norwegian fjords cruise outfits

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What to pack for a norwegian fjords cruise (packing list + tips).

Taking a cruise to Norway and not sure what to pack? That sounds just like me before my cruise. Now I’ve been and returned I’ve put together this guide on what to pack for a Norwegian Fjords cruise so you know what to take and what to leave at home.

A cruise around the Norwegian Fjords is one of those dream holidays. The scenery is breathtaking and there are many incredible activities and scenic tours on offer at each port.

Coupled with the very changeable weather you can get in the fjords, it’s not a surprise you might be wondering what to pack.

Obviously, you don’t want to overpack. I mean, who wants to lug a suitcase round full of things you mostly won’t use? Plus there may be limited storage space in your cabin.

Yet, you’ll want to have enough of the right things to have a great cruise, whatever weather is thrown at you.

It’s definitely a challenge packing for this type of cruise. You need to prepare for all eventualities but it needn’t be as difficult as you think.

In this guide, I’ll share details of what I packed for my cruise around the fjords alongside some items I wished I had taken.

Hindsight is a great thing eh?

What to wear on a Norwegian Fjord Cruise

I’ve tried to avoid simply listing out what items of clothing you should take as I think everyone knows the basics and you know what you like to wear.

What I have listed are things you should consider taking and why. Not all of these items will be for you as it very much depends on what you plan to do on your cruise.

Do have lots of shore excursions or activities booked? Or do you plan to spend most of your time onboard the ship taking in the scenery?

When thinking about what to pack, keep that in mind. It will make it a little bit easier to decide what to take and what to leave behind.

Layers, layers and more layers

If there was only one piece of advice I could give when packing for a Norwegian Fjords cruise, it would be this – layer up.

In fact, this applies to all Norway cruises. Whether you are sticking to the fjords or travelling further along the coast.

You never quite know what you are going to get, weather-wise, in Norway and it’s not uncommon to get four seasons in a day. You could start the day in your winter woollies and end it in your bikini.

Well, that’s probably a bit extreme but you get the picture. The weather is very changeable.

In the fjords, you can have snow, rain, wind and sun all within a few hours of each other.

If you plan to spend a lot of time on deck, particularly when cruising the fjords then you’ll want clothes that will keep you warm and dry, if the weather is not great.

Especially if you are up early for the morning sail-in. By layering, you can remove items as the day heats up.

Think of items of clothing like vests, t-shirts, thin long-sleeved tops and fleeces that you can put on top of each other.

Of course, I never followed my own advice. I checked the forecast the week before I travelled and it looked a bit sunny and warm. However, when I had visited glaciers and fjords in other parts of the world previously, it was quite chilly when you reached them so I packed my jumpers.

Turned out I hit the weather jackpot in Stavanger and Olden. While the early morning sail-in was quite cold, the day warmed up quickly.

A balmy 24 degrees was reached on the bridge of the cruise ship I was on when docked in Olden. I don’t think the temperature dropped much below that up on top of the mountains either.

I totally overheated in my jumper, so much so I’m surprised I didn’t melt the snow that was still on top of Mount Hoven.

A lesson learnt…

Being able to layer clothes comes in handy onboard too. I found the cruise ship I was on was quite warm so I mostly wore thin jumpers or t-shirts.

I had a fleece if I wanted to go out on deck. It’s easier to take things off as you heat up then sit there sweating in one heavy item of clothing.

Comfortable shoes

Whether you plan to do some shore excursions, explore independently or maybe just relax on the ship, you’ll most likely be doing a fair bit of walking.

A comfy pair of shoes is a must as you’ll be on your feet a lot.

If you plan to do any hikes, such as the climb to Pulpit Rock, or long walks then you may wish to bring some walking shoes.

On my cruise, I did a couple of excursions which included a bit of walking. I just had normal trainers on and they were fine.

However, if you think you might do some more involved activities then it is worth checking what footwear is recommended.

Warm hat and gloves

I know it perhaps seems strange to recommend taking a winter hat and gloves on a summer holiday but trust me they will probably come in handy. It might also be worth popping a scarf in too, just in case.

The ship will sail into the fjords early in the morning so if you plan to get up and enjoy the spectacular scenery, it may be much colder than you expect.

Even in the summer, it can be quite chilly on deck. Especially if it is a bit breezy too, the wind cuts right through you.

I got up at 4.30am for the cruise along the Nordfjord and Innvikfjorden to Olden. While it was a lovely sunny morning with clear blue skies, it was absolutely freezing at times and quite breezy.

I had thermal leggings on under my jeans and a fleece under my jacket. I was very glad I had chucked my winter hat in my suitcase at the last minute and regretted not bringing some gloves as well.

This was in June believe it or not. Although that is not the height of summer, I was still a bit surprised at how cold it was early in the morning.

Hat and gloves may come in handy on shore excursions too. If you are going to view glaciers or heading up to the tops of mountains, and the weather isn’t great, the temperature might be cooler than you’d expect.

Waterproof jacket (and umbrella)

While we all wish for fabulous weather, or at least for it to stay dry while on holiday, there is a chance it will be a bit rainy and damp at times. Particularly when cruising the fjords. They see a LOT of rain.

Packing a waterproof jacket means you can still get out and about to explore the ports of call without worrying about getting soaked.

Fortunately, I had no rain on my cruise but I did pack a lightweight wind and waterproof jacket which was perfect for the early morning sail along the fjords.

Outdoor gear

If you are planning some activities such as hiking or kayaking, then you should consider bringing some outdoor gear. Or check with your activity or tour operator what, if anything, they will provide

If you are just strolling around the ports, then your usual clothes and footwear will suffice. However, if you plan some long walks or hikes then it is worth thinking about bringing some walking shoes.

That said, I did the walk to the Briksdal Glacier in jeans and trainers and it was fine. I walk a lot so didn’t find it overly strenuous (or hard on the feet) but if you are less mobile it might be an idea to take a ‘troll car’. These buggy- type vehicles drop you near the glacier viewpoint (around 10 minutes away) cutting out most of the walk.

Formal wear (or party wear)

Most cruises to the Norwegian Fjords will have one formal night. This could be a black tie evening or a celebration or chic night when you get to put on your finest party wear.

If the formal night is not for you, don’t worry. There will still be bars and restaurants you can use which don’t follow the formal dress code.

Check with your cruise line to confirm what type of night they will be holding and the required dress code.

A cruise to the Norwegian Fjords is quite fast-paced, you’ll have at least three or four port stops, with plenty of opportunities to get some walking exercise in as you explore the local area.

However, if the gym is your thing, there will still be time to get a workout or two in.

Most cruise ships have a gym and some will also offer exercise classes. Gyms usually open early and close late so you can get a workout in before or after a port day. Or you can save it for a sea day.

Some ships also have running/jogging tracks on deck. So pack your trainers as there is no excuse to not get your daily steps in.

Most cruise ships have a couple of pools and hot tubs so if you think you’d like to use them, pack your swimming costume.

If you are lucky with the weather, you might get the chance to spend a day by the deck pools so it is a good idea to have your swimwear with you just in case.

What to take on a Norwegian Fjords Cruise

Sunglasses and sunscreen.

While it’s true that it does rain a lot in the fjords, you might get lucky and have some sunny days.

If the forecast for your trip is for sunny weather, don’t forget to pop in the sunscreen. Go for one with a high SPF as the sun can be quite fierce.

I never thought I’d get slightly sunburnt in Norway but I did.

The light can be quite harsh too so it is worth packing your sunglasses to take the edge off.

If you think you’d like to sit on your balcony (or on deck) and look out for wildlife then make sure you bring your binoculars.

You’ll most likely have a sea day getting to and from the fjords so that is an opportunity to keep an eye out for any sea life including dolphins.

Once you arrive in Norway, you’ll be able to use your binoculars to get a closer look as you sail along the fjords.

What tech should I pack?

Camera and your phone.

If there is one thing you can guarantee on cruises to the fjords it is that you’ll probably end up taking a lot of photos. The views truly are spectacular.

These days it’s almost a given that most people have mobile phones and usually a camera on them. Before leaving, check how much space you have left on your device.

You don’t want to get to the fjords, get your phone out to snap an incredible shot only to discover your phone has no room to store any more photos.

If you have a camera (well, one not attached to a phone), don’t forget to make sure you have enough memory cards. Think about taking a large capacity card or maybe a few smaller capacity ones.

Trust me, you’ll want to take lots of photos of the fabulous scenery and of course your time on the ship.

Charges for your phone, camera and other devices

With the number of devices, we all have these days, it is surprisingly easy to forget to pack chargers.

Many cruise ships have shops onboard that stock electronic items including chargers however, these can sell out quick.

So do a quick double-check of your chargers before leaving home.

It is also an idea to have extra batteries or maybe a portable charger so you can recharge on the go. You may have long days off the ship so your battery could run down if you are taking lots of photos or updating your social media channels.

You don’t want to get to the end of the day and not be able to take a photo of the amazing view because your phone is dead.

Electrical adapters

Not tech as such I guess but the cruise line you are travelling with may not have the same type of plugs as your home country. So, check in advance if you need to take any adaptors.

You may be able to purchase adapters on board but you don’t want to rely on that, in case they are not available or sold out.

It would be a long week without being able to charge your phone or camera.

Miscellaneous items to pack

Reusable water bottle.

Many ships have water stations for you to refill your water bottle and help reduce the use of plastic bottles.

You can refill before heading out in port or on a shore excursion and save yourself having to buy a drink during the day. Or you can refill and have some water with you as you explore the ship.

Your favourite toiletries

Your cruise cabin will come with toiletries in the bathroom. This is usually soap, shower gel and shampoo. Conditioner and body lotion are sometimes provided as well, although on some cruise lines you have to ask your cabin steward for this.

If you don’t want to go without your favourite brands, then you can bring them along. To avoid any spillage or leaks either pack them in your hand luggage or make sure they are securely sealed before putting them in your suitcase.

Your lips and skin can dry out more than you expect on a cruise holiday.

I didn’t take any lip balm with me and really regretted it. Especially after spending four hours out on deck in the wind. Next cruise, whether it is back to the fjords or not, I’ll be popping some in my bag.

If you are in an inside cabin you won’t need to worry about this as it will be plenty dark in there. However, if you are in a balcony or sea view cabin you may notice it doesn’t get fully dark at night.

Depending on when you go you might find it barely gets dark at all. I went in June and while I don’t think we reached as far north to get the full midnight sun, it was pretty close.

When I closed my cabin curtains there was a faint light around the edges so you could tell it was not dark outside.

If you are a sensitive sleeper and need your room to be completely dark, consider taking some blackout sleep masks.

If you are a light sleeper, then pack some ear plugs just in case. This will help you sleep through any potential noise disturbances, such as engine sounds, rough weather or people just being a little loud in the corridors.

Alarm clock

Alarm clocks are generally not provided in cabins. At least I’ve never seen one yet.

If would like to get up early to enjoy the sail along the fjords, or have shore excursions booked and don’t want to miss the meet-up time, then bring an alarm clock with you.

Alternatively, you can use the alarm on your phone. Just make sure you don’t run out of battery overnight.

Towel Clips

While a cruise around the Norwegian Fjords is not really one for sunbathing you may wish to chill out on a sun lounger every now and then. Particularly if you get lucky with the weather.

Bringing along a couple of towel clips means you can secure a towel to your lounger. Something you’ll be very grateful for if it is a bit breezy. It also gives you a way to identify your lounger or chair in a sea of them.

However, be considerate to your fellow passengers and don’t be one of those people that puts a towel (and clips) down and disappear for hours on end.

Alcohol or soft drinks

Many cruise lines let you bring limited alcohol on board for you to enjoy in your cabin.

So, if you fancy sitting on your balcony enjoying a drink while sailing along the fjords, you can bring your favourite bottle of wine or champagne to sip as you take in the scenery.

Soft drinks are usually unlimited but check with your cruise line to confirm.

Norwegian fjords packing tips

Now, that you have an idea of what you should think about packing for your Norwegian Fjords cruise, I thought I’d share a few tips on how to make packing a little easier.

Use packing cubes

I discovered packing cubes when I was backpacking 20 years ago and never looked back.

They are a great space saver and help to keep your clothes organised in your luggage.

As there can be limited storage in cruise cabins, particularly when a few of you are sharing, packing cubes give you a bit more storage space.

They make it very quick to unpack too. On my last cruise, I just placed my packing cubes with all my tops in on the wardrobe shelves and job done.

Hand luggage

When you arrive at the port and drop your suitcases off, it could be some time before you see them again. They’ll turn up at your cabin, like magic, later in the day.

In the meantime, you’ll need some bits with you to get you through the first few hours on board. Give some thought about the kind of things you think you would need and then pack them in your carry-on bag.

Things like your travel documents, medications, any expensive tech devices and any valuable personal items should be in your hand luggage rather than your checked case.

Read more | What to pack in your carry-on bag (packing list + tips)

The last word

Hopefully, you now have an idea of what to pack for a Norwegian Fjords cruise. With a little bit of thought and a quick check of the weather forecast, you’ll be good to go.

If there is anything you think I’ve forgotten let me know in the comments below.

Have a great cruise!

More information on Norway…

• Cruising the Norwegian Fjords on P&O’s Iona
• Exploring the Briksdal Glacier on a shore excursion
• Loen Skylift and Kjenndalen Glacier shore excursion
• Lysefjord cruise and Pulpit Rock from Stavanger
• Olden port guide

30 thoughts on “ What to pack for a Norwegian Fjords cruise (packing list + tips) ”

I would not have thought to take layers on our mid-May cruise. The electronics, etc. tips were good reminders. Thanks for warning us.:)

Hi Laurie, thanks for you comment. I thought the same, being June I almost packed just summer stuff. The layers definitely came in handy though, especially when getting up early for the sail into the fjords. Enjoy your cruise. Emma

That’s helpful but I remain confused what I need as going 12 nights 21st October to Fjords and looking for northern lights

Hi Sheeps, if I was going in October I’d definitely take some layers and worm clothes. Especially if you are hoping to see the Northern Lights, you might end up running out on deck quite late and I imagine it could be quite chilly. Good luck and I hope you see the Northern Lights. Emma

Hi Emma, thanks for the tips. Just wondering what the dress code is for a regular evening (not celebration night). Is it still quite formal, dresses etc? We are going in 3 weeks and cannot wait. Your tips have definitely helped ease the stress of packing x

Hi Katie. I’d say smart casual mostly. Didn’t see many formal dresses on regular nights on the two cruises I have done on Iona. Think more of a night out at a restaurant at home type thing. I usually wore black jeans and a blazer or smart top/shirt and it was fine. Enjoy your cruise.

