
| Route | Duration | Key Stops | Price (NOK) | Price (GBP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bergen-Flåm | 5.5 hours | Vik, Balestrand, Aurland | 750-900 | £55-65 |
| Bergen-Sogndal | 4.5 hours | Vik, Balestrand | 650-800 | £50-60 |
| Bergen-Balestrand | 3.5 hours | Vik | 550-700 | £40-50 |
Popular destinations:
Flåm:
- Terminus of famous Flåm Railway
- Access to Stegastein viewpoint (650m above fjord)
- Nærøyfjord cruise departures to Gudvangen
- Charming fjord village with Ægir brewery and railway museum
- Kayaking and hiking activities
Balestrand:
- Historic hotel destination since Victorian era
- Stunning mid-fjord location
- Kviknes Hotel (since 1877)—famous historic accommodation
- Art galleries and cultural attractions
- Quieter alternative to busier fjord villages
- Excellent base for exploring inner Sognefjord
Vik:
- Hopperstad Stave Church (12th century)—one of Norway’s best preserved
- Authentic fjord village atmosphere
- Gateway to inner Sognefjord branches
- Historic stone church (Hove Church)
Booking express boats:
- norled.no—main operator
- fjordtours.com—combined packages
- Can book one-way for flexible itineraries
Hardangerfjord Tours
The orchard fjord:
Hardangerfjord offers a different character than the steep drama of Sognefjord—gentler slopes dotted with fruit orchards, famous waterfalls, and pastoral Norwegian landscapes. Norway’s second-longest fjord stretches 179 kilometres with a maximum depth of 891 metres.
Hardangerfjord tour options from Bergen:
| Tour Type | Duration | Price (NOK) | Price (GBP) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hardangerfjord in a Nutshell | Full day | 1,500-2,500 | £110-185 | Vøringsfossen, fjord cruise |
| Half-day tour | 5-6 hours | 1,000-1,500 | £75-110 | Steinsdalsfossen, fjord views |
| Cider tour | 6-8 hours | 1,200-1,800 | £90-135 | Farm visits, tastings |
| Self-drive round trip | 1-2 days | Variable | Variable | Maximum flexibility |
Hardangerfjord highlights:
- Vøringsfossen: 182-metre waterfall with dramatic viewing platforms
- Steinsdalsfossen: Walk behind the waterfall—unique experience
- Fruit orchards: Over 2,000 farms producing 80% of Norwegian fruit
- Cider production: Norway’s cider capital with tasting opportunities
- Folgefonna Glacier: Third-largest glacier on mainland Norway, summer skiing
- Trolltunga access: Gateway to famous rock formation (challenging 10-12 hour hike)
Best time for Hardangerfjord:
- Mid-May: Spectacular fruit blossoms—cherry and apple trees bloom against fjord backdrop
- June-August: Best hiking, full services
- September: Harvest season, autumn colours beginning
RIB Boat Safaris
High-speed adventure cruising:
Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs) offer thrilling fjord exploration with speed, manoeuvrability, and close-up access impossible on larger vessels.
RIB options from Bergen:
| Tour | Duration | Price (NOK) | Price (GBP) | Experience |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fjord Safari | 1.5-2 hours | 900-1,200 | £65-90 | Coastal exploration |
| Wildlife safari | 2-3 hours | 1,200-1,800 | £90-135 | Eagles, seals, seabirds |
| Sunset safari | 2 hours | 1,000-1,500 | £75-110 | Golden hour on fjord |
| Extended expedition | 4-6 hours | 1,800-2,500 | £135-185 | Deep fjord access |
What to expect:
- Survival suits provided (required—you will get wet from spray)
- Small groups (typically 8-12 passengers)
- High-speed sections alternating with scenic cruising
- Close approaches to waterfalls and cliff faces
- Professional skipper with local knowledge
- Wildlife encounters more likely than on large vessels
- Adrenaline combined with spectacular scenery
Best for:
- Adventure seekers wanting thrills with scenery
- Photographers wanting unique low-angle shots
- Small groups and couples
- Those who’ve done traditional cruises and want something different
Hurtigruten Coastal Voyage
The legendary coastal route:
Bergen serves as the primary departure point for Hurtigruten’s famous coastal voyage—a journey calling at 34 ports between Bergen and Kirkenes, entering numerous fjords including dramatic Trollfjord in Lofoten.
