Stavanger: Guided Lysefjord Cruise to Pulpit Rock

Key Points

• Small group experience limited to 8 participants ensures a personal and intimate cruise.
• Highlights include visiting Vagabond’s Cave, viewing the Pulpit Rock from below, and feeling the spray at Whiskey Falls.
• The 2-hour tour departs from Stavanger’s Strandkaien 34, with flexible starting times.
• Comfortable boats with roofs provide protection from weather and excellent photo opportunities.
• The tour features stories and legends of the Lysefjord, enhancing the scenic experience.
• No food or drinks are included, so bring your own if desired.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Stavanger: Guided Lysefjord Cruise to Pulpit Rock

This 2-hour guided boat tour offers an action-packed journey into the breathtaking Lysefjord, starting right from Stavanger. Priced with small group sizing—a maximum of 8 people—it gives a personalized experience unlike larger, more crowded fjord cruises. The tour is suitable for those who want to enjoy Norway’s natural beauty with a knowledgeable guide, learn captivating stories, and get close to iconic sights like Pulpit Rock and Whiskey Falls.

The tour departs from a white, wooden boathouse at Strandkaien 34, where the captain greets you, provides safety gear, and offers a brief safety talk. We appreciate how the small group size and new boats create a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere. With a choice of departure times, travelers can select what fits best into their schedule, making this cruise a flexible option for sightseeing around Stavanger.

A Scenic and Educational Fjord Voyage

Starting with a slow glide out of Stavanger harbor, the boat passes cruise ships and local vessels, offering a picturesque view of the city’s skyline, including landmarks like Tollboden and the Norwegian oil museum. As the boat moves past the Lysefjord Bridge, you’ll learn about the fjord’s legends and tales, setting the stage for the stunning scenery ahead.

The boat cruises at a comfortable speed of 25-35 knots, striking a balance between excitement and tranquility. Its sturdy design and sun-top roof provide protection from weather, ensuring comfort regardless of rain or shine. The seating areas at the front and back, along with the ability to walk around, give excellent vantage points for photography and enjoying the views.

From Stavanger to Lysefjorden: Passing Idyllic Islands and Villages

On the way to the Lysefjorden, the boat passes beautiful Norwegian landscapes, including wild nature, cozy cabins, small villages, and islands. Travelers might even spot seals or other wildlife, adding an element of wildlife viewing to the scenic journey. The route offers a variety of photo stops, enriching the experience with chances to capture the stunning environment.

Starting at the entrance to Lysefjord, the Lysefjord Bridge marks the transition into the fjord’s more dramatic scenery. Here, you’ll learn about the formation of the massive rock formations and cliffs, which make the fjord so iconic.

Vagabond’s Cave: A Glimpse into the Fjord’s Past

One of the tour’s highlights is a visit to Vagabond’s Cave, where history tells of shady characters hiding from authorities in old times. The story behind the cave provides a glimpse into the local folklore and adds an intriguing layer to the fjord’s natural beauty. The cave visit is a short stop, but it leaves a lasting impression.

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Viewing and Learning about the Pulpit Rock from Below

A key feature of this tour is the view of Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) from below, where the guide explains how it was formed and why the fjord has its distinctive shape. Although the tour does not go to the top of the Pulpit Rock, seeing it from below gives a new perspective, emphasizing its massive 604-meter height above the water.

This close-up experience offers incredible photo opportunities and a deeper understanding of this famous geological marvel.

Whiskey Falls and Its Fascinating Backstory

Next, the boat reaches Whiskey Falls, a lively waterfall nicknamed after a German who caused some excitement with his antics. The guide shares the story behind the nickname, adding humor and local flavor. The boat might even put the bow directly into the waterfall, allowing guests to feel the water spray on their face—a memorable moment of the trip.

The Return Journey and Final Views

After exploring Whiskey Falls, the tour heads back towards Stavanger, retracing the route from Lysefjord. The boat passes fantastical rock formations at Fantahala and other scenic stops, allowing for more photos and stories along the way. The return to Strandkaien 34 concludes this intimate and educational fjord experience.

Practical Details and What’s Included

This tour is led by an experienced captain who provides floating suits for safety and warmth, ensuring comfort in all weather conditions. The audioguide or live guide enriches the journey with stories about the fjord’s legends, landmarks, and history.

Included in the price are the boat, safety gear, and the Vagabond’s Cave visit, along with the stories of Whiskey Falls and Pulpit Rock. Food and drinks are not included, so travelers should bring their own refreshments if desired.

Logistics and Meeting Point

The tour departs from the white, wooden boathouse at Strandkaien 34, where a Fjord Xplore representative greets guests. The activity ends at the same location, making it convenient for those exploring Stavanger afterward. The small group size ensures a personal experience, and the boats are designed for comfort and safety, even in rainy weather.

Suitability and Accessibility

This cruise requires participants to be comfortable on a boat and able to handle a 2-hour tour. It is not suitable for children under 4 years or wheelchair users. The provided gear and safety brief help ensure a secure experience for most travelers.

Why Choose This Tour Over Others

Unlike larger fjord cruises, this small-group tour provides a more personal touch, with a sturdy, comfortable boat equipped for various weather conditions. Reviews highlight friendly guides, stunning scenery, and close-up views of key landmarks like Pulpit Rock from below. The informative storytelling enhances the visual experience, making it ideal for those who appreciate both scenery and local legends.

Final Thoughts on the Stavanger Lysefjord Tour

This 2-hour guided cruise offers a well-balanced mix of scenery, history, and fun stories. The small group size and comfortable boats create an intimate atmosphere perfect for photography and relaxed sightseeing. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want to learn about the fjord and see iconic sites from a unique perspective.

While it doesn’t include a visit to the top of Pulpit Rock, seeing it from below and exploring Vagabond’s Cave and Whiskey Falls makes this tour stand out. The flexible timing and weatherproof boats add to its appeal.

For anyone seeking a personal, scenic, and story-rich fjord experience near Stavanger, this cruise delivers engaging details backed by positive reviews and high ratings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts 2 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from the white, wooden boathouse at Strandkaien 34 in Stavanger.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes an experienced captain, floating suit, comfortable boat with a sun-top, an audioguide or live guide, and visits to Vagabond’s Cave, Pulpit Rock view, and Whiskey Falls.

Are food and drinks provided?
No, food and drinks are not included; guests should bring their own if desired.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 4 years and not accessible for wheelchair users.

What should I wear?
Wear normal clothes and bring a hat or beanie, as the floating suit includes a hood for warmth and safety.

Can I book without paying upfront?
Yes, the tour allows reserve now, pay later, giving flexibility for travel plans.

How many people are in each group?
The group size is limited to 8 participants for a personal experience.

Will the tour go on rainy days?
Yes, the tour departs even on rainy days, with the floating suits helping to stay warm and dry.

What makes this tour stand out from others in Stavanger?
Its small group size, comfortable boats, and engaging stories about the fjord’s landmarks and legends set it apart from larger, more generic cruises.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby