Voyage to the Fjords

This short panoramic drive serves as a perfect introduction to the city of Bergen.

Begin with a drive through the old districts of Sandviken and Skuteviken - once areas of industry - before continuing along the peninsula of Eidsvaag, boasting scenic views of the surrounding mountains. In the city centre you will pass St Mary’s Church before arriving at the famous Bryggen. This UNESCO-listed district is a colourful reminder of the important role that Bergen played as a member of the Hanseatic League.

Your drive continues past the Fish and Flower Market before stopping on the Nordnes peninsula to take in views of the old Hanseatic quarter. Continue up into the rugged hills and pause at Helleveien to take in the views of the islands that surround Bergen. Returning to the city, you will pass the 13th-century Haakson’s Hall and the Rosenkrantz Tower.

Additional Information

Please note: Most of the sightseeing on this excursion is from your tour vehicle. Walking during your short stop is at your discretion.

A choice between two included excursions is offered during your visit to Sandnes – please select your place on just one of these excursions. It is not permitted to book both included excursions. Duplicate or double bookings will be cancelled.

Stavanger has, over time, been shaped by both the natural fjordic waterways, and the history of those living here. This sightseeing tour begins with a drive north from Sandnes towards Stavanger.

Pass through Jaeren, a natural landscape where emerald-green grass flows onto the rocky beaches. Your guide will tell you about Jaeren’s unique light which has attracted artists for many years. On arrival into Stavanger city centre you will journey alongside Breiavatnet lake and the pointed towers of 12th-century Stavanger Cathedral. Continue through the harbour area and across the city bridge. Connecting Stavanger with the islands of Grashomen and Solyst, the bridge epitomises the growth that this area has experienced over the last 50 years.

Returning to the mainland, pass Ullandhaug, home to a reconstructed iron-age farm, before pausing at Hafrsfjord for a photo stop. It was here in AD 872 that Harald ‘Fairhair’ Halfdansson was victorious over several chieftains, uniting Norway as it exists today. See the three 33-foot swords which represent Norway’s gathering under one crown.

Finally, drive alongside Sola Beach – over a mile of white sand dunes, bound together by dense marram grass and dotted with World War Two coastal defences and bunkers. Finally, your coach will bring you back to Sandnes port.

Additional Information

Most of the sightseeing on this excursion is from your tour vehicle. Walking during your short stop is at your discretion.

A choice between two included excursions is offered during your visit to Sandnes – please select your place on just one of these excursions. It is not permitted to book both included excursions. Duplicate or double bookings will be cancelled.

Explore the fourth largest city in Norway independently, and uncover Stavanger’s important historic role. Discover its rich past from Viking Kings battling in the Hafrsfjord, through the times of the white sails and steamships, and up to the present day with the oil and gas industry as the most important income source. Travel by coach from Sandnes to Stavanger, a journey of approximately 30 minutes. Your local guide will accompany you on the short drive and will introduce you to the city. On arrival, your guide will help you to get your bearings and then you are free to explore at your leisure. Perhaps take a stroll in 'Old Stavanger' to admire preserved wooden houses surrounded by tiny, colourful gardens, dating back to the 18th and 19th century. These houses were mostly built for seafarers, craftsmen and tradesmen and sit within the narrow lanes dressed in paving stones and old gas lanterns. You may also choose to visit the 12th-century cathedral, the best-preserved medieval church in Norway. The city provides plenty of shopping opportunities too, coffee shops and eateries. Finally, return to the meeting point for the drive back to Sandnes and your ship.

Additional Information

Walking in Stavanger is entirely at your discretion, but you should expect to cover a distance of up to one mile for a good exploration of the city. This excursion may operate during lunch service times on board, but a packed lunch is available on request.

Think of Bergen and the chances are that Bryggen will spring to mind: with its colourful and historic houses flanking the quayside.

This enchanting area is the old wharf district of Bergen which grew up during the city’s rise as one the Hanseatic League’s major trading ports in the 14th century. Today some 62 buildings survive, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past. The area has been ravaged by fire on several occasions and many of the buildings today date from the early 18th century. Despite this, the narrow passages and design of the wooden houses reflect the area’s medieval roots when the port rose to prominence.

On this walking tour you will start by passing the fortress of Bergenhus at the entrance to the harbour, parts of which date to the 13th century. You will also pass the 13th-century Coronation – or Hakon’s - Hall, before exploring Bryggen. Afterwards, take the Floibanen Funicular and rise 1,000 feet to the summit of Mount Fløyen from where you can enjoy stunning views of the city on a clear day.

Enjoy some time at leisure at the summit before descending back down into Bergen centre and strolling back to your ship.

Additional Information

Please note: This tour involves walking at least one-and-a-half miles across uneven cobbles. A good level of physical fitness and mobility is required to participate. Views are subject to weather conditions on the day.

Your guided walking tour begins with a stroll past the fortress of Bergenhus with the Coronation Hall, and along Bryggen, with all the old wooden merchants' buildings that once belonged to the German merchants of the Hanseatic League. Passing by the famous fish and flower market you will arrive at the Fløibanen Funicular. In only five minutes the funicular will take you to a height of 1,000 feet, from where you may enjoy magnificent views of Bergen on a clear day.

From here set off on your hike towards Skomakerdiket Lake, the views getting more spectacular along the way. After approximately 45 minutes, you will reach Rundemanen from where you continue up to the highest point of Mount Fløyen, 1,400 feet above sea level. Return to the city centre by funicular before walking back through the city to the pier.

Additional Information

This tour is undertaken entirely on foot and involves walking a total distance of approximately six miles, including three hours of hiking over a variety of surfaces and inclining uneven paths, dirt tracks and woodland trails. Views will depend on the weather. Bottled water and Nordic walking poles, if desired, will be available for you to collect upon departure from the ship. A high level of physical fitness and mobility is required to participate.

Your excursion begins with a scenic drive through the city centre whilst your guide talks you through Bergen’s rich history. You will then take a thrilling five-minute cable car ride to the summit of Mount Ulriken, which at just over 2,000 feet is the highest of the seven mountains that surround Bergen. At the top you can admire far-reaching views, not just of the city, but also the fjords, sea and mountains beyond. A hot drink and sweet treat will be served in the cafe, followed by free time to appreciate the surroundings.

After your cable car descent, return to your tour vehicle for a short drive outside of the city centre. Your second destination is the reconstructed Fantoft Stave Church, which was restored using traditional methods after a fire destroyed the original 12th-century building in 1992. Unique to Norway, the original timber stave churches were all built before the year 1300 and only 28 remain. Admire the church’s exterior and enjoy photo opportunities before stepping inside. Take some time to appreciate the intimate interior, with its small altar and Norse-inspired carvings. Finally, stroll back to your tour vehicle and return to Bergen.

Additional Information

At Mount Ulriken there may be a walk of up to 200 yards to reach the cable car station. Walking at the summit is at your discretion but will involve uneven terrain. You will remain standing during the cable car ascent and descent. Each carriage carries up to 50 passengers. Views are subject to weather conditions on the day. At Fantoft Stave Church there is an uphill walk on a gravel path for approximately 250 yards from the coach parking area to the church and back again. The church interior is dimly lit with some steps and thresholds. A good level of fitness and mobility is required to participate in this excursion. This excursion includes many of the sights seen on ‘An Introduction to Bergen’, so it is not recommended that you book both excursions.

On this once-in-a-lifetime tour, it’s chocks away as you take to the skies in a four-person seaplane, gaining an entirely unique perspective on the city. No runways are necessary for takeoff, and as Bergen’s vibrant colour comes to life in front of your eyes, you’ll notice the extensive mountain range which flanks the city. Pass above Ulriken – the highest of the seven mountains - and trace the rocky landscape before passing above the nine-mile waterway of Veafjord. You will also see part of the famous Hardanger fjord, cutting through the mountainous landscape. Throughout your high-flying sightseeing tour, your knowledgeable pilot will direct your attention to many sights not seen from the ground. This truly memorable tour finishes with a water landing. Return to the cruise ship, equipped with plenty of photos from your skyward adventure.

Additional Information

This excursion requires very little walking, although boarding the seaplane requires a good level of agility. You will need to step onto the plane’s floats and then negotiate two steps to board. This excursion is dependent on safe weather conditions and is therefore subject to cancellation and route changes. The actual flight time is approximately 30 minutes. You will be required to sign a Norwegian ‘terms of transportation’ form prior to departure. Some turbulence may be experienced during the flight.

See the sights in and around the small village of Geiranger on this panoramic drive, accompanied by fjord and mountain views. 

Leaving your ship behind, travel past the octagonal 19th-century Church of St Geiranger – whose angular architecture contrasts with the surrounding rugged hillscape. Pass alongside the fjord before reaching Eagle’s Road, where 11 hairpin bends wind their way up through the mountains. Pause to enjoy the view at the aptly named Eagle Bend – looking upwards, you may be able to spot the swooping form of a bird of prey. Return along the same route, passing through Geiranger, to reach your next stop at the Flydal Viewpoint. This scenic spot offers one of Norway’s most popular views, taking in the village far below and your ship anchored in the Geirangerfjord, surrounded my dramatic mountains. 

