All About the Fjords in One Tour by Bus and Boat from Ålesund

This comprehensive fjord sightseeing tour from Ålesund offers an exciting mix of boat cruises and bus journeys through some of Norway’s most striking landscapes. Covering the Hjørundfjord, Norangsdal Valley, and Geirangerfjord areas, it’s designed for travelers eager to see a variety of vistas in a single day. The tour promises stunning scenery, charming villages, and scenic viewpoints — all in approximately six hours.

One thing we particularly appreciate about this experience is the chance to combine two modes of transportation — boat and bus — which not only enriches the journey but also allows you to access remote spots that are hard to reach on foot. The itinerary includes several memorable stops, from peaceful villages to high mountain viewpoints, offering plenty of photo-worthy moments.

However, it’s worth noting that some travelers have found the experience somewhat lacking in guided commentary, with reviews pointing out issues like minimal narration and organizational hiccups. For those who love detailed storytelling and guided insights, this might be a drawback. That said, if you’re mainly after jaw-dropping scenery and authentic village visits, this could still be a worthwhile adventure. It’s best suited for those with a flexible outlook, capable of enjoying Norway’s natural beauty even without a professional guide explaining every detail.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The tour showcases some of Norway’s most iconic fjord scenery, from towering mountains to serene waters.
• Mixed Transportation: Combining boat and bus travel provides varied perspectives and access to remote spots.
• Charming Stops: You’ll visit quaint villages like Øye, Hellesylt, and Urke, each offering unique local charm.
• Limited Guided Commentary: Some reviews mention a lack of guided explanation, which might be disappointing if you seek detailed stories.
• Price and Value: At approximately $165 per person, the tour offers a full day of sightseeing, but some feel the value is diminished by organizational flaws.
• Authentic Experiences: Despite some criticisms, the stops at local villages and viewpoints give a genuine taste of Norwegian fjord life.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Ålesund Cruise Pier

From the moment you step onto the bus at the Ålesund cruise pier, you’re greeted with panoramic views of the archipelago and the open sea. This initial stretch sets the tone, offering glimpses of Ålesund’s famous Art Nouveau architecture along the coastline before heading inland.

Fjord Cruise through Hjørundfjord

The first highlight is the Hjørundfjord cruise, which lasts about 2 hours and 15 minutes. This part of the trip is where you’ll truly see Norway’s legendary fjord scenery — sheer cliffs, rugged peaks, and unspoiled nature surround you. The fjord’s calm waters make for a peaceful cruise that’s perfect for snapping photos and soaking in the views.

Reviewers like Laura appreciated this segment, noting that the scenery was “breathtaking,” and that the boat ride allowed for a full appreciation of the fjord’s grandeur. The boat’s onboard amenities include WiFi and restrooms, making it a comfortable experience, though some noted that there’s no guided commentary, which could leave you wishing for more context about what you’re seeing.

Stops at Villages Along the Fjord

The cruise passes by several small villages such as Trandal, Sæbø, and Urke, each with their own charm. Trandal, in particular, is difficult to access except by boat or hiking, offering a peaceful glimpse into local life. Sæbø is praised for its panoramic views and outdoor attractions, while Urke’s lush scenery and mountain backdrop make it a photographer’s dream.

The Village of Øye

After about 15 minutes at the village of Øye, the tour switches from boat to bus. Øye is famous for its picturesque setting and the historic Hotel Union Øye, which adds a touch of old-world charm. Reviewers note that this stop is brief, just enough to admire the view and capture photos before heading into the surrounding scenery.

Bus Journey through Norangsdal Valley

The bus ride takes you through Norangsdal Valley, a highlight for many. The narrow, winding roads cut through towering mountains, with serene lakes and waterfalls creating a surreal landscape. The most notable stop here is at Lyngsstøylsvatnet, where the submerged village from the landslide of 1908 is visible beneath the surface — a sobering reminder of nature’s power.

Reviewer Lucy called this part of the trip “beautiful and eerie,” impressed by the valley’s wild beauty and history.

Hellesylt and the Waterfall

Next, the bus arrives at Hellesylt, a lovely village known for its charming shops and cafés. The highlight here is the impressive waterfall that cascades through the village center, a sight that visitors find both photogenic and refreshingly lively compared to the calm fjord waters.

