All About the Fjords in One Tour by Bus and Boat from Ålesund

All About the Fjords in One Tour by Bus and Boat from Ålesund

If you’re dreaming of Norway’s iconic fjords but want to see as much as possible in one day, this tour offers a comprehensive glimpse. It’s a 6-hour roundtrip adventure that combines a scenic boat cruise through Hjørundfjord with bus rides through some of the most picturesque villages and valleys in the region. While it promises a broad overview, the experience is somewhat uneven—beautiful scenery, but with some notable shortcomings in guidance and timing.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see several different landscapes— from the pristine waters and towering peaks of Hjørundfjord to the charming streets of Hellesylt and the panoramic views from Ljøen. Plus, the inclusion of a ferry crossing over Storfjord adds a touch of variety. Still, it’s worth noting that the tour’s value depends heavily on your expectations. If you’re looking for detailed commentary or a fully guided experience, you might find this tour falls a bit short.

This tour would suit travelers who are comfortable with a flexible schedule, who prioritize stunning views over detailed explanations, and who don’t mind a busy itinerary packed with stops. It’s best for those who want a snapshot of Norway’s fjord country in a single day without the expense or effort of multiple separate excursions.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: The fjords and mountain vistas are breathtaking and the main highlight.
• Variety of landscapes: Combining boat and bus gives a well-rounded view of the region.
• Limited guidance: No comprehensive commentary, which can leave some travelers wanting more context.
• Timing issues: Reviews mention delays and short stops, impacting overall experience.
• Value for money: At around $165, it offers a broad overview but might feel rushed or sparse on info.
• Accessible and modern: Air-conditioned vehicles and WiFi make for comfortable travel.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The journey begins at the Ålesund Cruise Pier, with a scenic drive across the Vegsund strait. Here, you’ll see traditional, vibrantly painted boathouses lining the waterfront—authentic reminders of Norway’s maritime roots. It’s a charming first impression that sets the tone for the day. From there, the boat cruise through Hjørundfjord starts.

The Hjørundfjord Cruise

This part is where the tour shines. The fjord is described as a “hidden gem,” with towering Sunnmøre Alps framing the water. The reviews and descriptions emphasize that the scenery here is truly spectacular—steep mountains, unspoiled nature, and clear waters. The boat ride lasts approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, giving you plenty of time to soak in the views.

Some travelers, like Laura, appreciated the trip but wished for more narration or historical context from a guide. The lack of commentary means you might find yourself simply marveling at the vistas, which is fine if you’re already familiar with Norwegian fjords or love silent nature. Others, like Lucy, enjoyed the trip but noted the experience felt somewhat unstructured without guiding explanations.

Small Villages and Unique Stops

Passing by villages such as Trandal, Sæbø, and Urke, you get a quick glimpse of local life. These villages are known for their scenic settings—quiet, picturesque, and often accessible only by boat or hiking. They offer a sense of the quiet charm of rural Norway, although the tour doesn’t include time to explore them extensively.

The Village of Øye

A brief 15-minute stop at Øye brings you to a landmark with stunning mountain and fjord views, along with the famous Hotel Union Øye. This stop allows for a quick photo op and a chance to stretch. As some reviews mention, the short duration can be frustrating if you’re eager to explore more.

The Bus Ride through Norangsdal Valley

After the cruise, you switch from boat to bus. The journey takes you through Norangsdalen, a landscape of towering mountains, lakes, and waterfalls. It’s a picturesque drive, with the bus passing by the sunken village of Lyngsstøylsvatnet, a haunting reminder of a landslide in 1908. The scenery here is described as “eerie and beautiful,” and many travelers find this a highlight of the trip.

The Village of Hellesylt and the Ljøen Viewpoint

Next, you stop at Hellesylt, a village famous for its waterfall flowing right through town—a perfect spot for photos and a quick stroll. Then, a short ride takes you to the Ljøen Viewpoint, offering sweeping views of the Geirangerfjord. This panoramic vista is stunning and one of the most praised aspects of the entire tour.

