Mostraumen Fjord Cruise

The Mostraumen Fjord Cruise offers an accessible way to explore some of Norway’s most dramatic landscapes in just four hours. Priced at $84.22 per person, this tour departs from Dreggekaien Pier or Borshopen Pier in Bergen, providing comfortable ships with sundecks and a kiosk onboard. It’s a popular choice, often booked 39 days in advance, and features mobile ticketing for easy access.

With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on over 560 reviews, this tour is appreciated for its spectacular fjord views and well-organized experience. While weather conditions can vary, the tour runs rain or shine, and it’s suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals. The highlight remains the chance to sail close to a natural waterfall, where you can even catch a bucket of icy mountain water—a memorable finish to the trip.

Key Points

• Four-hour fjord cruise running from Bergen with a comfortable onboard experience
• Includes scenic views of Osterfjorden and the narrow Mostraumen strait
• Multiple departure times available from two central Bergen piers
• Spectacular waterfalls visible from the boat, with the chance to collect mountain water
• Weather does not delay the trip, but icy conditions may prompt route adjustments
• Booking well in advance is recommended, with an easy mobile ticket system

Bergen’s Fjord Scenery in Just Four Hours

The Mostraumen Fjord Cruise is designed for travelers seeking a short but immersive glimpse into Norway’s fjord landscapes. The departure points at Dreggekaien Pier and Borshopen Pier are centrally located, making it straightforward to join the tour. The four-hour duration balances ample sightseeing time with the opportunity to spend the rest of the day exploring Bergen itself.

This cruise emphasizes spectacular views of Bergen’s fjords from the water. The ship’s sundecks and interior space with large windows provide plenty of opportunities to take in the scenery. The onboard narration and guides explain the significance of each location, adding context to the majestic landscape.

Exploring Osterfjorden: Norway’s Deep and Wide Fjord

Osterfjorden is the first major stop, a 27-kilometer-long fjord that begins at Romarheimsfjorden and ends near Knarvik. It lies between the municipalities of Lindås and Osterøy. The waterway is typically 1 to 3 kilometers wide, with the deepest point reaching 639 meters below sea level.

Travelers can expect to see towering cliffs and serene waters while cruising through Osterfjorden. This area is particularly striking due to its depth and scale, offering plenty of opportunities for photography and quiet admiration of Norway’s natural beauty.

The Narrow Mostraumen Strait: Tidal Waterway and Canalized River

Following Osterfjorden, the tour navigates into the Mostraumen strait, which is about 600 meters long and 50 to 60 meters wide at its narrowest point. This canalized river with tidal water was dredged in 1913, making it an engineering marvel and an exciting feature to sail through.

Travelers enjoy the close-up experience of this narrow waterway, feeling the tides and currents as the boat moves through. It’s a highlight for many due to the intimate view of Norway’s waterway craftsmanship and the thrill of passing through a historically significant canal.

The Spectacular Waterfall Finale

One of the most memorable aspects of this cruise is the natural waterfall, where the boat sails close enough to allow passengers to catch a bucket of icy mountain water. This dramatic finale captures the essence of Norway’s pristine environment.

Weather conditions, especially in winter, can influence the waterfall’s flow. When the sea freezes in the innermost parts, the captain may choose an alternative route to ensure safety. This flexibility demonstrates the crew’s commitment to safety while delivering a memorable experience.

Onboard Comforts and Practical Tips

The cruise ships are equipped with sundecks for optimal viewing and indoor seating for comfort during colder or rainy days. The kiosk onboard offers hot and cold drinks along with snacks, including nuts and candies, but no full meals are available.

Travelers are advised to dress warmly, especially if seated outside on the deck, and to bring rain gear. The small size of the kiosk means buying snacks or drinks in advance can be beneficial. The large windows inside the ship ensure that even in poor weather, the scenery remains visible.

Departure Times and Group Sizes

This tour offers multiple departures throughout the day: at 10:30 AM and 3:00 PM from Dreggekaien Pier, and at 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 2:00 PM from Borshopen Pier. The maximum group size is 98 travelers, ensuring space for everyone, though reviewers note that outdoor seating can fill quickly, so arriving early improves chances for the best spots.

All departures are easy to find thanks to the centrally located piers, and the service animals are permitted onboard.

Weather Considerations and Safety

This cruise runs rain or shine, making it a reliable choice on most days. However, winter weather can bring ice formation in the innermost parts of the fjord, potentially altering the route for safety reasons. The crew is experienced in handling such conditions and will do their best to provide a satisfying experience regardless of weather.

It’s wise to prepare for variable weather by dressing in layers and packing rain protection, especially if planning to sit outside. The crew’s flexibility and route adjustments ensure safety without sacrificing the enjoyment of the scenery.

Customer Experience and Review Highlights

The reviews almost universally praise the stunning scenery, with many mentioning the large windows and open decks as key to enjoying the views. The guides are noted for their knowledgeability and clear explanations, adding context to the landscape.

Some reviews mention crowded outdoor decks and the importance of arriving early to secure a good spot. Others highlight the comfortable ships, smooth ride, and the well-organized nature of the tour. The waterfalls and close-up fjord views are consistently described as spectacular, making this tour a top choice for first-time fjord visitors.

Final Thoughts on the Mostraumen Fjord Cruise

The Mostraumen Fjord Cruise stands out as an excellent way to experience Norway’s fjords in a short timeframe. Its 4-hour duration strikes a balance between sightseeing and allowing time for other activities in Bergen. The scenery of Osterfjorden and Mostraumen offers remarkable vistas, especially with the up-close waterfall experience.

While the small kiosk and crowded decks in peak times are minor considerations, the overall experience is enhanced by the knowledgeable guides, comfortable ships, and breathtaking landscapes. This tour suits visitors who want a convenient, well-organized, and memorable fjord adventure, regardless of weather conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the Mostraumen Fjord Cruise?
The tour costs $84.22 per person.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 4 hours.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Dreggekaien Pier or Borshopen Pier in Bergen.

Are there multiple departure times?
Yes, departures are at 9:00 AM, 10:30 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, and 3:00 PM.

Is the cruise suitable for all weather?
Yes, it runs rain or shine, but weather, especially in winter, can lead to route changes for safety.

What amenities are onboard?
The ship has sundecks, large windows, and a kiosk selling drinks and snacks, but no full meals.

Can I bring my service animal?
Yes, service animals are allowed onboard.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Expect spectacular fjord views, sailing through Mostraumen, visiting Osterfjorden, and witnessing a natural waterfall.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely, with large windows and outdoor decks, capturing the scenery is straightforward, though arriving early helps secure the best spots.

What should I bring?
Dress warmly and consider bringing rain gear and snacks for your comfort and convenience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Who operates the tour?
The experience provider is Guided Fjord Tours.

For more information, visit the official page: Viator – Mostraumen Fjord Cruise.