Thanks for this Emma. We go at the end of August this year and o hadn’t got a clue what to pack. I’ve found this post really useful.

Hi Emma, thanks for your kind comment. Glad it helped, enjoy your cruise. Emma

Would you recommend a lined or unlined rain jacket? We will be in the Norway coastline (from Olden to Tromso) on a cruise the first week of June. I have 2 jackets I can’t decide on…both are waterproof, windproof and breathable ….one has a mesh inside while the other has a lightweight fleecy liner. We are doing one hike at the Seven Sisters and the rest of the ports will be walking tours or bus tours. Weather looks to be 46-55 and showers. Thank you!!!

Hi Kim, sorry just catching up on comments. Guess you are on your cruise now. Hope you are having a good time & managed to choose which jacket to take. Emma

Thank you Emma, I have found this very helpful and am less stressed about what to pack for our cruise next week! Much appreciated ☺️

Hi Catherine, thanks for the kind comments. Hope you enjoy your cruise. Emma

Thank you Emma, for your tips.. This is my first cruise… I just wondered, is there a hairdryer and iron in the cabins Tia kate

Hi Kate, yes there is a hairdryer. No irons but you can use the ones in the laundrette free of charge. Enjoy your cruise. Emma

Aaagh thank u darling, so much…. Means a lot u got bac… I’m struggling at mo, cause had a close bereavement on Sunday and can’t focus, but I know he still would hve wanted me to go…. 💔

Hi Kate, sorry to hear that. Sending lots of love. Emma

Hi can you advise me on the Norwegian krone spending money on shore for coffees and snacks or use credit cards. Thanks

Hi Kate. I actually didn’t take any. I just used by credit card, had no issues. But depending on what you plan to do in Norway, it is probably worth taking a small amount. Enjoy your cruise. Emma

Hi emma, any advice on trips for someone semi-disabled using a small fold up mobility scooter. Am off end of this month. Also for Iceland in September .

Hi Carol, sorry for the delay, have been travelling. I don’t really have an experience in that area so a little hard for me to comment. However I’d check with your cruise line to see if they offer any accessible excursions. Also worth checking what support they can offer once on board. Enjoy both your cruises. Emma

Hi Emma. I haven’t booked any of the optional trips yet and want to know what you would recommend. I’m travelling in Mid July.

Hi Sheila, sorry for the delay responding. I’ve been travelling with limited internet access. My favourite excursions/trips last year were the Briksdal Glacier and Loen Skylift. You can do both from Olden. Would recommend both of those.Tho maybe check the weather for the Skylift as view might not be as great if cloudy/raining. Also enjoyed the scenic viewpoint tour in Geiranger, although that was lot of time on a bus. The fabulous views at the stops made up for it though. Enjoy your cruise.

Thanks for all your advice – sounds very like the weather here in western Scotland! Can I ask what time of year did you go? We are going the second half of May, so certainly hoping for even a little bit of warmth.

Hi Joan, I went at the beginning of June. So not long after when you are going. Will keep my fingers crossed you get good weather. Enjoy your cruise. Emma

Hi I’m going on a Norwegian fjords cruise end of May, will i just take warmer clothes for though out the day thank you.

Hi Julie, yes definitely take some warmer clothes just in case. I was a bit surprised at how chilly it was first thing in the morning. The days were warm though but I was very lucky with the weather, was unusually hot for the time of year. I think layers are best so if the weather is good you can take some off. Enjoy your cruise. Emma

So confused think I need to take my entire wardrobe

ha, yes it seems like that doesn’t it? With it being so changeable I found it quite difficult. Best advice I can give is to keep an eye on the weather forecast before you go and pack a couple of things you can layer. Gives you the choice to add more if chilly and or remove if hot. Enjoy your cruise.

Fantastic advice Emma. Can I ask what you’d advise to wear during the evenings in April. Have done lots of summer cruises but not a single winter one. Is it cold onboard as some summer evenings get chilly with the air con. Thank you

Hi Denise, thanks for your kind comment. I think for April I’d go for things you can layer up and down. It should be pretty warm on the ship but will most likely be a bit chilly on deck and when you are out and about in port. Personally I didn’t find the air con too cold. I went in June and for the evenings I had a few shirts/blouses that I could cover with a wrap/poncho or blazer if I felt cold. If you are taking sleeveless dresses or tops or I’d definitely take something like a wrap you can throw over your shoulders to keep you warm. Plus if you do get too hot you can easily take them off. Best of both worlds! Enjoy your cruise.

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A Brummie Home and Abroad

Part-time Traveller, Full-Time Brummie

The Perfect Packing List for a Norwegian Fjords Cruise in May

When planning for our May Norwegian Fjords cruise with Ma and Pa Lee, naturally the topic of conversation turned to what to pack. Will it be cold? Warm? Wet? Windy? What do we wear onboard the ship? To dinner? And what about onshore? Will we be hiking? Or just mooching around the town? So much to consider. And then of course, despite the “unlimited” luggage allowance – can we actually fit four suitcases, four sets of “hand” luggage and four people in Mr Fletche’s car? So now I’ve been on my cruise, I have a much better idea of what to pack – and what not to pack. So here’s my perfect (ish) packing list for a Norwegian Fjords Cruise in May.

Weather in May in the Norwegian Fjords

It became quite clear when doing our research that we could easily experience four seasons in one day whilst cruising the Norwegian Fjords. A bit like spending a holiday in the UK then. Temperatures seemed to be anywhere between 6-17°C. One thing seemed definite – there was no need to pack a plethora of summer clothes. In fact, incessant drizzle and cloud seemed to be on the cards according to the 10 day weather apps beforehand. But, as in the UK, the weather in Norway can be very unpredictable, and very changeable.

But we also had a day in Bruges, where temperatures looked decidedly summery. And the sailaway from Southampton was rumoured to be positively scorching. So, what DID I pack in my suitcase in the end?

Packing for Norway was very much like packing for a UK Minibreak…

What I packed

6 casual tops – a mix of short and long sleeved t-shirts, vest tops and a linen shirt. Two “dressy” tops.

Three pairs of jeans – one smart black skinny, one denim skinny and one denim mom style. One pair of black trousers with athletic stripe.

Two blazers. One vintage denim jacket. A long-length cardigan.

One daytime dress for Bruges, six smart casual dresses for evening.

Two pairs of hiking leggings, two thermal tops, a shell top, a zip up hoodie, a body warmer, a sweatshirt.

A bikini and cover-up.

One windproof shell jacket, woolly hat and gloves.

Two pairs of converse style pumps, one pair of lightweight trainers, Sketchers casual flats. One pair of white flat sandals. One pair of cream sandals with a small heel.

Here’s what I wore

Definitely not all of the above. Unless you count wearing a t-shirt for half an hour at breakfast to justify bringing it. It also soon became obvious that a pair of jeans that are “snug” around the waist at the best of times would NOT be an ideal relaxing sea-day outfit. But the pair of trousers that were sized up definitely were. I lived in just two pairs of shoes after our Bruges stop.

Many of our conversations pre-cruise revolved around the importance of layers. And I can’t recommend this approach more highly. Thin long-sleeved thermal tops, under a short-sleeved t-shirt, with a light hoodie or sweatshirt on top. With a warm, waterproof jacket to hand at all times. I teamed this with jeans (if dry) or with hiking leggings. Perfect on-ship and ashore.

I always have a woolly hat stuffed in my pocket to deal with unruly hair situations, and I took fingerless lambswool hand warmers with me – so my fingers were always free for the constant photo snapping! I was repping Punks and Chancers as always.

My usual approach to travelling somewhere is to wear my heaviest and bulkiest clothes so they don’t need to be packed. Something you learn when travelling carry-on on a budget airline. Except summertime finally hit the UK on Bank Holiday weekend. I didn’t fancy sweltering in Southampton so I begrudgingly rolled up my jackets as tightly as possible and shoved them into a holdall. My travel outfit therefore was a linen shirt, white vest top, skinny jeans and long length cardigan. I knew one wear would be all I got out of the shirt before it was too creased – and I was right.

I guessed that at the cruise port – similar to an airport – there would be lots of hanging round and lots of standing in queues. Which means that comfort is key, especially when it comes to footwear. We took note of the tips to bring a “cruise carry on” so once our suitcases were whisked away we had anything we may need immediately when we boarded. Or in our case, a holdall full of jackets.

The soaring Southampton temperatures saw fellow passengers donning their swimwear and shorts to take a dip in the Silhouette’s outdoor pool. With chilly Norway ahead there wouldn’t be many more opportunities. Although there were always some brave/foolish people determined to take a dip, whatever the weather. Instead I swapped a t-shirt for a vest top to bask in the sun at the Sunset Bar.

Exploring the towns of Alesund, Olden & Hauguesund

Unless you’re planning on doing a hike, or an excursion into the mountains, I found that a long-sleeved top, hoodie, leggings and and pumps were perfect. Sporty, athleisure wear is very common in Norway so don’t worry about being a fashionista. Despite the beautiful backdrop I never felt the need to waft around in a floaty dress and hat for “that” Instagram picture. I went for function over fashion, comfort over style. Just ask Mr Fletche’s opinion of my oversized neon sweatshirt.

Now, the early morning sail-ins? That was a different kettle of fish. That’s a “throw all your clothes on and hope your coat zips up over the top” kind of situation. 5:30am in a Norwegian fjord is a little nippy. I wore thermal leggings underneath a pair of loose trousers, two pairs of socks, and a thermal top under a long-sleeved top under a hoodie under a bodywarmer under a coat. And I was still cold. Totally worth it though.

My tip for exploring Norwegian port towns in May is simply to pack for a chilly day in the UK. There’s no need for any specialist cold weather clothing, but clothes that will be quick drying are ideal for those sporadic rain showers. Yep, just like England. Did I mention layers? They are your best friend. As are comfy, flat shoes. Sometimes there can be a bit of a walk to get to the town from the port. Norwegian towns like their cobbles so leave the heels and open-toed shoes for onboard.

A Day in Bruges

I was fooled by the reports that Bruges was going to be warm. The last time we visited was for the Christmas markets so I was looking forward to exploring the city without being bundled up in warm clothes. I wore a cardigan style dress, with my denim jacket and casual flats. Which meant bare legs. No hat, no gloves. What was I thinking? I should have applied the same dressing logic as the days in Norway. I’ve never been so happy to get my hands around a hot chocolate for a bit of warmth.

We had two “sea days” which gave us the opportunity to be lazy, explore every inch of the ship and eat/drink to our heart’s content. During the day, this generally meant comfy jeans or trousers, t-shirt and a cardigan with pumps. At busy lunchtimes at the buffet we often found ourselves sitting outside so I made sure I always had something to cover my arms. There’s a surprising amount of walking on a cruise ship, so comfy shoes are a must. Yep, I’m banging on about comfy shoes again. That and layers. I’m not paid to mention them, I promise.

If you’re planning to spend sea days in the pool or at spa then don’t forget your swimwear. If you do plan to take a regular dip, think about packing more than one swimsuit – there’s nothing worse than slipping on a bikini only to find it’s still damp from the day before. Pool attire is only acceptable at the pool so make sure you have an appropriate cover-up. I could have left my swimsuit at home, although I always intended to have a late night dip in the beautifully lit solarium.

Dressing for Dinner

Different cruise lines have different dress codes. Although I quite fancied the idea of swanning around in formal gear, we decided to opt for a more relaxed cruise with fewer evening dress restrictions. Thanks Celebrity. Most nights I wore a dress with sandals with a small heel, or jeans with a smart top and a jacket. The Celebrity Cruise dress code for evenings was largely “smart casual”. For men, a shirt or collared polo shirt and smart jeans was perfectly acceptable. Think “meal at a nice pub” vibe.

There were also two “Evening Chic” nights, which were a little more stylish, but formal attire certainly wasn’t required. Think a tad smarter than smart casual. Think evening guest at a wedding. Or think Christmas Office party – sequins, sparkles and dicky-bows. The Evening Chic dress code applied to the Main Dining Room only. On the first Evening Chic night we went uber-casual and ate at the buffet. On the second, we booked one of the speciality restaurants, where smart casual was perfectly acceptable.

One cruise blogger suggested wearing your tighter clothes at the start of the cruise, leaving the looser outfits for the last few days. I wholly recommend this approach after a week of hitting the included food and cocktails hard.

Packing tips for a Norwegian Fjords Cruise

When you’re planning your packing list for a Norwegian Fjords cruise, think about what activities you’ll be doing, both on shore and on the ship. Are you planning to hike, or take an excursion into the mountains? The higher you are, the colder it is likely to be! If you’re just strolling around town and ports then you can probably wear exactly what you would wear on a spring day in the UK. Are you planning on using any of the sports facilities onboard, or swimming?

Bulky clothes take up more room than thin summer clothes so you probably won’t have the luxury of taking all the clothes you own. Plan to double up as much as possible, finding items which can create two or more outfit combinations. Remember that there may be limited storage/hanging space in cabins. We tend to use packing cubes so it’s easy to organise clothes, and to separate worn/dirty items. And remember that taking less clothes means less laundry when you get home…

Apart from clothes, what else to pack?

Despite all this talk of chilly weather, it’s still important to pack high SPF sunscreen on a Norwegian Fjords Cruise. At the very least, take a moisturiser with SPF protection as its most likely to be your face that will be exposed. The sun was surprisingly strong when it did show its face so sunglasses were a must. After all, no-one wants to be squinting in all those holiday pics. Lip balm is also a good idea as my lips dried out more than usual on deck in the wind.

A tote bag or backpack to take off the ship on port days.

For leisurely at sea days there will be plenty to entertain you, but we took a couple of travel games, earpods and a Kindle stuffed with new books to read.

If you use a DSLR, don’t forget to bring spare batteries and plenty of memory cards. You’re going to need them when every scene is one to capture. If – like me – you rely on your mobile phone to take photos then make sure you take a power bank with you. Mr Fletche bought me an ace set a couple of Christmases ago, which double up as handwarmers. Each one will fully recharge my iPhone at least once, and they can be charged up via USB so I just rotate them.

Talking of charging items, don’t forget to bring a plug adaptor. Our Celebrity Silhouette cabin had two US sockets and one European, but check with your cruise line beforehand.

It’s a good idea to take a reusable water bottle with you, as bottled water can be very expensive ashore. Celebrity Silhouette did offer water in a recyclable tin rather than plastic bottles, and this was included as part of our drinks package so we would pick up a couple of bottles before bed to see us through the next day.

