From Stavanger: Lysefjorden & Pulpit Rock Safari by RIB

A RIB Adventure in Rogaland: Exploring Lysefjorden & Pulpit Rock from the Water

If you’ve seen images of Norway’s jaw-dropping Lysefjorden and the iconic Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), you know how spectacular these natural wonders are. What’s less common is experiencing them from a boat instead of a hike or a viewpoint. The Lysefjorden & Pulpit Rock Safari by RIB offers just that—an adrenaline-fueled, close-up perspective on these dramatic landscapes. This tour, offered by RIB Adventure Stavanger, packs in a lot in just over an hour and a half, giving you a taste of the fjord’s wild beauty, waterfalls, caves, and even some friendly farm animals at the end.

What I appreciate most about this experience is how it combines high-speed adventure with a sense of discovery. The RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) zips along the fjord, feeling the raw power of the water while giving you a front-row seat to the towering cliffs and the famous Preikestolen. Plus, the visit to Whiskey Waterfall and the Fantahålå cave turns a scenic cruise into a storybook adventure. However, it’s worth noting that this tour is quite active—quick moving, outdoorsy, and with limited time at each stop—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with speed and open-air experiences.

Two things I really love about this safari are the knowledgeable local guide—who knows every twist of the fjord—and the chance to see the Fjords from a truly unique angle. The tour also concludes with a charming visit to a local goat farm, adding a warm, down-to-earth ending that makes it feel authentic and memorable. One potential drawback? The tour’s rapid pace means you get a snapshot rather than a deep dive into each site, so if you’re after a leisurely exploration, this might not be for you.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Spectacular Views from the Water: Seeing Preikestolen from the sea provides a perspective that’s impossible from land, giving a fresh appreciation of its scale and grandeur.
• Close Encounter with Waterfalls: The Whiskey Waterfall is powerful and impressive, and getting up close is a thrill that adds a visceral element to the scenery.
• Visiting the Fantahålå Cave: A mysterious cave with stories to tell—hearing about its past and exploring its shadows is a highlight for those curious about local legends.
• Authentic Local Experience: Ending with a visit to a goat farm offers a gentle, personal touch, and a chance to meet friendly farm animals, which often delights kids and adults alike.
• Expert Local Guide: The tour is led by someone who knows every twist and turn of the fjord, making the experience more informative and engaging.
• Good for Speed Enthusiasts: The 105-minute duration packs in a lot of action, suited for travelers who enjoy quick, exhilarating adventures rather than slow sightseeing.

Discovering Norway’s Fjords from the Sea: An In-Depth Look

Starting Point and Safety Briefing at Strandkaien 34

The tour begins at Strandkaien 34, a convenient central Stavanger meeting point. You’ll meet your guide, receive safety equipment, and get a quick briefing—important for setting expectations and ensuring everyone’s comfortable. As someone who values safety but prefers to keep things straightforward, I appreciated how smooth and professional this part was.

The Excitement of the Speedboat Ride

The first 30-minute leg aboard a speedboat is the most adrenaline-pumping. It’s noisy, fast, and a high-energy way to experience the fjord’s cool breezes and spray. For many, this is the highlight, especially if you love a thrill. The boat’s maneuverability allows your guide to navigate right into the heart of Lysefjorden, bringing you close to cliffs and waterfalls that look even more dramatic from this vantage point.

Spectacular Lysefjorden Sightseeing

For about 30 minutes, you’ll slow down to admire Lysefjorden’s towering rock walls and deep waters. Here, you get a sense of the fjord’s scale—impressively steep cliffs and tranquil waters that seem to swallow the boat whole. Seeing Preikestolen from the sea offers a wholly different perspective from the famous hike, which I find adds a special dimension to the experience. Several reviews mention how breathtaking this view is, with Bea simply calling it “highly recommended.”

Visiting Fantahålå Cave and Whiskey Waterfall

The next stop is at Fantahålå cave, a mysterious spot with stories from the past. Hearing about its history adds a layer of intrigue to the adventure. Then, the boat pulls up close to Whiskey Waterfall, where you can actually feel the mist and hear the roar of rushing water—a rare chance to experience the power of nature up close. One guest told me they loved feeling the “raw power” of the waterfall, which made the trip unforgettable.

Pulpit Rock from a New Angle

Seeing Preikestolen from the water is perhaps the most unique feature of this tour. It’s a view that most visitors miss when hiking. The guide will point out the famous plateau, giving context and helping you appreciate its sheer size. If you’re like me, you’ll find that this perspective enhances your understanding and admiration for this iconic formation.

Hengjanefossen Waterfall and Final Speedboat Ride

The last scenic stop is at Hengjanefossen Waterfall, where the boat slows again for a quick look. The final 30-minute ride back is filled with views of the fjord’s cliffs and water splashes, leaving you with a sense of having truly explored Norway’s wild side.

Ending with goats and local charm

The tour wraps up back at Strandkaien, but not before a visit to a local goat farm. Meeting the goats adds a friendly, personal touch, and many reviews highlight how charming this end stop is—especially for families or animal lovers.

Price and Value: Is it worth it?

While the cost isn’t specified here, the experience’s focus on unique views, adventure, and local insights makes it a high-value option. The inclusion of safety gear, a knowledgeable guide, and stops at waterfalls and caves justify the price, especially considering the speed and exclusivity of a RIB tour. You’re paying for an active, engaging experience rather than a passive cruise, which is perfect if you crave an authentic, adrenaline-fueled adventure.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for active travelers, families with older children (over 5 years old), and water enthusiasts who enjoy a bit of speed and excitement. Because it’s fast-paced and outdoors, it may not be ideal for pregnant women, people with back problems, or wheelchair users. Still, for those wanting a dynamic introduction to Norway’s fjord scenery, it’s hard to beat.

Final Thoughts: Why Choose This RIB Safari?

If your idea of travel is to experience a destination from a fresh angle and get your adrenaline going, this tour delivers. Witnessing Lysefjorden and Preikestolen from the water creates a feeling of connection—like you’re part of the landscape rather than just observing it. The tour’s mix of scenic highlights, active adventure, and a touch of local charm makes it a memorable outing.

The guides are enthusiastic and knowledgeable, turning what could be a simple boat ride into a storytelling adventure. Plus, visiting a waterfall, cave, and goat farm in just 105 minutes makes this a compact but rich experience. If you’re looking for a way to combine thrill-seeking with authentic scenery, I’d say this is a fantastic choice for your Stavanger trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5 years old, mainly because of the speed and outdoor nature of the ride.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 105 minutes, including safety briefings and stops.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes. A camera is highly recommended for capturing stunning views.

Is the tour safe?
Yes, safety equipment is provided, and the guide will give a thorough safety briefing before departure.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any language options?
Guides speak both English and Norwegian.

Will I get wet?
You might get splashed, especially near waterfalls, but the boat is designed for stability and safety.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems?
No, it’s not recommended for pregnant women or people with back issues due to the nature of the ride.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts and ends at the same point: Strandkaien 34, centrally located in Stavanger.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Absolutely, just be mindful of safety and don’t use your camera during the rapid speed sections if you prefer not to get wet.

In short, this RIB tour offers a fast-paced, visually stunning, and authentically Norwegian adventure. Perfect for those who crave excitement and wish to see the fjord’s most spectacular sights from a completely different angle.