If you’re dreaming of seeing Norway’s dramatic coastlines without the crowds, a cruise to Trollfjord might just be your perfect escape. We haven’t personally done this exact tour, but from all the info available, it sounds like a beautifully curated experience—intimate, scenic, and filled with unique touches.
What really catches our eye are the small group setting, which promises plenty of space and a personal touch, and the chance to spot wildlife like sea eagles, dolphins, and whales. Plus, the option to unwind in a hot tub or even take a polar plunge adds an extra layer of adventure.
On the flip side, it’s not suitable for everyone—think stairs, no wheelchairs, and a slightly longer duration of about five hours. But if you’re after a relaxed yet exclusive way to explore the fjords, this cruise seems well worth considering.
Key Points
- Limited to just 12 guests for a more personal experience.
- Includes a delicious homemade salmon soup lunch and unlimited hot drinks.
- Wildlife viewing with binoculars, from sea eagles to whales.
- Luxurious onboard ambiance, with indoor lounges and open decks.
- Optional hot tub and polar plunge for added Arctic thrill.
- Five-hour duration departing from Svolvær, perfect for a half-day escape.
What Makes This Cruise Special?

This small-group Trollfjord cruise offers a chance to explore the spectacular scenery of the Lofoten Islands aboard a 33-meter classic yacht. Unlike larger tour boats, this experience emphasizes comfort and intimacy, limiting the group to just 12 guests. That means you can relax, take in the views at your own pace, and get a more personalized narration from the crew.
The boat itself, S/Y Stella Oceana, is described as spacious and luxurious. With high ceilings, open decks, and cozy indoor lounges, you’ll have plenty of room to move around, whether you prefer catching the sun or staying warm inside.
Why the Small-Group Experience Matters

Traveling with fewer people means a quieter, more focused outing. Based on reviews, many travelers appreciated that the activity isn’t overbooked, giving you enough space for both relaxing solitude and engaging conversations. Holly, a reviewer, pointed out, “They don’t overbook this activity so you have enough space for quiet or can choose to interact with the group.” This flexibility can make a big difference, especially in a setting like Lofoten, where nature’s silence can be a highlight.
The Route and Itinerary Breakdown

Departure from Svolvær
Your adventure begins in Svolvær, where you’ll find the yacht docked at the Public Service House Pier, in front of the Nordis Hotel & Restaurant. The check-in process seems straightforward, and the crew is known to be friendly and knowledgeable, eager to share insights into the region.
More Great Tours NearbyRaftsundet and Trollfjord
From Svolvær, the cruise takes you into Raftsundet, a narrow and scenic passage lined by towering cliffs and waterfalls. This part of the journey is often described as breathtaking, with plenty of opportunities for photos. The highlight, of course, is Trollfjord itself—a narrow, dramatic fjord surrounded by steep mountain walls.
The experience of approaching Trollfjord is special because it’s one of the few fjords accessible only by boat, making this outing a rare chance to see one of Lofoten’s most remote and striking landscapes. You’ll get close to waterfalls cascading down the cliffs and possibly spot white-sand beaches hidden among the scenery.
Wildlife Watching
Throughout the cruise, the crew uses binoculars to help spot wildlife. Expect to see sea eagles soaring overhead, an impressive sight. Dolphins are often playful in these icy waters, and lucky travelers might even see whales breaching or spouting in the distance. Several reviews emphasize how knowledgeable guides are—sharing fascinating tidbits about the region’s ecology and history—adding depth to the experience.
Onboard Comforts
During the cruise, you’ll be served homemade salmon soup with fresh bread, which many found to be hearty and satisfying. Vegetarian options are available if requested in advance. Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, cookies, and water are unlimited, so you’ll stay warm and energized throughout.
The indoor lounge offers a cozy spot when the weather turns chilly, while open decks give you panoramic views. Many reviews praise the vessel’s comfort and the overall organization—making the experience smooth and enjoyable.
Optional Hot Tub and Polar Plunge
For those craving a real Arctic thrill, the tour offers an upgrade that includes access to an outdoor hot tub, perfect for soaking while taking in the surrounding scenery. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, there’s also the chance to take a polar plunge, dipping into icy waters—an experience often described as memorable and invigorating, weather permitting.
Who Will Love This Cruise?