A short drive will bring you back to Geiranger and your ship.

Additional Information

Please note: Walking during your short stops is at your discretion. At the Flydal Viewpoint you can choose to explore further, which will involve some uneven terrain and steps. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. This excursion is not recommended for vertigo sufferers and those prone to travel sickness, due to the winding mountain roads.

The Geirangerfjord is without doubt one of the most fascinating sights in Norway. Mountains tower above you on both sides with numerous waterfalls cascading down the mountain side. From the pier start climbing the road to the Flydalsjuvet Gorge from where you can admire this remarkable fjord-community from a different angle. 

Continue uphill past Lake Djupvatn (translated to English the name Djupvatn means “deep lake”) and up the hairpin road to the summit of Mount Dalsnibba, from where you’ll have a spectacular view of the Geirangerfjord far below and the magnificent mountain peaks all around. From the summit, almost 5000 feet above sea level, you will drive carefully down the same road. 

Returning to Geiranger, you pass along the fjord side before the road suddenly starts winding up the mountainside in 11 hairpin-bends. At the uppermost bend, called the Eagle's-Bend, stop to enjoy the more spectacular views in front of you. In the distance you may see old farms, stubbornly clinging on narrow shelves high above the fjord. For generations families made their living there, and today great efforts are being made to restore and preserve these relics of the past.

Additional Information

This excursion follows the same route as the 'View of Geirangerfjord' excursion, but with the addition of the visit to Mount Dalsnibba. It is not recommended that you book both excursions. This excursion is not recommended for vertigo sufferers and those prone to travel sickness due to the winding mountain roads. Walking on this excursion is mainly at your discretion. Views are subject to favourable weather conditions.

Geirangerfjord is considered to be the site of secular pilgrimage for those in search of fantastic fjordic views. It is a haven of tranquillity flanked by the towering rocky hills. 

On this tour, enjoy a challenging – but rewarding - hike above the fjord, behind a waterfall and back down for some delicious tea and waffles. Begin with a walk out of Geiranger, along country roads, to Westeras Farm which offers views across the fjord. Continuing your walk for approximately 30 minutes, you will likely hear the Storseterfossen waterfall before you see it. A cascade of water bursts out of the cliffside, thundering down to join the waterway below. Enjoy an up-close experience by taking the path which passes behind the curtain of water before continuing up to Westerasfjellet Mountain, towering over 800 feet above the village. From here, Geiranger and its fjord appear like a scale model. 

Your final stop along the way is at a local cafe, located within an old farm, for traditional Norwegian waffles and a choice of tea and coffee. After an excellent opportunity to take the weight off your feet and enjoy a sweet treat, continue along the main road to your awaiting tour vehicle, ready to transfer you back to the port, having challenged yourself and been suitably rewarded with magnificent views.

Additional Information

Please note: This is a very strenuous hike and you must have an excellent level of physical fitness and mobility to take part. You will cover approximately five miles and encounter uneven terrain and steep gradients. Outdoor clothing and hiking shoes are essential. This excursion may be cancelled in the event of bad weather for safety reasons.

Experience the beauty of Geirangerfjord from the water on this fun and exhilarating excursion.

A short walk will bring you to your rigid inflatable boat (RIB), where you will meet your captain guide who will provide you with some safety instructions and you'll be fitted with a water and windproof buoyancy suit. Then it’s time to step on board your boat for this unique experience.

Feel the wind in your face as the boat speeds up and glides along the fjord. Slowing down, your captain will point out the small farms clinging to the mountains alongside the fjord and take you as close as possible to the Seven Sisters and Bridal Veil waterfalls – a truly unforgettable experience.

Finally, return to dry land for the short stroll back to your ship.

Additional Information

This excursion involves walking a total distance of approximately 500 yards, with a gangway and a short uneven grassy walk up unmade steps to the changing area and boats. You must be able to climb in and out of the boat unaided. We do not recommend this excursion for those suffering with back problems as the ride can get a little bumpy.

Pulpit Rock is one of south west Norway’s most popular tourist attractions. Towering 1,982 feet above the Lysefjord, this flat mountain plateau was called Hyvlatanna or ‘planed tooth’ in ancient times. It is an amazing, much-photographed landmark and its bare rock tabletop shape is in stark contrast to the green slopes and mountainsides that surround it.

