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Norwegian Fjords Cruises

Cruising with Fred. Olsen into the heart of the fjordland is the best way to appreciate the spectacular scenery of this other-worldly setting. We expertly craft our Norwegian fjords cruises to showcase the very best of this breathtaking part of the world, taking advantage of our extensive Norwegian heritage and smaller ships ready-made for navigating size-restricted waterways, to bring awe-inspiring natural wonders and enchanting destinations closer to you.

On a Fred. Olsen Norwegian fjord cruise, you can sail the twisting Nærøyfjord and Geirangerfjord, National Geographic’s  top Natural Heritage Sites worldwide; see the Briksdal Glacier; ride the famous Flamsbana Railway; go kayaking in Hardangerfjord; admire cascading waterfalls such as the Seven Sisters from the comfort of your ship; delve into the Hanseatic history of Bergen; and much more. 

So, whether you’re embarking on your first exciting foray into the Norwegian fjords, or returning – like many others – for another exploration of this astonishing region, you’ll find that the captivating beauty of Fred. Olsen’s homeland is as special as it gets. Find your perfect Norwegian fjord cruise below.

Making the most of every single day

Scenic Discoveries - Nærøyfjord

At Fred. Olsen, the journey is as important as the ports themselves and our Scenic Discoveries enable guests to experience the beauty of the Norwegian Fjords from the open decks of your cruise ship. Surrounded by towering mountains, the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord is 20km long and 250 metres across at its narrowest point, and our Journey Planners build in diversions along this narrow fjord to enable our guests to witness its spectacular scenery, wildlife and mountainside villages, which are best seen from the fjord itself. 

Scenic Discoveries – Furebergfossen

Your captain will take you on a diversion into Maurangerfjord so that you can witness the thundering beauty of Fureberg Waterfall from the unique perspective of your cruise ship. This impressive, sprawling waterfall has a drop of 98 metres and flows under the road into the fjord below, creating a symphony of cascading water and a contrast of the white spray against the granite rocks.

Briksdal Glacier with an expert

Located within the idyllic surroundings of Nordfjord, the mighty Briksdal Glacier forms part of the Jostedal Glacier National Park and can be reached on shore tours from Olden, including hiking to the glacier with a local expert, who will have an abundance of knowledge on the region and will show you the glacier from the very best vantage points. Over thousands of years, the glacier carved out Briksdalen Valley, now covered in lush vegetation and smooth rock, while the icy blue of the glacier can be seen as a stark contrast against the green landscapes. 

Embrace Friluftsliv

The Norwegian concept of Friluftsliv translates as 'outdoor living', and our cruises to the Norwegian Fjords will offer you many opportunities to embrace this fully by connecting with nature and participating in outdoor activities for a sense of well-being. Join us on tours to hike through the unspoiled landscapes of steep mountains and lush woods, kayak on the crystal-clear still waters of the fjords or join an expert local guide on a foraging adventure.

"Norway is beautiful, especially in Autumn, the ships ability to explore further into the fjords enhanced all of the experience".

Mr Ward, Norway Fjords & Home of the Olsens - Feefo Independent Review 

Cruises to the Norwegian Fjords

The Norwegian Fjords transform through the seasons. In spring the air is beautifully clear; the green foliage is bright and the waterfalls are at their most mighty – perfect for nature lovers.

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy Norway’s landscapes when they are at their greenest, and the longer days mean we can pack in more Scenic Discoveries and enjoy more time ashore.

• Sailing the Fjords in Spring
• Sailing the Fjords in Summer

DISCOVER NORWAY'S MOST INCREDIBLE FJORDS

What better way to explore them than on a Norwegian fjords cruise specifically designed to help you experience the spectacular scenery of this other-worldly setting? Here's everything you need to know about Norway's awe-inspiring fjords.

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Norway and the fjords that dot this magnificent Scandinavian coastline truly are an unforgettable sight. The breath-taking views that you will experience while you wind your way through snow-capped mountains will prepare you for what you will see as you reach remote picturesque villages. The endless summer sunshine provides you with every opportunity to take in the indescribable surroundings. Some cruises venture as far as the North Cape and Honningsvagg and from there only the Svalbard Islands stand between you and the North Pole.

Capture your opportunity to witness the Northern Lights in the Land of the Midnight Sun. Alta is home to the world's first Northern Light observatory, earning the city the title 'Town of the Northern Lights', so you could be no better placed to see this spectacular natural phenomenon if luck is on your side.

Bergen is called the "Gateway to the Fjords," as it is a great launching point for a tour of nature's Hardangerfjord, Sognefjord and Geirangerfjord. This city has a wonderful mix of architectural styles that add to its 18th-century charm.