Crossing the Storfjord by Ferry

The final leg involves crossing Storfjord via ferry. This part is generally smooth and offers scenic views from the water, completing the fjord circuit. The ferry crossing takes about 20 minutes and is a relaxed way to end the day.

Return to Ålesund

You finish the tour back where it started, with plenty of time to reflect on the day’s highlights. Most travelers agree that the scenery was the main draw—truly some of Norway’s finest—and that the boat cruise and viewpoints delivered on their promises. Yet, some reviews note that delays, short stops, and lack of commentary can diminish the experience, especially for those wanting a more informative or leisurely trip.

Transportation and Comfort

The tour uses modern, air-conditioned buses with WiFi, making the journey comfortable. The boat is similarly equipped with restrooms and a kiosk for snacks and drinks. The group size is limited to a maximum of 150 travelers, which allows for a somewhat intimate experience, although the reviews suggest that some trips have felt rushed or disorganized.

The Value and Overall Experience

For $165, this tour provides a broad overview of the fjord landscape in a relatively short time. The multiple stops and scenic crossings offer good value for those eager to see several highlights without multiple separate excursions. However, the lack of a dedicated guide or detailed commentary is a drawback. If you’re hoping for historical stories or cultural insights, this may not meet your expectations.

Some travelers found the experience worth it, especially the scenery and panoramic views, but others were disappointed by the short stops and unengaged driver. The reviews suggest that if punctuality and guided commentary are important to you, you might want to consider other options or be prepared for a more self-guided experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure suits travelers who prioritize stunning scenery and want a quick but rundown of Norway’s fjord region. It’s ideal for those comfortable with a busy schedule and short stops, and who don’t mind a lack of detailed narration. It’s also a good pick for cruise ship passengers who want a convenient, all-in-one experience without the hassle of logistics.

However, if you’re a history buff or prefer a slow-paced, guided experience with lots of explanations, this tour might leave you wanting more. And if punctuality or clear communication is a priority, be aware that some reviews report delays and minimal guidance.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a snapshot of Norway’s fjord beauty, packed into a 6-hour window. You’ll see some of the most iconic landscapes—towering mountains, calm waters, charming villages—and get a taste of the region’s quiet rural charm. But be prepared for a somewhat rushed itinerary, limited commentary, and the chance of delays.

It’s a solid option if your main goal is to see the scenery without too much fuss and are okay with a bit of spontaneity. It’s especially suited for travelers who will be in Ålesund and want a quick, scenic escape into the fjord landscape. If you’re seeking an in-depth, guided exploration, you might want to look for a tour with a dedicated guide or longer stops.

Either way, Norway’s fjords are unforgettable—this tour delivers some of that magic, with the caveats noted.

FAQ

How long is the boat cruise?
The boat cruise through Hjørundfjord lasts approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Is there a guide explaining the sights?
No, the tour does not include a guide with commentary. You’ll enjoy the scenery but won’t get detailed explanations or historical context during the trip.

What stops are included?
Stops include Øye village, Hellesylt with its waterfall, Ljøen Viewpoint for panoramic fjord views, and a ferry crossing over Storfjord.

How much free time do I have at each stop?
Stops are brief—about 15 to 30 minutes—so don’t expect to explore extensively. The focus is on sightseeing rather than in-depth exploration.

Is the tour suitable if I want to take photos?
Yes, the stops at viewpoints and villages are great for photos. The Ljøen Viewpoint, in particular, offers spectacular panoramic shots.

Are snacks available on board?
Yes, there is a kiosk on the boat selling snacks and drinks. Food options are limited, so consider bringing your own if you want more variety.

What is the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 150 travelers, which means it can be busy but still manageable.

Is this tour accessible?
The tour uses modern buses and boats, and it is near public transportation, making it relatively accessible for most travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, some snacks if desired, and dress in layers. The weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains and on the water.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In the end, this tour offers a scenic taste of Norway’s fjord country—perfect for those who want a quick overview and stunning views, but less so for travelers craving detailed commentary or leisurely stops. Remember to keep your expectations in check and enjoy the breathtaking vistas that this remarkable region has to offer.