Scandinavia · BOAT TOURS IN NORWAY
One spare day, and a shortlist that fits it: these 15 boat tours in Norway are priced and timed so choosing takes minutes, not an evening.
Join Rødne Fjord Cruise at Bergen’s Fish Market for a 3.5-hour round trip through Osterfjord to Mostraumen. You’ll pass Bryggen, watch for eagles, feel waterfall spray from the sun deck, and warm up inside with coffee, waffles, or cinnamon buns. English and Norwegian audio commentary is included.
“Good view. But a little bit cold and windy on the deck in winter due to the weather.”
From Strandkaien in Stavanger, you’ll ride Rødne’s electric catamaran into Lysefjord for 3.5 hours. Expect clear English or Norwegian commentary, panoramic windows, sun decks, a kiosk, and close views of Preikestolen, Fantahålå, waterfalls, and sometimes seals.
“The boat was spacious. They stopped and slowed down for us to take pictures.”
Cruise Oslo’s inner fjord for 90 minutes on a modern electric ship. From the meeting point by the Opera House, you pass Akershus Fortress, Bygdøy, Gressholmen, Hovedøya, Sørenga, and more. Use the Voice of Norway app for commentary, or simply enjoy the quiet ride, wide windows, open deck, café, and bar.
“Really enjoyable tour, the boat was very new and allowed good views all round while remaining warm. (I think it was -6 on my tour) The audio guide was helpful, though a little clunky knowing which parts went for where you are which could have been my fault not understanding it correctly.”
Set out from Tromsø on Brim Explorer’s hybrid-electric catamaran for a full day in Arctic fjords. Expect heated lounges, panoramic windows, English-speaking guides, and roughly 1 to 1.5 hours near whale-feeding grounds. Guides such as Connor, Bee, Adrian, and Ivan may share whale facts and local stories while you search for orcas, humpbacks, fin whales, and sperm whales.
“I really enjoyed this experience! The combination of bus and boat was a great arrangement, especially for someone like me who gets a bit seasick. The views from the bus were incredible and offered a completely different perspective compared to the boat. I initially brought some reading material to pass the time since it was a long journey, but I ended up just admiring the scenery and relaxing. Seeing whales multiple times was truly unforgettable! The guide was excellent, providing introductions to the places we visited and sharing fascinating stories about the whales along the way. A big thank you to the driver and captain for making the trip smooth…”
Spend five hours aboard Capella with an English-speaking crew, cruising Tromsø’s fjords and straits, fishing in Ramfjorden, and watching for eagles, dolphins, otters, and seasonal puffins. Warm up with fish or vegan soup, hot drinks, and biscuits while guides such as Thomas, Jack, and Estefania share local stories.
“It was our last day in Tromso, and it exceeding our expectations! We had closed the Tromso chapter with an amazing memory, amazing views, experience and the people! We had chance to fishing in the fjords which might be unbelievable to imagine before. Didn't want to miss any moment, that's why we stayed outside the boat, and observed every corner in the landscape. And very lucky the weather was very bright, chill and warm. Couldn't imagine any other boat tour if you visit Tromso. The crew of the ship was also very friendly, warm and informative. We are very happy that we met these people. Eventhough I am not a…”
Leave Bergen by boat and cruise past Bryggen into the 27-kilometer Osterfjord. The route narrows at Mostraumen, where strong currents run between steep cliffs. You can watch from the outdoor decks, stay warm inside, or buy drinks from the kiosk. English commentary, wheelchair access, and round-trip service make this an easy half-day outing.
“I would really recommend this trip, it was such an amazing experience.”
From Svolvær, Brim Explorer takes you by hybrid-electric catamaran through Høla, Oddvaer, and Reknesbukta to Trollfjord. Expect warm lounges, open decks, live English guiding, possible underwater-drone viewing, and good chances of seeing white-tailed eagles. Guides such as Tobias, Bee, Margot, and Ivan have led recent departures.
“Erik and Dilota(?) were excellent and went above and beyond to make our trip enjoyable and helpful to make sure we made it to our flight on time!”
Cruise Tromsø’s fjords on Brim Explorer’s quiet hybrid-electric catamaran, with English-speaking guides, panoramic windows, outside decks, an underwater drone, and a land stop at fish racks or a local fish farm. Expect Arctic scenery, fishing history, possible eagles or dolphins, and food and drinks for purchase during the four-hour trip.
“Fantastic activity- almost felt like a hidden gem in the very busy Tromsø. A MUST do activity!”
Spend two hours on a 100% electric Oslofjord cruise from Rådhusbrygge 4. An English audio guide points out Akershus Fortress, the Opera House, Munch Museum, islands, and waterfront homes. Stay aboard for a round trip or ask the crew about getting off at Bygdøy for museum visits.
“The boat ride was wonderful. Great views and relaxing environment.”
Spend three hours on Oslofjord aboard a restored wooden sailing ship. From Rådhusbrygge 3, you’ll pass Hovedøya, Dyna Lighthouse, Bygdøy, and Huk Bay while eating an abundant buffet of fresh, shell-on shrimp with bread, butter, mayonnaise, and salad. Expect music, a friendly crew, shared tables, and drinks for purchase.
“There was no light on the upper deck. We ate shrimps in the dark?! It was not comfortable.”
Set sail from central Tromsø at 8 p.m. for a 3.5-hour Aurora hunt with Polar Adventures. Guides such as Holly, Ken, Thomas, and Hans Eric explain the lights, help with camera settings, and call you outside when the sky clears. Expect hot drinks, cookies, thermal suits, toilets, and a heated cabin, but no guarantee of Aurora.
“Excellent experience ❤️ The staff was lovely and helpful, they always tried their best to make us enjoy our time there.”
Sail from Tromsø for 3.5 hours aboard a warm, spacious Rødne catamaran. Guides such as Daniel and Jana explain Arctic wildlife, local history, and photography while you watch for sea eagles, seals, porpoises, foxes, reindeer, and puffins. Use the panoramic cabin or outdoor decks, with coffee and tea included.
“An amazing experience with friendly staff and knowledgeable guides, recommended.”
Spend two hours touring Oslofjord aboard the quiet electric Ms Brisen. An English-speaking guide such as Susie, Sarah, or Frederick points out Akershus Fortress, the Opera House, Dyna Lighthouse, Bygdøy, and the islands while you watch from three outdoor decks or warm panoramic saloons. Pastries, drinks, and tap water are available onboard.
“The tour was amazing. Guide explained everything throughout the ride. There is a bar inside. You can buy a drink and snacks. Toilet also available. You can stay indoor if it’s too cold outside. What a great experience!”
Sail from Strandkaien into Lysefjord aboard a comfortable Helgøy Skyssbåt. You’ll see Preikestolen from below, Fantahålå cave, Ådnøy, and Hengjanefossen, often from close range. A live guide and multilingual audio guide explain local stories, including the legend of the seven sisters and seven brothers.
“It was a really great trip around the Fjord and very informative. Very polite staff . It was one of the highlights of all the onshore activities for us, and the price was most acceptable. Well done, would recommend to anyone.”
Sail from Tromsø for 2.5 hours aboard a warm, spacious catamaran with panoramic windows, outdoor viewing decks, free tea and coffee, and English or Norwegian guides. Crew members such as Jana, Valeria, Douaa, and Magnus explain the aurora, help with photos, and arrange a free second cruise if clouds block the show.
“overall experience was good both guide Jenny and Donna was very nice and we get to see the northern”
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