Norway Cruises

Norway, with its breathtaking fjords, stunning coastlines, and rich cultural heritage, is a dream destination for cruise lovers. From the vibrant city of Oslo to the serene landscapes of the Norwegian fjords, this country offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Fun fact: Norway is home to over 1,000 fjords, with the Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites! A cruise through Norway allows travellers to explore amazing scenery, indulge in local delicacies, and immerse themselves in a culture that reveres nature. It truly is an unforgettable journey waiting to unfold.

Top Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to Norway

• Holland America Line: Holland America has a fleet of 11 ships, 4 of which offer itineraries that include Norway. The Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam are particularly praised for their premium dining experiences and engaging onboard activities that enhance your journey. Most departures occur from Rotterdam or London (Dover), making it easy for guests to begin their exploration of Norway’s stunning landscapes.
• MSC Cruises: This cruise line features a fleet of 23 ships, with 4 that navigate the picturesque waters of Norway. The MSC Poesia and MSC Euribia stand out for their contemporary amenities and delightful dining options that showcase local flavours. Most sailings depart from Copenhagen or Southampton, providing lively access to Norway’s breathtaking wonders.
• Princess Cruises: With a total fleet size of 17 ships, Princess Cruises has 6 ships that specialize in itineraries to Norway. The Sky Princess and Crown Princess are well-known for their variety of onboard entertainment and exceptional service. Departures primarily occur from Southampton or Copenhagen, allowing for seamless access to explore the charm of Norway.
• P&O Cruises: Featuring a fleet of 7 ships, P&O offers 4 that head to Norway. The Aurora and Britannia provide guests with a quintessentially British cruising experience accompanied by exceptional service and variety in dining options. Most cruises set sail from Southampton, giving easy direct access to Northern European splendour.
• Cunard: Cunard operates 4 elegant ships, with 3 featuring itineraries that encompass trips to Norway. The iconic Queen Mary 2 and Queen Anne exude luxury and sophistication, ensuring a distinguished cruise experience. Departures typically happen from Southampton or New York, setting a grand tone for your Norwegian adventure.

Luxury and Small Ship Options in Norway

• Fred Olsen: With a compact fleet of 3 ships, Fred Olsen operates all 3 on itineraries that visit Norway. The Balmoral and Borealis are known for their intimate atmosphere and warm hospitality, providing a charming cruising experience. Departures often occur from Southampton or Newcastle upon Tyne, making it convenient for UK guests to access Norway’s scenic coasts.
• Oceania Cruises: Oceania boasts a fleet size of 8, with 3 ships offering itineraries to Norway. The Nautica and Vista are particularly recognised for their gourmet dining and luxurious onboard experience. Most departures occur from Southampton or Copenhagen, allowing for an elegant beginning to your Norwegian adventure.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of 4, Azamara features 2 ships that focus on itineraries in Norway. The Azamara Journey and Azamara Onward emphasise immersive experiences, perfect for those wanting to delve deeper into local culture during longer port stays. Departures are primarily from Southampton or Dublin, ensuring smooth embarkation points for exploring the stunning landscapes of Norway.
• Seabourn: With a fleet of 5 ships, Seabourn has 1 vessel that specifically visits Norway. The Seabourn Ovation is noted for its opulent amenities and exceptional guest service, catering to travellers seeking a premium cruising experience. Most departures typically happen from London or Reykjavik for an elegant start to your adventure.
• Cruise & Maritime Voyages: This cruise line offers smaller experiences, focusing on ports in Norway while providing a warm and personal touch to cruising. Frequent departures can be found through UK ports catering specifically to British adventurers.

Must-Visit Harbours in Norway

• Oslo: The capital of Norway, Oslo is known for its rich cultural offerings. While docked, visit the stunning Oslo Opera House for fantastic views of the waterfront, the Viking Ship Museum to delve into seafaring history, or stroll through the magnificent Vigeland Sculpture Park. Enjoy local delicacies at a nearby restaurant for an authentic taste of Oslo.
• Bergen: Famous for its picturesque setting among the fjords, Bergen is often referred to as the “gateway to the fjords.” Explore the colourful wooden houses of Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or take the Fløibanen funicular up Mount Fløyen for spectacular views. The local fish market offers an ideal spot for lunch with fresh seafood specialties.
• Stavanger: This charming coastal city is known for its beautiful old town and striking landscapes. While visiting, explore the quaint wooden houses of Gamle Stavanger, hike to the stunning Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen), or indulge in freshly caught seafood at charming waterfront restaurants. Don’t miss the Oil Museum to learn about Stavanger’s oil heritage.
• Olden: Nestled in the heart of the fjords, Olden is a gateway to spectacular landscapes. Enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, or taking a scenic drive to the beautiful Briksdalsbreen Glacier. The stunning views along the way make every minute worthwhile!
• Tromsø: Often called the “Gateway to the Arctic,” Tromsø is famous for its picturesque scenery and opportunity to witness the Northern Lights. While in port, visit the Arctic Cathedral, explore the Polar Museum, or take a cable car to Mount Storsteinen for panoramic views of the surrounding fjords and islands.

The Best Times to Cruise Norway

When planning your cruise to Norway, the timing can significantly enhance your experience. From January to March, temperatures can be quite chilly, averaging between -5°C and 5°C, making it perfect for winter enthusiasts looking to experience the Northern Lights. Spring months (April to June) warm up, with averages between 5°C and 15°C, ideal for exploring blooming landscapes and improving outdoor conditions. Summer (July to September) brings milder temperatures between 15°C to 25°C, attracting tourists eager to discover Norway’s beautiful scenery. Lastly, autumn (October to December) showcases stunning fall colours, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 15°C, creating picturesque backdrops for breathtaking photographs.

The Cost of Cruising to Norway

When budgeting for your cruise to Norway, expect one-week itineraries to typically range from GBP 700 to GBP 1,500 per person, depending on your cruise line and accommodation selection. For two-week cruises, the cost generally sits between GBP 1,200 and GBP 3,500 or more. Luxury cruises may command a higher price tag, usually averaging between GBP 2,000 and GBP 6,000 for a week. Dining onshore may cost around GBP 12 to GBP 30 for meals, while drinks often range from GBP 3 to GBP 10, allowing you to experience local culinary delights without overspending.

Are you ready to uncover the stunning landscapes and rich heritage of Norway? At Cruise1st, we’re dedicated to assisting you in planning a memorable holiday experience with a fantastic selection of exceptional itineraries and cruise lines. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Norway—book your cruise today!