Fjord Cruise To Fjærlandsfjord

The Fjord Cruise to Fjærlandsfjord offers travelers a unique opportunity to witness the breathtaking natural beauty of Norway’s western coast. This 2-hour scenic journey departs from Balestrand, providing access to vistas otherwise difficult to reach by car. Operated by Glaciertour, the cruise accommodates 99 passengers and showcases steep cliffs, turquoise waters, and cascading waterfalls that are sure to leave a lasting impression. With onboard amenities and accessibility features, the Fjord Cruise is an experience not to be missed. But to truly appreciate the grandeur of this remarkable fjord, one must…

Key Points

The Fjord Cruise departs from Balestrand quay at 12:00 PM and provides a 2-hour scenic journey through the Fjærlandsfjord, a branch of the Sognefjord.
The cruise is operated by Glaciertour and accommodates up to 99 passengers, offering access to parts of the fjord that are not visible by car.
The tour showcases the steep cliffs, turquoise waters, cascading waterfalls, and glaciers of the Fjærlandsfjord, providing a tranquil immersion in the natural beauty of Western Norway.
While the cruise is not wheelchair accessible, it allows service animals and has onboard restroom facilities, though the accessibility may not meet all needs.
The cruise booking process offers flexibility, with immediate confirmation, free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure, and a ‘Reserve Now and Pay Later’ option, enhancing the travel planning experience.

Cruise Overview

The Fjord Cruise to Fjærlandsfjord departs from Balestrand quay at 12:00 PM, offering travelers a scenic journey through the longest and deepest fjord in Norway.

Operated by Glaciertour, the 99-passenger cruise explores the branch of the Sognefjord known as Fjærlandsfjord. After the 2-hour cruise, the boat returns to its starting point at Balestrand quay. Priced from $115.96, this tour provides an opportunity to witness inaccessible parts of the fjord that aren’t easily seen by car.

With an onboard restroom and allowance for service animals, the cruise caters to various needs, though it’s not wheelchair accessible and is located near public transportation.

Fjord Details

Sognefjord, Norway’s deepest and longest fjord, branches off into the scenic Fjærlandsfjord, the main focus of this cruise experience. This stunning side fjord offers breathtaking views that are difficult to access by car, making the cruise the ideal way to explore this natural wonder. The fjord’s narrow and steep sides rise dramatically from the deep, turquoise waters, creating a dramatic landscape that is sure to impress.

Fjord Details
Name	Sognefjord	Fjærlandsfjord
Type	Deepest fjord in Norway	Branch of Sognefjord
Length	205 km	17 km
Depth	1,308 m	–
Accessibility	Difficult by car	Accessible by cruise

Scenic Experience

Embarking on this fjord cruise allows travelers to witness the inaccessible parts of the Fjærlandsfjord, showcasing its dramatic landscape of steep, towering cliffs that plunge into the deep, turquoise waters below.

The narrow, winding fjord offers a unique scenic experience, as the boat navigates through the stunning natural scenery.

Passengers can marvel at the cascading waterfalls, glaciers, and unspoiled wilderness that are inaccessible by car.

The tranquil journey provides a serene and peaceful escape, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the breathtaking beauty of this fjord landscape.

This cruise offers a chance to explore the remote and picturesque corners of Western Norway, revealing the true majesty of the Fjærlandsfjord.

Onboard Amenities

Onboard, travelers can make use of the restroom facilities provided. Service animals are allowed to accompany passengers on the cruise.

However, the boat isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s located near public transportation options. The cruise operator, Glaciertour, aims to ensure a comfortable and accessible experience within the limitations of the vessel.

While the boat may not accommodate all mobility needs, the scenic fjord views and glacier visit at the end of the trip offer a unique and memorable adventure. Travelers should keep these amenities and accessibility factors in mind when booking their Fjord Cruise to Fjærlandsfjord experience.

Accessibility Information

The fjord cruise to Fjærlandsfjord isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s located near public transportation options, allowing travelers with limited mobility to reach the departure point.

While service animals are permitted on board, the boat itself isn’t designed for passengers with special accessibility needs.

Some key accessibility details to consider:

The tour operates on a small boat without elevators or ramps for easy boarding and disembarking.
The onboard restroom may not accommodate all mobility requirements.
Steep stairs and uneven terrain are common throughout the cruise experience.
Passengers must be able to navigate the boat’s interior and exterior spaces without assistance.
Those with concerns should contact the operator prior to booking to discuss their specific needs.

Booking and Cancellation

Upon booking the fjord cruise to Fjærlandsfjord, travelers receive immediate confirmation of their reservation.

The operator offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the scheduled cruise departure, providing flexibility for passengers’ plans.

Plus, a ‘Reserve Now and Pay Later‘ option is available, allowing customers to secure their spot without making full payment upfront.

This convenient booking process ensures a seamless experience for those looking to explore the stunning Fjærlandsfjord.

Travelers can easily plan their trip and have the freedom to adjust their plans if needed, thanks to the operator’s customer-friendly booking and cancellation policies.

Review Highlights

Travelers praise the ‘Wonderful way to experience Fjærlands Fjord’ and the ‘Great fun to travel on this small boat’, highlighting the cruise’s ability to offer access to the fjord’s inaccessible parts.

Plus, the ‘Visit to glacier at trip’s end is a must’, according to reviewers, providing a memorable culmination to the scenic journey.

The cruise’s highlights include:

Breathtaking views of the Sognefjord, the deepest and longest fjord in Norway
Intimate experience on a small boat, allowing for a more personalized adventure
Opportunity to witness the stunning Fjærlandsfjord, a branch of the Sognefjord
Knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the region’s geography and history
Convenient departure and return to the Balestrand quay.

Guest Critiques

While the cruise’s highlights captivated many, a few guests didn’t fully meet their expectations.

One reviewer noted the ‘boat quality could improve‘, suggesting the vessel itself didn’t quite live up to the scenic experience. Another pointed out the unexpected 2-hour stop before boarding, which seemed to throw off the flow of the trip.

Despite these critiques, the overall rating remained high, indicating most travelers were pleased with their fjord adventure. Guests should keep in mind that the boat’s condition and scheduling may not be perfect, but the jaw-dropping views of the Fjærlandsfjord and the opportunity to visit the glacier at the end of the tour appear to make up for any minor inconveniences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Dress Code for the Cruise?

There is no specific dress code for the cruise. Passengers are advised to dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather conditions, as the cruise may involve some exposure to the elements. Casual, layered clothing is recommended.

Can We Bring Our Own Snacks or Beverages?

Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own snacks and beverages on the cruise. However, it’s best to check with the operator beforehand, as some companies may have restrictions or prefer that passengers purchase refreshments onboard. Checking ahead ensures an enjoyable and hassle-free experience.

How Often Does the Cruise Depart During the Day?

The cruise departs once a day, starting at 12:00 PM. There is a single departure time, so passengers should plan to arrive at the Balestrand quay in time for the 12:00 PM start. The cruise lasts for the duration of the experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Cruise Duration?

The cruise operator doesn’t offer an option to extend the duration. The cruise has a fixed schedule and runs once a day, starting at 12:00 PM and returning to the departure point. Extending the cruise time isn’t available.

Are There Any Special Dietary Accommodations Available?

The cruise operator does not provide any special dietary accommodations. However, passengers are allowed to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages aboard. Those with dietary restrictions should plan accordingly before the cruise.