Stavanger: Lysefjorden Cruise and Preikestolen Hike

Exploring Norway’s iconic landscapes often involves a mix of scenic cruising and challenging hikes, and this tour combines both into an enriching 8.5-hour adventure. It’s operated by Rødne Fjord Cruise, renowned for their sustainable sightseeing boats, and offers travelers a well-balanced day of natural beauty, panoramic views, and outdoor activity. From the comfortable, Wi-Fi-equipped boat to the self-guided trek to Preikestolen, this experience promises moments of awe and plenty of chances to snap those memorable photos.

What we love about this package is the seamless blend of cruising and hiking, allowing you to absorb Norway’s rugged scenery at each step. The boat ride through Lysefjord features spacious viewing decks and an onboard café, making it as relaxing as it is scenic. The highlight for many will be the self-guided hike to Preikestolen, which rewards you with breathtaking vistas of Lysefjord—truly a bucket-list experience.

A couple of considerations to keep in mind: since the hike is self-guided, you’ll need to be comfortable navigating a well-marked but rocky trail. Also, bringing the right gear is essential, especially sturdy hiking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. This tour suits outdoor lovers, solo travelers, and small groups eager to explore Norway’s famed fjord landscape with a bit of adventure on the side.

Key Points

• Scenic boat cruise through Lysefjord with spacious decks and onboard Wi-Fi.
• Self-guided hike to Preikestolen, offering flexibility and freedom.
• Comfortable transport including bus rides and ferry, with an interesting underwater tunnel experience.
• Authentic scenic views of waterfalls, mountains, and cliffs, captured from multiple vantage points.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Ideal for active travelers comfortable with rocky terrain and steep climbs.

The Whole Day in Perspective

This tour is designed to give you a comprehensive taste of Stavanger’s natural highlights. From your starting point at Strandkaien, the journey begins with a 2.5-hour catamaran cruise. The vessel is purpose-built for sightseeing, offering a smooth ride and plenty of space for soaking in the views. You’ll be able to enjoy panoramic vistas from the boat’s airy decks, watch waterfalls cascade down steep mountainsides, and listen to audio guides that enrich your understanding of the fjord’s geology and history. Several travelers have mentioned the quiet serenity of the boat ride as a major plus, particularly thanks to the sustainable design that minimizes noise disturbance.

Once in Lysefjord, the boat docks for an approximately 3-hour cruise segment that includes stops at notable sights like the Vagabonds Cave, and offers additional opportunities for photography and marveling at dramatic cliffs. We found that the onboard café, with its selection of snacks and drinks, made the cruise even more enjoyable—especially when paired with the cool mountain air and stunning scenery.

The Preikestolen Experience

After the scenic cruise, you’ll hop on a short bus shuttle to the Preikestolen BaseCamp trailhead. This part of the adventure is where your physical fitness and footwear choice truly matter. The 4-hour self-guided hike is well-marked but involves rocky terrain, steep climbs, and uneven surfaces, so proper hiking shoes are a must. The trail winds through lush forests and rocky outcrops, with several mountain lakes along the way, giving you a taste of Norway’s rugged terrain.

Multiple reviews praise the well-marked trail and the sense of achievement upon reaching the famous plateau. One reviewer, Luisa, noted how the experience was “very enjoyable,” especially after a friendly guide named Nacho provided useful tips on local places to visit and eat, even though he wasn’t part of the guided hike. While the hike is self-guided, the detailed trail markings reduce the risk of getting lost, which adds to the overall confidence of the trek.

The payoff is stunning: a vast, flat-topped cliff that juts out over Lysefjord, offering a panorama so mesmerizing it’s often called one of the world’s most spectacular viewpoints. Taking your time to absorb the scenery and snap photos is highly recommended since the views are truly unforgettable.

