Stavanger: Cruise to Pulpit Rock and Lysefjord

If you’re dreaming of Norway’s iconic landscapes, this Stavanger cruise experience promises an up-close look at the stunning Lysefjord and the famous Pulpit Rock from the water. While we haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, looking at the details, it seems like a wonderful way to see some of Norway’s most awe-inspiring scenery in a relaxed, personalized setting.

What draws us in is the small group size—limited to just five people—which means you’ll get a more intimate experience, with plenty of room to customize your day. Plus, the range of activities like swimming, fishing, wakeboarding, and even relaxing in a sauna, makes it more than just a sightseeing trip. That said, the tour’s reliance on weather conditions can be a bit of a gamble, so preparedness is key.

This tour seems ideal for those who want a flexible, multi-sensory adventure—perfect if you’re into combining sightseeing with active fun. But if you’re after a more structured, high-volume tour, this might feel a bit exclusive or slow-paced. Overall, it’s best suited for travelers who value personalized experiences and enjoy exploring nature from the comfort of a well-equipped boat.

Key Points

• Small group size (up to 5 passengers) allows for personalized adventures.
• Flexible itinerary: you can decide how long to stay at each stop and what activities to do.
• Multiple activities included, like swimming, fishing, wakeboarding, and even a sauna — great for active or adventurous travelers.
• Breathtaking scenery of fjords, Pulpit Rock, and Lysefjord from the water offers a unique perspective.
• Comfortable amenities include a heated cabin and open deck, plus snacks and soft drinks.
• Weather-dependent: tours explore most conditions, but severe weather might lead to rescheduling or cancellations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour in Detail

This boat tour is designed to offer more than just a quick look at Norway’s famous landmarks. Instead, it combines breathtaking natural scenery with interactive experiences, all delivered in a cozy, small-group setting. The boat itself is a luxury cruiser, with facilities like a heated cabin and an open deck area, giving you options whether you prefer to stay warm or soak in the views from the outdoors.

Starting Point: Norsk Oljemuseum

The journey begins at the Norsk Oljemuseum, which acts as a convenient meeting spot. From here, the boat heads out into Lysefjord, a deep, narrow fjord carved by glaciers, offering opportunities for dolphin watching and marine life viewing early on. This initial stretch is a great chance to settle into the trip, get your camera ready, and enjoy the Scandinavian landscape as it unfolds.

The Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) Sightseeing

Arguably the highlight of the tour is the visit to Pulpit Rock—an iconic Norway landmark that towers 604 meters above the fjord. From the water, you’ll get a different perspective than on the popular hikes, with the boat cruise allowing for some great photo opportunities. The guided tour here is said to last about 1.5 hours, giving enough time to admire the sheer cliffs and take in the views, possibly spotting dolphins or marine life along the way.

One reviewer mentions, “Seeing Pulpit Rock from the sea was an entirely different experience; the views are stunning, and it’s less crowded than the land hikes.” It’s a quieter, more relaxed way of experiencing this famous site, especially if you prefer to avoid busy trailheads.

Lysefjord Exploration

Next up is Lysefjord itself, which offers spectacular vistas. Depending on your mood and weather, you might opt for waterfalls, additional sightseeing, or some water-based fun like swimming or water skiing. The area is known for its dramatic cliffs and natural beauty, making every moment memorable.

More Great Tours Nearby

Hengjanefossen Waterfall and Vagabond’s Cave

The itinerary includes shorter stops at Hengjanefossen Waterfall and Vagabond’s Cave, both of which add a touch of adventure. The waterfall stop is brief — around 15 minutes — but provides a scenic break, perfect for snapping photos or just enjoying the roar of the falling water. Vagabond’s Cave, also about 15 minutes, invites a quick exploration or a photo op, deepening your connection with the area’s rugged landscape.

Optional Activities and Flexibility

One of the best parts of this tour is the ability to tailor your experience. Want to fish? You’ll find fishing gear onboard. Craving a swim? You’re welcome to jump into the fjord if conditions allow. For thrill-seekers, wakeboarding and water skiing are available, and there’s even the option of enjoying a sauna or a BBQ if you choose to upgrade your experience.

Ending the Day

The tour wraps up back at the Norsk Oljemuseum, giving you a chance to reflect on a day packed with natural beauty and active fun. The entire experience lasts around 3.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on weather and how long you choose to stay at each stop.

What We Like and What to Consider

What sets this experience apart is its personalized approach. With a max of five passengers, you’re not just part of a herd but an active participant in shaping your adventure. Whether you want to relax, snorkel, fish, or just take in the views, this flexibility is a real plus.

The inclusion of snacks, soft drinks, and the option of a BBQ or sauna adds a touch of luxury and comfort, making it suitable for those who want to combine sightseeing with leisure. Plus, the open deck and heated cabin ensure you can choose your preferred way to enjoy the scenery, regardless of the weather.

However, because weather in Norway can be unpredictable, it’s worth being aware that tours might be canceled or rescheduled during severe conditions. If you’re visiting during a shoulder season or in less predictable weather months, flexibility here is essential.

Another point to consider: the tour is a bit on the pricey side, but given the small group size, activities included, and the high-quality vessel, the cost can be justified as a more intimate, customizable experience compared to larger, less personal cruises.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is particularly well-suited for travelers who want a relaxed, private experience without the crowds. If you enjoy active outdoor activities like swimming or wakeboarding, you’ll appreciate the options available. The flexibility to customize your stopovers and activities makes it ideal for those who enjoy a more personalized approach to sightseeing.

It’s also a good pick for those interested in photography, as the boat offers many unique perspectives of the fjords and Pulpit Rock. And if you’re traveling with a small group of friends or a partner, this intimate setting enhances the overall experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs between 3.5 and 4.5 hours, depending on weather, activities, and how long you choose to stay at each stop.

Where do we meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at the Norsk Oljemuseum, so look out for the boat there. The tour ends back at the same spot.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Most weather conditions are explored, but if the weather is too severe, tours will be rescheduled or canceled with a full refund. It’s wise to be prepared with rain gear and outdoor clothing.

Are children allowed?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, making it somewhat family-friendly, especially if kids enjoy boat trips and outdoor activities.

What activities are included?
You can go fishing, swimming, wakeboarding, or just relax on the deck. Optional upgrades include a BBQ and sauna.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring warm clothing, sunglasses, swimwear, a camera, snacks, water, and rain gear. Make sure your smartphone is charged for photos.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is designed to be flexible—you decide how long to stay and what activities to pursue.

Is this a guided tour?
Yes, an experienced skipper and guide are onboard to ensure safety and share insights in English, German, or Norwegian.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the skipper, safety gear, snacks, soft drinks, fishing equipment, and access to all amenities on the boat.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a personalized, activity-filled day exploring Norway’s stunning fjords, this boat tour offers a compelling mix of sightseeing and active fun. The small group size, flexible itinerary, and range of activities make it stand out from more traditional fjord cruises. It’s a chance to see iconic sights like Pulpit Rock from a fresh perspective while also enjoying swimming, fishing, or just relaxing on the deck.

While weather can be unpredictable and the price is on the higher side, the experience seems well worth it for those who want a more intimate adventure with plenty of options. It’s particularly appealing if you appreciate tailored experiences and scenic beauty without the crowds.

If you’re okay with the possibility of cancellations due to weather, and you love the idea of combining sightseeing with outdoor activities, this tour could be a highlight of your Stavanger trip. Just pack your gear, bring your curiosity, and get ready for an unforgettable Norwegian fjord adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: