Stavanger: Fjord Cruise to Lysefjord and Pulpit Rock

If you’re heading to Stavanger and want to see some of Norway’s most iconic scenery, a fjord cruise to Lysefjord and Pulpit Rock might just be a highlight of your trip. While we haven’t personally taken this specific tour, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a pretty clear picture of what to expect.

What we love about this experience? First, the close-up views of Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) from the water are said to be absolutely stunning, giving you a perspective that’s different from the usual hiking routes. Second, the expert guides and informative commentary bring each stop to life, adding layers of stories and legends that deepen the experience.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to make your way to the starting point in Stavanger. It’s a short, 2.5-hour cruise, making it manageable even for those with tight schedules or limited time. This cruise is particularly well-suited for travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, photography, and learning about local legends—it’s a relaxing, visually rich adventure that doesn’t require strenuous activity.

Key Points

• Close-up view of Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) from the water offers a unique perspective.
• Expert guide commentary adds context with legends and local stories.
• Stunning scenery including waterfalls and mountain vistas makes for great photo opportunities.
• Accessible short cruise perfect for a quick sightseeing fix without extensive hiking.
• Good reviews for comfort and organization suggest a smooth experience.
• Cost-effective at $78 per person for 2.5 hours of scenic cruising.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why This Fjord Cruise Is Worth Considering

If you’re looking for a manageable yet impressive way to see Lysefjord, this cruise hits many of those marks. The 2.5-hour trip balances enough time to see some of the fjord’s highlights without feeling overlong. The price of $78 per person offers a reasonable rate considering the views and the experience of being on the water, especially since many reviews mention how close the boat can get to key sights—something that makes this stand out from larger cruise options.

The views of the Whiskey Waterfall and the surrounding mountains are often praised for their breathtaking beauty. Many reviewers comment on how much closer they felt to the key sights compared to larger cruise options—this intimacy really enhances the experience and makes for fantastic photo opportunities.

The boat is described as comfortable and clean, with friendly crew and guides who are knowledgeable and talkative. This makes the experience feel more personal and well-organized, which is often a concern with shorter boat tours.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Strandkaien

The tour begins at Stavanger’s main harbor, a convenient location for cruise passengers or those staying nearby. The guide or crew will be easy to spot, usually on a boat marked “Helgøy Skyssbåt,” making it straightforward to find your way.

The Scenic Cruise: Lysefjorden, Pulpit Rock, and Beyond

Once onboard, the adventure begins. You’ll sail through Lysefjorden, a strikingly narrow and dramatic fjord surrounded by towering cliffs and lush mountains. The highlight, of course, is the view of Pulpit Rock from below—a sight that is as impressive from the water as it is from the top. The boat gets remarkably close to Preikestolen, offering an angle that’s hard to replicate from land-based hikes.

Along the way, you’ll pass Ådnøy, Fantahålå, and the Whiskey Waterfall. The waterfalls are often highlighted as especially photogenic, with many guests capturing the cascade as it plunges down the cliffs. The guide shares stories about the area, including a local legend about the seven sisters and seven brothers, which adds a whimsical touch to the trip.

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Waterfalls and Other Stops

The Hengjanefossen Waterfall is another highlight, giving you a chance to see one of the fjord’s most beautiful natural features up close. While the boat doesn’t stop here for long, the view from the water is enough to make it memorable.

Ending Back at the Harbor

The cruise concludes back at the same starting point, with plenty of time to explore Stavanger or continue your travels.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Many reviews emphasize the quality of the guides and how they enhance the trip with their stories and local knowledge. A few point out that the boat gets much closer to the sights than larger cruise ships, which is a big plus for photography and overall immersion.

The boat itself is described as brand new and comfortable, which contributes to the overall enjoyment. The length of 2.5 hours strikes a good balance—long enough to see the best sights and hear interesting stories, but short enough to fit into a busy schedule.

Pricing at $78 per person is considered excellent value for the experience, especially considering the quality of views and the personable guides. Plus, the flexibility of “reserve now, pay later” and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance makes it a low-risk option to try out.

Practical Details & Tips

• Meeting Point is at Stavanger’s main harbor, where you’ll look for a boat labeled “Helgøy Skyssbåt.”
• Duration is about 2.5 hours; check the schedule to find a time that suits your plans.
• What to bring: a jacket (the weather can be cool and breezy on the water).
• Language options for audioguides include English, German, Italian, Spanish, Norwegian, and French—just let the crew know your preferred language.
• No hotel transfers included, so plan accordingly to reach the starting point on time.

Why This Cruise Fits Different Travelers

This experience is ideal for those who want a visual feast of Norway’s fjords without the physical exertion of hiking. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate scenic photography or want a relaxed way to experience Lysefjord.

It’s especially convenient for cruise passengers, as the meeting point is close to the harbor and makes for a seamless addition to a day of port exploration.

Families with older children who can appreciate the boat ride and scenery might also find this a great outing, but it’s not specifically aimed at very young kids or those needing special accommodations.

The Sum Up

For anyone visiting Stavanger, this fjord cruise to Lysefjord and Pulpit Rock offers a relaxing yet visually stunning experience that captures some of Norway’s most iconic scenery. The boat gets you close to the cliffs and waterfalls in a way that’s accessible and comfortable, with guides bringing the landscape to life through stories and insights.

Considering the fair price, excellent reviews, and the opportunity to see famous sights from a different vantage point, it’s a strong choice for travelers wanting an authentic fjord experience without the physical effort of a hike. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a group, this cruise offers a memorable glimpse of Norway’s natural beauty.

If you’re after beautiful scenery, friendly guides, and good value, this trip ticks all those boxes. Just remember to dress warmly, bring your camera, and prepare to be wowed by the towering cliffs and waterfalls of Lysefjord.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot, especially during peak season, but you can also book with options to pay later.

Is there hotel pickup?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to make your way to the main harbor in Stavanger.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2.5 hours, providing plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

What should I bring?
A jacket is advised, as it can be breezy and cool on the water. You might also want to bring your camera for stunning photo opportunities.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, reviews mention the boat is brand new and very comfortable, providing a pleasant environment to relax and take in the views.

Are audioguides available?
Yes, audioguides are offered in multiple languages including English, German, Italian, Spanish, Norwegian, and French. Just inform the crew beforehand.

Can I take children on this tour?
While not specifically aimed at children, older kids who enjoy scenery and boat rides should have a good time. Check the weather and your child’s comfort with being on a boat for this length.

Hope this gives you a good sense of what to expect—enjoy your trip to Stavanger and the stunning Lysefjord!

You can check availability for your dates here: