Top Tips for a Norwegian Fjords Cruise (First Time Guide)
A cruise through the Norwegian Fjords is one of the most scenic travel experiences in the world — but it’s also very different from a typical cruise.
We recently sailed on Sky Princess, visiting stunning ports like Olden, Bergen, Stavanger and Skjolden.
And we learned a lot along the way.
Here are the most important tips we wish we knew before going.
1. Don’t Miss the Sail-Ins (Set an Alarm!)
The sail-ins are one of the best parts of a Norwegian Fjords cruise.
You’ll glide slowly through narrow fjords with mountains rising on both sides — and it’s genuinely unforgettable.
If you only take one tip from this article:
👉 Wake up early for sail-ins. It is 100% worth it.
2. Choose a Balcony Cabin (If You Can)
A balcony cabin completely transforms the experience.
On our cruise, sitting on the balcony while sailing through snow-covered mountains was a highlight of the entire trip.
It’s one of those moments you simply can’t replicate indoors.
3. Book Excursions Independently Where Possible
Excursions can be expensive through cruise lines.
For example, at Olden, we visited the incredible Loen Skylift.
We found tickets locally at the port for significantly cheaper than cruise ship pricing — and they even included transport to the cable car.
The same experience, just better value.
4. Pack for Cold Weather (Even in Summer)
We expected mild temperatures — but Norway surprised us.
It was much colder than anticipated, especially in exposed fjord areas.
We even ended up buying coats onboard the ship.
👉 Pack layers. Always.
5. Norway Is Incredibly Clean
One of the most noticeable things about Norway?
We didn’t see a single piece of litter the entire trip.
Every port felt spotless and well cared for.
It genuinely adds to the experience.
6. Don’t Overplan Every Port
Each port has its own personality:
- Olden = scenery
- Bergen = culture + city life
- Stavanger = walkable and relaxed
- Skjolden = quiet fjord beauty
You don’t need to rush them.
Sometimes the best moments come from just walking and exploring.
7. Arrive Early for Popular Attractions
At the Loen Skylift, we arrived early and had no queue.
By the time we came back down, the queue had grown significantly.
Timing really matters on busy cruise days.
8. The Scenery Will Surprise You (Every Single Day)
Even when you think you’ve seen the best view… it gets better the next day.
The fjords constantly change:
- misty mornings
- dramatic cliffs
- glass-like water
- snow-capped peaks
It never gets old.
9. Time-Lapse the Sail-Ins
This is a small tip, but a powerful one.
If you time-lapse your sail-in through the fjords, you’ll capture something truly unique and memorable.
It becomes one of those videos you’ll watch back constantly.
10. Expect to Want to Go Again
Almost everyone we spoke to onboard said the same thing:
👉 One Norway cruise is never enough.
And we completely agree.
Final Thoughts
A Norwegian Fjords cruise isn’t just another cruise — it’s a scenery-driven experience that stays with you long after you leave.
And if you’re sailing on Sky Princess, you’re in for something very special.