Hurtigruten from Bergen:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full voyage duration | 12 days round-trip |
| Ports visited | 34 |
| Price | From £2,200 (often 50% discount) |
| Departure | Daily from Bergen |
| Season | Year-round |
| Highlights | Trollfjord, Geirangerfjord (summer), Northern Lights (winter) |
Voyage segments available:
- Full 12-day round trip (Bergen-Kirkenes-Bergen)
- One-way northbound (6 days Bergen to Kirkenes)
- One-way southbound (6 days Kirkenes to Bergen)
- Shorter port-to-port segments (1-4 days)
Best for:
- Comprehensive Norwegian coastal experience
- Those with extended time (6-12 days)
- Northern Lights seekers (winter voyages with aurora promise)
- Travellers wanting multiple fjord experiences in one trip
Havila Voyages
Modern alternative to Hurtigruten:
Four new hybrid ships operate the same coastal route with modern design and eco-friendly technology.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Fleet | 4 hybrid ships (launched 2021-2022) |
| Route | Same as Hurtigruten (Bergen-Kirkenes) |
| Price | From £140 per night |
| Technology | Battery hybrid propulsion |
| Experience | Modern, contemporary |
Day Trip Itineraries from Bergen
Half-Day Options (3-5 hours)
Option 1: Mostraumen Cruise
- 10:00: Depart Bergen harbour
- 11:30: Navigate Mostraumen strait
- 13:30: Return to Bergen
- Afternoon free for Bergen exploration
- Cost: NOK 700-900 (£50-65)
Option 2: Bergen Coastal/Island Cruise
- Various departure times available
- Explore Bergen’s coastal archipelago
- Islands, lighthouses, fishing villages
- 3-4 hours duration
- Cost: NOK 600-900 (£45-65)
Full-Day Options (10-14 hours)
Option 1: Norway in a Nutshell
- 06:25 or 08:43: Depart Bergen by train
- Morning: Mountain railway through Voss
- Midday: Bus descent to Gudvangen via Stalheimskleiva
- Afternoon: UNESCO Nærøyfjord cruise to Flåm
- Late afternoon: Flåm Railway ascent to Myrdal
- Evening: Return Bergen approximately 21:00
- Cost: NOK 2,000-3,500 (£150-260)
Option 2: Sognefjord Express + Flåm
- 08:00: Express boat departure from Bergen
- 13:30: Arrive Flåm
- Afternoon: Free time—Flåm Railway, Stegastein viewpoint, or activities
- 16:00: Return boat to Bergen (or overnight in Flåm)
- Cost: NOK 750-900 (£55-65) one-way (plus activities)
Option 3: Hardangerfjord in a Nutshell
- Morning: Bus departure from Bergen
- Vøringsfossen waterfall visit
- Hardangerfjord cruise segment
- Steinsdalsfossen waterfall (walk behind)
- Evening: Return Bergen
- Cost: NOK 1,500-2,500 (£110-185)
Multi-Day Suggestions
2-3 Day Fjord Explorer:
| Day | Activity | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Norway in a Nutshell (overnight Flåm) | Flåm |
| 2 | Kayaking morning + Stegastein + return Bergen | Bergen |
| 3 | Mostraumen or Hardangerfjord day trip | Bergen |
5-7 Day Comprehensive Fjord Tour:
| Day | Activity | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive Bergen, explore Bryggen, Mount Fløyen | Bergen |
| 2 | Express boat to Flåm | Flåm |
| 3 | Flåm Railway, kayaking, Stegastein | Flåm/Aurland |
| 4 | Nærøyfjord cruise + express to Balestrand | Balestrand |
| 5 | Balestrand exploration + return Bergen | Bergen |
| 6 | Hardangerfjord day trip | Bergen |
| 7 | Depart or extend | — |
Seasonal Considerations
Summer (June-August)
Advantages:
- Warmest weather (15-22°C)
- Longest daylight (up to 20 hours)
- All services operating at full schedule
- Best hiking conditions
- Midnight sun experiences (northern routes)
Considerations:
- Peak crowds—book 2-4 weeks ahead minimum
- Higher prices (20-30% above shoulder season)
- Popular spots very busy (Flåm can feel crowded)
2024 statistics: July was Bergen’s busiest cruise month, with maximum daily departures across all routes.
