Bergen City Cruise

Discover Bergen’s vibrant harbor and historic sites from a relaxing boat tour costing just $28.97 per person. This 1-hour sightseeing cruise offers an accessible, water-based perspective of the city’s most renowned landmarks, with mobile tickets making booking simple and convenient. The tour departs from Strandkaien 11 and is perfect for those seeking an easy, scenic introduction to Bergen’s waterfront. While the cruise has earned a solid 4.0-star rating from 43 reviews, some travelers note occasional schedule changes or muted narration, but most appreciate the peaceful views, informative commentary, and value for money.

This cruise suits all ages, including travelers with limited mobility or those preferring a comfortable, seated experience. With stroller- and wheelchair-accessible vessels, it accommodates families, seniors, and anyone looking to see Bergen without strenuous walking. Keep in mind, the tour relies on a recorded narration, which some find less engaging, especially if the boat’s windows are soiled or if weather conditions turn rainy. Still, this tour remains a popular choice for its scenic highlights and laid-back pace.

Key Points

• Affordable water tour at $28.97, lasting approximately 1 hour
• Highlights include Bryggen, Bergenhus Fortress, Skuteviken, and Måseskjæret Islet
• Guided narration provides historical context and landmark explanations
• Accessible for all ages, with wheelchair and stroller options
• Ideal for a quick overview of Bergen’s harbor and waterfront areas
• Weather considerations: blankets are available for chilly days

Bergen’s Historic Harbor and UNESCO World Heritage Site Bryggen

The cruise begins at Strandkaien 11, with comfortable vessels that feature blankets available if the weather turns cooler. The first major stop is Bryggen, the colorful wharf that dates back to Bergen’s earliest days. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bryggen includes medieval Hanseatic warehouses and buildings that have served as a hub for trade and commerce for centuries. This area is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Bergen and offers prime photo opportunities from the water.

While the exterior of Bryggen is the main focus on the cruise, the guide’s narration provides insights into its importance in Norwegian history and its role in the Middle Ages. Watching the buildings from the water offers a different perspective than walking through the alleyways, making it especially appealing to visitors who want a broad view of this historic district.

Visiting Bergen’s Oldest Church, St Mary’s

One notable stop along the cruise is St Mary’s Church, completed around 1180, making it the oldest remaining building in Bergen. The church’s medieval architecture is distinguished by a basilica layout, with a lofty nave and lower side aisles. It has a storied history, including its association with Bergen’s German population in the 1400s. The church’s rich adornment and longevity mean it remains a significant sight, visible from the water, and explained by the narration.

While the cruise does not include a visit inside, viewing St Mary’s Church from the vessel offers a sense of Bergen’s medieval past and the chance to appreciate it from a distance. Its prominence on the skyline makes it a memorable part of the water route.

Bergenhus Fortress and Håkon’s Hall

The tour passes Bergenhus Fortress, one of Norway’s best-preserved stone fortifications. Parts of the fortress date back to 1240, and excavations suggest some structures predate 1100. Visitors see the Royal Castle, Håkon’s Hall (built in 1247), and the medieval defenses from the boat. Historically, this was the main seat of Norway’s rulers when Bergen was the medieval capital.

The fortress’s location on the water’s edge makes it especially striking from the boat. The narration offers details about its history and architecture, enriching the visual experience. The well-preserved walls and imposing towers stand out against Bergen’s skyline, making this a key highlight for history enthusiasts.

Exploring Skuteviken and the Old Shipyard

The cruise takes you past Skuteviken, an old shipyard and neighborhood that developed around the Sverresborg fortress. Built without a formal plan, the wooden houses in Skuteviken reflect Bergen’s maritime past. The area was historically used by merchants to moor ships, and the name “ship bay” hints at its seafaring roots.

Once outside the city, Skuteviken remained a working waterfront until the 20th century, when roads finally connected it to Bergen. Today, the area retains much of its historic charm and is home to art and culture spaces in the former shipyard buildings, notably USF Verftet. The water view offers a glimpse into Bergen’s maritime evolution.

Måseskjæret Islet and Coastal Residences

The tour passes Måseskjæret, part of the Sandviken bay. Initially settled in 1804 as a summer residence, the islet now features modern apartments. The house built by Christopher Kahrs in 1795 still stands nearby, protected as part of the National Heritage.

This stop highlights Bergen’s coastal lifestyle and showcases residential life on the water. Seeing the summer houses and apartment buildings from the boat emphasizes the importance of the sea in Bergen’s daily life and culture.

The Naval Battle at The City Fjord

The 15-kilometer fjord north of Bergen, known as The City Fjord, holds historical significance due to a naval battle in 1665 during the Second Anglo-Dutch War. Dutch ships, including vessels from the Dutch East India Company, took refuge in Bergen’s neutral port. The battle was short but intense, resulting in the English fleet fleeing the scene.

A cannonball from this engagement is said to be embedded in the cathedral wall. The waterway’s historical military importance adds a layer of intrigue to the scenic cruise, combining natural beauty with stories of Bergen’s strategic significance.

The German Submarine Bunker Bruno

Beyond the historic sites, the cruise passes the Bruno submarine bunker at Laksevåg, built during World War II by German occupation forces. Constructed with 18,000 tonnes of steel and use of Soviet prisoners of war, it was subjected to allied air attacks in October 1944. The bunker now houses three docks beneath a five-meter-thick concrete roof, still used by the Norwegian Navy.

This site offers a glimpse into Bergen’s wartime history, with its massive underground structure and the story of its construction and attack. It remains a notable reminder of Bergen’s role in Norwegian wartime history.

