Cruising the Norwegian Fjords
Please note: We no longer offer a cruise through the Norwegian Fjords, for an Nordic adventure, please see our tour of Norway:
What to expect on a Norwegian fjords cruise – ship facilities, dining, and entertainment – plus what to pack.
It’s official, Norway is one of the happiest countries in the world, according to the 2019 World Happiness Report. It’s no great surprise, though, when you consider the country’s natural beauty – it’s easy to be happy when you’re surrounded by stunning mountain ranges, waterfalls and fjords. See for yourself, while Cruising Norway’s Fjords on the Azamara Pursuit.
Join our incredible Cruising Norway’s Fjords on the Azamara Pursuit cruise and experience a cruise of a lifetime visiting the Langfoss waterfall, Olso, Bryggen, Kristiansand and a chance to ride the Flåm Railway.
Why Choose Our Norwegian Fjords Cruise?
If you’re thinking about a holiday to Norway, a luxury cruise through Norway’s fjords is perfect for a first-time trip, especially as you also get the chance to explore the country’s capital, Oslo, and the beautiful city of Bergen. Both are highlights of a Scandinavian adventure. However, it’s the scenic maze of waterways that are, without doubt, Norway’s main attraction. The dramatic fjords are awe-inspiring and once seen, their splendour will never be forgotten. If you love the great outdoors, you’ll love a Norway cruise.
What’s more, as you embark on your 13-day Norway cruise in Southampton, it’s an ideal break for those who’d prefer not to fly. You arrive at the port and simply board your ship – not worrying about any airline luggage allowance restrictions. Unpack in your well-appointed, comfortable cabin, then sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey.
As with any Riviera Travel ocean cruise, you have the services of an expert tour manager throughout, and all meals, daily visits and a selection of Riviera Travel exclusive tours, and on-board gratuities are included in the price. Learn about the difference between a river cruise and an ocean cruise with our cruising guide.
What To Expect Aboard Our Norwegian Fjords Cruise Ship
The Azamara Pursuit is a mid-sized ocean cruise ship, accommodating 702 passengers. It has a timeless but contemporary feel, a deck plan that’s sociable but never crowded, and guests onboard enjoy world-class dining options. There’s excellent evening entertainment – live bands perform every night – and health and beauty treatments at the Sanctum Spa.
Travelling north to Norway means that your first full day and the final couple of days of your holiday are at sea, but there’s plenty to keep you occupied. Read in the library, listen to a talk by a leading expert, play darts or table tennis with new-found travelling companions, take a dip in the pool, or snooze on the sun deck and make the most of the refreshing sea air.
Highlights Of Our Norwegian Fjords Cruise
The first port of call on our Cruising Norway’s Fjords on the Azamara Pursuit itinerary is Oslo, and the capital city is beguiling. On a sightseeing tour, you’ll visit the Royal Palace and Vigeland sculpture park, and there’s plenty of time to explore at your leisure too – there may be time to visit the Kon-Tiki Museum. The museum is home to the fascinating historic vessels used by Norweigan adventurer Thor Heyerdahl on his expeditions.
Kristiansand, a delightful city with a lively fishing harbour, is also a joy to wander around, as is Haugesund, a destination that stretches from the open sea to the magnificent fjords and mountains in the east. Here you can see the burial site of Norway’s very first king – a 17-metre-high obelisk crowns the spot.
Witnessing waterfalls in all their glory is a thrill, too. Langfoss is considered by us to be one of the top ten most beautiful waterfalls in the world, and you can’t deny that the cascading waterfalls that welcome you as the ship approaches Eidfjord are anything short of spectacular. Here you get to see first-hand the talent of Mother Nature – the idyllic mountains and valleys are breath-taking. Then it’s off to visit Sysendammen, one of Norway’s largest dams.
Next up on our Norwegian fjords cruise is Bergen, which despite being Norway’s second-largest city, still oozes small-town charm. Stroll around the fishing market, then head for the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bryggen, famous for its colourful 14th-century wooden warehouses. The city is also the birthplace of composer Edvard Grieg, and his summer residence is now a museum and concert venue. Don’t worry if you can’t get tickets for a performance, though – your cruise includes an exclusive musical recital at Grieg Hall, home of the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra.
Let’s not forget Flåm either, a much-anticipated highlight of a Norwegian fjords cruise and nestled in a tributary of the majestic Sognefjord, Norway’s deepest fjord that is surrounded by yet more steep mountains, thundering waterfalls and plunging green valleys. Here you’ll take an exhilarating ride on the Flåm Railway, that zigzags along one of the steepest railway lines in the world. Make sure your camera batteries are charged.
When Is The Best Time To Visit The Norwegian Fjords?
Our Norway cruise sets sail on 21 August, the summer being the best time to visit the fjords. It’s pleasantly warm – daytime highs average around 21°C in Oslo – though there may be one or two rainy showers. The days are also long between June and August, so you’ll be able to experience the incredible White Nights – keep enjoying the sundowners as the sun doesn’t set!
What To Pack For Our Norwegian Fjords Cruise
If you’ve ever joined a Riviera Travel escorted tour, you’ll already know that comfortable casual clothes are the order of the day when sightseeing. The same applies to our Norwegian fjords cruise. Layers will come in useful when sitting on the deck in the mornings and evenings and pack a lightweight fleece or waterproof jacket – it’s best to travel prepared!
Sports gear is a must if you plan to use the onboard gym and bring a swimsuit so you can take a dip in the ship’s pool. Oh, and don’t forget a white outfit. It’s de rigueur for the Azamara Pursuit’s White Party (to celebrate White Nights). Keep it casual or use this event to glam up – just make sure you’re comfortable enough to dance!
If you’re looking for a memorable trip to embark on in 2023, then why not consider a Norwegian fjords cruise? Setting sail from Southampton, you’ll relish 13 days onboard a stylish ship, and see some of the best attractions in Norway. Bon voyage!
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