This experience is ideal for travelers who value small-group intimacy and personalized attention. If you’re keen on wildlife, photography, or simply want a peaceful way to enjoy Norway’s rugged beauty, you’ll find plenty to love here.
The cruise’s relaxed pace and stunning scenery make it a good fit for those who appreciate nature and want to avoid crowded tours. Families with children who can handle stairs might also find this enjoyable, especially since reviews mention the experience being well-organized and accommodating.
Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

The Journey Begins
Once aboard S/Y Stella Oceana, you’ll notice the spacious decks and high ceilings, which contribute to a sense of comfort and luxury. The crew’s friendly attitude and local knowledge make for an engaging start, setting the tone for a memorable day.
Scenic Cruising into Raftsundet
The route into Raftsundet is packed with spectacular sights—vertical cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and possibly wildlife. As you sail, your guide shares stories about the region’s natural history, culture, and the importance of these fjords.
Approaching Trollfjord
The narrow entrance to Trollfjord is dramatic—steep cliffs rise sharply on either side, creating a real sense of adventure. Many travelers say the views are genuinely awe-inspiring, with Vincent noting that “everything was so well organized,” making the whole trip smooth and enjoyable, especially for families.
Wildlife Encounters
Keep your binoculars ready—sea eagles are a common sight, soaring high above, and dolphins often leap out to play. If whales are around, your guide will point them out, making the journey all the more special. This part of the trip is particularly praised for the knowledgeable guides, who give detailed information that enhances the experience.
Lunch and Relaxation
The homemade salmon soup is hearty and hits the spot after a morning of sightseeing. Many reviews highlight how good it is, with one reviewer saying, “The soup was so good!” The unlimited hot drinks and cookies keep everyone cozy, especially if the weather is brisk.
Extra Adventures: Hot Tub and Polar Plunge
If you’ve booked the optional upgrade, you’ll get the chance to soak in the outdoor hot tub, surrounded by Arctic scenery—a perfect way to relax. For the brave, the polar plunge offers an adrenaline rush, and many who’ve tried it say it’s a unique, invigorating experience.
Returning to Svolvær
As the cruise winds down, you’ll round back to your starting point, often with plenty of great photos and new impressions of Norway’s wild coast. The entire experience lasts about five hours, making it a perfect half-day adventure.
What About Price and Value?

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, considering the small group size, luxury yacht, included lunch, wildlife viewing, and optional hot tub, this cruise seems to offer good value for those seeking a premium experience. The personalized attention and intimate setting justify a higher price point compared to larger tours, especially since reviews mention excellent organization and guides.
Practical Considerations
- The cruise is not suitable for wheelchair users and involves walking up and down stairs onboard.
- The experience is flexible, with options to opt for the hot tub or polar plunge—adding fun and memorable moments.
- You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it relatively low-risk if your plans change.
Final Thoughts

This small-group Trollfjord cruise on a classic yacht offers a blend of comfort, adventure, and natural beauty. The limited group size means you’ll have plenty of space to relax and enjoy Norway’s stunning landscapes without feeling crowded. The knowledgeable guides and wildlife sightings add depth, making this more than just a scenic boat ride.
If you’re after a peaceful, luxurious way to explore the fjords—especially if wildlife and scenic views are high on your list—this cruise could be a perfect choice. The optional hot tub and polar plunge are real highlights for those looking for a bit of Arctic excitement.
This experience seems especially suited for travelers who appreciate thoughtful organization, a personal touch, and unspoiled scenery. It’s a chance to connect with Norway’s breathtaking coast in comfort and style, making it a memorable addition to any Lofoten trip.
Lofoten Small Group Trollfjord Cruise on 33m Classic Yacht
“Excellent hosts, the ship is very nice, the scenery is unparalleled, the soup is great! We had a fantastic time – enjoy yourselves!”
FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but children need to be able to walk up and down stairs onboard. Baby carriages are allowed, so it can be manageable for families with young kids.
How long does the cruise last?
The experience lasts about 5 hours, which includes sailing, wildlife viewing, and stopping at Trollfjord.
What is included in the price?
You get a homemade salmon soup lunch, unlimited coffee, tea, hot chocolate, cookies, and water. The optional upgrade includes a hot tub, polar plunge, towels, and shower.
Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from Svolvær, docked at the Public Service House Pier in front of the Nordis Hotel & Restaurant.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is there a guide onboard?
Yes, a live guide speaks English and Norwegian, sharing insights about the scenery, wildlife, and local culture.
Is it suitable for those with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users and involves walking on stairs onboard.
What kind of wildlife might I see?
Sea eagles, dolphins, and possibly whales. Guides carry binoculars to help you spot these creatures.
Can I add the hot tub and polar plunge?
Yes, these are optional upgrades, adding an extra element of Arctic adventure to your cruise.
If you’re imagining a peaceful yet exciting day sailing through Norway’s wild and beautiful coastlines with expert guides and cozy comforts, this small-group Trollfjord cruise might be just what you’re looking for. It’s a chance to enjoy Lofoten’s natural treasures in style, with plenty of memorable moments to take home.
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