Lying at the head of Aurlandsfjord, the small village of Flaam is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, isolated farmsteads and waterfalls. Flaam also boasts the extraordinary Flaamsbanen. One of the most dramatic train rides in Europe, the Flaamsbanen takes an hour to cover 12 miles, hugging cliffs, plunging through tunnels and pausing for its passengers to admire the views as it ascends the Flaam Valley to a desolate mountain plateau.

Geiranger is one of the most loved fjords due to the dramatic views it offers -  of the sheer cliffs from the sea and of the picturesque town from a number ofhigh vantage points. Nearby Loen is another breathtaking spot, where the Skylift can take you amove the mist and clouds to another world.

Tromso is the most northern of Norway's rugged islands; Tromso possesses the true wonders of the polar environment: glistening glacial ridges, the icy clear waters of Lake Prestvatn, even windswept valleys where reindeer roam free. Amidst the beauty, there is fascinating history to be found as well, from ancient northern settlements to signs of sacrificial sites and cults that pre-date Christianity.

Whether you arrive on board a cruise ship or choose a land tour of the Norwegian Fjords, adventures await at every turn. You can raise the heart rate with a husky sled experience or RIB ride, or take things easy with an authentic fishing trip or glacier walk.

Norwegian Fjords Factfile

• Sogne fjord stretches over a distance of 204 kilometers and is the deepest and longest fjord in Norway. It was an important trading route during the Viking Era since it connected the villages of Sogn and Bergen
• Geiranger fjord, popular for its 'Seven Sisters waterfall' was listed as a world heritage site in 2005 by UNESCO
• In year 2,000, coral reefs were found on the base of the fjords. This enhanced their profile as a major ecosystem. Coral reef is home to plankton, coral, anemones, fish, several species of shark, and many more
• Hjørund fjord takes the tag of being the most beautiful fjord in the world for its sword-shaped peaks on either side
• Hardanger fjord is ideal for salmon fishing. For those who venture out here, you will be surprised by the number of fresh fruit orchards you find on its banks.
• At 250 meters in width, Naeroj fjord is the narrowest Fjord in the world
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As one of the UK’s most established travel companies, Fred. Olsen Travel provides outstanding customer service, choice and value for money through our six distinct specialisms. Bonded by the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) and by the Civil Aviation Authority’s Air Travel Organisers Licensing (ATOL) scheme, you can look forward to your next adventure with the peace of mind that your booking is financially protected in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

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Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines unveils 2025 voyages on Balmoral ship

The UK-based Fred Olsen Cruise Lines has unveiled 4 new voyages scheduled for 2025, featuring destinations such as Costa Rica, the Dominicana, and Norway.

MS Balmoral ship will embark from Southampton UK on these Transatlantic+Caribbean itineraries, carefully curated to offer tourists memorable experiences in remarkable locations.

One of these voyages is a 45-night Grand Voyage exploring the Caribbean and Central America, providing opportunities to discover tropical islands, indulge in local delicacies like Colombian coffee and Jamaican jerk chicken, and engage in activities such as snorkeling in Tortola BVI and spotting endemic wildlife in Costa Rica.

For those seeking the elusive Northern Lights, the "In Search of the Northern Lights" cruise departing on January 18 promises a 15-night journey to witness this natural wonder, guided by the expertise of the Go Stargazing team, and includes the maritime tradition of crossing the Arctic Circle.

Another enticing option is the "Winter Warmth in the Canary Islands" cruise departing on February 2, offering guests a chance to explore volcanic landscapes, savor local treats such as pasteis de nata, and wander through the botanical gardens of Madeira.

Lastly, the "Springtime Norwegian Fjords" cruise will take guests on a 9-night journey down Sognefjord, one of Norway's most stunning fjords, providing opportunities for outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking through lush forests.

Guests booking these cruises by April 30 can enjoy special offers, including up to GBP 300 of onboard credit or complimentary door-to-door transfers for up to 200 UK mainland miles on selected sailings.

The 4 cruises include:

Balmoral's 15-night "In Search of the Northern Lights" cruise, departing from Southampton on January 18, 2025, with prices starting from GBP 2,099 per person.

Balmoral's 13-night "Winter Warmth in the Canary Islands" cruise, departing from Southampton on February 2, 2025, with prices starting from GBP 1,699 per person.

Balmoral's 45-night "Tropical Islands and Verdant Rainforests of the Caribbean and Central America" cruise, departing from Southampton on February 15, 2025, with prices starting from GBP 4,999 per person.

Balmoral's 9-night "Springtime Norwegian Fjords" cruise, departing from Southampton on April 1, 2025, with prices starting from GBP 1,199 per person.

The top cruises for travellers with limited mobility

B ooking a last-minute trip, swinging your suitcase into a plane’s overhead locker and just going where the mood takes you is a luxury generally denied to less able-bodied travellers. 

