Ålesund stands out as a prime spot for boat tours and cruises, thanks to its stunning fjord landscapes, charming villages, and proximity to UNESCO World Heritage sites like Geirangerfjord. What makes these experiences especially appealing is their variety—whether you want a full-day adventure, a winter voyage, or a combination of bus and boat sightseeing, Ålesund has it all. We’re particularly fond of the Round Trip Fjord Cruise to Geirangerfjord, which offers a stress-free day in a modern catamaran with panoramic views, and the Winter Fjord Cruise, which provides a quiet, awe-inspiring way to see Norway’s icy beauty. For those interested in combining scenic bus rides with boat trips, the Geiranger Fjord Boat Tour with Return Bus offers a comprehensive look at the region’s highlights.
In this list, you’ll find a mix of full-day cruises, shorter scenic excursions, and seasonal winter trips—each with its own unique appeal. Whether your goal is to relax and take in breathtaking waterfalls, explore cozy villages, or see Norway’s fjords in winter’s quiet majesty, these tours deliver. For more details on each, just keep reading and click through to the fuller descriptions.
1. From Ålesund: Round Trip Fjord Cruise to Geirangerfjord
At number 1, this full-day round-trip cruise from Ålesund to Geirangerfjord offers a stress-free way to soak in Norway’s most famous fjord without worrying about driving or navigating. The modern catamaran provides sweeping panoramic views, making it easy to admire waterfalls like the Seven Sisters and The Suitor, both iconic highlights along the route. The cruise is designed to be relaxing, with a typical duration of about 8.5 to 9.5 hours, leaving ample time to explore Geiranger village at your own pace.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of scenic cruising with the chance to walk around Geiranger—one of Norway’s most picturesque villages. The itinerary includes a pass through Sunnylvsfjorden and Storfjorden, with plenty of photo opportunities, and a flexible approach to exploring the UNESCO site. The reviews highlight the comfort and stunning views, with an average rating of 4.7/5 from over 560 travelers. One traveler sums it up as a “stress-free, beautiful day,” making it ideal for those who want a comprehensive fjord experience without the hassle.
Bottom Line: This cruise is perfect for travelers who want an all-inclusive day with easy logistics, comfort, and plenty of photo stops.
2. From Ålesund: Winter Fjord Cruise to Geirangerfjord
Number 2 on our list, the Winter Fjord Cruise, offers a quieter, more atmospheric view of Geirangerfjord. Priced at around $325 per person, this 9-hour experience is guided by knowledgeable Fjord Rangers who bring the landscape to life with stories and insights in both English and German. This tour is ideal for those who want to see Norway’s fjords during the off-season, when the winter silence and snow-covered peaks add an extra layer of drama.
The itinerary includes scenic boat rides through Storfjorden, Sunnylvsfjorden, and Geirangerfjord, with stops at Flydalsjuvet Viewpoint and the Norwegian Fjord Centre. What sets this tour apart is the chance to experience Norway’s wild beauty without the crowds, plus the opportunity to enjoy local snacks on board. Several reviews mention the professionalism of the guides and the breathtaking scenery—one even calls winter the “mind-blowing” season for fjord viewing.
Bottom Line: This tour suits travelers who want to experience Norway’s fjords in winter, with expert guides and a focus on natural serenity.
3. Hjørundfjord Fjord Cruise roundtrip from Ålesund
Number 3 offers a more intimate look at the Hjørundfjord, departing from Ålesund for a six-hour scenic cruise. Starting from Cruise Service AS, it takes you through this less-visited but equally stunning fjord, with beautiful mountain views and charming villages like Øye—famous for its old hotel. The cruise lasts about 2.5 hours, and there’s a 60-minute stop to explore Øye, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and enjoy the village’s quaint charm.
What makes this trip special is its more relaxed pace and focus on small-scale scenery. Reviews note its easy boarding process and the chance to enjoy Norwegian water, with some mentioning how peaceful the atmosphere feels. The price point is lower than longer cruises, making it a good choice for travelers with limited time or a tighter budget.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a half-day escape into Norway’s quiet fjord world, especially if you want to combine some light sightseeing with a relaxing cruise.
4. Ålesund: Geiranger Fjord Boat Tour with Return Bus Tour
Number 4 is a full-day combo tour that combines a boat cruise through Hjørundfjord and Geirangerfjord with scenic bus journeys. Starting at Cruise Service AS, it features a well-rounded itinerary with stops at the iconic viewpoints of Eagle Road and Kokarsteinen, plus visits to the villages of Hellesylt and Geiranger. The experience spans about 10.5 hours, making it a comprehensive way to see the fjords and their surrounding scenery.
This tour’s strength is the variety of transport modes—boat, bus, and walking—which keeps the day dynamic and engaging. You’ll taste pure waterfall water straight from nature and enjoy panoramic views from deep fjord viewpoints. While reviews are limited, the full-day format is excellent for those who want a complete overview of the region’s highlights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a deep dive into the fjord region with multiple perspectives, perfect if you have a full day to spare.
5. All About the Fjords, in one tour by bus & boat from Ålesund
Number 5 offers a scenic 6.5-hour guided tour combining bus travel and boat excursions. Starting from Ålesund, it covers Hjørundfjord, the village of Øye, and includes a stop at the midtown waterfall in Hellesylt. The tour then continues with a fjord cruise before returning to Ålesund.
This tour is great for those short on time but still eager to get a solid taste of the fjord landscape. It’s especially suitable for travelers who prefer a structured itinerary with some free time in villages. With a high rating of 5/5, it seems to deliver on expectations, though it may be less comprehensive than longer options.
Bottom Line: A quick, well-organized trip for those wanting a snapshot of the fjords with some village exploration.
6. All About the Fjords in One Tour by Bus and Boat from Ålesund
Number 6 is a similar concept but gets a lower rating of 3/5, likely due to some logistical hiccups. It starts with a fjord cruise through Hjørundfjord, then continues by bus through Norangsdal Valley, visiting villages like Trandal and Sæbø. The experience includes a ferry crossing and several scenic stops.
While it offers a comprehensive route, reviews mention some issues with ticket checks and crowd control. It’s best suited for budget-conscious travelers who want a full day of sightseeing but can accept some organizational flaws.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly option for a full day of fjord exploration, but check reviews and booking details carefully.
7. Ålesund: Geirangerfjord Cruise and Gondola Ride Tour
Finally, number 7 combines a cruise on Geirangerfjord with a scenic gondola ride. Starting from Skateflukaia, it includes a scenic bus ride and a guided walk in Geiranger. The gondola offers spectacular views of the Sunnmøre Alps, adding an extra thrill to the classic fjord cruise.
This trip is great for travelers who want a mix of water, land, and aerial perspectives and are comfortable with a full 9-hour day. The gondola ride provides a unique vantage point that you won’t get on a standard cruise, making it a particularly good choice for photography enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those seeking an active, visually rich experience with views from boat, land, and sky.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Ålesund
When selecting your boat tour or cruise, consider your budget, how much time you want to spend, and what kind of scenery or experiences excite you most. For a full-day, hassle-free experience, the Round Trip Fjord Cruise is hard to beat. If you prefer to visit during the winter months and want fewer crowds, the Winter Fjord Cruise will give you a peaceful, snowy landscape. Shorter trips like the Hjørundfjord cruise suit those with limited time or who want a more relaxed pace.
For combination trips, like the Geiranger Fjord cruise with bus or the full-day Geiranger cruise with gondola ride, you get diverse perspectives—water, land, and mountain views. Be sure to book early during peak seasons, especially for popular full-day or winter trips.