Bodø: Kjerringøy & Silent Coastal Cruise

Introduction
If you’re planning a trip to Bodø and want to experience the region’s natural beauty alongside a touch of history, the Kjerringøy & Silent Coastal Cruise might just fit the bill. This tour offers a peaceful way to see some of Norway’s most striking landscapes, without the rush of bigger, more commercial excursions. From the comfort of a modern boat, you’ll glide past rugged coastlines and mountain vistas—and then step back in time at a well-preserved trading post.

What I especially like about this trip are the gentle, silent cruise through Nordfjord and the fascinating visit to Kjerringøy Handelssted. Both give a real sense of place—nature and history blending effortlessly. That said, one thing to keep in mind is the somewhat limited time at each stop, so this isn’t a tour designed for deep exploration but rather a relaxed overview.

This experience works best for travelers who appreciate scenic views, enjoy historical sites, and prefer a slower-paced, enjoyable cruise. If you’re after a peaceful day with good storytelling and stunning vistas, this could be a perfect fit.

• Serene Navigation: The cruise offers a quiet, smooth ride with large windows for unobstructed views.
• Historic Charm: The visit to Kjerringøy Handelssted lets you walk among 19th-century buildings and imagine life back then.
• Breathtaking Scenery: Expect mountain peaks, narrow beaches, and fjord landscapes that are hard to beat.
• Comfort & Accessibility: The vessel is spacious and accommodating for different needs, with helpful staff.
• Included & Extra: Entrance to Kjerringøy is covered, and you’ll get a guide sharing stories along the way—though food and additional guides are separate.
• Ideal Duration: About four hours, making it manageable for those with limited time but wanting a meaningful experience.

Exploring the Bodø: Kjerringøy & Silent Coastal Cruise in Detail

You can check availability for your dates here:

What the Tour Offers

This half-day adventure promises a balanced mix of breathtaking scenery and cultural history. Starting from Bodø, you’ll set sail along the coast, passing some iconic landmarks like Landegode mountain and Hovsundet beach. The route takes you into Mistfjorden, which truly lives up to its name—sometimes misty, sometimes clear, always atmospheric.

As the fjord splits into Nordfjorden, you’ll be surrounded by towering mountains up to 800 meters high, creating a dramatic backdrop for your journey. The boat is new, spacious, and designed with large windows, so you won’t feel crowded or miss any views. Many reviews highlight this aspect, noting how much they appreciated the comfort and clarity of the scenery visible from inside or outside on the decks.

The Cruise Experience

The boat departs from a pier in front of the Bryggerikaia Restaurant, and the ride itself lasts around two hours, although the entire experience including stops extends to four hours. The guides, speaking fluent English, share fascinating stories about the wildlife, local history, and the landscape, enriching the journey.

Onboard amenities include free WiFi and tap water, making the cruise comfortable and convenient. The vessel’s design allows for both indoor comfort and outdoor viewing, and reviewers have appreciated how accessible everything is—especially for those with mobility needs. One reviewer even mentioned the lift on board, which makes getting on and off hassle-free.

The Historic Visit to Kjerringøy

Once you arrive at Kjerringøy, you’ll enjoy a short, picturesque walk through a lush forest to reach the open-air museum. This is a key highlight, offering a glimpse into 19th-century trading life. The well-preserved buildings, including old wooden boats, evoke the past vividly. You can roam freely, imagining what life was like for traders and their families two centuries ago.

The entrance fee to Kjerringøy is included, which is a nice perk. But be aware that the tour does not include a guided tour inside the main building, only the outdoor museum and the walk. For many, this is enough to get a good sense of the historical significance.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers seem to agree that this tour hits the sweet spot. Martina called it a “beautiful cruise with stunning scenery and very friendly staff,” highlighting the new ship’s spaciousness and large windows. She also recommended it highly.

Another guest, A.G.J., praised the facilities on board, noting how welcoming and helpful the staff were, especially accommodating a sister in a wheelchair. They appreciated the large windows for enjoying views, the coffee, and the cinnamon bun, plus the stories shared during the trip. This highlights that the experience is not just visual but also about the comfort and friendliness of the crew.

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Food & Beverage Options

While the tour doesn’t include food or drinks (beyond water), there are opportunities to purchase snacks or a beverage during the return journey. Many travelers might find the views and the fresh sea air more than enough to satisfy their appetite for a relaxing day out.

Practicalities to Keep in Mind

• The tour lasts about four hours, so it’s suitable for most travelers with a moderate schedule.
• Meeting point is conveniently located in front of Bryggerikaia Restaurant, and arriving 15 minutes early is recommended.
• The tour is offered in English, with live guides making the storytelling engaging.
• Cancelation is flexible—full refund if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.
• The price point of $107 per person provides good value considering the included entrance, guided commentary, and scenic journey.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic cruise with a touch of history, this tour is a great pick. It’s particularly suited to those who want to enjoy Norway’s spectacular coast without feeling rushed, and who appreciate good storytelling. It’s also accessible, thanks to the helpful staff and facilities onboard.

While not a tour for those seeking a deep-dive into history, the open-air museum and scenic vistas strike a nice balance for most travelers. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo adventurers looking for a laid-back, visually stunning experience.

Final Thoughts

The Bodø: Kjerringøy & Silent Coastal Cruise offers a gentle, beautifully curated way to enjoy Norway’s coastal scenery while touching on a slice of local history. The combination of comfortable, large-window boats and well-preserved historic sites makes for a memorable half-day.

The standout features are the serene cruise through fjords and the authentic glimpse into 19th-century life at Kjerringøy. Both leave you with a sense of quiet wonder—not just at the scenery but at the stories of the people who once lived and traded here.

While it’s not a tour for those craving a fast-paced adventure or detailed guided inside visits, it’s an excellent choice for anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic, and culturally enriching experience. The friendly staff, comfortable boat, and charming historic site all contribute to a truly enjoyable day on Norway’s northern coast.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, the gentle cruise and outdoor exploration can work well for families with children comfortable with boat rides.

What should I bring on the tour?
Just bring layers suited to the weather—Norwegian coast can be cool or rainy—and perhaps a camera for all the stunning views.

How long is the actual cruise?
The cruise itself lasts about two hours, but with the stops and walking, expect the entire experience to take around four hours.

Is there WiFi on board?
Yes, free WiFi is available, which is handy for sharing photos or checking messages.

Can I purchase food or drinks on the boat?
Food and beverages are not included, but you can buy snacks or drinks during the return journey if you wish.

Is the boat accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the vessel has facilities like a lift, and the staff are helpful, making it accessible for those with mobility needs.

What is the cost of the tour?
The price is $107 per person, which provides good value considering the scenic journey and entrance to Kjerringøy.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, especially in high season, and you can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
While not specified, the scenery is likely stunning throughout the season, but summer months will provide the best weather and longer daylight.

How large are the groups?
While not explicitly stated, the reviews suggest a comfortable, spacious boat, probably accommodating a small to medium-sized group, ensuring a personal feel.

If you’re in Bodø and want to combine scenic beauty with a taste of local history, this cruise offers a peaceful, rewarding way to spend a few hours. It’s a lovely reminder of what makes Norway’s coast so special—vast, wild, and full of stories waiting to be discovered.

You can check availability for your dates here: