Norwegian Fjord Cruise: Is It Worth It?

If you have a Schengen visa in your pocket but are out of travel ideas, go on a fjord cruise. We are firmly convinced that such a trip is memorable for a lifetime due to the magnificent northern nature, a week on board, and meeting other adventure enthusiasts.

We're telling you about a fjord trip so you can buy tickets to Oslo and jump on the last train of great weather in Norway with both feet.

Pros and Cons of a Cruise

Like any journey, cruises also have incredible advantages and their own pitfalls. Let's start with the good:

• an unconventional journey that definitely stands out from typical vacation destinations;
• definitely worth going for beautiful photos — the views here impress absolutely everyone;
• organized itinerary — "sailings" to interesting port cities or special fjords are already planned in advance;
• travel safety — everything on board is designed to ensure every passenger is fully protected from "bad" weather and other inconveniences.

And let's add a fly in the ointment — here are the "disadvantages" of such trips:

• high cost — you need to be prepared for even the most modest pastime to be quite expensive;
• direct dependence on natural phenomena — ships have their limitations, so in a strong storm, you will have to wait out part of the tour in port;
• risks of seasickness — if you know you get motion sickness, such a trip could result in feeling unwell;
• presence of absolutely different people on board — and for those who prefer something familiar, this can be a drawback. The ship may have representatives of completely different cultures and mentalities. However, nothing prevents you from going on a cruise with friends!

Routes and Cities

Norway is one of the countries that issue Schengen visas, so in any case, you will have to take care of obtaining one if you haven't already. But after getting it, you can visit other countries after the cruise or, conversely, start your tour from another European city. For example, travel to Hamburg, Amsterdam or Copenhagen. Many Norwegian fjord routes, by the way, start from these cities.

Most often, the cruise is designed to visit the most popular southern fjords (Nærøyfjord, Geirangerfjord, Sognefjord) and the cities of Bergen, Stavanger, and Ålesund. Travel time varies from three to fourteen days, depending on whether you will cover both southern and northern fjords on the cruise. For example, embarking on a longer route, you can expect to visit Tromsø, Nordkapp, or even the island of Svalbard, known to Russians as Spitsbergen.

Which Route to Choose

The most optimal option for a first trip is to buy a cruise that includes stops in Oslo and Bergen, to see both the fjords and the historical sights of Norway's most important cities. It is desirable that your tour also includes excursions to the best places.

If you want to get the most out of your trip, be sure to include one or two ports from the list:

• Flåm:
• Eidfjord;
• Geiranger;
• Olden.

Add a couple more cities with incredible nature, such as Ålesund, Molde, and Hellesylt. For a complete immersion, "capture" a visit to Spitsbergen and the northern fjords during the cruise. But be prepared that in this scenario, the trip will last from two weeks.

Which Season is Best

There are two main seasons: May-September is high season, and October-March is low season. The first boasts more favorable weather (although exceptions can occur even at this time of year) and a higher cruise cost, especially in July and August.

From October to March, travelers who want to see the best moments of the Northern Lights with their own eyes embark on tours. Because of this, tour prices in December and January will be higher than usual.

If you need to choose the cheapest option, consider traveling from February to mid-May. However, you shouldn't particularly count on warmth and favorable nature. But if you are ready to bundle up and don't mind being in harsh conditions, who's to stop you?

How to Prepare for a Cruise

Here are a few tips that will add to your comfort and experience on board:

• always bring comfortable closed-toe shoes and warm clothing at any time of year — you never know what natural wonders might greet you on the way;
• familiarize yourself with the entry rules for countries around the world. In Norway, alcohol consumption and smoking in public places are restricted (yes, not only Japan is famous for this);
• if you plan to disembark and buy small souvenirs, it's best to go to an exchange office right away and buy Norwegian kroner;
• buy a local SIM card to stay connected. However, we don't particularly recommend getting carried away. If there's no internet on board, you'll have to embrace a bit of digital detox;
• take personal medications that are important to you.

What Awaits You On Board

Usually, everything is provided on board for a comfortable journey. The price includes meals, including a buffet, and guided lectures for passengers on the ship, and a basic list of first-aid medications. In addition, port fees and luggage transportation are also included in the travel cost. In short, passenger comfort on cruise liners is usually guaranteed. Therefore, any reasonable request you have will be fulfilled.

Important Points

• do not neglect travel insurance for your trip;
• stock up on chargers for cameras and phones in advance;
• there are no direct flights to Norway, but you can get there with a layover in Istanbul;
• before a long trip, it's better to "test" yourself on short sails to avoid suddenly discovering you have seasickness.

We wish you an amazing voyage!