Haugesund Viking Cruise – The Viking Farm and Viking Planet

If you’re curious about the Vikings, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Norway’s storied past, blended with modern technology and scenic beauty. Designed for families and history buffs alike, it’s often praised for its knowledgeable guides and value for money. You get to see a genuine Viking farm where scenes from Netflix’s Norsemen were filmed, glide across fjords on a comfortable boat, and explore one of the most innovative Viking museums in the country.

A few considerations: the tour runs about three hours, and while most find the pace ideal, it is tailored for cruise ship schedules — so timing might be tight if you’re on a strict itinerary. It’s also priced at $146 per person, which is reasonable when you factor in the multiple activities, but travelers should note that food and drinks aren’t included. This experience suits families, history enthusiasts, and those eager for an engaging, authentic Viking adventure with a modern twist.

Key Points

• Authentic Viking Experience: Visit a Viking farm that looks straight out of history and Netflix.
• Scenic Boat Ride: Enjoy a comfortable, 25-minute cruise with inside seating, perfect for rainy days.
• Cutting-Edge Museum: The Viking Planet uses digital technology to bring the Viking era vividly to life.
• Expert Guides: Local guides share captivating stories, making history approachable for all ages.
• Well-Organized Logistics: Smooth check-in, short walking distances, and flexible timings make it family-friendly.
• Great Value: Combines multiple attractions in a compact 3-hour tour, offering a comprehensive Viking experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What makes this tour stand out?

This tour is a smart pick if you’re looking for a balanced mix of history, scenery, and modern technology. It’s especially appealing for families—kids are engaged with Viking activities, and adults get a chance to learn and relax. The tour’s three-hour duration is also well-suited for cruise travelers wanting a fulfilling experience without missing their ship’s departure.

The starting point: Haugesund Cruisehavn

The adventure begins right at the cruise terminal, where a Viking Adventure representative awaits at the Viking Adventure booth. After a brief check-in, you’ll walk just five minutes to the boat dock. The seamless logistics here are a plus, especially on a busy cruise day. The boat itself is modern and comfortable, with inside seating options that shield you from rain or wind, making it suitable for Norway’s often unpredictable weather.

The boat cruise: a scenic and informative journey

The first part of the tour is a 25-minute sightseeing cruise across the harbor, heading towards the Viking Farm on Bukkøy. Travelers have praised this boat ride, with some noting it was “very pleasant,” and appreciated the inside seating especially during rainy weather. The guide accompanies you, sharing stories about the fjord landscape, local history, and Viking lore, setting a captivating tone for what’s to come.

The Viking Farm at Avaldsnes: stepping into history

Once ashore, the highlight for many is the Viking Farm at Bukkøy. Here, you’ll see a meticulously recreated Viking village, which has been used as a filming location for Netflix’s Norsemen. The farm offers a hands-on experience with Viking activities—children can try axe-throwing, shield-making, or simple crafts, while adults gain insights into Viking life, housing, and customs.

Visitors love the chance to explore the traditional houses and ask questions. One review notes, “The recreated village was really informative and scenic,” and emphasizes the opportunity to ask questions and explore on your own. The authenticity and scenic appeal make this stop memorable, especially for those wanting more than just a quick photo.

Drawback? The farm visit lasts about 70 minutes, which might feel rushed if you love lingering or want to explore every detail. But generally, it strikes a good balance, especially when combined with the other stops.

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The Viking Planet Museum: bringing Vikings into the digital age

After the farm, the tour proceeds to Haugesund’s Viking Planet Museum, just a short walk away. This is not your typical dusty exhibit; it’s a state-of-the-art digital museum that uses cutting-edge technology to make Viking history accessible and engaging. Expect interactive displays, virtual reality, and engaging storytelling that appeals to tech-savvy visitors and families alike.

Guests have appreciated the informative yet fun approach. One review states, “The Viking Planet had a lot of information on Viking history,” and others mention it’s a great way to visualize Viking life with modern tools.

You’re free to spend about an hour here, with the option to shop for Viking-themed souvenirs. Since the museum is in the city center, it’s convenient to explore more of Haugesund afterward or head back to your cruise ship.

How this tour fits your trip

The tour ends back at the cruise terminal, about ten minutes on foot from the museum, or you can request transportation if needed. If you’re cruising, this timing makes it easy to return to your ship without stress.

Authenticity and value

Reviews highlight the value for money. For $146, you get transportation, guided commentary, entry to both the Viking farm and museum, and a scenic cruise. Many reviewers, like Dianne K, say, “We learnt a great deal about Viking life and activities,” emphasizing the educational aspect. Others note the guides’ knowledge and friendly approach as major pluses.

What about food?

As meals aren’t included, you might want to bring snacks or plan to enjoy a meal after the tour in Haugesund’s city center. The tour’s focus is on history and scenery, rather than culinary experiences, so plan accordingly.

Who is this tour best for?

This Viking tour is ideal for families, thanks to its interactive activities and engaging guides. History buffs will appreciate the combination of a working Viking farm and digital museum, while cruise passengers will enjoy the easy logistics and short walking distances. It’s also suitable for those with limited mobility, as the tour is well-organized and not overly strenuous.

Final thoughts

This experience offers a thoughtfully curated glimpse into Norway’s Viking heritage, blending history and modern storytelling with scenic beauty. You’ll leave with a better understanding of who the Vikings were, plus some fun stories to share back home. The combination of a scenic boat ride, authentic Viking farm, and innovative museum creates a well-rounded adventure that’s both educational and enjoyable.

For travelers seeking an engaging, family-friendly Viking-themed outing at a fair price, this tour delivers plenty of value. It’s especially worthwhile if you’re interested in Norwegian history, Viking culture, or simply want a day that combines outdoor scenery with interactive learning.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is designed to be family-friendly, with Viking activities that children can participate in, and guides who tailor stories for all ages.

How long does the entire tour last?
The entire experience is about 3 hours, including the boat cruise, farm visit, and museum time. It’s structured to fit well within cruise ship schedules.

Do we need to bring our own food?
Food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or planning to eat in Haugesund after the tour might be best.

Is the boat ride indoors or outdoors?
The boat has indoor seating, making it comfortable during rainy or cold weather. It’s a pleasant ride with good commentary.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for weather conditions, and sturdy shoes for exploring the Viking farm. Layers are recommended, especially if the weather is unpredictable.

Can I extend my visit at the Viking Planet Museum?
You are free to spend about an hour at the museum, and afterward, you can explore Haugesund at your leisure or return to your ship.

This Viking tour offers a compelling mix of history, scenery, and modern storytelling, making it a standout choice for those eager to connect with Norway’s legendary past while enjoying a hassle-free, family-friendly outing.

You can check availability for your dates here: