When is the best time to cruise the Norwegian fjords?

This depends on what you're looking for on your cruise. If you want the maximum amount of daylight and sun, the summer months (June-August) are best, but if you seek the Northern Lights then book your holiday between October and March.

What is the weather like in the Norwegian fjords?

The warmth that the Gulf Stream brings to the fjords contrasts with the cold climate of the North, so a cruise to Norway could have any number of weather patterns. The coast can see frequent rain and decent winds, and winters range from mild to just below freezing, so when you're packing for your cruise make sure you're prepared for anything.

Which Norwegian fjords do Cunard visit?

Cunard currently visits Sognefjord, Ofotfjord, Romsdalsfjord, Lustrafjorden, Innvikfjorden, Nordfjord and Aurlandsfjord, to name a few, and you can visit even more on some of our port excursions. <a href="https://www.cunard.com/en-gb/find-a-cruise#{!tag=destinationTag}destinationIds=&{!tag=embarkTag}embarkPortCode=&{!tag=departTag}departDate=&{!tag=durationTag}duration=&sort=departDate asc,price_GBP_anonymous asc&group.sort=departDate asc,price_GBP_anonymous asc&start=0&{!tag=portsTag}portsOfCall=AUR,GFJ,IVK,LSF,NFJ,RDF,SNF,SFD,SUN,AES,AND,BGO,BOO,FL1,GE1,HAU,HVG,GRA,NAR,NFD,OL1,OSL,SLN,TOS,TRD,OSF,STA,KRS&soldOut=false">View our cruise itineraries to find more magical places you can explore.

Will I need a visa for the Norwegian fjords?

UK, Germany, Australia and US citizens do not need a visa to travel to Norway for holiday purposes.

What is the currency in the Norwegian fjords?

The Norwegian currency is the Norwegian krone (kr).

Norway and the Norwegian fjords cruises

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Discover a land untouched by time and shrouded in folklore. Where icy waterfalls spiral down skyscraper cliffs and a smattering of fishing villages provide the only signs of civilisation.

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Why choose a Norwegian fjord cruise with Cunard

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What you can discover on a Norwegian fjords cruise

Overnight stays

Spend more time ashore in iconic ports like Tromsø and Ålesund. With overnight stays, you can explore deeper, dine later, and soak in the local charm.

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Northern Lights

Witness nature’s most magical light show from the comfort of your ship: no crowds, no cold feet, just front-row views of the aurora borealis.

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Michel Roux

Savour world-class cuisine curated by Michel Roux, perfectly paired with panoramic fjord views: a dining experience as unforgettable as the scenery.

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Wellness at sea

Experience more than a cruise, from sunrise yoga to expert-led wellness talks, this special voyage blends the serenity of Norway’s fjords with a journey of self-care and renewal.

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What our guests say

"It is magic to be at sea, watch the ocean, and see the coastline, islands and fjords from the best vantage point. I will definitely be going to the Fjords again!"

★★★★★

Guest on a Southampton roundtrip on board Queen Anne

"The scenic spectacle I saw from my balcony after we left Avaldsnes, and when the ship paused at Feurbergfuss waterfall, was by far the most impressive experience."

★★★★★

Guest on a combined Transatlantic/Norway voyage on board Queen Mary 2

"Our first cruise ever! A wise recommendation from my late father-in-law was if you do one cruise in your life, go to The Fjords on a Cunard ship!! It did not disappoint."

★★★★★

First time cruiser on board Queen Anne to the Norwegian Fjords

Norwegian cruise ports

Ålesund

Bergen

Tromsø

Olden

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Explore Norway and the Norwegian fjords

Dive into our useful guide to cruising in the Norwegian fjords, and discover the wonderful places we visit.

Our guide to the Norwegian fjords

Discover the unique sights and experiences you can expect to savour on a cruise to Norway, and how to get the most from your voyage to this fairy-tale destination.

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Where we sail in Norway

Our ships are regular visitors to this magical region, calling at many of its stunning ports and sailing past some of the world's most jaw-dropping scenery.

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When is the best time to visit Norway?

Whether you're seeking adventure, culture, or incredible scenery, a cruise through the fjords of Norway is sure to deliver. But when should you go?

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New to cruising?

Our dining guide

What life is like on board

Why cruise when you can Cunard

The Grills Suite Experience

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Your Norwegian fjords questions answered

The best way to prepare for the seasons and activities on the fjords is to wear layers. T-shirts and jumpers for the daytime port visits, as well as a sturdy pair of shoes for walking or hiking, are a must, and a light raincoat is a wise choice too. In all seasons, bring sunglasses and suncream, and be sure to pack warmer clothes for cool evenings on deck. In the winter months go warmer: winter coat, hat and gloves, warm socks and scarves. Ultimately the weather is variable in this part of the world, so make sure you're prepared.

Cunard visits some of the most popular and beautiful spots the fjords have to offer. The Sognefjord, known as 'king of the fjords', is the longest, and well worth a visit. The city of Tromsø is beautiful and full of Norwegian culture, and is also a perfect place for bird watching, hiking and viewing the Northern Lights. To the North lies the Lofoten Islands: authentic villages lying amongst untouched scenery. Our last recommendation is Geirangerfjord: an UNESCO listed site with steep sides, cascading falls and stunning viewpoints.

Yes - you can view the Northern Lights on one of our Norwegian cruises, however we can't guarantee it! The aurora borealis is near impossible to predict, but sightings are more likely on clear nights between October and March, and odds increase the further north you travel. Cruises to Tromsø, the capital of the Arctic, should give you a decent chance. To view our special Northern Lights voyages, visit our dedicated page.

The waters of the Norwegian Fjords are generally not very choppy, especially compared to open sea conditions. The fjords are typically sheltered by surrounding mountains, which help calm the water and create a more tranquil and serene cruising experience.

However, the sea can be a bit rougher in some areas, particularly if you are cruising outside the fjords or on the open ocean, like when crossing the Norwegian Sea. Within the fjords themselves, the water is usually quite calm, making it ideal for scenic cruises.

If you're prone to seasickness, it’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast and consider seasickness remedies, but overall, the Norwegian Fjords are known for their peaceful, picturesque waters.

When cruising through the Norwegian Fjords, both sides of the ship offer stunning views, but the best side can depend on the specific route you're taking and the direction of travel.

Left (Port) Side: If you're heading north (towards the Arctic), the port side often offers better views of the fjords as you approach, with dramatic cliffs and waterfalls.
Right (Starboard) Side: On the way south, the starboard side might offer more scenic views. The landscapes on the right side are often more exposed, with beautiful vistas as you approach small villages or larger fjords.

In general, some cruise lines may adjust their itineraries to provide the best views on both sides, but it’s a good idea to ask the crew or review the cruise map to determine which side offers the best scenery for the specific route and time of day.