Shoulder Season (May, September-October)
Advantages:
- Fewer crowds (significantly less than peak summer)
- Lower prices (often 20-30% savings)
- May: Hardangerfjord fruit blossoms, waterfalls at peak
- September: Autumn colours beginning
- Pleasant temperatures (8-15°C)
Considerations:
- Some services reduced in frequency
- Weather more variable (pack layers and rain gear)
- Some hiking trails may have snow at higher elevations
Winter (November-March)
Advantages:
- Magical snow-covered landscapes
- Northern Lights on coastal voyages (Hurtigruten, Havila)
- Minimal crowds
- Lowest prices
- Unique atmospheric “soft Arctic light”
Considerations:
- Some local cruises suspended (Mostraumen runs reduced)
- Shorter daylight hours (6-8 hours)
- Cold temperatures (-5 to 5°C)
- Focus shifts to Hurtigruten/Havila for fjord access
Booking and Practical Information
When to Book
| Season | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Peak (July-August) | 2-4 weeks minimum |
| Summer (June, early Sept) | 1-2 weeks |
| Shoulder (May, late Sept) | Several days to 1 week |
| Winter | Often available last-minute |
Where to Book
Official operators:
- fjordtours.com: Norway in a Nutshell, official packages
- rodne.no: Mostraumen and local cruises
- norled.no: Express boats and ferries
- hurtigruten.com: Coastal voyage
- havilavoyages.com: Modern coastal alternative
Comparison sites:
- getyourguide.co.uk: Multiple operators compared
- viator.com: Tour comparison
Tips:
- Direct booking often cheaper than aggregators
- Check cancellation policies before booking
- Student and senior discounts may apply
- Package deals sometimes available through hotels
Price Comparison Summary
| Cruise Type | Price Range (NOK) | Price Range (GBP) |
|---|---|---|
| Mostraumen | 700-900 | £50-65 |
| Sognefjord express (one-way) | 750-900 | £55-65 |
| Hardangerfjord day tour | 1,000-1,800 | £75-135 |
| Norway in a Nutshell | 2,000-3,500 | £150-260 |
| RIB safari | 900-1,800 | £65-135 |
| Hurtigruten (per day average) | 2,500-5,000 | £185-370 |
What to Bring
For all cruises:
- Layers (temperature varies significantly on deck)
- Waterproof jacket (essential—Bergen averages 230 rainy days per year)
- Comfortable, non-slip shoes
- Camera with charged battery and memory cards
- Sunglasses (glare from water can be intense)
- Motion sickness medication if prone
For longer cruises (full day+):
- Warm hat and gloves (shoulder seasons and winter)
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- Snacks/lunch (limited food options on some boats)
- Tripod for serious photography
For RIB boats:
- Nothing loose (items blow away at speed)
- Survival suit provided by operator
- Waterproof phone protection or leave phone secured
Photography Tips for Bergen Fjord Cruises
Best Photo Opportunities by Cruise
Mostraumen cruise:
- Departure past Bryggen (iconic Bergen shot)
- Narrow strait passage with reflections
- Cliff walls and waterfalls (seasonal)
- Return journey coastal scenery
Norway in a Nutshell:
- Flåm Railway at Kjosfossen waterfall (train stops for 5 minutes)
- Nærøyfjord narrowest section (both sides dramatic)
- Stegastein viewpoint if time permits (650m above fjord)
- Mountain plateau crossing on Bergen Railway
Sognefjord express:
- Departing Bergen harbour past Bryggen
- Mid-fjord panoramas with depth perspective
- Village arrivals (Balestrand especially photogenic)
- Morning light on eastern cliffs, evening on western
Camera Settings Guide