If you’re a light sleeper, or sensitive to noises at night then you might want to consider a sleep mask and ear plugs. We could have done with ear plugs to mask the sound of our dripping shower…

What I should have packed…

Ah, hindsight is a great thing isn’t it. Despite all the research, my packing list wasn’t perfect. I wish I’d put in my lined walking trousers for those early mornings. My converse knock-offs were comfortable enough for the walks we did but I’d have been a little more inclined to hike up to Briksdal Glacier/climb to the viewpoint in Alesund if I’d had proper walking shoes with me. Or maybe I wouldn’t. I’d have brought warmer gloves for the sea mornings. One with fingers in them. Also a blanket style scarf rather than a chiffon scarf, and a second woolly hat.

I took too many tops, and not enough “comfy” trousers. I wish I’d taken a second pair of my beloved wide trousers as they can be dressed up or down. Also, I got sweatshirt fluff all over them. In fact, I should have packed another oversized sweatshirt. Even if Mr Fletche thinks I should have had “Wide Load” written on the back of it. I wore the denim jacket once. I take it out of nostalgia now as it’s 30 years old and has probably travelled to the same number of countries as I have.

And did we fit four suitcases, four sets of “hand” luggage and four people in Mr Fletche’s car? With a bit of squeezing, a suitcase barrier between Ma and Pa Lee in the back and various bags stuffed in the footwells we managed it. Even if we did have to put Ma Lee’s seatbelt on her like she was a small child.

If you’re thinking of taking a Norwegian fjords cruise I hope some of these packing tips have been useful – happy cruising!

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I find packing for multi stop trips so tricky. I tend to dither too much over what-ifs and maybes. Layers for the win!

Very helpful thank you

Hi from a fellow (ex) Brummie. Well Suttonian I guess …. Anyway. Thank you. Me and my three sisters are doings a Brittania Norwegian Fjords cruise in May, for my younger sister’s 60th. I hate it when I pack too much and then find I don’t wear half of it. But I also get really annoyed with myself when I don’t bring something essential. Lots of great tips in your post that will help. I hope 🤞

Thank you for your lovely comment Sandra – I hope you have an amazing time!

I shall do my utmost 😂

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What to pack for a Norwegian fjords cruise

Do you want to know what to pack for a Norwegian fjords cruise? A Fjords cruise in Norway is one of the most picturesque in the world but can be tricky to pack for given the weather, activities you will be doing a cruise line dress codes. In this guide, we will tell you EXACTLY what to pack and what to wear for a Norwegian Fjords cruise.

Important Note : This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click through and make a purchase I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you!

This includes guidance on how to dress for the weather, cruise line dress codes as well as for certain shore excursions.

Note: if you are lookng for guidance on Norwegian Cruise Line aka NCL be sure to check out our NCL guide.

Table of Contents

What do I need to pack for a Norwegian Fjords cruise (non clothing)?

Passport   and identification

For a European cruise always pack a passport and identification. And remember that this needs to be in your embarkation day carry on bag .

Documentation including Covid 19 related paperwork

Alongside your passport and identification you will also need all other important cruise travel documents which includes but is not limited to:

• Travel insurance
• Covid Related paperwork such as vaccination certificates and PCR/Lateral Flow test results depending on your cruise line and port requirements.
• Cruise Suitcase labels – these are provided by the cruise line but are usually required to be completed and put on your suitcases before you arrive at the cruise terminal.

I would say this is an optional item, however in my experience most cruisers like to have a lanyard. Cruise cabin keys are the most important thing on a cruise as they are used as your form of identification to get back on and off the ship in ports, pay for things on the ship and is used for photographs, dining reservations and more.

Many people find a lanyard the best way to keep their cabin key safe and on them at all times on a cruise. The best ones are waterproof so can be used on shore excursions where you will be spending a lot of time in the water and can also be used to keep small amounts of cash and a government issued id. 

Click here to shop the best lanyards for cruise travel.

Waterproof Phone Case

As well as the lanyard for your card we also recommend having a waterproof phone case. If you plan on heading in the sea or just want to keep the phone with you while you are in the hot tub and pool you will need a waterproof phoen case with you.

Universal Travel Adaptor

Depending on where you are from, who you are sailing with and where you may need to take a travel adaptor with you to ensure that all your electronics will work. Newer ships also tend to have USB charging points in the cabins so you may also want to have a USB charging cable with you.

Shop universal travel adaptors here .

You will also need to pack any medications you need in your carry on and be sure to have prescriptions with you.

As well as prescription medication some other medications you may like to travel with include:

• pain medications such as Advil, paracetamol, Tylenol and Ibuprofen 
• Reflux Meds such as Gaviscon, Tums etc. 
• Birth Control

Sea sickness medication or motion sickness bands

I personally have never gotten sea sick on a cruise ship and Fjords crusies are known for stheir excessively rough seas but it is always possible. For this reason or if you are concerned about seasickness be sure to pack some sea sickness meds and some anti motion sickness bands.

Click here to shop sea sickness meds.

Although most ships provide toiletries I will always pack some on my own as I think they are better quality than those you get on board

For more information on the  best toiletries to bring on a cruise  check out this post.

On top of the regular travel toiletry essentials we also recommend packing bug spray, after sun / aloe vera as well as a small first aid kid including blister plasters.

Toothbrush and toothpaste

Although toiletries are usually provided you will need to bring your own tooth brush and toothpaste.

Although when you think about Norway you may think first about glaciers and colder weather. However you can still get sun burnt in Norway so be sure to bring sunscreen with you.

Note : Sunscreen is usually available onboard but will cost you a premium if you wait and buy on board or in Norway itself as it is an expensive country. Therefore you should bring this with you if you can.

The contrast between the nice weather on a warm weather cruise with the cruise ship air conditioning and the cooler air around glaciers such as the Mendenhall Glacier is the perfect recipe for dry lips. 

We always recommend packing lip balm that has an SPF so your lips are protected when on beach excursions etc. Again our favorite brand is sun bum .

A backpack is another essential for an Norwegian cruise. The variety of activities on board an Norwegian Fjords cruise range from train trips, hiking, glacier walking, helicopter rides, fishing, whale watching and more. For this reason we think a backpack is the type of bag that suits this range of activities most.

If you plan on doing some long day activities where you will spend lots of time outside we recommend also having a waterproof cover for your backpack.

The Fjords are beautiful be sure to have a good quality camera with you.

What to Wear on a Norwegian Fjords Cruise

So now you know what to pack we will turn our attention to what to wear on a Norwegian Fjords Cruise.

Norwegian Fjords Cruises typically run from May right through to August / September. Although summers in Norway are warm, the weather is still pretty changeable. Typically you can expect the temperatures to hover between 13°-18°C /57° to 65°F. However, it is not unheard of for the temperatures to rocket to 25°C – 30°C / 77°F – 86°F.

But it can also be pretty rainy so be sure to pack plenty of waterproof wear with you as well as some waterproof shoes.

Best Shoes for Norway Cruises in Summer

So first we will turn our attention to the best shoes for a cruise in Norway.

Sneakers are absolutely the best shoe for most shore excursions in Norway. These are great for walking around cities and cultural attractions and are comfortable for walking long distances.

My favorite brand of sneakers for walking are  Hoka  and  AllBirds , however you also can’t go wrong with a plain white sneaker as they go with everything. One of my favorite pairs of white sneakers is the  Adidas Cloud Foam shoes . However for Norway you may also want to consider a sneaker with some waterproofing such as the Ecco Soft Seven.

Hiking Boots

If you plan on doing hiking excursions then we recommend packing hiking boots. I prefer these over hiking sandals as boots with some waterproofing will cope better if you get rain in Norway.

Of course no Norway capsule wardrobe is complete without sandals. Sandals are breathable and are good in the heat. We just recommend you picking one with arch support.  We also like to wear these at night too so be sure to pick a pair that can double up.

Click here to shop sandals for Alaska Cruises.

What to Wear in Norwegian Fjords Cruise for women

Waterproof jacket  .

Although you won’t need thick coats in Norway in Summer, it is worth having a lightweight packable waterproof jacket with you in case of rain.

But if you go with a packable jacket then you will need to layer with fleeces.

Lots of layers are the most important thing for your Norway packing list. Hoodies are a good choice, but I also like to pack a lightweight fleeces as they are really insulating, layer well but also packaway easily and dry quickly if they get wet.

Trousers / Pants

Trousers and pants are a great versatile pick for Norway and are way more useful than dresses and skirts especially if you are doing lots of outdoors activities.

Now depending on your Norway itinerary I would consider packing the below pants:

• Convertible Hiking Trousers that can double up as shorts and trousers if you plan on doing hikes
• Jeans – for in cities and towns
• Shorts – for hotter months for hiking and cities
• Athleisure – if you prefer hiking in leggings these can be a good pick.

You could also add linen trousers or chinos to your packing list which could double up for use in the main dining room on board your ship.

Skirts and Dresses

These aren’t essential for day times but are perfect for formal and smart casual evenings in the main dining room.

Click here to shop dresses

T Shirts 

T Shirts are perfect base layer for Norway.

Click here to shop t shirts.

Loose blouses are perfect for Norway cruises. I particularly like them for evenings paired with a waterfall cardigan or blazer or even for hiking.

Click here to shop blouses

There are lots of opportunities for a swim or sauna in Norway as well as the on ship pool and hot tubs so I definitely recommend having one piece of swimwear with you.

Just remember if you want to use these on embarkation day to put them in your cruise carry on .

Formal Outfit

If you plan on attending formal night on a cruise be sure to have an evening dress or formal dress wiht you.

PJs or Nightie, Underwear and Socks

Goes without saying.

Be sure to pack a pair of sunglasses with good UVA protection as the sun can be strong in Norway.

What to Wear on a Fjords Cruise for Men

Alongside our regular  men’s travel essentials  we recommend adding the following items to your men’s packing list for Norway in Summer:

Again a lightweight waterproof jacket is perfect for summer visitors so long as you have something like a fleece to go underneath.

Pants and Shorts

As with the ladies packing list we recommend packing:

• convertible walking trousers,
• something like chinos or jeans for cities and towns and for use in the formal dining room.

Shop men’s travel chinos here.

T Shirts and Shirts

T shirts are great for days sightseeing. And on top of t shirts you may also want to pack a button down shirt for use on formal nights.

A hoodie, jumper and fleece alongside your waterproof are the perfect layers for 7 days in Norway.

If you plan on attending formal night on a cruise be sure you have either a tux, suit or blazer tie and chinos with you.

For same reason as the female packing list. Just remember to put them in your carry on bag.

What else to pack for Norwegian fjords cruise

• Compact Umbrella   – important for any month you visit Norway.
• Reusable Water bottle – again, important if you plan on hiking.
• Mosquito Spray – if you are buy lakes and still water this is absolutely an essential.
• Sleeping Mask – in the land of the midnight sun a sleeping mask is an essential throughout summer if you have a porthole, seaview or balcony cabon..
• Travel First Aid Kit – especially important if you plan on doing lots of hiking.
• Blister plasters
• Binoculars – the Fjords are beautiful be sure to have some binoculars with you to fully appreciate them.

FAQs About Norwegian Cruises

Can you wear jeans in Norwegian Fjords Cruise?

You can absolutely wear jeans in Norway however I advise against wearing them on hikes as they are uncomfortable to wear on long hikes.

Have you been to Norwegian Fjords Cruise? What did you wear? We would love you to tell us in the comments below

What to Wear on a Norwegian Fjords Cruise Explained

Packing for a Norwegian Fjords cruise can be tricky, especially if it’s your first time. On our first Norwegian Fjords cruise we found it particularly difficult to pack, so we created this guide to help you decide  what to wear on a Norwegian Fjords cruise .

Cruise Ship Dress Code

Firstly, it’s good to know your cruise line’s dress code. This will help you to pack the right clothes for the ship itself. There are a number of cruise lines that offer Norwegian Fjords cruises from the UK. Take a look at the dress codes by cruise line:

• Ambassador Cruise Line dress code
• Azamara dress code
• Celebrity Cruises dress code
• Cunard Line dress code
• Fred.Olsen Cruise Lines dress code
• MSC Cruises dress code
• Norwegian Cruise Line dress code
• P&O Cruises dress code
• Princess Cruises dress code
• Royal Caribbean International

Dress codes differ between cruise lines and some are more formal than others, make sure you check before packing for your cruise.

We took a Norwegian Fjords cruise with Princess Cruises and found that the dress code was quite relaxed. As long as you looked smart on a formal night, you did not look out of place.

To find out whether a Norwegian Fjords cruise with Princess Cruises is right for you, read our review now.

What to Wear on a Norwegian Fjords Cruise – Sea Days

Sea days on a Norwegian Fjords cruise are likely to be at the beginning and end of your cruise. The weather can vary depending on the time of year. If you’re unsure of the weather and what to wear on a Norwegian Fjords cruise, pack layers.

Shoulder Season

If you’re cruising to the Norwegian Fjords in the shoulder months (April, May, June and September) the North Sea is likely to be cloudy with patches of sunshine. You’re going to need to wear layers and ensure you have a warm jumper.

You’ll spend a lot of time inside the ship, so t-shirts, jumpers and jeans are definitely worth packing.

Summer Season

The best weather is likely to be in July and August, so on a sea day, you could wear a short sleeved t-shirt with a lightweight sweater if it gets a little chilly. It’s still likely to be a bit breezy outside.

You may want to pack a swimming costume for the pool or hot tub.

Winter Season

On a winter Norwegian Fjords cruise, you are going to need thermal layers and a warm coat if you decide to venture out on to the open decks. Hats and gloves are essential to ensure you stay warm.

You’re likely to spend most of your time inside the cruise ship so jeans, t-shirts and jumpers are suitable to pack.

What to Wear on a Norwegian Fjords Cruise – Shore Excursions

A Norwegian Fjords cruise has a heavy focus on getting outside and enjoying the scenery. Once the cruise ship reaches the Norwegian Fjords, you’re likely enjoy a combination of exploring the ports and scenic cruising.

Your cruise will offer organised shore excursions or you may decide to do your own thing once you get to a port. Either way, there’s likely to be an element of walking involved and therefore comfortable walking shoes are necessary.

Try to avoid wearing new shoes you haven’t worn in. High heels are definitely not recommended, especially in small towns that have cobblestone streets. Ballet flats or trainers would be good options in local towns.

