We discovered the delights of two contrasting ports, stood captivated at the sight of incredible natural wonders and enjoyed scenic cruising through some of Norway’s awe-inspiring fjords. This is a 3-part series. Check out the other two posts here: Bergen Cruise Port Guide and New to Cruising Tips.
The Norwegian fjords are some of nature’s symbols of beauty in the world. The fjords are masterpieces of unusual landscapes and spectacular scenery formed over millions of years of glacial activity. Some of these natural wonders, vibrant Bergen and tranquil Eidfjord were ours to experience on a 5-night cruise onboard Balmoral, the flagship of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines.
After an overnight sail from Newcastle – and a somewhat choppy turn on the North Sea – our encounters with the fjords began with a glide on the glassy waters of Lysefjord. Measuring over 40km from one end to the other, the light-coloured granite rocks in the rugged terrain inspire its name which translates to “light fjord”.
The scenery at Lysefjord was simply entrancing.
We sailed through in spellbound appreciation, marvelling at the mist-topped peaks, plunging waterfalls and mysterious rock formations from the comfort of the ship.
First Port of Call: Bergen
A full day in Bergen, Norway’s thriving second city, began early the next day.
There were a plethora of highlights to discover in the Hanseatic city. The 900-year-old UNESCO-listed Bryggen Wharf, funicular ride to Mount Fløyen and the fish market were standouts. We even experienced one of Bergen’s 275 average days of rain per year. Talk about getting a taste of the city in its authentic element! More delights were still to come.
Pack more into your day with this Bergen cruise port guide. CLICK HERE to read more.
Second Port of Call: Eidfjord
From bustling Bergen, we sailed deep into Hardangerfjord – Norway’s second longest fjord – to Eidfjord. A welcome serenity presented itself as we realised what was missing: traffic, noise and people. The village has only 950 inhabitants. What Eidfjord lacks in numbers, it more than makes up for in astonishing landscapes and rugged natural beauty.
With a free hour before our organised excursion, a turn on the sightseeing troll train was in order. The 50-minute ride took in Eidfjord’s natural, cultural and historical highlights – including Western Norway’s biggest selection of graves from the Iron and Viking ages. All the while, we swapped one lush scenery for the next. For those keen to embrace adventure on two wheels, the nearby tourist office offered bike hires for a small fee.
Finally, it was time for our organised tour. The first stop was the Hardangervidda Nature Centre. Featuring three interactive floors, aquariums and live exhibitions, it offered more fascinating insights into the nature and environment of Norway.
Continuing from there, we drove on the steep roads of the Måbødalen Valley before reaching the Hardangervidda mountain plateau. Here, the cherry on the cake awaited in the arresting scenery and thundering sounds of Vøringsfossen, one of Norway’s most popular waterfalls.
Norway is, quite simply, one for the great outdoors.
Onboard life
Returning to the ship at the end of port days was a welcome respite. Venturing out of spacious staterooms revealed stylish bars, lounges and convivial spaces in the country house hotel style of Fred. Olsen. There were options to soak up the atmosphere in one of the premium dining venues, enrich your mind at the daily talks held in the Neptune Lounge or get in shape at the gym if so inclined.
Wining and dining
Food is a highlight on most journeys – and this cruise was no different. We started days off with a tasty breakfast catering to different palates, from fresh fruits to a hearty full English. Not ready to leave bed just yet? Opt to have a continental breakfast delivered directly to your stateroom. Lunchtime presented varied and interesting menus enriched by a selection of hot and cold options from the buffet.
Balmoral added flavour in the evenings with a pampering five-course à la carte feast. For a particularly memorable meal, speciality dining at The Grill is a top recommendation; available at a small supplement. Enjoying a premium experience here in view of the cascading Furebergfossen Waterfall in stunning Muarangerfjord was a highlight moment onboard.
Bringing the world closer…
Balmoral is the flagship in Fred. Olsen’s approach to smaller-sized ocean cruising, which means you can relax onboard without feeling crowded. The atmosphere was warm and sociable, allowing for interactions with different people. Some of these interactions happened with two longtime cruisers from Manchester. They both twinkled with the glow of curiosity about the world that hadn’t waned – even far into their 70’s. The best part about our conversation? Their healthy approach to solo travel.
At our age, we don’t have time for anyone faffing about. We’d rather go on our own!
Excerpt from a conversation with two travellers in their 70’s
Now that is sure to resonate with the increasing number of us learning to go solo, from Bath to Zadar and beyond. Plus, it’s a great lesson to leave your first cruise with, wouldn’t you say?
Got questions about taking your first cruise? Check out my New to Cruising Q&A for more tips and advice. Or, get in touch, and I’ll be happy to point you in the right direction.
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[…] first port of call during this Norwegian fjords cruise, Bergen awaits with a rugged backdrop, colourful architecture, cobbled alleyways and a long history […]
Looks wonderful! I’ve actually never been on a cruise before so this is a great report to get the feel of it. Love the fjords!
Thanks from this newbie cruiser. Glad I could give a great report 😊. The fjords are simply beautiful!
This is interesting I’ve always have wanted to visit the Fjords. I just want to clarify was your cruise from Newcastle Upon Tyne in England? The reason I’m asking is that is my home city and I never knew about this. How much was your package with Fred Olsen?
Hi Alexandra, thanks for stopping by. It was Newcastle Upon Tyne indeed. Fred Olsen have some great itineraries from there, so that should be handy if you’re considering a fjords cruise from your home city. Have a look at this link for a feel of pricing/upcoming itineraries from Newcastle:https://www.fredolsencruises.com/cruises-from-newcastle
There’s a 5nt one similar to the itinerary in this post, and a longer 9nt one that also sounds exciting.
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[…] 3-part series on my Norwegian fjords cruise adventure. Check out the other two posts in the series: Cruising the Norwegian Fjords and Bergen Cruise Port Guide. In this post, I answer questions from the WoW community on taking my […]
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