| Situation | Settings | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Bright fjord day | ISO 100-400, f/8-11 | Maximise depth of field |
| Waterfalls (silky effect) | ISO 100, f/16+, 1-5 sec | Tripod required, ND filter helps |
| Waterfalls (frozen action) | ISO 100, f/11, 1/500+ | Fast shutter captures droplets |
| Wildlife | ISO 400-1600, f/5.6-8 | Fast shutter, continuous autofocus |
| Reflections | ISO 100-400, f/11 | Calm conditions essential, polariser helps |
Accessibility Information
Accessible Cruise Options
| Cruise Type | Accessibility Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mostraumen | Good | Accessible areas, accessible toilets |
| Sognefjord express | Good | Level boarding, accessible spaces |
| Hurtigruten | Excellent | Accessible cabins, lifts, trained staff |
| Havila | Excellent | Modern accessible design throughout |
| RIB boats | Limited | Not wheelchair accessible |
| Flåm Railway | Moderate | Accessible carriages with advance notice |
Recommendations for Travellers with Mobility Needs
- Contact operators 48+ hours in advance to arrange assistance
- Request priority boarding and accessible seating
- Enquire about accessible toilet locations
- Consider weather conditions affecting deck access
- Choose larger vessels (more facilities and space)
- Book accessible accommodation in fjord villages through booking.com accessibility filter
Environmental Considerations
Sustainable Cruising from Bergen
Norway leads global efforts in sustainable maritime tourism. From Bergen, you can choose environmentally responsible options:
Electric and hybrid vessels:
- Future of the Fjords (electric catamaran on Nærøyfjord route)
- Havila Voyages fleet (battery hybrid propulsion)
- Multiple electric ferries on local routes
Shore power:
- Bergen harbour offers shore power connections
- Reduces emissions from docked vessels
Responsible tourism practices:
- Choose electric vessels when available (often similar price)
- Support local businesses in fjord villages
- Follow all regulations in protected areas
- Stay on marked trails when hiking from ports
- Avoid disturbing wildlife
Final Recommendations
Bergen’s position as Norway’s fjord gateway offers unmatched access to world-class scenery. With 590,944 cruise passengers in 2024, the infrastructure is well-developed and options plentiful.
For first-time visitors: Start with Norway in a Nutshell—it efficiently combines multiple iconic experiences (trains, ferries, UNESCO fjord) and requires no complex planning.
For limited time: The 3.5-hour Mostraumen cruise delivers authentic fjord scenery without leaving Bergen for more than half a day.
For deeper exploration: Combine express boats to Sognefjord with overnight stays in fjord villages like Flåm or Balestrand for a more immersive experience.
For adventure: RIB boat safaris offer thrilling perspectives impossible from larger vessels—close-up waterfall approaches and wildlife encounters.
For comprehensive experience: Hurtigruten or Havila coastal voyages encompass multiple fjords, 34 ports, and unique experiences like Trollfjord in one memorable journey.
Whatever you choose, Bergen’s combination of historic charm, modern facilities, and direct fjord access makes it the perfect starting point for Norwegian fjord exploration. Book ahead for summer months, dress in layers for changeable weather, and prepare for landscapes that will stay with you forever.
God tur fra Bergen! (Have a good trip from Bergen!)
For official information, visit Visit Bergen and Fjord Tours. Tourism statistics from 2024 Cruise Norway data.