Some excursions involve walking or hiking and for these we’d recommend walking shoes or supportive trainers. If you’re planning a boat excursion, pack a warm coat.

On a Norwegian Fjords cruise, you can experience sunshine and rain in the same day so we’d suggest packing a lightweight raincoat, even in the summer months. Western Norway is known to be one of the wettest places in the world.

A small backpack  or crossover bag is useful for excursions to carry small items such as: a water bottle, hat, camera and personal items.

Norwegian Fjords Cruise Packing List – Spring/Summer

• Casual tops
• Lightweight jumper/cardigan
• Polo shirts for men
• Shorts/capri pants/cropped trousers
• Jeans/chinos
• Lightweight jacket
• Waterproof jacket
• Clothes for formal night (according to cruise line dress code)
• Smart collared shirt for men
• Loafers/boat shoes for men
• Walking shoes/boots (if required)
• Smart trousers
• Scarf/pashmina
• Cross-over bag/backpack

We’d recommend taking a look at our 40 tips to enjoy a Norwegian Fjords cruise , which includes other essentials to pack.

Norwegian fjords cruise packing list – winter.

• Warm jumpers/cardigans/fleeces
• Warm jacket
• Formalwear (according to cruise line’s dress code)
• Swimsuit (if there is an indoor spa/pool)
• Thick socks
• Muff for neck/face
• Warm headband to cover ears

Watch our Norwegian Fjords Cruise Vlogs

To help you get an idea of the weather and what to wear on a Norwegian Fjords cruise, we’d recommend watching our vlog series.

Laura is a UK cruise blogger based in Cornwall, UK. She founded Cruise Lifestyle in 2016 to share useful advice about cruising, destinations and food. Last port visited: Bridgetown, Barbados Next port of call: unknown, but she can’t wait for cruising to resume safely!

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Norwegian Fjords Cruise: 32 Tips You NEED to Know

In June 2018 I took a cruise around the Norwegian Fjords with my lovely Mum. In this post, I’ll share with you the things I wish I knew before my first cruise to Norway. Including:

When to cruise to Norway What to pack on a Norwegian Fjords cruise What to do onboard What to do in: Bergen, Olden, Stavanger and Aldalsnes.

When is the best time to cruise the Norwegian Fjords?

The Norwegian Fjords cruising season runs from May until September. The only cruise line that offers Norwegian Fjords cruises all year round is Hurtigruten. Peak time tends to be in July and August with this itinerary being particularly popular with families.

In the UK children are off school from mid-July until early September so if you can avoid travelling at this time I would, not only will it be busier but it’ll be significantly more expensive!

When is The Best Time to Cruise to Norway? Seasons, Price, Weather and More

Norwegian Fjords tip #1

• I would recommend cruising at the beginning or end of the summer season. You’ll get the best deals at this time and the ships won’t be too busy. May-June or September would be be my recommendation. You still have a good chance of some sunshine but more on that later in the post…

Norwegian Fjords tip #2

Be aware that if you travel in the summer, it will be light a lot of the time. Sleeping is never a problem for me, but it is a bit confusing when you have been out for dinner, watched the show, come out and it is still daylight! – Gaynor Le Teace (my mum)

It’s true! In some parts of Norway they even have a ‘midnight sun’. Cruise ship cabins usually have pretty thick curtains so I don’t have any trouble sleeping but if you are somebody who cannot tolerate even the smallest amount of light in the room when you sleep then you might want to consider an inside cabin.

What is the weather like on a Norwegian Fjords cruise?

The weather in Norway is unpredictable and very often wet. The weather in Summer SHOULD be dry and can even be pretty warm. We cruised in June and it rained every single day… However, I have a few friends who cruised two weeks earlier had glorious sunshine every day and temperatures reached 30c! (90f). I would not base your decision on when to go around the weather. It’s extremely unpredictable!

The weather means that you need to remember to bring the following things…

What to bring

Norwegian fjords tip #3.

• Take sensible shoes, a waterproof jacket, jeans, jumpers (sweaters). As I mentioned above we had rain every single day. Annoyingly the UK was experiencing a heat wave at the time! A waterproof jacket/a coat is without a doubt the most important thing you should pack. I wore my red coat every single day.

Norwegian Fjords tip #4

• Make sure you pack some dresses/shorts! This one might seem a bit silly given what I said above but the weather can reach 30c (90f). It can also vary a lot between ports so just because you have one rainy day doesn’t mean it will rain for the entire cruise.

Norwegian Fjords tip #5

Pack some small binoculars – I forgot mine. Obviously didn’t pay enough attention to the holiday packing spreadsheet in my excitement! – Gaynor Le Teace (my mum)

The views are INCREDIBLE as you sail around the Norwegian Fjords. I don’t really use binoculars but mum likes to so if you’d like to spy on people as you go by it can be worth packing binoculars. A good camera with a zoom can also work the same way.

Norwegian Fjords tip #6

• Bring the best camera you have! (Or at least your phone). All of my photos were taken on my iPhone because quite frankly I have no idea how to use a decent DSLR camera. You’ll want to take SO many photos. Look at this!! It’s INCREDIBLE.

Norwegian Fjords tip #7

• Bring your phone and use it. I usually say you should keep your phone in airplane mode when you are at sea. However, when cruising around the Norwegian Fjords you’re often close enough to land to be able to pick up 4G from land. If you are in doubt about how your phone will work at sea I have another post about that here: How do mobile phones work at sea? (If you’re American a mobile phone = a cell phone). I know we don’t go on cruises to spend all of our time on our phone but being able to send messages/emails/photos to friends and family back home is always a bonus.Mum mostly used it to send photos of me to my dad…

 What to do onboard

These tips are general to the whole of Norway. There are more specific tips about the ports that we visited at the end of this post.

Norwegian Fjords tip #8

Book a balcony cabin!

Norwegian Fjords tip #9

• Make sure you book whatever tours you’d like to do as early as possible. We booked ours onboard and a lot of them were already sold out which limited our options. Ideally, you should book the tours before you travel. It’s usually possible to do this on the website of most cruise lines. If not try and book the tours on the first day to avoid disappointment!I am below looking very pleased with myself at the Briksdal glacier in Olden.

Norwegian Fjords tip #10

• Be aware that a lot of things are closed on Sundays! If you are docking on a Sunday don’t assume that shops will be open. It’s always best to do your research and check before you cruise.

Norwegian Fjords tip #11

• Look out for weird things in the souvenir shops… I managed to find a whale sausage!

Norwegian Fjords tip #12

Always get up early to see the sail in to port, the views are incredible. (Even if you have to wear the aforementioned jeans, jacket, jumper, hat etc. – Gaynor Le Teace (my mum)

Norwegian Fjords tip #13

• Bring your quilt onto the balcony! (Duvet). I’m not kidding. If you can also make yourself a cup of tea that’ll make it even better! I mostly had to do this because I hadn’t planned for such cold weather so didn’t bring the right clothes. Hopefully by reading this post you won’t make the same mistake that I did! (I thought June would be okay!)

Norwegian Fjords tip #14

Unless there is somewhere you particularly wish to visit, look at at the weather forecast before booking excursions..

It is rather a waste of money to book an expensive trip up a mountain or to see the Troll Wall when everything is shrouded in fog, and you can’t see anything anyway! When we got to the top of the funicular railway in Bergen this is the view that we were greeted with…

This is what it was meant to look like!

In the next section of this post, we talk about the ports of Bergen, Olden, Stavanger and Andalsnes.

Bergen cruise port tips

Norwegian fjords tip #15.

• Take the funicular railway! The number one attraction in Bergen appears to be the funicular railway. It is a gentle stroll to the bottom of the railway, and easy to pay by credit card – no kroner needed. Approx £9.75 for two adults one way. Once at the top it is a lovely walk back down the hill on a tarmacked road, through the wooded hillside. No need to pay for an excursion!. We found out from a fellow passenger later that there is actually a lake ten minutes from top of the hill, may be worth a look if its a sunny day.

Norwegian Fjords tip #16

• If you do take the funicular railway go later in the day. We went in the morning and couldn’t see a thing because of the fog! We could have been anywhere. If you are physically able to, make sure you walk back down. The path is a winding road and you’ll see some amazing sights along the way! It was really cool for us to be able to get below the clouds and see the ships.

Norwegian Fjords tip #17

• Look out for the trees that have their own jumpers! I’m not kidding.

Norwegian Fjords tip #18

• Be aware that you may sail away from Bergen quite early. I’m not too sure why they do this but a sail away of 3 pm can be quite standard. It’s probably just because this is the last port on the itinerary for cruise lines like P&O and Princess. The cruise line will let you know what time the ship is set to sail.

Stavanger Cruise Tips

Norwegian fjords tip #19.

• Visit the old town. It is easy to wander around is and genuinely just a lovely place! There will be a lot of tourists here. I wonder what it would be like to live in one of these houses with thousands of tourists wandering up and down your street. No wonder they all have net curtains.

Norwegian Fjords tip #20

• Visit the petroleum museum. Okay, this one is a little weird. I had no idea that there was a petroleum museum in Stavanger but SO many people have asked me if I went. They all seem to love it! It has a 4.5/5 star rating on trip advisor so must be something special…

Norwegian Fjords tip #21

• Be careful when walking around the roads. Even in the newer part of town, the roads can be a little difficult. If you are in a wheelchair it may be a good idea to stick to the main streets and not venture up and down all of the little cobbled streets that I found myself wandering around.

Norwegian Fjords tip #22

• Check out the other ships. There are usually multiple cruise ships docked in Stavanger at the same time. Make sure you get out and have a peek at the other ships! This is always one of my favourite things to do in a port. We were docked beside the MSC Orchestra and the Viking Sun. (Bit ironic since it rained every day on this cruise).

Norwegian Fjords tip #23

• Wander around the lake at Stravanger park. There is a lovely little park not too far from the cruise port. It is easy to walk there and wandering around the lake is very pleasant. Even in the rain, it was lovely. The park is right beside a cathedral.

Olden Cruise Tips

Norwegian fjords tip #24.

• Have your photo taken with a troll. Go on, you know you want too!

Norwegian Fjords tip #25

• Visit the Briksdal glacier. I would 100% recommend doing this. The glacier is SO COOL (mind the pun) and there are lots of lovely paths to walk around near it. There is even a couple of toilets here which I really appreciated. It takes around 45 minutes to get here from the cruise ship but you’ll get to see some amazing views on the way.

Norwegian Fjords tip #26

• Skip the Loen Skylift. We took the Loen Skylift and I honestly wouldn’t recommend it. The price of this is around £50 per person! (I know Norway is expensive but that is mad). The skylift only goes up and down every 30 minutes and 35 people fit in one skylift meaning you can’t really see anything on the way up or down. I really hate to be negative and tell people not to do things but I honestly just thought this was a waste of money. The views are really good but I don’t think £50 worth of good. Maybe it would have been better if it wasn’t so blooming cold!!

Norwegian Fjords tip #27

• Take as many photos of the ship as you can! There is NO better backdrop than that of the Norwegian Fjords. Even in bad weather, the ships look amazing. I honestly think the clouds and fog add a little something which makes it seem mysterious?!

Norwegian Fjords tip #28

• Do NOT miss the sail away! As we departed Olden a small cafe on the ship blasted out ‘I am sailing’ by Rod Stewart followed by ‘Time tooo…. say… goooddbyyyyyeee’ by Katherine Jenkins.  Don’t pretend you didn’t just sing that in your head. I did!

Andalsnes Cruise Tips:

Norwegian fjords tip #29.

• Take a gamble on the troll wall? I’m not TOO sure if this really counts as a tip but I would say think twice about booking a trip to the bottom of troll wall. If the weather is bad you won’t see a thing. I hadn’t ever looked up the troll wall before so I had no idea what I was meant to be seeing.

Norwegian Fjords tip #30

• Head UP the troll wall. I made some friends on this cruise and they told me that they had been UP the troll wall and had amazing views from up there. If I went again I would pick a tour that took you to the top of the wall whereas ours just took us to the bottom where we stared up at the clouds.

Other bonus tips!

Norwegian fjords tip #31.

Put a currency converter on your phone for Norwegian Kroner. Its pretty expensive, and you don’t want to get a nasty shock when you open your credit card bill! Do you really need a wooden troll or reindeer sausages? I think not… – Gaynor Le Teace (my mum)

Norwegian Fjords tip #32

• Eat as much food as you can on the ship so that you don’t have to eat in port… Norway is really expensive and I have no interest in paying for food when I have an unlimited supply on the ship! Make sure you eat a big breakfast and you’ll be fine for a while. If you have kids though it may be worth bringing some snacks.

My cruise onboard Britannia

This was my first P&O cruise and I was REALLY impressed with the food and service onboard. If you are cruising onboard Britannia make sure you check out this post. P&O Britannia: 8 free ‘must do’ activities.   Britannia is an amazing ship but she is HUGE and it can be difficult to make the most of your time onboard.

I also filmed a tour video when I was onboard and will be posting daily vlogs in each port.

Are you taking a cruise around the Norwegian Fjords? (Or would you like to?)

If you have any questions please leave a comment or join our Facebook group ( Cruising Isn’t Just For Old People ). We have 1600+ members all of whom would love to answer your questions and see your photos/hear your stories!

– – –

FURTHER READING:

A CRUISE ADDICTS GUIDE TO EXPLORING THE NORWEGIAN FJORDS. – CRUISE ADDICTS BLOG

CRUISING THE FJORDS OF NORWAY – THE CRUISE BLOGGER

Monday 3rd of September 2018

Really interesting, thank you. I have booked to go on Iona maiden voyage

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What to Pack for a Norwegian Fjords Cruise 

It doesn’t matter if you’re new to the cruising life or an expert, you’ll still want to make sure you’re prepared for Norway. So, we’re here to assist your preparation with our guide on what to pack for a Norwegian Fjords Cruise.

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A Little About Norway

You will find this Nordic country in Northern Europe, and by looking at the map you will see it comprises the western and northernmost portion of the Scandinavian Peninsula. The capital of Norway is Oslo, and it has a population of over 5 million. What makes Norway stand out for most people is its beautiful landscape and rich heritage. You have the opportunity to see some incredible historical sites such as the beautiful 14 th century wooden houses in Bergen, the 18 th century Gamle in Stavanger and 9 th century Viking boats in Oslo.

For most though, Norway is an opportunity to enjoy outdoor adventures such as hiking and kayaking. Or if you’re looking for something a little faster then there’s always the Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIB).

Why Do I Need to Plan Packing for my Norway Cruise?

