If you’re dreaming of Norway’s famous fjords and looking for a way to see them that’s both exciting and intimate, this RIB tour from Hellesylt might just be what you need. With the promise of high-speed adventure, close-up views, and knowledgeable guides, it’s a pretty appealing option for anyone wanting to experience Geirangerfjord in a different way.
What we especially like about this tour is how it packs some real thrills into a small package — feeling the wind in your hair as you speed through the fjord and getting close enough to waterfalls like the Seven Sisters and Friaren to almost taste the mist. Plus, the guide’s local insights make the experience richer and more personal.
Now, a quick heads-up: this is an open RIB boat, which means the weather definitely influences the trip. If you’re looking for a calm, enclosed cruise, this might not be ideal. Also, it’s not suitable for children under 4, pregnant women, or those with back problems, so it’s a good idea to consider your comfort and health before booking.
Overall, if you’re after a memorable, adrenaline-fueled way to see Geirangerfjord with a small group, this tour could be just what you’re after. It’s especially well-suited for those who love a bit of adventure and want to learn from knowledgeable guides about the area’s highlights and history.
Key Points
- Close-up experience: Get right next to waterfalls like the Seven Sisters and Friaren, with the chance to even taste the spray.
- Speed and adventure: Feel the thrill of a high-speed RIB ride, perfect for adrenaline lovers.
- Small group: Max 12 guests ensure a personal and intimate experience.
- Expert guiding: Knowledgeable guides help you understand what you’re seeing with local insights.
- Weather considerations: The open boat exposes you to the elements; dress accordingly.
- Family and health considerations: Not suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or those with back issues.
What to Expect on the Tour
This tour kicks off in Hellesylt, where you’ll meet your guide about 15 minutes before departure at Hellesylt Camping — a convenient spot just a short walk from cruise arrivals. Once everyone’s geared up with life jackets and goggles, you hop onto a high-speed RIB boat that can access spots larger vessels can’t reach.
The journey is roughly an hour, but it’s packed with sightseeing and adventure. The boat whizzes through the fjord’s deep blue waters, with several stops to take in the views and snap photos. You’ll get a rare, close perspective of the Seven Sisters Waterfall, famous for its series of seven streams cascading down, and Friaren, a smaller but equally striking waterfall. The guide will point out the mountain farm of Skagefla, visible from sea level, adding a touch of authentic local charm.
One of the highlights is the boat actually entering the waterfalls, so you can feel the cool mist and, for the lucky few, even taste the spray. The stops are brief but give plenty of time to capture photos and soak in the scenery. This tour makes sure you see the main highlights—famous waterfalls, the fjord’s stunning backdrop, and the surrounding mountains—all from perspectives you won’t get on larger, more traditional cruises.
The guide’s commentary adds a layer of understanding, sharing stories about the area’s geology, history, and local life that make the experience more meaningful. After the tour, you’ll return to your starting point at Hellesylt, with plenty of photos and memories to cherish.
The Experience in Detail
The Starting Point and Logistics
Your adventure begins at Hellesyltvegen 64, Hellesylt Camping. Arriving 15 minutes early is recommended so you can get fitted with your safety gear and settle in. The boat departs approximately 10 minutes past each full hour — so planning your schedule around this helps avoid missing out.
The RIB Boat Ride
The open high-speed RIB boat is a thrill in itself. It’s designed to cut through water quickly and smoothly, providing a sense of freedom and excitement. The boat fits up to 12 guests, ensuring a cozy, personal atmosphere. Expect to feel the wind and spray, which adds to the adventure but also means dressing appropriately, especially if it’s a chilly or rainy day.
More Great Tours NearbyWaterfalls and Photo Stops
The Seven Sisters Waterfall is the star of the show—a cascade of seven streams tumbling down, often framed by rainbows on sunny days. The guide will make a quick stop here, giving everyone a chance to take photos and appreciate the sheer power of nature.
Next, you’ll visit Friaren, a smaller but equally striking waterfall. The stop here is brief, only about three minutes, but enough to snap a few pictures and marvel at the scene.
Then, you’ll cruise into the main part of Geirangerfjord, where the panoramic views of towering mountains and lush fjord sides are breathtaking. The guide will share insights about this UNESCO World Heritage site, making the scenery even more engaging.
The Close Encounters
One of the most talked-about aspects is how close the boat gets to the waterfalls—literally entering and tasting the spray. For many, this makes the experience unforgettable. It’s an adrenaline rush, but also a chance to connect with the raw beauty of the fjord.
The Return and Reflections
After the photo stops and sightseeing, the boat heads back to Hellesylt. The entire experience lasts about an hour, which is perfect if you’re short on time but want a high-impact, memorable outing.
Is It Worth the Price?
While prices aren’t specified here, we can analyze the value based on what’s included: high-speed transportation, safety gear, a guided tour, and several photo opportunities. The small group size and the chance to get very close to waterfalls add extra value, making this stand out from larger, less intimate boat tours.
Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and memorable scenery as key benefits. One reviewer even called it “one of the highlights of the holiday,” which speaks volumes about how well the experience resonates.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This tour is perfect for travelers who thrive on adventure and aren’t afraid to get a little wet or windblown. It appeals to those interested in nature, waterfalls, and fjord scenery but also wants the thrill of high-speed travel. It’s great for solo travelers, groups of friends, or couples looking for a unique way to see Geirangerfjord.
Because of the physical nature and weather exposure, it’s less suitable for young children, pregnant women, or anyone with health issues related to back problems. However, if you’re in good health and enjoy active experiences, it’s a fantastic way to experience Norway’s natural wonders.
Final Thoughts
This RIB tour from Hellesylt offers a compelling mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and local expertise. You’ll get closer to the waterfalls than most traditional cruises, feeling the raw power of nature up front. The small group size and knowledgeable guides help make it a personalized and engaging experience, perfect for those who want more than just a sightseeing cruise.
The brief duration makes it easy to fit into a busy itinerary, and the price, considering the intimacy and thrill factor, delivers good value. Just keep in mind the weather and your comfort with open boats — it’s not for everyone, but for many, it will be a highlight.
If you’re after a lively, memorable way to see Geirangerfjord, this tour strikes a great balance between fun and discovery. Highly recommended for adventurous travelers eager to see some of Norway’s most iconic waterfalls up close.
From Hellesylt: Experience Fjordsafari Geirangerfjord on RIB
“All staff were absolutely amazing and the boat trip to the fjords was just absolutely phenomenal. our skipper was very knowledgeable and the boat r…”
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 4 years old, as the boat is open and moving at high speed. Always check with the provider if you’re considering older children.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 1 hour, making it a quick but packed experience.
Do I need to bring anything?
Wear warm clothes and expect to get splashed. The tour provides life jackets and goggles, but dressing in layers is wise.
Is it weather dependent?
Yes, since it’s an open boat, poor weather like rain or strong wind may affect the trip or cause cancellations.
What’s included in the price?
Life jackets, goggles, live guiding, and photo stops are included.
How many people are in each boat?
A maximum of 12 guests ensures a personalized experience.
Where do I meet for the tour?
At Hellesyltvegen 64, Hellesylt Camping — just a short walk from the cruise terminal.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What will I see?
You’ll see waterfalls like the Seven Sisters and Friaren, the mountain farm Skagefla from sea level, and the fjord’s stunning surroundings.
Is the guide informative?
Yes, guides provide live commentary, sharing insights about the area’s scenery and history, making the experience richer.
If you’re after a lively, scenic adventure with a personal touch, this RIB tour from Hellesylt could be a highlight of your trip to Norway’s fjords. Just prepare for the weather, and you’ll be in for a memorable ride.
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