Bergen is a port city located in the heart of Norway’s fjords. Picturesque and colorful wharfs, including the UNESCO World Heritage site Bryggen, serve as a reminder of the past when Bergen was a key trade center for the region.

Surrounded by scenic waterways and dramatic landscapes, boat tours from Bergen are one of the best ways to explore these remarkable Nordic landscapes.

Here's all you need to know about boat tours, one of the most invigorating outdoor activities in Bergen.

What are the most popular boat tours in Bergen?

In this coastal city surrounded by fjords and waterways, there are many options when it comes to boat tours in Bergen. The list below includes some of the most popular boat tours on offer.

Small-group boat tours from Bergen

Bergen is perfectly positioned for a boat tour of the coastline or the fjords. Many boating excursions are private and you will have the exclusive use of the boat and your own guide.

Half-day and full-day cruises are possible and sites visited will vary depending on your preferences, as well as the weather and water conditions.

The guided tour and cruise to Nærøyfjorden and Stegaste and Flåm costs US$220 per person, for a group of up to 15 persons.

Guided tour and cruise to Nærøyfjorden, Stegaste and Flåm

Discover Norway's marvelous landscapes and fjords on this group tour to Tvindefossen waterfall and Stegastein viewpoint on an air-conditioned vehicle.

Then, take a 2-hour scenic boat tour from Flam to UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord and Gudvangen. You will cruise back to Flam to explore the beautiful village and have lunch.

Private evening cruise from Bergen

Whether you would like to enjoy dinner in the town of Bekkjarvik or simply cruise through the fjords in the early evening or night time, there are several private cruise options available to you.

Tours take between 3 and 5 hours, including any stops. Dinner, if selected, is at your own cost.

Viking sailing ship experience

A 2-hour sailing experience on a square-sailed vessel, designed to honor the rich design and ship-building traditions of Norway. The tour begins at Bryggen wharf and travels along the shoreline, following a route dictated by the prevailing winds.

This authentic sailing experience provides fascinating insights into the history and culture of the Viking age.

Private day tour plus boat cruise from Bergen

A selection of private day tours from Bergen typically include a boat trip along one of the region’s stunning fjords.

Full day and half day excursions that include a boating activity are a great option for visitors wanting to experience Bergen from all perspectives.

Bergen city and harbor sightseeing cruise

There are small group or private tours that cruises past historical sites in Bergen’s harbors. The medieval fortress and Bryggen wharf are just two of the examples of ancient Bergen.

Old wooden warehouses are juxtaposed against modern luxury residences on the mountainsides, and notable sites such as the ruins of World War II’s U-Boat bunker lie close to popular local bathing spots a Nordnes Sjøbad.

On a private tour, your boat may enter some of the close-by fjords and you might cruise to the Fløibanen funicular where you can ascend for panoramic views of the city of Bergen.

Private multi-day fjord cruises from Bergen

For an intimate experience in the waters of the fjords, you can opt for an 2-day cruise to the Sognefjord or select a multi-day cruise to Hardangerfjord that can be tailored for your group, with an customized itinerary

How much do boat tours in Bergen cost?

Boat tours from Bergen cost from US$130 per person for a small-group audio-guided half-day excursion.

Private full-day cruises start from US$2,500 per tour and excursions that also include other activities range from US$3,500 to US$5,000 per tour.

The guided tour and cruise to Nærøyfjorden and Stegaste and Flåm costs about US$220 per person, for a group of up to 15 persons.

Private evening cruises from Bergen start at US$1,600 for a 3-hour after dark experience to US$3,000 for a group of 12, including a stop for dinner ashore.

Viking sailing ship experiences cost US$80 per person. You can participate in the sailing experience or relax and enjoy the trip. The necessary safety equipment is included.

Private day tours plus a boat cruise start from around US$300 per person for a half-day excursion. Other transfers, activities and the tour length all have an effect on the tour price with a full day excursion costing up to US$800 per person.

Private city and harbor sightseeing cruises cost from US$40 per person on a group excursion to US$300 for a round trip tour that includes the city, Mostraumen Fjord and Mount Fløyen Funicular.

Private multi-day fjord cruises from Bergen start from US$12,000 per group of up to 12 participants.

Which places are seen?

Locations visited on a boat tour depend on the type of tour selected. The natural landscape and multitude of fjords and waterways are typically the focus of boat tours in the region. Here are just a few of the sites you might see on a Bergen boat tour.

The nearly 180-kilometer-long Hardangerfjord is a spectacularly beautiful region that is home to beautiful fruit orchards, dramatic mountainscapes and crystal clear waters.

The Vøringvossen Waterfall is Norway’s highest single-drop waterfall and falls from the Hardangervidda plateau to the Måbødalen valley below.

Osterfjord is a dramatic 27-kilometer long fjord with steep cliffs that narrow to the shallow Mostraumen strait.

Sognefjord is the longest and deepest fjord in Norway and connects Bergen to the town of Flåm.

How long does a boat trip last?

There are boat excursions that last anywhere from 1 to 13 hours. Typically, boat tour lengths are full day tours and average 10 hours. There are also multi-day tours that last for 2 or 4 days depending on the itinerary.

Where do boat tours leave from?

The majority of boat tours from Bergen depart from the Zachariasbryggen which is located close to the Bergen Fish Market. The Børshopen Sightseeing Cruise Pier is another common starting point.

Your operator will provide you with detailed directions via a Google maps link to ensure that you can easily find your way. Private tours may include a hotel pickup and drop off.

When is the best time for a boat trip in Bergen?

For the best weather, boat trips in Bergen should be booked between mid-April and September. If you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of the northern lights, then consider a winter boat tour.

The region is beautiful throughout the year, so consider your other activities when making your holiday plans.

For photography, early mornings and late afternoons will offer the best lighting conditions. Midday sunlight can cause glare and contrast, especially on snow and water.

Which other water activities can be done in Bergen?

Travel tips

Bring a rain jacket.
Wear comfortable non-slip footwear.
Advise your tour operator if you have any mobility difficulties.
Tours may take place in all weather conditions – prepare accordingly.

Boat Tours in Bergen