Basically because of two words ‘the weather’. Norway’s weather can be described as unpredictable and it’s the difficulty of an ever-changing forecast which can make packing problematic. The week we were due to travel, which was in June 2022, it was forecast to rain heavily the entire week. As any traveller knows, rain can make it difficult to see the place you are visiting.

We kept an eye on the forecast and the closer we got to our departure date, you could see daily changes. We ended up having a few dry days at the beginning and heavy rain at the end, especially in Bergen.

If it was a med cruise or Caribbean cruise then you would find it easier, because it tends to be summer clothes such as t-shirts and shorts, or swim wear. But in Norway you can have extreme changes from beautiful sunny days to torrential downpours.

Before you pack, another thing to think about is what excursions you fancy trying when you’re there. Norway is renowned for its outside activities, so if you want to try any of them, then you need to make sure you have the right gear.

Pack According to Seasons in Norway

We thought it would be wise to begin looking at the seasons in Norway, as this may influence when you book and what you pack. As we have stated above, Norway is quite unpredictable weather wise, so this is a generalised summary. Bear in mind when you’re researching the weather, that not only can it vary within a set place. But because you’re cruising you will be moving to different regions.

You’ll find that most cruise lines only tend to visit this area between spring and autumn. Most ships head back to the Caribbean during the winter or to generally warmer climates. Because of that we’ll specifically look at these seasons.

Norway Springtime Weather

As you can probably imagine Spring is a difficult one to predict, with some years being warm and others being chilly. The Southern part of Norway will enjoy Spring first, usually in April and it will move North as the month goes on. The most Northerly part of Norway may still have snow and probably won’t enjoy the better weather until May or June.

With more sunshine and melting snow, you will find there are more natural waterfalls over Norway and plenty of flower’s blooming. That time of year is truly a sight to behold for anyone who loves nature.

Norway Summer Weather

Summer in Norway tends to be June, July, and August, but you’ll find the best weather in July. This is when you can enjoy the hottest temperatures during your cruise. Over the Summer you will find that you have long days and incredibly short nights, or we should say non-existent in some areas. Don’t be surprised to witness midnight sun as you sail along a fjord, it is quite an experience.

Norway Autumn Weather

Some cruise lines continue visiting Norway during the autumn months, but that tends to be until the end of September. Temperatures can drop quickly during this time (less than 20 degrees Celsius), the days get shorter, and it will get colder and wetter. But you will have a greater chance at witnessing the beauty of the Northern Lights (aurora borealis). So really it will depend on what your priorities are, in terms of what time of year you choose to sail.

Packing for a Norwegian Fjords Cruise

So, let’s get to the nitty gritty of the article, because essentially that is what you’re here for. Again, our suggestions will be completely dependent on the time of year you’re cruising, the duration of your cruise and the excursions you’re contemplating doing when you get there.

Rather than just give you a list of what we took, we’ll provide you with a general summary of items, including what to wear and why they’re a good idea for this specific itinerary.

Layering Up

We have mentioned once or twice that it’s difficult to predict the weather in Norway, so we’ll start by giving you our best advice and that is pack layers. This means that no matter the weather you can layer up or strip down if it gets warmer through the day. Obviously the earlier in the year and the later, then you’ll need to look at wearing jumpers. We tended to stick with t shirts and thin sweaters or hoodies when we went on our Norwegian cruise in June.

One thing we didn’t do, but we’d strongly recommend is to make sure some of those layers are waterproof. There is a strong chance there will be rain, as we experienced for most of the week. You may find in Norway that when it rains, it pours, so preparation is important.

Even when you’re on the ship walking around it can get a little chilly, especially in the evening, so a jumper or sweater is a great option to have. Most travellers like to get up early to watch the morning sail in down the fjord, so grab those thermals to really enjoy the experience.

We mention the cold and rain a bit, but obviously if it warms up then you need to easily be able to strip some of your layers and put them in a bag or rucksack. This is why thinner layers make sense, because you can adapt your clothing fast and wherever you are, without any embarrassment.

If you’re unsure of what layering actually means, then you could have a vest, t-shirt, hoodie, jumper and then a coat on. Then if it warmed up, remove the jumper and then maybe the hoodie; you get the picture.

Comfortable Footwear

Now here is where we truly messed up, because we both took trainers with us and they were material; we know, rookie mistake.

Wherever you travel and whatever you choose to do, the number one rule is comfort, especially comfortable shoes. The times we have seen people hiking in flip flops and you can see they’re in extreme pain, so always take comfortable trainers or walking boots.

Now obviously we messed up, because we didn’t factor in that we were travelling to Norway in a week when it was due to rain heavily. Also we had no idea what we were going to do when we arrived at each port. So hiking wasn’t a consideration when we packed, which again led us to our trusty old trainers. Yes, they were comfy, but mix the rain and hiking to a beautiful spot in Skjolden , and you get extremely messy and wet footwear which has to last you the entire trip.

Next time we go on a Norwegian Fjord cruise we’ll take walking boots with us, as well as our trainers. The boots are waterproof and as such they will be perfect for those rainy days and the hiking excursions. But we’ll have our trainers for the cities and towns, or when we’re relaxing on the ship at the end of the day. If you don’t have walking boots then you can get them pretty cheap on Amazon, but make sure you wear them in a little before you go.

Now we’ve mentioned footwear, it’s also worth thinking about the socks you’re going to take with you. You want to make sure they’re thick enough to keep your feet warm when you’re out hiking up a glacier or kayaking down a fjord. But also take plenty of pairs because they may get wet and who wants to be doing laundry when you’re on vacation?

Hat, Gloves and Maybe Even a Scarf

Then you have the excursions which mainly start earlier in the day, so it tends to be a little cooler and you may be heading to a glacier which again will drop that temperature.

Waterproof Clothing

How far you want to go with this is completely up to you, you can be fully head to toe in waterproof or simply wear a jacket. But the basics we’d recommend is a waterproof coat, because it can be so uncomfortable walking around soaked; sadly, we know from experience.

Again you will have checked the weather before you go, so you’ll have an idea of what to expect. But prepare for everything because it is very changeable especially around the fjord areas.

We’d also recommend taking an umbrella just as a backup, because sometimes the rain can be torrential. When we stopped in Bergen during our cruise it was a dry cloudy day, but as we walked around it suddenly began pouring and we mean heavy rain. After a while there was no point trying to walk in it, so we headed back to the ship, which is a shame because in all honesty we didn’t really get to experience Bergen properly.

Sun Protection such as Sunglasses and Suntan Lotion

We’ve talked about rain and cold a lot, but there will be days within the summer where you can enjoy sunshine. Even on cooler days the sun can be quite bright, think of sunny winter days in the UK. That’s why it is worth popping sunglasses and suntan lotion in your case. From reading other guides it seems the sun can be quite strong when it is out, so take high SPF so you don’t get burnt.

One of the main reasons people head to Norway or go on a Norwegian Fjords cruise is because of the scenery. With incredible views and so much wildlife, we know nature lovers will be in awe. The perfect way to enjoy the majesty of Norway is through binoculars, so why not take a pair with you.

As you sail through the fjords, you’ll see small villages in the distance and lots of waterfalls. The binoculars give you the opportunity to look closer and enjoy the beauty of this magnificent country.

Formal Wear

You may be surprised to hear, that many people love going to exercise when they cruise, so the gyms are normally well equipped. We’ve always been big fans of the gyms on ships because you have the opportunity to try out the equipment with some incredible views.

Norway is quite a fast-paced place with lots of outdoor exercise, so you may be too tired to hit the weights. But on sea days grab that gym gear and check it out, because most even offer exercise classes and a running/jogging track.

All that exercise may make up for the mounds of incredible food you will eat during your trip.

In all honesty we didn’t bother taking any swimwear, but that was because we had looked at the weather forecast, and it was scheduled to be rain and cold the whole time. Even though that was our decision you may choose to take some, because depending on the ship there could be indoor pools and hot tubs available. You could even get lucky and enjoy warm days on the deck by the pool, it’s purely chance.

Electrical Adapters

Most of us are aware that depending on the country we visit, we may need adapters for electrical items. But what you may not know is the adapters that are needed will be based on where the ship primarily sails. For example, our ship was the Carnival Pride which sails during the winter months from America and in the Summer from Europe. But its plugs are American because Carnival is primarily based in the USA. Our advice would be to check the statistical information on the cruise lines website, they tend to provide details for each ship in their fleet. You may be able to buy adapters on board the ship, but just in case you cannot its wiser to prepare and bring them with you.

Waterproof Backpack

Reusable Water Bottle

The more we cruised the more we realised there are essential items you need to take, which many newbies don’t think about. One of the main ones we recommend is a reusable drinks container. Most ships will have water filling stations, because they’re aiming to reduce plastic wastage. But by reusing your drinks container you are also saving money by not having to buy bottled water.

Having the container means you will have drinks through the night; the older readers out there know what we mean. But also you can take the bottle with you as you head out to explore the port you’re in and not have to worry about finding drinks when you’re there.

You are travelling to one of the most beautiful places in the world, that is a fact. So, you want to make sure that you take plenty of pictures to reminisce about your time there. Some of the pictures from our Norwegian Fjord cruise are the loveliest we’ve ever taken, and the credit cannot be with the photographers. The scenery is simply stunning, so make sure you take your camera with you, whether it’s a DSLR or a simple mobile camera.

As a side note, keep the battery charged and make sure you have enough storage, because you’re probably going to take quite a few pictures.

If you’ve booked an inside cabin, then you shouldn’t have a problem with light coming in. But if you have a window in your cabin then you may prefer to have a sleep mask, if you like it to be completely dark. Remember that for the majority of the summer in Norway, it doesn’t get dark at all. So take a mask just in case, because you want to be well slept and ready to go in the morning when you reach your next port.

Towel Clips

Alarm Clock

Most people use mobile phones for their clocks and alarm, so if you don’t have a mobile then it’s worth taking an alarm clock with you. The cruise lines generally don’t provide them in the room, and they will be needed to ensure you are on time for excursions or for those of you who chose a set time for your evening meal.

Portable Charger

We’ve mentioned making sure you have your camera because of how beautiful Norway is. But it may also be sensible to take a portable charger with you, just in case you run out of battery at any point. When you’re out and about you won’t have much opportunity to find a charging port, so this is a great way to ensure you have enough battery life for the entire day.

The majority of the times we have cruised we found the rooms and corridors to be incredibly quiet and as such there’s no need for ear plugs. But we’re pretty heavy sleepers, especially after a day of lots of walking. Our last cruise was in the UK school holidays and it was a slightly different story, with kids running up and down the corridors and the cabin doors being banged. Because of this we would recommend you take ear plugs, for those just in case times.

We generally don’t have problems with ship noises such as the engine or other disturbances, but if you think you may, then it’s worth having ear buds available. It may sound strange but ear plugs also have a medicinal benefit, as they can help to prevent seasickness on a cruise . Which is particularly handy for the Norwegian Fjords, as the English Channel can sometimes be a bit choppy.

Although this is a little generic, we thought we’d just add a small paragraph here for those of you who are new to cruising. Most cruise ships have some toiletries in the bathroom, for example on our ship they had a body wash and shampoo/conditioner. If you’re ok with a generic brand then why not save some money and use theirs, but we prefer to bring our own. Aside from that you need to bring everything else you want, but don’t worry because if you forget anything you can find most items in the shop onboard or you can wait until the first port and grab it there. Norway is quite expensive in comparison to other European destinations, but you’re on holiday so make sure you travel in comfort.

Alcohol or Soft Drinks

When we sailed, we could bring a bottle each in our hand luggage and 12 cans of pop each, which is a fair amount to start. It is always a good idea to check the terms and conditions section of your booking to see what they say.

Cruise Essentials

Although we’ve covered the general items of what to pack for a Norwegian Fjords cruise above, there are also some items that we just can’t do without on any cruise. Some of them are more weather specific and suited to sunny climates, so below are the items we feel are applicable to a cruise in Norway and the Fjords.

• Luggage Tags: Now we’ve all been there in the early days of cruising, where we’ve had to staple the paper tags around the handle of our case. But a few years ago a friend recommended these luggage tags to us, which are perfect for cruising and we’ve never looked back, especially as they are reusable.
• Collapsible Laundry Basket: Another saviour for us when we travel, is the ability to neatly store our dirty clothes. The handy thing about this Laundry basket is it’s sturdy once unfolded and can be put straight in to your case full for the journey home. That way you won’t have to worry about any clean clothes getting dirty.
• Magnetic Hooks: Like most people, we didn’t realise the walls and doors on a ship were metal. So imagine our surprise when a member of a facebook cruise group posted about magnetic hooks, and we’re glad they did. These hooks are great for creating extra storage space, especially in small cabins, you can hanging a multitude of items from them including jackets, swim suits or even cabin decorations.
• Cruise Approved Power Strip: Most cabins have limited plug sockets, which is less than ideal with the amount of electrical items we take on cruises. So to combat this we bought a power strip just for our travels. But you have to be extra careful when cruising, as most extension leads have surge protectors, which are a big no no with cruise lines. Non surge power strips are hard to find, so we were really pleased to have found this cruise approved UK extension lead , which is also nice and compact. But for our overseas readers and ships that have US sockets, this US power strip with USB comes highly rated.

Some travel bloggers will recommend some more expensive versions of all of the above, but traveling is already expensive and those we’ve recommended are affordable and have served us well.

Tips When Packing for a Norwegian Fjords Cruise

• Monitor the weather forecast as you get closer to the departure date for your holiday. Yes, the weather can change, but you’ll have a general idea as to what it will be and can pack appropriately.
• Take a look at the excursions available during your cruise and think about which ones you may want to do. This may require certain types of clothing and footwear, such as hiking books.
• Pack the essentials you will need in your hand luggage, because when you get to the cruise port, they will take your suitcases from you, and you’ll receive them later at your cabin door. Especially any medications which you may need to take.
• If you’re unsure about what the weather will be, then always take the safe option and pick waterproof clothing. Then if you get caught out, at least you’re not soaked through and drying your coat onboard with the room’s hair dryer.
• Take a pair of slippers with you, we have bought travel ones which we take on all of our holidays. They make walking around the room more comfortable and it’s easier to slip on when you’re going to the loo through the night.
• Take booze and soft drinks with you because prices on board can be quite expensive. We still bought cocktails on the ship, but whenever we stopped at a port, we would grab a few cans of beer and a bottle of wine. You can also buy bottles of spirits if you prefer and it’s a great way to try local drinks during your trip.