A short coach drive will bring you from Sandnes to Stavanger where you will embark your boat. The vessel has been exclusively chartered for Saga guests, sailing across to Lysefjord, a ribbon-like waterway that stretches 30 miles into the heart of the fjordlands, flanked on both sides by steep slopes, verdant mountainsides and the occasional small, picturesque farm. You pass directly below Pulpit Rock and pause for a while at the eerie Vagabond's Cave before stepping ashore at the Lysefjord centre to enjoy refreshments.

You then sail back to the quayside in Stavanger, and return to Sandnes by coach.

Additional Information

There may be a walk of up to 200 yards between the coach and the sightseeing vessel. There is a further walk of at least 100 yards to the refreshment venue. There may be a number of steps to reach the boat’s upper deck. The boat may not have sufficient outside seating, and the views from some inside seats could be restricted. Views of Pulpit Rock are dependent on the weather conditions on the day.

This strenuous tour starts with a coach transfer from the pier through scenic countryside to Preikestolhytta, where your challenging hike begins. Reaching the world-famous Pulpit Rock involves a two-hour hike through a variety of different landscapes including mountains, forests and marshes. On your way to the top of this breathtaking mountain plateau, you will also pass some picturesque ponds. The last 600 yards, during which you walk on a narrow path with steep cliffs on one side and the Lysefjord far below on the other, are quite spectacular.

Finally, on arrival at Pulpit Rock, you can enjoy impressive scenery as you eat your packed lunch while sitting on the cliff's edge. The cliff with its distinctive flat top was formed during the Ice Age some 10,000 years ago, and is one of Norway's top tourist attractions, receiving around 200,000 visitors a year. Suitably refreshed, start your return walk following the same route back to Preikestolhytta, for the coach transfer to your ship.

Additional Information

Although this tour only involves walking a total distance of approximately three miles, the majority will be over extremely steep, uneven ground. This is a challenging full-day hiking excursion, and an excellent level of physical fitness is required to participate. If you have any concerns regarding the suitability of this excursion, please discuss these with the Explore Ashore team on board your ship. Hiking boots are required, and loose, comfortable clothing suitable for all weathers is recommended.

Delve into Norway’s history of conflict, beginning with a drive toward the Norwegian Aviation Museum. On your way, pass by the medieval Sola Ruinkirke (Sola Church), a 12th-century stone church that was destroyed during World War Two but carefully restored, offering a glimpse into Norway's medieval Christian heritage. At the Norwegian Aviation Museum, you will discover a collection of World War Two aircraft, including the rare Heinkel He-115 and Messerschmitt Bf-109, as well as Cold War jet fighters. Lean about the history of Norway’s military aviation and hear stories about the pilots who flew these remarkable planes. You can also enjoy some refreshments here before continuing your excursion.

Next, you visit the Eiganes Churchyard, a Commonwealth war cemetery dedicated to soldiers who lost their lives here during World War Two. This site invites reflection on the sacrifices made, and some poignant stories about the soldiers laid to rest here will be shared by your guide. On the return journey, stop at the iconic Sverd i fjell (Swords in Rock) monument. This tribute commemorates the Battle of 872 AD, where King Harald Fairhair united Norway under a single rule. Take the opportunity to admire the view and take photographs of the monument before returning to Sandnes and your ship.

Additional Information

Please note: There will be essential walking of just under 500 yards during this excursion with further walking at your discretion. The Aviation Museum is fully accessible and is housed in an aircraft hangar.

Visit the Art Nouveau home Villa Rosehagen and enjoy views of the famous Lysefjord on this scenic excursion. Begin with a coach drive north from Sandnes, passing through Stavanger before entering the Ryfast subsea tunnel system, which takes you below the fjord to the municipality of Strand. Soon you will reach your first destination, Villa Rosehagen, a charming wooden home built in 1912. Uncover its history as you explore this architectural gem, and walk through the garden filled with over 120 different species of roses. While here, enjoy a hot beverage and homemade waffles topped with cream and jam, a Norwegian tradition. 

Continue to Høllesli, at the entrance to the famous Lysefjord. Stop at a viewpoint to admire the fine view of the fjord and breath in the fresh air. Your return drive takes you back through the Ryfast Tunnel to Stavanger, where you can look forward to a short panoramic drive. Before returning to Sandnes, pause at the Swords in Rock, a striking monument commemorating the Battle of Hafrsfjord in 872 AD, where Norway was unified.

Additional Information

Please note: There will be essential walking of approximately 300 yards with further walking at each stop entirely at your discretion. At Villa Rosehagen you will encounter some steps and uneven ground if exploring further. This excursion will involve a one-hour coach drive in each direction, which will include approximately fifteen minutes of driving through tunnels.