An estimated 16 million people in the UK have a disability, whether it’s from birth, illness or ageing. And while it’s difficult enough when day-to-day living throws up a series of challenges for the less mobile to tackle, it’s even harder when holidays are thrown into the mix.

Although some holiday genres are either impossible or woefully limited for disabled travellers, one does seem to rise to the challenge more often than the rest: the humble cruise. This is largely thanks to the establishment of the Equality Act in 2010, which has meant that cruise and ferry passenger rights now generally meet EU regulations. And what a difference it’s made: according to statistics from CLIA, the official body for the cruise industry, 82 per cent of cruise travellers with limited mobility say going on a cruise is their only holiday option.

Richard Thompson, the founder of luxury holiday hospitality and leisure company IncluTravel ( inclutravel.net ), says: “Time was when ocean-going cruise ships were strewn with barriers that made life aboard extremely challenging for anyone with reduced mobility or additional sensory or cognitive requirements. But now that ship has sailed. 

“Today’s cruise ships are effectively barrier-free, enabling every passenger to enjoy and experience an almost endless variety of dining, activity, relaxation, entertainment and discovery – onboard and ashore. Statistics show that a typical passenger is likely to tell an average of five people if they like it – a disabled person will tell 50. It’s an easy win for cruise companies.”

The travel industry as a whole is moving in the right direction and companies such as Mobility at Sea ( mobilityatsea.co.uk ) provide a wide range of equipment – such as profiling beds and hoists – to cruise ports around the UK, enabling more holidaymakers with mobility needs to travel in comfort and safety. 

It’s still not easy, of course: there’s an awful lot of red tape to work through, with the complications of wheelchair size, battery capacity and specific needs to consider, and early booking is vital to guarantee accessible accommodation – but the tide is certainly changing.

“You are entitled to be very specific about your expectations and it’s best to get this addressed upfront,” says travel agent Edwina Lonsdale from Mundy Cruising ( mundycruising.co.uk ). “Whatever your needs, whether hearing loops, braille documentation or signage around the ship, wheelchair access to tenders or access to oxygen, let your agent know so they can ensure the ship you have chosen is able to look after you.”

The top 10 cruise companies for the mobility challenged

Disney cruise line.

Leading the cruise fleet for children with disabilities, Disney’s philosophy is that any child should be able to participate in all onboard activities, regardless of ability. All of their ships, including Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, have accessible staterooms (wider cabins, ramped bathroom thresholds, grab bars, adjustable bathroom fittings) and the cruise line can provide a bed board (helpful for people with a back injury or arthritis), a bed rail, portable toilet, raised toilet seat, shower stool and transfer bench. On Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay , sand wheelchairs are available, there’s an accessible cabana and a tram which can carry manual and electric wheelchairs.

Book it: The Walt Disney Travel Company (0800 171 2317; disneycruise.disney.go.com ) has a three-night cruise onboard Disney Dream from £1,403, calling at Disney Castaway Cay. The price is based on two adults and two children (aged 3-12) sharing a Standard Inside Stateroom on a full-board basis, including all fees and taxes. Departs Florida’s Fort Lauderdale April 12.

Holland America Line

Fully accessible, single-side approach and ambulatory accessible rooms are offered for guests with a range of mobility issues, as are accessible bathrooms. Holland America is also committed to providing what it calls “safe, easy and accessible adjustments for all persons with disabilities on shore excursions”, and can make alternative transportation arrangements for non-wheelchair-friendly excursions (although there may be charges for this). 

Book it: Holland America (0344 338 8605; hollandamerica.com ) has a seven-day Alaska Inside Passage cruise from £1,129 for an inside stateroom on double occupancy with an early booking bonus (inclusive of one shore excursion per guest, one speciality dining option, an elite beverage package, Wi-Fi premium package and gratuity). The round-trip cruise from Vancouver calls at Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay and Ketchikan. Departs April 27.

Norwegian Cruise Line

NCL’s mission statement says the company is “committed to providing inclusivity and access to world-class holiday experiences by continuously improving and applying the most up-to-date accessibility standards”. The company has a long history of working with special-needs passengers and consistently gets rave reviews from mobility-challenged guests. A team of accessibility co-ordinators facilitate every aspect of the cruise, but must be booked in advance – 90 days for interpreters and 45 days for other requirements. It’s also worth noting that as well as plenty of accessible rooms, all NCL ships have pool lifts, automatic doors and accessible stateroom balconies.

Book it: Norwegian Cruise Line (0333 241 2319; ncl.com ) has a 10-day Mediterranean cruise on Norwegian Viva from £2,607pp, including NCL’s Free At Sea upgrade which includes an open bar, excursions, speciality dining and free Wi-Fi. Calling at Lisbon, Gibraltar, Seville, Motril, Ibiza, Palma, Barcelona, Provence, Nice/Monaco, Florence/Pisa and Rome. Departures throughout 2024.

