All About the Fjords in One Tour by Bus and Boat from Ålesund

This All About the Fjords in One Tour by Bus and Boat from Ålesund offers a comprehensive glimpse into Norway’s stunning fjord landscape for about $165 per person. With a duration of approximately 6 hours, this tour combines a fjord cruise with scenic bus rides and ferry crossings, ideal for travelers seeking a well-rounded experience without overextending their schedule. While the scenery is undeniably breathtaking, reviews suggest that the tour’s organization and guide presence may fall short of expectations, making this a good choice for those prioritizing natural beauty over guided commentary.

The tour begins at the Ålesund Cruise Pier at 9:00 am, with WiFi, air conditioning, and a restroom on board. The trip features multiple stops at key locations, including Hjørundfjord, Øye, Hellesylt, Ljøen Viewpoint, and Storfjord, creating opportunities for memorable views and photo moments. The free audio guide in 14 languages adds some value, although reviews indicate the lack of a live guide might be missed by travelers eager for more context. This tour suits visitors who want to enjoy spectacular landscapes with minimal hassle, but those seeking detailed storytelling may find it lacking.

Key Points

• Scenic boat cruise through Hjørundfjord, surrounded by towering mountains and untouched nature
• Stops in Øye, Hellesylt, and Ljøen Viewpoint provide picturesque photo opportunities and panoramic fjord views
• Cross Storfjord by ferry, crossing over Norway’s “Grand Fjord” with stunning waterway scenery
• Includes WiFi, restroom, and air-conditioned transport, adding comfort to the day
• Lacks a dedicated guide or detailed commentary during the journey, which may disappoint those wanting historical or cultural insights
• Tour price is $165.02 per person, requiring booking around 109 days in advance for most travelers

Starting Point at the Ålesund Cruise Pier

The tour departs from the Ålesund Cruise Pier at 9:00 am, making it convenient for cruise passengers or travelers based in the area. The meeting point is easy to find, and the bus features WiFi and a restroom, offering comfort after initial boarding. The group size is capped at 150 travelers, but reviews note that organizational issues, such as late arrivals and unclear pickup instructions, can occur.

Exploring Hjørundfjord’s Dramatic Scenery

The fjord cruise is the highlight of the tour, taking approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. Travelers experience Hjørundfjord, a less crowded gem among Norway’s fjords, with steep mountains and pristine waters surrounding the vessel. The trip passes by the villages of Trandal, Sæbø, and Urke, all known for their scenic beauty and outdoor appeal, though these stops are primarily viewed from the boat.

The fjords are renowned for their rugged, dramatic landscape, with towering peaks of the Sunnmøre Alps framing the water. This segment is ideal for those who appreciate breathtaking natural scenery and want to see less commercialized fjord areas.

Visiting Øye and the Changing of Transport

At the village of Øye, the tour pauses for 15 minutes, allowing travelers to take in views of the surrounding mountains and the Hotel Union Øye. This stop provides a brief but picturesque look at a small, charming village at the fjord’s end. It’s a good chance to stretch and enjoy the scenery before switching from boat to bus.

The transfer at Øye is quick, with travelers continuing their journey by bus through the Norangsdal Valley. This scenic drive showcases serene lakes, waterfalls, and lush greenery. The 15-minute stop at Ljøen Viewpoint then offers expansive vistas of Geirangerfjord, emphasizing the grandeur of Norway’s fjord landscape.

Scenic Bus Ride Through Norangsdal Valley

Post-Øye, the bus takes travelers through Norangsdal Valley, a surprisingly dramatic stretch of road lined with towering mountains and waterfalls. This area is noted for its serene lakes and the sunken village of Lyngsstøylsvatnet, which was submerged after a landslide in 1908. While the story of the sunken village adds a touch of historical intrigue, the focus remains on the stunning views of mountains and water.

The bus route provides a slower, more detailed look at some of Norway’s less accessible landscapes, but reviews mention the lack of commentary during this part, which might leave travelers without context for what they see.

Hellesylt and Its Waterfall

The trip makes a 30-minute stop at Hellesylt, a picture-perfect village on the fjord leading toward Geiranger. Known for its waterfall flowing through the town center, Hellesylt offers a cozy atmosphere with shops and cafes. This stop is ideal for capturing photos of a classic Norwegian fjord village and enjoying the natural spectacle of the waterfall.

While the stop is short, it allows visitors to experience local charm and the dynamic scenery of the fjord area.

Ljøen Viewpoint Over Geirangerfjord

A 15-minute stop at Ljøen Viewpoint grants spectacular panoramic views of Geirangerfjord. Positioned high above the water, this spot delivers breathtaking vistas of the fjord’s winding waterway, surrounded by steep mountain slopes. Travelers can take in the scale and beauty of Norway’s iconic fjord landscape from this vantage point.

This viewpoint is a highlight for photographers and those wanting to appreciate the vastness of the fjords in a single glance.

Crossing Storfjord by Ferry

The journey continues with a 20-minute ferry crossing over Storfjord—Norway’s “Grand Fjord”—which stretches over 110 kilometers. The ferry ride offers a peaceful waterway experience, with views of the fjord’s branching arms like Geirangerfjord and Sunnylvsfjord.

This cross-water segment adds an authentic touch to the tour, blending waterway travel with scenic bus rides. It is an essential part of experiencing Norway’s fjord system in a single day.

Returning to Ålesund and Its Coastal Charm

The tour concludes back at the Ålesund Cruise Pier, completing the 6-hour roundtrip. Ålesund is well-known for its Art Nouveau architecture and coastal setting, with panoramic views of the islands and sea. The return journey is straightforward, leaving travelers with a lasting impression of Norway’s dramatic fjords and charming villages.

The organized transportation and scenic stops make this a practical choice for those who want a broad overview of the fjords without the complexity of multiple tours.

Practical Details and Limitations

This tour features free WiFi, restrooms on board, and an air-conditioned vehicle, making the experience more comfortable. The audio guide in 14 languages adds some educational value, although reviews note the absence of a live guide or commentary during the trip.

Some travelers express disappointment over the lack of guided storytelling and organizational issues, such as late arrivals and unclear instructions. The drivers are not noted for providing explanations, which could leave those unfamiliar with Norwegian fjords wanting more context.

The tour price of $165.02 is reasonable given the variety of scenic stops and transportation modes, but it’s important to book around 109 days in advance, as the tour is popular. The full refund policy offers flexibility, but cancellation must be made at least 24 hours early.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This all-in-one fjord experience is suitable for travelers prioritizing scenery over guided commentary. The combination of boat, bus, and ferry showcases Norway’s fjord landscape in a compact format, perfect for those who want broad vistas without extensive hiking or multiple bookings.

However, those seeking detailed historical or cultural insights may find this tour lacking, as the lack of a dedicated guide and minimal commentary limits storytelling. The scenic stops and views remain impressive, but expectations should align with the self-guided nature of the experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
While the tour involves several stops with short walking distances, the bus, boat, and ferry segments may pose challenges for those with limited mobility. It is best to review specific accessibility details with the provider.

Does the tour include meals or snacks?
No, meals are not included. Snacks and drinks are available on the boat, and there are food and drink options at the stops in Hellesylt, giving travelers flexibility to purchase what they need.

What should I bring for the trip?
Given the outdoor nature of the stops, it’s advisable to bring layers, a camera, and sun protection. The WiFi and restroom amenities are on the vehicle and boat, providing convenience during the journey.

Can I cancel or reschedule this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if done at least 24 hours in advance. The full refund policy ensures flexibility if plans change unexpectedly.