Bergen’s Old Shipyard and Art Scene Transformation

The original Georgernes Shipyard was established in the 1780s and later became famous for building sailing ships under Annanias Dekke in the mid-1800s. The shipyard area later shifted focus, becoming a sardine factory in 1910. Today, the site has been repurposed into USF Verftet, a large art and cultural arena hosting 120 companies within the creative sector.

The transition from maritime industry to arts and culture reflects Bergen’s evolving identity. The cruise offers a visual tour of this historic site, illustrating how Bergen preserves its industrial past while embracing modern cultural life.

Fredriksberg Fortress and Bergen’s Fire Tower

Perched on the Nordnes peninsula, Fredriksberg Fortress provides panoramic views over Bergen city center and Laksevåg. Built as a military fortification, it features a fire tower used until 1926 to spot and signal fires across the city.

The fortress’s clifftop location makes it an excellent spot to understand Bergen’s defense system and urban fire management history. Its well-preserved structures and scenic outlooks make it a worthwhile stop during the cruise.

Nordnes Sea Water Pool and Coastal Leisure

The Nordnes Sea Water Pool, opened in 1910, is a favorite for locals and visitors alike. The current heated saltwater pool measures 25 meters and maintains a comfortable 29°C (84°F). The pool facilities include indoor changing rooms and a sauna, making it an inviting place for a refreshing swim or relaxation after exploring Bergen.

The pool’s seaside location offers a peaceful view, and the water quality adds a unique Norwegian touch to urban leisure.

Bergen Aquarium and Tropical Wildlife

The Bergen Aquarium, established in 1960, features over 300 species across more than 60 large aquariums. It showcases fish, aquatic animals, penguins, and a tropical section with snakes, crocodiles, and spiders. An outdoor ocean aquarium opened in 2016 allows visitors to see penguins, sea lions, and otters in naturalistic ponds.

This stop offers an engaging look at marine life and exotic animals, especially appealing to families and wildlife enthusiasts. The aquarium’s location on the water enhances the experience of Bergen’s maritime environment.

Bergen’s Historic Customs House and Waterfront

Dating back to 1561, Bergen’s first customs house is a remarkable wooden structure that once extended over 100 meters into the harbor. It served as a gateway for trade and a smuggling prevention point, with jetties and quays facilitating large ships’ docking.

The customs house’s archival significance and historic architecture make it a visual highlight from the water, emphasizing Bergen’s longstanding role as a trading hub.

Nykirken and Murhvelvingen: Architectural Landmarks

The Nykirken (or Holy Trinity Church) built in 1622, is a large stone church with a cruciform layout. Known as “the new church,” it has been rebuilt several times due to fires, but remains an important religious and architectural landmark visible from the cruise.

Close by, Murhvelvingen is a historic private house built after the 1561 town fire. It has served as sheriff’s residence and guards’ quarters and features notable stonework from Hardanger. The building’s firedamaged history and stone construction are visible from the water, telling stories of Bergen’s resilience.

The Fish Market and Local Flavor

The Bergen Fish Market, operating since the Middle Ages, continues to draw visitors with fresh seafood, shellfish, fruits, and vegetables. It’s located centrally, at Vågen, and offers restaurant options serving local seafood dishes. The market’s history as a trading and fishing hub makes it a lively, colorful sight, especially during May to September when outdoor stalls are busiest.

The market’s authentic atmosphere and local products provide an immersive taste of Bergen’s maritime culture.

Bergen City Cruise: An Accessible and Informative Water Tour

This water-based tour from Bergen offers a structured yet relaxed way to see the city’s historic waterfront, with narration that brings landmarks to life. The $28.97 price point makes it a cost-effective option, especially given its approximate 1-hour duration.

Most reviews praise the friendly crew and the views of Bergen’s iconic landmarks, while some note occasional schedule changes or less engaging recorded narration. The accessibility and comfort of the vessel are frequently highlighted, making it a good choice for families, seniors, and those with mobility needs.

While it’s a short trip, the scenic views and historical insights make this cruise a valuable introduction to Bergen’s harbor and coastal history. For travelers seeking a peaceful, water-level perspective of Bergen’s sites and neighborhoods, this tour offers good value and plenty of photo opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Bergen City Cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour, providing a quick yet scenic overview of Bergen’s waterfront.

What landmarks will I see on the cruise?
Expect to see Bryggen, Bergenhus Fortress, Skuteviken, Måseskjæret Islet, The City Fjord, Bruno submarine bunker, Fredriksberg Fortress, Nordnes Sea Water Pool, Bergen Aquarium, historic customs house, Nykirken, and Murhvelvingen.

Is the tour suitable for children and seniors?
Yes, the tour is accessible, with stroller- and wheelchair-friendly vessels, and is considered suitable for all ages.

What should I bring?
While blankets are provided in chilly weather, it’s advisable to dress warmly and bring camera gear for photos. Food and drinks are not included.

What if the tour is canceled or changes schedule?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours prior for a full refund. Some reviews mention schedule changes or cancellations, so check the day of your booking.

Is the narration live or recorded?
The tour uses a recorded narration, which some find less engaging or hard to hear indoors if the windows are dirty or weather is poor.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Yes, the bookings are available online, but always check up-to-date schedules as cancellations can occur.

What makes this tour stand out compared to other Bergen activities?
Its water perspective, historical landmarks, ease of access, and affordable price make it a practical, enjoyable way to see Bergen from the harbor.

This Bergen City Cruise offers a relaxed, scenic introduction to Bergen’s harbor and historic sites, combining spectacular views with informative narration. It’s best suited for those seeking a short, comfortable trip that highlights Bergen’s maritime charm with minimal effort.