The Return Journey

Descending from Preikestolen takes roughly the same time as ascending, and once back at the trailhead, a bus is waiting to take you through the world’s longest underwater road tunnel—an architectural marvel—back to Stavanger city center. The 45-minute ride gives you time to reflect on your day’s highlights and perhaps plan where to grab a meal or a drink afterward.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers excellent value with inclusions such as the fjord cruise, access to viewing decks, Wi-Fi, audio guides, and transportation by boat and bus. These elements ensure a comfortable, informative experience without the need for extra planning on your part. However, it’s important to note that guided hikes are not included, so you need to be comfortable navigating the trail independently. Meals are also not included, meaning you should bring a packed lunch, especially to stay energized during the hike.

Practical Tips for Enjoying the Tour

• Dress in layers and bring waterproof gear—Norwegian weather can change quickly.
• Wear sturdy hiking shoes, particularly for the trail.
• Carry water and a packed lunch or snacks.
• Use the onboard Wi-Fi to download maps or guides if you want additional navigation support.
• Arrive early to maximize your time at each stop, particularly at Preikestolen, where crowds can gather.
• Remember that the hike is physically demanding; assess your comfort with rocky terrain and steep sections before booking.

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

Reviews highlight the quality of the boat trip—many mention the “short wait for the bus” and the friendliness of guides like Nacho, who provided valuable travel tips. The stunning scenery on the boat is consistently praised, with many travelers remarking on the peaceful silence and dramatic mountain views.

One reviewer summed it up by saying, “Very enjoyable. Nacho was very friendly and at the end, he gave us some tips on other places to visit in the city,” which points to the added value of local insights. The self-guided aspect of the hike was also appreciated, allowing flexibility and the chance to take your time rather than rushing with a guide.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for active travelers with a healthy sense of adventure and a love for the outdoors. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with rocky trails and steep climbs, or if you’re seeking a day of natural scenery coupled with a bit of physical activity. While guided hikes are not included, the well-marked trail makes it accessible for most fit hikers. Families with older children or teenagers who enjoy hiking could find this a memorable day out.

It’s also perfect for those who want a relaxing boat cruise with stunning views but don’t want to be tied to a strict schedule, thanks to the self-guided nature of the hike. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the inclusions—especially since there’s no extra fee for the ferry, the bus, or the scenic stops, making it a well-rounded, cost-effective choice.

The Sum Up

This tour from Stavanger combines Norway’s most iconic fjord scenery with a rewarding hike to Preikestolen, all while offering comfort and flexibility. The sustainable boat cruise and self-guided trail provide a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure, with ample opportunities for memorable photos and personal discovery.

For travelers who love being outdoors, appreciate scenic views, and prefer a flexible itinerary, this tour is hard to beat. The high-quality boat experience, coupled with the breathtaking perspective from Preikestolen, offers great value—especially for those wanting a comprehensive day in Norway’s natural landscape.

While it’s not designed for those with limited mobility or vertigo, it suits most active, nature-loving travelers ready to embrace a full day of exploration. With excellent reviews praising the stunning scenery and knowledgeable guides (on the boat), this tour stands out as a reliable, picturesque, and fulfilling way to experience Norway’s famous fjords and mountain vistas.

FAQ

Is the boat cruise included in the tour price?
Yes, the fjord cruise from Stavanger to Lysefjord is included, along with access to viewing decks and Wi-Fi onboard.

Do I need to bring my own food?
Yes, meals are not included, so bringing a packed lunch and snacks is recommended, especially for the hike.

Can I do the hike on my own?
Absolutely. The hike to Preikestolen is self-guided, with well-marked trails, though you should be comfortable with rocky terrain and a steep climb.

How long does the hike take?
The hike is approximately four hours in total, allowing for breaks and photo stops along the way.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for active individuals comfortable with rocky and steep terrain. Not recommended for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What should I wear for the hike?
Weather-appropriate clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, and waterproof gear are essential, as Norwegian weather can change rapidly.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

Are guided tours available?
No, this is a self-guided experience, but the trail is well-marked, and the boat has informative audio guides.