Summary of what to Pack Based on the Season

Spring packing.

Summer Packing

Norway is a must for anyone’s Summer bucket list , although it can be a little unpredictable, so it maybe that you’ll want shorts, t-shirts and the normal summer gear, or the weather turns for the worst (as in our experience) and you get a lot of rain. Then you’ll be looking at rainproof clothing and shoes. It can get cold at night either way, so a warm jumper or coat is strongly recommended.

Autumn Packing

Be prepared for colder weather and heavier layers, so if you have a warm day, you can take some off. Because winter arrives early in Norway you may need hats, gloves, and boots, especially if you’re planning outdoor activities.

Now this isn’t an exhaustive list of what to pack, because what you choose will be incredibly individual such as toiletries, travel documents and medication.

As you will have gathered, a Norwegian Fjord cruise is very different from many of the others you may have already been on. But if you’re anything like us then it will stand out as a vacation of a lifetime. Don’t expect sunshine, sunbathing and deck parties, instead you’ll enjoy insane views, endless waterfalls and lakes like glass.

It’s worth checking the terms and conditions and FAQs of your cruise line before you go, because if we had we’d have known that we could take booze on board sooner, and it would have saved a small fortune.

We loved our trip to Norway, especially because it was easy to get to as we sailed from Dover. You don’t need to fly anywhere and take on that additional cost, instead we simply drove down and headed to the Dover cruise terminal parking section . The whole process was quick and easy, and it’s something we’d happily do again. Southampton is a more popular port for a Norwegian Fjords cruise, and Southampton cruise parking options plentiful and affordable.

Hopefully with our guide you should have everything you need to start packing for your trip and you’ll probably do a better job of it than we did. If you go on a cruise in Norway then please tag us into your Instagram pictures, we love to see when our readers tick something off their bucket list. Plus, we can never get enough pictures of such a beautiful country.

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Norwegian fjords cruise: tips, review & port guides.

A pound for a pee? They must be bloody joking!

The restaurant at the summit of Alesund’s Aksla Hill echoed with the woman’s estuary tones. She removed her sunglasses and took another look at the offending sign, to check if that would make a difference to the price. It didn’t.

And here’s the thing. Norway can be an achingly expensive country to visit. That said, Norway is an astonishingly beautiful country that should be on everyone’s travel bucket list.

Taking a Norwegian Fjords cruise insulates you from these prices and is a more affordable way of seeing the country. Moreover, a cruise allows you to visit diverse towns and cities in a short space of time, and to cruise along some of Norway’s most scenic fjords.

My cruise to Norway on P&O Britannia ranks amongst one of my most memorable travel experiences.

But how should you plan a cruise in Norway? And what can you expect from a cruise to Norway on P&O Britannia?

To help you plan your cruise, here are my essential tips for cruising Norway’s fjords, what to expect at the ports of call and a review of my cruise as a solo traveller.

IN THIS ARTICLE

My Top Norwegian Fjords Cruise Tips

1. don’t let the weather dictate the time of year you cruise the norwegian fjords.

The main Norway cruise season runs from  May to September .   In the  winter months , Hurtigruten offers cruises along Norway’s fjords. Other operators offer a handful of cruises to Norway in the winter to catch the elusive  Northern Lights . But the days are short in Northern Europe at this time of the year and the coastal waters can be rough.   As it is impossible to predict the  weather  in Norway, this should not determine which month you travel. Norway can be very wet and I have friends who have done a fjords cruise and it poured with rain every day.   My experience was very different. When I visited Norway, the country was three weeks into a heatwave with the mercury nudging 30 degrees. The weather is so unpredictable!   The peak time for cruising in Norway tends to coincide with school holidays in July and August when it will be more expensive, and ships will be busier with vacationing families. Therefore, if you are not confined to the school holidays, I suggest that the best time to go to the Norwegian fjords is either May or September. I went at the end of May which was just about perfect.

2. do a little homework to pick the cruise that is right for yoU

There is considerable variety in itinerary lengths, ports of call and types of ship.   The  duration  of Norwegian fjords cruises generally ranges from seven to 14 days. Those heading further north into Arctic Norway can last for up to three weeks.   Like any cruise, you need to think about the  ports of call . Many itineraries include other Northern European cities or Baltic states. Whilst it is a great opportunity to check out places like  Rotterdam  and  Warnemunde , the flip side is that there are fewer Norwegian ports on the itinerary.   Unlike other cruises, the  scenery  as you sail from one port of call to the next is an important consideration. To identify these scenic sails along the fjords, examine the itinerary closely and take a look at a map.

There is a spectrum of  ships  that sail in Norway, accommodating all  budgets , from mainstream behemoths to smaller ships offering a boutique experience (and that can slip into the smaller fjords). Just pick the one that is the right fit for you.

I cruised to Norway from Southampton with  P&O Cruises  on HMV  Britannia. Sailing with P&O is neither a splurge nor a budget cruise, but is a touch of  affordable luxury travel . The itinerary included four ports of call –  Stavanger, Flam, Alesund and Bergen  – and a few scenic sails over one week.  

3. PACK APPROPRIATELY

Given the unpredictability of the weather, pack for all seasons by bringing layers. Pack for the worst weather but hope for the best.

For exploring the ports of call, wear T-shirts, jeans, jumpers, and a waterproof jacket. And ditch the stilettos for sensible walking shoes or trainers. But based on my experience, in the spirit of optimism, also pack a few summer dresses and a pair of shorts.

And don’t forget your glad rags for the formal evenings on board!

Do pack the best camera that you have. Norway’s fjords and the ports of call scream out for the finest camera lens that money will buy. 

A small pair of binoculars will also come in handy. The views as you sail along the Norwegian fjords are sensational, and a set of bins will allow you to pick out details from afar.  

4. BOOK A BALCONY CABIN

My top tip for cruising the Norwegian fjords is to book a balcony cabin . It is worth every last penny.   Unlike some cruises, a large part of the appeal of a cruise along the fjords of Norway is the scenery as you sail by. And where better to take in the view than on your private balcony, perhaps with a G&T in hand?

However, if you like a 100% dark room to sleep in, you may wish to reconsider.

One of the advantages of cruising in Norway in summer is the long days. But the flip side is that the sun may be streaming through your window in the wee small hours.

Having said that, early morning light does wake me up but this was not a problem in my balcony cabin on this cruise. I guess that the cabins on P&O Britannia have excellent blackout blinds.

A final cautionary note: not all cruise cabins are equal. Therefore if you don’t want to end up under the promenade deck or next to the laundry,  research your cruise cabin  before you book.

5. CONSIDER HOW YOU WILL ExplorE the ports of call

Exploring the ports of call on this Norwegian fjords cruise was a piece of cake. For each stop on the itinerary, the ship docked in the centre of town and the main sights were easily walkable.

However, if you want to explore further afield and you feel that may not be able to do this under your own steam, take a look at the shore excursions on offer. If you have your heart set on a particular day trip, book this early to avoid disappointment.

Another option is to book a shore excursion with an independent operator.

But before you book an excursion, check the weather forecast for your desired destination. Norway can be very wet. If there is a risk that the longed-for fabulous view is cloaked in mist and rain, will it be really with the effort and expense?  

6. Cut costs by eating onboard the ship

Make no mistake. Scandinavia can be ludicrously expensive. For this reason alone, visiting Norway on a cruise makes perfect sense as this insulates you from these high costs.

Therefore fill your face with the food on board, which you have already paid for. Set yourself up for the day with a big breakfast and bring a few snacks to keep you going.  

Norway Fjords Cruise Itinerary & Ports of Call

Day one: leaving southampton.

At 8 pm on a balmy Sunday night,  Britannia let go of her mooring lines and we were underway.

Passing Fawley oil refinery, silhouetted against the setting sun, the ship continued along the Solent following the eastern coastline of the Isle of Wight. It then took a sharp turn at Portsmouth to enter the Dover Strait.

Gin & tonic on the balcony, moonlight on the water.  

DAY TWO: AT SEA

The rig-dodging day.

P&O Britannia continued along the North Sea, edging towards Norway. Hardy Brits on board settled themselves by the pool, slathering suncream to the accompaniment of blasts of the ship’s foghorn. The maximum temperature on deck was a damp 13 degrees.

DAY THREE: STAVANGER

Lovely  Stavanger  was the first port of call.

The fortunes of this pretty harbour town on Norway’s southwest coast have centred on fish canning and, more recently, the discovery of oil off its shores. With its exquisite wooden buildings, cobbled lanes and rich maritime heritage there is plenty to occupy even the most restless soul.

P&O Britannia parked up right in the centre of town, alongside Gamle (Old) Stavanger. As the main sights are close to each other, Stavanger is very walkable.

• Visit the Norwegian Canning Museum for some fishy tales
• For all things nautical, visit the Stavanger Maritime Museum
• Wander around Gamle (Old) Stavanger
• Hunt for Antony Gormley statues
• Visit the cathedral (Domkirke)
• Visit Skagen’s cafes housed in psychedelic buildings
• Check out Stavanger’s street art
• Visit the Norwegian Petroleum Museum (Norsk Oljemuseum)
• The funicular station is at Vetrlidsalmenning 23 A, right in the centre of town.

DAY FOUR: FLAM

The approach to Flam was sensational, sailing along the  Sognefjorden,  one of Norway’s most stunning fjords. You will have to be up and about shortly after 5 am to capture this view!

Tucked between two mountains at the head of Aurlandsfjorden, Flam (Flåm to be correct) is a community of around 400 souls, less than 10% of the total occupancy of the ship.  Although the hamlet is a good base for hiking and has a visit-worthy 17th-century church, its main tourist draw is the Flam Railway.

The cruise ship berthed slap bang in the middle of Flam. It made the hamlet look like a model village. The railway station is around a 5-minute walk from the ship.

• Board the  Flam railway  for the ride of your life
• Take a hike on one of the many walking trails around Flam
• Increase your adrenaline levels by riding a RIB
• Rent a talking car (yes … really)

DAY FIVE: ALESUND

Alesund , a fishing town and port on Norway’s west coast, is architectural heaven.

A devastating town fire in 1904 resulted in a hectic reconstruction project, replacing the charred wooden buildings with those built in an  Art Nouveau  style with a local folkloric twist. The result is a collection of stone and brick buildings with a myriad of turrets, spires and medieval ornamentation, including intertwined animal and human faces, dragons and elaborate flowers.

Once again, the Britannia berthed right in the thick of things.

The main sights are close to each other. Although Alesund is very walkable, there are lots of steep cobbled streets. Leave the stilettos in your suitcase.  

• Take a walking tour to admire Alesund’s Art Nouveau masterpieces
• Climb the 418 steps to the top of Aksla Hill for a panoramic view
• Wonder at the wooden buildings of Molovegen

DAY SIX: BERGEN

The final stop on this Norwegian fjords cruise was beautiful  Bergen .

Formerly the capital of Norway, Bergen is beautifully situated on a promontory, surrounded by seven hills. The self-proclaimed Gateway to the Western Fjords is also an attractive and enjoyable city in its own right.

Yet again, the ship parked up close to the city’s main sights at the entrance to the harbour. Bergen is also very walkable. 

• For panoramic views and nature trails, ride the Floibanen funicular to the summit of Mount Floyen
• Explore picture-perfect historic Bryggen
• Grab a seafood snack at the fish market
• Check out the street art along Kong Oscars Gate
• Learn more about Norway’s fight against leprosy at the Leprosy Museum
• Discover the story behind the resistance in Bergen during World War II at the Bergenhus Festning Museum
• For a spot of medieval splendour, visit Bergen City Museum at the Rosenkrantz Tower

DAY SEVEN: AT SEA

Waving goodbye to Norway, the Britannia retraced her journey through the gas and oil fields of the North Sea into the busy Dover Strait, reaching the Solent waters in the early hours of Sunday morning. During the cruise, Britannia travelled a total distance of 2323 nautical miles.

My Experience Onboard P&O Britannia: Ship Review

Barely three years old when I sailed on her, HMV Britannia had a fresh-out-of-the-box feel. P&O’s only British registered vessel, it has 1,376 staff for its  3,600 guests .

She is enormous. Spread over 15 passenger decks, it is 232 feet high, 330 meters long and weighs a whopping 144,000 tonnes. To put it into perspective, it is twice the size of the largest hotel in the world.

The central space is the starburst atrium, decked in gleaming Turkish porcelain, covering three floors. But as gorgeous as this space is, I found that it had a peculiar lack of atmosphere.

There were a few design aspects that I found puzzling.

There are no publicly accessible stairs at mid-ship, creating pressure on lifts. Also, customer services and shore excursions are buried down on deck 5.  

P&O BRITANNIA CABIN

I had a balcony cabin, which was decorated in tasteful moss-green, beige and brown tones. The large, comfortable bed had good-quality linen.

A large wall-mounted TV had a limited choice of channels but a decent, mostly free movie library.

There was a small fridge, a kettle and tea and coffee supplies, which were replenished each day. Three-pin (British) sockets were plentiful.

The small  bathroom  was well-designed, using the available space wisely. White Company toiletries were provided; shampoo, conditioner and body lotion in portable 100ml bottles, and shower gel in a fixed dispenser.

A major plus point is that there was a proper shower cubicle, not just a shower tray with a nasty nylon curtain. However, at busy times, water pressure was poor.

A hairdryer was available. The towels were pleasingly white and fluffy.

The  balcony  on P&O Britannia is compact, accommodating two reclining chairs placed at jaunty angles, and a small table.  

FOOD AND DRINK ON P&O BRITANNIA

There are  bars -a-plenty on P&O Britannia with 13 to choose from, each with its selling point.

The Glass House, matching food to wine; Brodies, modelled on a British boozer; The Blue Bar with its extensive martini list. Or my favourite, The Crow’s Nest, the ship’s signature gin bar offering 21 different varieties. Drink prices were reasonable.

The food in the main  restaurants  – Peninsular, Meridian, Oriental – was of good quality but could be on the tepid side. The food from the buffet service for lunch and dinner at the Horizon Restaurant was OK but unexceptional.

Breakfasts were very good, with an extensive choice from freshly made omelettes, the great British cooked breakfast, fruit, cereals, pastries, cold meats and cheeses and yoghurt. Afternoon tea at The Horizon was also very good. 

Speciality dining  was available on P&O Britannia for a supplement (e.g. Sindhu, Epicurean).

The  Grab-and-Go  fridge on the Lido deck is a welcome innovation.