Ljøen Viewpoint and Geirangerfjord Views

A short 15-minute stop at the Ljøen Viewpoint offers panoramic views over Geirangerfjord, often dubbed Norway’s most spectacular fjord. Expect breathtaking vistas of steep cliffs, lush greenery, and the glittering fjord below — a true highlight for photos and memories alike.

Crossing Storfjord by Ferry

The journey continues over the Strandafjellet mountain, famous for outdoor activities like skiing in winter, adding a dose of scenic mountain grandeur. The final major crossing is by ferrry over Storfjord, the Grand Fjord, which is over 110 km long and branches into other famous fjords like Geirangerfjord.

Reviewers like David appreciated the ferry crossing, noting it was “a highlight of the trip,” providing a different perspective on the fjord landscape.

Return to Ålesund

The tour concludes back at the original meeting point in Ålesund, completing the 6-hour loop. The city’s iconic Art Nouveau buildings and coastal scenery provide a fitting end to a day filled with natural beauty.

Practical Considerations

Transportation & Comfort

Most travelers will find the bus comfortable, with air conditioning and WiFi, making the long stretches more bearable. The boat cruise is similarly comfy, with restrooms onboard. That said, the group size can be up to 150 travelers, so it might feel crowded at peak times.

Price & Value

At about $165 per person, this tour offers a full day packed with scenic highlights. The combination of boat and bus allows access to remote spots, but some reviewers feel the experience could be more informative if guided commentary was provided. The lack of detailed narration might leave you wishing for more context about the villages and landscapes.

Reviews & Feedback

While the scenery gets consistently high praise, opinions vary on the organization and guide quality. Some travelers, like Laura, enjoyed the trip despite the absence of a guide on the coach, but others, like Ros and Susan, found the lack of explanation and guidance disappointing. Safety concerns were also raised when the driver was reportedly on their phone for extended periods, and the guide was seen to be falling asleep at times.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for those who prioritize stunning scenery and authentic village visits over guided storytelling. If you’re comfortable exploring without extensive narration and just want to enjoy Norway’s breathtaking fjords, this could be a perfect fit. It’s also suitable for travelers who appreciate a mix of boat and bus travel and want to see the key sights without the hassle of organizing multiple separate trips.

However, if you’re looking for a highly guided experience with rich commentary, this tour might fall short. The reviews suggest that you should set expectations accordingly and be prepared for some organizational flaws.

Final Thoughts

This All About the Fjords tour offers a decent balance between scenic beauty and variety, ideal for travelers who want an overview of Norway’s fjord landscapes without too much complexity. The opportunity to see remote villages, spectacular viewpoints, and cruise through some of Norway’s most famous fjords makes it a memorable day. Still, the lack of guided narration and some organizational issues mean it’s best suited for flexible, scenery-focused travelers.

For the price, you get a full day’s worth of sightseeing, with breathtaking vistas that are hard to beat. Just remember to bring your camera and a sense of adventure — and maybe an app or guidebook to fill in some of the gaps left by the absence of a formal guide.

FAQ

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the bus is air-conditioned and equipped with WiFi, making the long stretches more pleasant.

Are meals included?
No, snacks and drinks are available for purchase on the boat, and there are food options at stops like Hellesylt.

What if I don’t speak English?
The tour includes a free audio guide in 14 languages, but some reviews mention the lack of guided commentary, so language support might be limited in practice.

How long is the boat cruise?
The cruise through Hjørundfjord lasts around 2 hours and 15 minutes, offering ample time to enjoy the scenery.

Can I take photos during the trip?
Absolutely. The views at each stop and along the fjord are picture-perfect.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers should be able to participate, but the duration and timing mean it’s best for those with good mobility and patience for a full day.

What about the group size?
Up to 150 travelers can join, so expect a lively, social atmosphere, especially during busy seasons.

What’s the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 109 days in advance, likely due to high demand during peak season.

This tour offers a solid introduction to Norway’s fjord landscape, especially if you’re after iconic vistas and charming villages. While it could benefit from more guided commentary, the scenery alone makes it a memorable choice for many travelers.