P&O 

Of all of the cruise lines I researched, P&O had by far the clearest website and information for those travelling with mobility issues. Whether it’s about accessible cabins and ship access, mobility aids and equipment, accessible shore excursions or information on travelling with various impairments and disabilities, the website is refreshingly upfront about the difficulties you may encounter. Their two excel-class ships, Arvia and Iona, have the highest number of wheelchair accessible or adapted cabins at sea, and the fact that P&O offers around 160 no-fly round-trip cruises from Southampton also makes it a good option for wheelchair users.

Book it: P&O Cruises (0344 338 8003; pocruises.com ) offers a seven-night Norwegian Fjords cruise onboard Iona from £639 per person, including children’s clubs, full-board meals and entertainment. Calling at Stavanger, Olden, Alesund and Haugesund. Departs Southampton May 11.

With a dedicated lane for a streamlined check-in, from the outset Princess promises to make every effort to accommodate guests with mobility issues. Wheelchair-accessible rooms are available on all ships, as are swimming pool lifts. Service animals are permitted (with prior written notice) and the Princess wearable tech Medallion app helps guests navigate the generously proportioned ships with GPS tracking technology.

Book it: Princess Cruises (0344 338 8670; princess.com ) offers an eight-day Scandinavia cruise onboard Sky Princess from £849, calling at Kristiansand, Oslo, Aarhus, Copenhagen and Skagen. Departs Southampton May 7.

Liaising with outside companies to provide profiling beds, hoists and commodes, Fred.Olsen also provides photos of their cabin layouts, so passengers know what to expect, and explains at which ports they will be able to disembark during their cruise. If guests with mobility issues are unable to board transfer coaches, private excursions are organised.

Book it: Fred.Olsen (01473 646175; fredolsencruises.com ) has a 14-night no-fly Wildlife of the Azores & Madeira cruise aboard Bolette from £1,899 per person. Calling at Praia da Vitoria, Portugal, Ponta Delgada and Santa Maria in the Azores, Funchal in Madeira and Lisbon in Portugal. Departs Liverpool April 19.

Celebrity Cruises

As well as wheelchair-friendly shore excursions and remote control appliances for lighting and accessible room equipment, Celebrity Cruises’ Edge Series ships are fitted with a “Magic Carpet” – a multi-purpose cantilevered platform on the side of the ship designed to elevate the embarkation/disembarkation process and provide an accessible tender experience for guests with mobility issues.

Book it: Celebrity (0344 493 2043; celebritycruises.com ) has a seven-night Spain and Portugal aboard Celebrity Apex from £2,846, based on two people sharing an Ocean View stateroom. The cruise will call at Vigo, Lisbon, Porto and La Coruna. Departs Southampton July 27.

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean offers what it calls “a 360-degree service” for any passenger with special needs. This means they are taken care of from the airport to the shore, with early boarding assistance and accessible suites (with a 1.5m turning radius for easy manoeuvrability). There are also automatic doors and gradual incline entrances to public rooms, as well as pool and jacuzzi lifts, and accessible shore excursions. 

Book it: Royal Caribbean (0344 493 4005; royalcaribbean.com ) has a seven-night Western Mediterranean cruise on Oasis of the Seas From £1,322 per person. The cruise offers fully wheelchair accessible excursion options on a round trip from Barcelona, calling at ports for Palma, Florence/Pisa, Rome and Naples. Departs July 21. Flights not included.

Catering for the over-50s market, Ambassador sails from seven regional ports – meaning shorter travel distances for wheelchair users – and regularly works with Mobility at Sea ( mobilityatsea.co.uk ). Ambassador’s website is possibly the firmest in spelling out its mobility policy, which may be off-putting to some, but says it “warmly welcomes guests with disabilities, including those with mobility restrictions as well as restricted sight and hearing”.

Book it: Ambassador (0808 102 8140; ambassadorcruiseline.com ) has an 11-night Iceland’s Northern Lights cruise onboard Ambassador ship Ambition from £999 per person. Calling at Rotterdam, the Orkney Islands, Faroe Islands and Reykjavik, Iceland. Departs London Tilbury on March 15.

Carnival’s website has a full list of ports that require a water shuttle and therefore aren’t suitable for wheelchair users, which helps avoid disappointment further down the line. As with all the top cruise lines for the mobility-challenged, Carnival has fully accessible cabins, single-side approach and ambulatory accessible cabins with bigger turning spaces, plus accessible features such as grab bars and shower seats. They can also help arrange for hydraulic lift transfers to be reserved at airports.

Book it: Carnival (0800 764 7419; carnival.com ) has the eight-day Southern Caribbean from Miami aboard Carnival Horizon from £750 per person, visiting Aruba, Curaçao, La Romana and Amber Cove. Departs March 10.

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