Ålesund: Geiranger Fjord Boat Tour with Return Bus Tour

Experience the spectacular beauty of Norway’s fjords with this Ålesund: Geiranger Fjord Boat Tour with Return Bus Tour. Spanning 10.5 hours, this carefully crafted itinerary takes you through some of the most iconic landscapes in Møre og Romsdal County, combining boat cruises, scenic bus journeys, and free time in charming villages. The tour is rated 4.6 out of 5 based on 53 reviews, highlighting its popularity and overall satisfaction.

This tour is ideal for those who want to see multiple fjords, waterfalls, and mountain views in one day, with the convenience of return transportation from Ålesund. While the itinerary includes moments of leisure in Geiranger and Hellesylt, it also offers plenty of opportunities for photography and exploration. The journey’s focus on scenery and local villages makes it a rewarding choice for travelers seeking an authentic taste of Norway’s natural grandeur.

Key Points

• Full-day experience combining boat and bus travel to explore Norway’s fjords.
• Cruises through Hjørundfjord and UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord with stops for photos and water tasting.
• Guided bus journeys with panoramic viewpoints like Eagle Road and Kokarsteinen.
• Leisure time in Hellesylt and Geiranger for independent exploration and photos.
• Starting point at Rådhuskaia pier in central Ålesund with easy access.
• Includes stops at scenic spots such as Øye, Eidsdal, and Kokarsteinen, with opportunities to purchase food and drinks.

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Set out on a Fjord Adventure from Ålesund’s Rådhuskaia Pier

The tour begins at Cruise Service AS, located just outside the Ålesund Cruise Pier Gate. Travelers meet at the black and white boat “MS Bruvik” on the Rådhuskaia pier with coordinates 62.4698371887207, 6.153414726257324. The departure involves a boat cruise through Hjørundfjord, lasting approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, offering scenic views of dramatic mountain landscapes and tranquil water.

The journey is designed for comfort and ease, with a friendly host guiding the trip in English. The tour features timely departures and allows for flexible booking, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase onboard, and stops at villages provide opportunities to buy local food and drinks.

Exploring the Villages of Hellesylt and Geiranger

In Hellesylt, travelers get about 1 hour of free time to explore at their own pace. This small village is a cozy stop for sightseeing, with options to buy food and drinks. It serves as a gateway for the famous Geirangerfjord cruise, which lasts around 1 hour, passing through UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord.

In Geiranger, approximately 2 hours are allocated for sightseeing and photos. This village is renowned for its spectacular fjord views and is a popular stop for cruise ships. The time here allows for independent exploration, taking in sights like waterfalls, mountains, and local shops.

The Waterfall Water Tasting Experience

A unique feature of this tour is the chance to taste pure waterfall water collected directly from a natural waterfall during the Geirangerfjord cruise. This water tasting adds an authentic dimension to the journey, highlighting Norway’s pristine natural environment.

Breathtaking Viewpoints: Eagle Road and Kokarsteinen

The tour includes a scenic drive to Eagle Bend Road (Ørnesvingene), famous for its panoramic fjord views. A photo stop here lets travelers capture stunning landscapes. Another highlight is the visit to Kokarsteinen, known as The Boiling Rock, which offers spectacular fjord vistas from a vantage point.

Both spots are perfect for photo enthusiasts and provide a pause to appreciate Norway’s rugged beauty. The bus journeys between stops are comfortable and designed to maximize viewing opportunities.

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The Route Through Norway’s Dramatic Valleys and Fjords

The tour’s itinerary covers multiple scenic areas:
– A boat cruise through Hjørundfjord and Geirangerfjord, both showcasing towering cliffs, waterfalls, and lush landscapes.
– A bus trip through Norangsdalen, a valley with striking mountain scenery.
– Stops in Øye, known for its charming architecture and views.
– Crossings of Storfjord via ferry, offering a different perspective of Norway’s Grand Fjord.

This combination of boat and bus routes ensures a comprehensive view of the region’s landscapes and villages.

Practicalities and Logistics of the Tour

The tour lasts 10.5 hours, with a meet-up at Cruise Service AS. The itinerary is well-structured, with specific stops for sightseeing, photos, and water tasting. The bus segments are approximately 30 minutes each, with scheduled photo stops at notable viewpoints.

Travelers should prepare for variable weather and consider bringing suitable clothing. The onboard bar offers snacks and drinks for purchase, but stops at villages allow for additional food and drink options.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Most notably, this tour combines sea and land perspectives of Norway’s fjords, giving a fuller picture of the landscape than a single mode of transportation could provide. The UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord cruise is a major highlight, especially for its waterfalls and stunning cliffs.

The inclusion of free time in both Hellesylt and Geiranger means travelers can independently explore, take photos, or just relax. The viewpoints like Eagle Road and Kokarsteinen are real highlights, offering spectacular panoramic scenes.

The positive reviews emphasize the smooth organization, friendly guides, and the value of seeing multiple fjords and villages in one trip. Some mention crowds in Geiranger but note that the journey itself remains the main attraction.

Final Thoughts on the Ålesund Fjord Tour

This 10.5-hour tour provides a well-rounded experience of Norway’s fjord landscapes, perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day of sightseeing without the need to organize multiple trips themselves. The combination of boat cruises and scenic bus routes ensures variety and stunning visuals.

While Geiranger can become crowded with cruise ships, the overall experience of cruising through UNESCO-listed fjords and visiting scenic viewpoints makes it worthwhile. The tour is especially suitable for those who value guided logistics, flexibility, and scenic diversity.

This tour offers great value, allowing visitors to see Norway’s most iconic fjords in one seamless day, with enough free time to appreciate the beauty at their own pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 10.5 hours, starting from Ålesund.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from Cruise Service AS at Rådhuskaia pier in central Ålesund.

What are the main stops?
Stops include Hjørundfjord, Øye, Hellesylt, Geiranger, Ørnesvingen, Eidsdal, and Kokarsteinen.

Can I explore the villages on my own?
Yes, the tour offers free time in Hellesylt and Geiranger for independent sightseeing.

Is there food available?
Snacks and drinks are available for purchase onboard, and stops at villages are good places to buy food.

What viewpoints are included?
Highlights include Eagle Road (Ørnesvingene) and Kokarsteinen for panoramic views.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While no specific limitations are listed, the scenic nature and bus and boat segments suggest it’s suitable for most travelers able to handle a full day of sightseeing.

How might weather affect the experience?
Weather can vary; bringing appropriate clothing is recommended as the scenery is equally stunning in rain or shine.

Are there any booking flexibility options?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is the overall rating?
The tour holds a 4.6 out of 5 rating based on 53 reviews, reflecting high satisfaction.

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