The Norwegian Fjords one of the few areas in the world where ships schedule cruising hours simply to give passengers the time to watch the scenery - and the tranquil experience of gliding through the glassy waters and coming to terms with the sheer scale of the region is unforgettable.
If it is the Norwegian Fjords you want to see, check carefully to see how many days are actually spent in fjordland. For variety, pick a cruise which includes the North Cape or even Spitsbergen, or alternatively combine with a Baltic exploration.
For us, this is a region where small ships come into their own, so here's a round-up of the seven best luxury small ships that will be cruising the Norwegian Fjords in 2024:
1. Windstar Cruises
Windstar's lovely Star Legend accommodates a maximum of just 312 guests, and departs Edinburgh for a 10-night sailing to Copenhagen on 12th July 2024, with the reverse route on 12 August 2024, visiting some of the highlights of Norway's fjordland, including Bergen, Geirangerfjord, Olden and Flam.
Formerly operated by Seabourn, this popular little ship emerges from an exciting refurbishment in 2022, further enhancing the friendly and casual ambience that so delights those guests who prefer a smaller ship.
2. Seabourn
Seabourn Sojourn, the luxury line's elegant 458-guest ship, departs Dover on 10th August 2024 on a 14-day North Cape and Majestic Fjords itinerary. Scenic cruising of Sognefjord, Trollfjord and Nordfjord, combined with time in numerous towns and villages along the entire Norwegian coast as far as the North Cape, makes this a particularly lovely voyage on which you'll enjoy Seabourn's outstanding comfort and service in the land of the Midnight Sun.
3. Ponant
The French flagged cruise line's Le Champlain offers two lovely seven-night Norwegian Fjords cruises in early July and late July 2024. Visiting at this time means long days, better weather and beautiful fields of wildflowers. Starting or finishing in Bergen, we recommend and additional night or two to explore this beautiful historic city.
Ponant also offers an unusual autumn departure in November 2024 on icebreaker Le Commandant Charcot to see the fjords in a whole new light, which also mixes in stops at the stunning Lofoten Islands.
4. Viking Ocean Cruises
The Norwegian heritage on board Viking ships is clear, from the soft reindeer skins in the Explorers Lounge to the snow grotto in the spa. Light and airy, you will enjoy the stunning scenery from the spacious lounges and deck areas. These beautiful vessels, accommodating a maximum of 930 guests, offer a choice of cruises to combine a taste of the Norwegian Fjords with the Baltic from Stockholm, or with the North Cape and back to the UK. For a Scandinavian style and lots of variety at an inclusive price, Viking is a great choice.
5. Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Sailing from Amsterdam on 15th June 2024 aboard the stunning 496-guest Seven Seas Navigator, this 17-night cruise includes four days exploring the fjords and the great northern capitals such as Helsinki and Oslo, as well as lesser-explored gems such as Gdansk and Tallin, before arriving in Copenhagen - a perfectly designed northern itinerary. Enjoy Regent's inclusive pricing, from flights to shore excursions, drinks and gratuities, with not a penny more to pay.
6. Silversea
Through June, July, August and September 2024, Silversea's 596-guest Silver Dawn - launched in 2022 - operates a series of magical cruises, all including the Norwegian Fjords. We love this stunning ship which features S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste), showcasing authentic local cuisine from each destination with special shore excursions, onboard cookery demonstrations and classes, and the ever-changing menus at the new S.A.L.T. Kitchen restaurant.
Choose from itineraries which include plenty of time ashore in pretty towns such as Ålesund, Hellesylt and Flåm, and scenic fjords including the Eidfjord and Geirangerfjord.
7. Scenic
Join the elegant expedition ship Scenic Eclipse on 15th June 2024 for an exciting Scenic expedition cruise sailing from Edinburgh to Tromso. Along the way you will enjoy a close-up view of the fjords, exploring by zodiac with an experienced expedition team, before heading further north to the Lofoten Islands.
Kayaking and stand up paddle boarding will be part of your experience, and a programme of lectures and seminars will enhance your all inclusive voyage, as you adventure in style.
This is just a selection of what's on offer, and many of the ships mentioned have alternative voyages in the region. So if the Norwegian Fjords are on your 'must see' list then give us a call, and we will find the right small ship cruise for you.