RELAXING ON DECK

There is a busy main  pool  on the Lido deck (16) but quieter pools are also available. Pool towels were provided in the cabin. There were plenty of sunbeds dotted throughout the ship.

Disappointingly, as the Britannia does not have a promenade deck, you cannot walk or run a circuit of the ship. However, there is a well-equipped  gym.  There are  golf  nets on the Sports Deck (17).  

ENTERTAINMENT ON P&O BRITANNIA

There was a full programme to suit all tastes. From live shows and recent films in the well-equipped main theatre to line dancing and magic workshops.  

P&O CUSTOMER SERVICE

This is where I feel Britannia fails. Although many of the staff were friendly and welcoming – my cabin steward was exceptional –  too many others were disinterested, bordering on surly. Don’t expect banter.

fellow passengers

Gone are the days when cruising was the preserve of older people, squandering their children’s inheritance. On P&O Britannia, there was a much younger crowd with a significant number of multigenerational families.

The vast majority of those I spoke with were British and not what I call ‘serial cruisers’. For many, this was their first cruise.  

What Is it Like To Be a Solo Traveller on a Norway Fjords Cruise With P&O?

A cruise can be an excellent solo travel experience , especially if you are a  first-time solo traveller .

Cruises are very social environments but there are also plenty of opportunities to be alone if that’s your preference.   P&O Britannia had lots of organised activities during the day – the cruise line’s sail-away parties are famous – and entertainment laid on at night. It’s entirely up to you if you want to participate.   Keeping safe whilst away is at the forefront of most travellers’ minds, especially solo travellers. All of the Norwegian ports of call felt safe, and the main sights were within easy walking distance of the ship.   A downside is that cruises for solo travellers can be expensive. The lack of  single cruise cabins  and single supplements approaching 100 per cent have penalised those travelling alone.

That said, this Norway Fjords cruise was good value.

My Norwegian Fjords Cruise on P&O Britannia: The Good & the Bad

In 2018, I paid just over £1300 for sole occupation of a balcony cabin for this Norway’s fjords cruise on P&O Britannia. At around £180 per day, I consider this to be good value for a trip to Norway.

It was a fantastic itinerary. Each stop had something different to offer and sailing along the fjords was sensational. I should add that we were blessed with balmy weather which showed off Norway at its best.

A Norwegian Fjords cruise is also very easy.  As the ship berths in the centre of each of these towns and cities, there is no need for a transfer. Unless you wish to venture further afield, there is also no need to take an expensive shore excursion.

P&O Britannia was beautiful and felt fresh, although a few design aspects were occasionally frustrating. The cabin was well-designed and comfortable, although its balcony was compact.

Food was generally of good quality. Variability in the levels of customer service was disappointing.

Ready to cruise the fjords of Norway?

This was one of my favourite solo cruises and a cost-effective way of experiencing a notoriously expensive country.

If you have found this article helpful, take a deeper dive into the stops on this Norway Fjords cruise.

• 10 Awesome Things to Do in Stavanger in A Day 
• Alesund, Norway: An Art Nouveau Walk in a Fairytale Town 
• A Perfect Day in Bergen, Norway: Best Things to Do on a Cruise Stop
• Visiting Flam on a Cruise: The Flam Scenic Railway and More!

Happy sailing!

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

6 thoughts on “ Norwegian Fjords Cruise: Tips, Review & Port Guides ”

I would LOVE to visit Norway, how beautiful! And the ship is amazing.

Hi Kacie! It was one off those trips that far exceeded my expectations. I hope you manage to get there too. Have a good weekend!

Thanks for this post! I’ve been thinking about doing a Norway cruise with my family but the Disney Cruise Line is so expensive. This might be a good option for us.

Hi Kristin. So glad it was of use. What really struck me was the number of multi-generational families on board. I got talking to a lady who worked in the kid’s club who told me that they had 600 young people to entertain overt the 7 days!

Thanks for dropping by 🙂

I have not had a chance to visit Norway yet, and it is definitely on the top of my list. I have never been on a cruise, so I am nervous about wanting to explore more, but having to rush back to the ship. Did you find this was the case on your trip?

Hello Julie.

I want to go back now! Perhaps in the winter (if I can cope with the lack of daylight!)

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What to pack for a Norwegian cruise

The four seasons in norway are very distinct, so here are our packing tips for each season..

To make packing a bit easier, we have made a short list of recommendations of things to bring for all seasons along the Norwegian coast. This should be in addition to the basics.

But if you forget something, don't worry – our onboard shops carry a selected range of high-quality knitwear, clothing, souvenirs and gift items, as well as a small selection of toiletries.

Note: the dress code on our ships is casual, so there’s no need to pack formal attire for dinner.

Year-round essentials

Warm underlayers and mid layers: It is much better to wear a number of thin layers than just a few thick ones. The air trapped in-between thin layers warms to your body’s temperature and acts as valuable insulation.

Woollen sweater or fleece: This should go over your under and mid layers.

Wind and waterproof jacket and trousers: Outer layers should be wind and waterproof to adapt to the changing conditions on the Norwegian coast.

Footwear: You'll need a pair of worn-in walking boots to use outdoors, as well as some casual shoes for use onboard.

Cotton socks: Pack an extra pair or two in your rucksack if you’re going out snowmobiling or dog sledging and your feet become damp or wet.

Swimwear: If you intend to use any sauna or hot tub facilities, you will need to pack a swimsuit.

Other items

Passport and/or ID card (this also applies to Scandinavian citizens)

Camera and memory card

Sun protection: SPF, hat, sunglasses

Lip salve: The northern air is very dry, so you’ll need to pack plenty of lip balm.

What to pack for each season in Norway

Spring: cover all bases.

As you are likely to encounter three seasons during one sailing in spring , it’s important to pack well and layer up. We advise bringing a woollen jumper, warm socks, a thick scarf, winter boots, warm, waterproof trousers and jacket, a hat and gloves.

Summer: sunny attire

Summer weather along the coast can be changeable, so in addition to T-shirts, shorts and sandals, it’s wise to pack a warm jumper, light jacket (water-resistant), thin hat and gloves, and hiking shoes. You might also want to pack an eye mask, to help you sleep during the season of the  Midnight Sun . 

Autumn: lots of layers

While the sun may be shining, you can also expect cooler weather during the autumn months . Make sure to pack thin layers and some warm clothes – a woolly jumper, wind and waterproof jacket and trousers, a hat, gloves and light hiking boots.

Winter: wrap up warm

It can get very cold along the coast during winter, so we recommend you pack base and mid layers, as well as a thick winter jacket, wool or fleece hat, balaclava/buff, gloves, woolly jumper, scarf, winter boots, and pull-on spikes (for sale on board). And remember the layer principle: it is much better to wear a number of thin layers than just a few thick ones. 

In very cold weather, it’s a good idea to wear two pairs of gloves – one thick pair of mitts (mitts don’t separate the fingers so they keep your hands warmer) and a thin pair of gloves underneath that allow you the use of your fingers. If you’re prone to cold extremities, you might also want to buy some carbon hand and foot warmers, which are available from most good outdoor shops.

What should I wear to go hiking in Norway?

During your voyage, you can join one of our onshore hiking  excursions . Hikes involve a high level of physical activity, on terrain that may often be uneven, slippery, and steep. You’ll need a reasonable level of fitness and mobility, and the right gear too. 

Solid shoes will be key, but not new ones you’ve yet to use. A few layers of clothing are ideal, plus a wind and rainproof jacket with a hood, and a small backpack. Don’t worry about spikes, trekking poles, snowshoes, or headlamps. We’ll provide these free of charge when the season or weather calls for them.

Norwegian Fjords Cruise with P&O: Everything you need to know

Norway is home to some of the most spectacular scenery in the world. Here you’ll find enchanting towns, historic ruins, cascading waterfalls, and most importantly, the magical Norwegian Fjords. One of the best ways to experience this unspoilt natural wonder is on a Norwegian Fjords cruise.

I was lucky enough to sail through the fjords on-board the P&O Britannia a few years ago with my granddad and sister and it was an unforgettable experience. We sailed on one of the September cruises which started and ended in Southampton, UK, and went up to Stavanger, Flåm, Olden and Bergen.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about doing a Norwegian Fjords cruise with P&O in 2024. I’ll cover the key things you should consider when booking a cruise, such as the best time to go and the different ships you can book. I’m also sharing details of our itinerary to give you an idea of what you’ll see, where you’ll stop, and the best things to do in each destination.

Disclaimer: This blog post features some affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you make a purchase. There’s no extra cost to you but it just helps me to keep writing these free guides and itineraries for my readers. Thank you for your support!

Planning a Norwegian Fjords cruise

There are lots of things to consider when booking a cruise. If you’re new to cruising, you’re probably wondering if this is the right option for you. I’ve always had mixed views on cruising as I like being able to explore on my own schedule but we wanted to go away with our granddad and a cruise was the best way for him to be able to see the fjords. The more I looked into it, the more I realised that a cruise was an ideal way to explore this beautiful region.

There are plenty of opportunities to get off the boat and explore, whether that’s on one of the many Norwegian Fjords shore excursions or a self-guided tour. If you want to take it easy like our granddad, you can enjoy your time on-board and soak in the views from the top deck.

With that said, let’s jump into the key things you should think about before booking your own cruise:

P&O’s Norwegian Fjords Cruise Ships

There are lots of cruise lines which offer fjord cruises but we decided to go with  P&O Cruises  as they offered the best rooms and prices for our chosen dates. Our granddad had already been on a few different cruises with P&O and had really enjoyed them so it was an easy choice.

P&O has a few different ships that travel to the Norwegian Fjords. They’re all fantastic but they have some key differences which may determine which cruise ship you decide to book:

P&O Britannia

We went on the P&O Britannia and had a great experience. Built in 2015, the Britannia has 13 guest decks with 26 restaurants and bars, 5 theatres and lounges, and 4 pools. The ship also has a spa and salon, as well as a luxurious open-deck adults-only spa area called The Retreat. The Britannia can accommodate over 3,600 guests and has 1,837 cabins.

At the time, the Britannia was the only option if you wanted to do the 7-night itinerary. That’s since changed with the arrival of P&O’s Iona and now there are two ships that to choose from if you want to do a 7-night Norwegian Fjords cruise.

Here is the Britannia’s 2024 cruise itinerary:

Day 1: Southampton

• Day 2: Day at sea

Day 3: Stavanger

• Day 4: Olden, Innvikfjorden (cruise-by) and Nordfjord (cruise-by)
• Day 5: Flam, Aurlandsfjord (cruise-by), and Sognefjord (cruise-by)
• Day 6: Haugesund
• Day 7: Day at sea
• Day 8: Southampton

P&O Iona

Built in 2020, the P&O Iona is the first British cruise ship to be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), making it the greenest ship in P&O’s fleet. With the glass-roofed SkyDome and the on-board gin distillery (yes, you read that correctly!), the Iona has some incredible features.  There are 33 restaurants and bars, 6 theatres and lounges, and 5 pools, including a beautiful infinity pool. The Iona accommodates 5,200 guests and has 2,614 cabins over 15 guest decks.

There are two Iona Norwegian Fjords 7-night itineraries in 2024 to choose from. They’re very similar but if you go early or late in the season, your itinerary will include a stop at Alesund instead of Hellesylt. The reason I point this out is that Hellesylt is very close to the beautiful UNESCO-protected Geirangerfjord. This is a bucket list spot for a lot of visitors. If you want to sail along the Geirangerfjord and explore more of the area on one of the Iona Norwegian Fjords excursions, pick the summertime Hellesylt itinerary.

Here’s a summary of the Iona’s Norwegian Fjords itinerary:

• Day 5: Alesund OR Hellesylt, Geirangerfjord, Sunnylvsfjorden (cruise-by), and Storfjorden (cruise-by)

P&O Aurora and Arcadia

Both of these cruise ships sail to the Norwegian Fjords and are exclusively for adults. However, they are only available on the 12-night itinerary. Both ships are beautiful and are great alternatives to the Britannia and Iona if you’re looking for a longer trip and don’t have children.

You will spend a few more days at sea as you’ll travel to some locations further afield, such as the picturesque Leknes which is part of the Lofoten Islands. Here’s a sample itinerary for the Aurora:

• Day 2 & 3: Days at sea
• Day 4: Nordfjordeid and Nordfjord (cruise-by)
• Day 5: Andalsnes and Romsdalsfjord
• Day 6: Day at sea
• Day 7: Leknes (Lofoten Islands)
• Day 8: Day at sea
• Day 9: Kristiansund
• Day 10: Alesund
• Day 11: Haugesund
• Day 12: Day at sea
• Day 13: Southampton

The Arcadia goes to Bergen and Trondheim instead of Leknes.

When is the best time to do a Norwegian Fjords cruise?

The Norwegian Fjords cruise season typically runs from April to September each year. This region of Norway is incredibly picturesque all year-round so there really isn’t a bad time to visit! That being said, there are a few things that you’ll want to consider when deciding when to go on a Norwegian Fjords cruise:

The weather can be quite unpredictable in the Norwegian Fjords. Expect a mix of cloud, rain and sunshine. When we went in September we had 5 days of sunshine and 2 days of rain. However, earlier that year in June, most of the cruises had non-stop rain. You can never guarantee what weather you’re going to get but fortunately the fjords are very scenic and I personally think they look even more magical in the rain!

School Holidays

If you’re thinking of travelling on the Britannia or Iona and don’t have children, you might want to go before or after school holidays. There are plenty of options in April, May and June to choose from, and there are normally one or two cruises in September once the school holidays are over. 

Norwegian Fjords cruises are normally more expensive in the summer months when school is out and families are more likely to want to travel. If you can, try to travel early in the season or later in summer when there is less demand and prices are a bit lower.  

Destinations

As I mentioned earlier, the Iona has two different itineraries. If you want to visit Geirangerfjord, you’ll need to book for the middle of the season which does mean you’ll probably be travelling during the school holidays which is peak season.

Looking for more beautiful destinations with rugged landscapes? Put Iceland on your list! This epic Nordic country is home to incredible waterfalls, towering glaciers, iceberg lagoons, dramatic canyons, and much more. Read more: 6 Days in Iceland: The Best of the South Coast

What to pack for a Norwegian Fjords Cruise

Temperatures and conditions can vary in the Norwegian Fjords, even in the summer months. I’m currently working on a complete packing guide but below I’ve suggested some items that you should pack for a Norwegian Fjords cruise. This is based on what I found most useful during our cruise. We spent most of our time sight-seeing and hiking. If you plan to spend most of your time on-board and take it easy, you may not need all of these items.

We woke up to clouds and rain on a few mornings but the sun came out by the afternoon and the temperature warmed up significantly. I recommend packing a range of layers so that you can easily add and remove items as needed. Make sure you have at least one warm insulation layer such as the Patagonia Down Jacket or Nano Puff Jacket and one waterproof layer. I took my Patagonia waterproof shell as it can easily go on top of my Patagonia puffy jackets but a parka like like the Columbia South Canyon Sherpa is also ideal. Look for something with a fleece lining to keep you nice and warm but make sure it’s also waterproof.

For mid-layers, you’ll probably want some sweaters and fleeces. One of my favourite breathable mid-layers is the Patagonia Snap-T Fleece Pullover .

You’ll probably spend quite a bit of time on deck as you sail through the fjords and into the ports each day. Even when it’s sunny, it can be quite breezy outside and the wind chill can make it feel a lot colder than it is. Pack some base layers for those chilly mornings. I took my Icebreaker thermal leggings and long-sleeve top on this trip. I’d also suggest packing a winter hat/ beanie and gloves.

Hiking shoes

If you’re planning to go on any of the P&O Norwegian Fjords shore excursions, I’d recommend packing something comfortable to walk in. You can get by with a good pair of trainers if you’re joining one of the bus tours that don’t require much walking. However, if you want to go hiking, make sure you take some suitable shoes or boots. You’ll want something lightweight and waterproof. I took my Columbia Newton Ridge Hiking Boots and they were perfect for all the walking we did. 

Evening wear

There are so many things to do in the evenings on a P&O Norwegian Fjords cruise. The Britannia, Iona, Arcadia and Aurora have lots of lovely restaurants, theatres and lounges with daily entertainment. They often have one evening which is a formal night (think black tie) where everyone can get dressed up if they want to. You’ll definitely want to pack some nice outfits for the evenings. Check with your cruise line before you go to find out what the required dress code is for those events. If getting dressed up isn’t your thing, don’t worry! Even on the formal night, there are still restaurants you can go to which don’t have a formal dress code. 

The facilities on-board the Iona and Britannia are state of the art. The gym has everything you need, from cardio machines to free weights. You’ll probably do a lot of walking at each destination but there are a few days where you’re at sea so you might want to get a workout in. If you want to go to the gym, make sure you back some workout clothes and trainers.

Most cruise ships have pools, hot tubs and saunas. The P&O Iona has a stunning infinity pool and the Britannia has a lovely spa area. If you want to use these facilities, pack your swimwear.

If you’re planning to do any of the cruise shore excursions, you’ll want to bring some kind of day bag. As a photographer, I like the Peak Design Everyday Backpack. For a more casual, everyday backpack, I recommend something like the Osprey HikeLite 26L Backpack .

Stay tuned for a comprehensive Norwegian Fjords packing guide!

Cruising the Norwegian Fjords: P&O Britannia 7-night itinerary

We sailed in September on the P&O Britannia’s 7-night cruise. Our journey began in Southampton, UK. From there, we sailed up to Stavanger and then up to Olden and the Nordfjord. We continued on to Flam, passing through Sognefjord, and down to Bergen, before returning to Southampton.

The P&O Britannia’s 2024 itinerary is very similar but instead of stopping at Bergen on day 6, it stops at Haugesund. The Iona’s Norwegian Fjords 2024 itinerary also goes to many of the stops below but instead of going to Flam it stops at Alesund or Hellesylt. 

Here is a map of the route we took:

We boarded the P&O Britannia just after lunch and spent the rest of the afternoon exploring the ship and checking out all the facilities on-board. There was plenty to keep us occupied as we sailed up the English Channel and into the North Sea.

The Britannia has a high-tech gym with the latest equipment, a range of fitness classes and sports courts on the top deck. If you wanted to pamper yourself and relax, the Oasis spa offered a range of treatments from manicures to deep tissue massages, as well as access to The Retreat, a private open air terrace, and the Hydrotherapy Suite with steam rooms, saunas and aromatic showers. The ship even had hair and beauty salons to help guests get ready for the black tie evenings.

Day 2: At sea

We spent the day at sea as we made our way up to Stavanger. To be honest, it wasn’t much of a scenic journey as we were sailing through the North Sea so all you could see was the ocean in all directions.

We decided to make the most of the day at sea and went to the gym, relaxed by the pool, and read in one of the many lounges. There was a variety of evening entertainment as the night set in and we continued towards Norway. We went to a theatre show and then to one of the many lounges where we listened to live music before heading to bed, excited knowing we would be waking up in the Fjords.   

We woke up bright and early and headed to the top deck to watch the sun rise as we sailed down Rottsfjorden and into the harbour of Stavanger. The sky was painted in pastel shades and you could just see the mountains through the morning haze which created a beautiful scene as we arrived in Stavanger.

Stavanger was originally a fishing port before becoming the centre of Norway’s oil and gas industry following the discovery of offshore oil deposits in the 1960s. Today, the city is a blend of old and new. Parts of the city feel like a living museum where you can step back in time, whereas other parts showcase the city’s modern architecture.

Essential information:

The Stavanger region is home to some of Norway’s most iconic sites such as Preikestolen, Kjerag and Trollpikken. We wanted to go to Preikestolen but the tour was already full and it would have been too tight to hike it and be back in time for the ship’s departure. If you’re planning on doing your own cruise then I would recommend booking onto the popular tours like this at least a week before you leave.

The walk up to Old Stavanger is quite hilly and most of the streets are cobblestoned so make sure you wear some flat, comfortable shoes.

Old Stavanger

We got off the boat and headed to Old Stavanger, a historic area filled with pretty white wooden houses, quaint cobbled streets and old fashioned lampposts. The houses were built in the 18 th and 19 th century for seafarers and traders and have been very well preserved due to a large rehabilitation project. The residents take great pride in their houses and we saw so many beautiful flower displays as we wandered down the streets.

Øvre Holmegate

We wandered back down to the port and looked around the local fish market before heading into the old shopping district. There are lots of lovely streets to explore but make sure you don’t miss Øvre Holmegate. Known as Stavanger’s Notting Hill, this colourful street is one of the most photographed landmarks in Stavanger and is lined with charming cafes, boutique shops and restaurants.

The street is known locally as Fargegaten, which translates as the ‘Colour Street’, but it wasn’t always like this. It used to be like all the other streets in the district but in 2005, a local hairdresser had a vision to transform the street to draw more customers to his salon and his neighbours’ cafes and shops. A Scottish artist called Craig Flannagan created a Miami Vice inspired design using a very deliberate colour scheme. Each house was given a set of colours in order to create a sense of harmony. As you wander down the street, stop and look at the doors, windows and the facades and you’ll see how each house compliments the next.

After taking far too many photos of this cute and colourful street, we bought some lunch and headed to the city park to sit by the small lake, Breiavatnet. We got back on the ship at 4pm and set sail just before 5pm. We headed North through Byfjorden and into Kvitsoyfjorden and back to the North Sea where we continued up to Olden.

Day 4: Olden, Innvikfjorden and Nordfjord

We’d been looking forward to exploring Olden for weeks, ever since we saw photos of its rugged wilderness. Set at the top of the innermost arm of the Nordfjord, Olden is situated in a valley beneath magnificent mountains.

The P&O shore excursions were already booked up for the day (make sure you book them in advance!) so we decided to go straight to the local tour centre, Olden Adventure , It’s located a few steps from where the ship docks. They offer a range of tours but they also provide transfers to Briksdal glacier and Loen Skylift – two of the places we wanted to see. My sister and I like to have the freedom to explore places at our own pace so this was perfect for us and also much cheaper than doing a tour.

Olden is a small town and there is very little near the port where you dock. To make the most of your time in this pretty region, book a P&O shore excursion or a transfer from Olden Adventure if you want to explore independently.

Briksdal Glacier

We decided to visit the Briksdal glacier first. We bought our tickets for the Glacier Express Shuttle Bus which was parked outside the tour office. The 45 minute drive to the glacier was beautiful. We drove along the river passing several lakes, including Floen and Oldevatnet. The low-lying mist over the water was a stunning sight and as we got closer to Jostedalsbreen National Park we started to see more and more small waterfalls cascading down the mountainside.

The bus drops you at Briksdal Inn and you have two hours to explore. It takes about 45 minutes to walk to the Glacier so you’ll need to set off quickly. If you don’t want to walk all the way, you can take a ‘troll car’ some of the way and then walk the rest. The walk itself was quite flat at the start but there is a slight incline and steps up in some places.

We passed Kleivafossen waterfall which was spectacular. It’s very powerful so make sure you have a waterproof jacket as the spray can be intense!

You’ll reach a meadow where you’ll get your first glimpse of the glacier in the distance. Carry on walking along the path and you’ll reach an open clearing with a toilet block and some picnic tables. The ‘troll cars’ also park here as this is as far as they can take you. From here, it’s a 10 minute uphill walk to the foot of the glacier. Words really can’t describe the natural beauty of this place. It truly is magical!

Loen Skylift

After taking a few photos of the glacier we walked back to the bus and back to Olden. We still had 4 hours before we had to be back on the ship so we bought tickets from the tour office to Loen Skylift , which is only a 10 minute drive from the port. It’s one of the steepest cable cars in the world. We ascended 1,100 meters up Mount Hoven in 5 minutes and were rewarded with unforgettable views of Lake Lovatnet, Mt. Skåla, Olden, and the beautiful Innvikfjorden. 

There are lots of hikes around Mount Hoven and you could easily spend the whole day up here exploring the different trails and enjoying 360 degree views of the Norwegian landscape. We reluctantly headed back down and got the shuttle bus back to the ship.

We set sail just after 5pm and cruised through the Innvikfjorden onto the Nordfjord, passing pretty villages built into the hills. The skies darkened and it started to rain so everyone headed inside to get ready for dinner, except for me and a few other photographers. We pulled up our hoods and watched the magical scene unfold in front of us.

Day 5: Flåm, Aurlandsfjord and Sognefjord

We got up early and headed up to the top deck to find we had already docked in Flåm. Situated at the head of the fjord, this small farming community is nestled between two mountain peaks. From the deck, we could see the little farms dotted on the green grassy slopes and red Norwegian cabins beautifully situated on the water’s edge.  

We had booked a P&O shore excursion with our granddad in the afternoon so we left him to relax on the ship while we went off to explore. We wandered past the famous Flåm Railway which is said to be one of the world’s most breath-taking journeys, offering panoramic views of the mountains and waterfalls that characterise the region. There were a few tours which took you on the train. If you want to do this then pre-book your ticket before you arrive as it often sells out very quickly. There was also a tour to Tvinde Waterfall and Gudvangen where you could go kayaking.

Flåm is a small town and public transport is limited. There aren’t any taxis and the bus schedules aren’t suitable for day sightseeing. It was lovely to walk around the town and the fields but I would recommend booking onto one of the tours in Flåm as you’ll get to see a lot more of this pretty region.

It was so peaceful as we walked through the fields, admiring the cute cabins and listening to the flowing water. The fields were surrounded by steep mountainsides and there was a small waterfall which cascaded down the mountain.

At lunchtime, we walked back to the port and met our granddad for the tour. We drove along the Aurlandsfjord, before heading inland past pretty lakes and gushing rivers. The bus continued to drive up the beautiful, winding mountain road through a series of tunnels. As we climbed higher, we got stunning views over the fjord villages of Vassbygda and Aurland. We stopped at a viewing point where we had a 10 minute photo stop. There isn’t really anywhere for buses to stop on this road as there are so many bends and tunnels, so we had to carefully cross the road to the other side where we had a beautiful view looking through the valley.

We continued through the pretty valleys of Stonndalen and Aurland before arriving in Østerbø, a mountain farm region which has become a popular spot for hikers. We were served tea and coffee at the Mountain Lodge and tried vafler, a traditional Norwegian waffle served with sour cream and strawberry jam. Afterwards we had a walk around the fields before heading back to the bus to drive back to the ship.

That evening we sailed through the Aurlandsfjord and Sognefjord and experienced the unsurpassed beauty of the Norwegian fjords. It was one of the most magical evenings of my life.

Day 6: Bergen

Our final port of call was Bergen. Surrounded by seven mountains, Bergen is known as the gateway to the Western fjords and is Norway’s second largest city.

The funicular is one of Bergen’s most popular tourist attractions and offers spectacular views over the city. If you want to do this make sure you book your tickets in advance and get off the ship early, otherwise you will miss out!

We avoided the shopping district which was packed with tourists from other cruise ships and headed into the residential area. Here you’ll find quaint cobbled streets and pretty wooden houses. We carried on walking up the back streets, climbing higher to get a better view of the city and eventually came across the old fire station, a small white wooden building overlooking Bergen. We sat and ate our lunch here taking in the lovely city views.

You can carry on walking up the path to Mount Fløien, one of the seven hills that surround Bergen. It’s quite a climb so many people opt to take the funicular to the top instead. Unfortunately we didn’t have enough time to hike it and the queues for the funicular were too long. Instead we headed back down to the town and walked along the quayside.

Bryggen is lined with brightly-coloured wooden warehouses and is one of the most photographed places in Bergen. These tall and narrow buildings now house restaurants, boutiques and souvenir shops. After a few hours walking around the city, we made our way back to the ship, wishing we had another week to explore this beautiful part of the world.

Day 7: Sailing back to Southampton

Our final day was spent relaxing on-board as we sailed back through the North Sea and down into the English Channel.

Final thoughts

We had a lovely time exploring the fjords with our granddad on the P&O Britannia. Cruising isn’t for everyone and there are lots of things to consider. It was a great way for our granddad to see places that he wouldn’t have had the chance to see otherwise. We actually really enjoyed being on the ship and cruising through the fjords was an unforgettable experience.

If you want to see this wild and beautiful region, a Norwegian Fjords cruise is a great way to do so! I hope this guide gives you an idea of what to expect. If you have any questions about doing a P&O Norwegian Fjords cruise in 2024, drop them in the comments below and I’ll do my best to answer them.

Where next?

If you’re planning a trip to Europe or the UK this year, check out the following guides for some travel inspiration and useful tips:

• 6 Days in Iceland: The best of the South Coast
• How to spend a week in Dubrovnik
• 43 Stunning Instagram spots you have to see in Paris
• A complete guide to Montmartre, Paris
• How to spend a weekend in Bath
• A weekend in Edinburgh

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35 thoughts on “norwegian fjords cruise with p&o: everything you need to know”.

Love this information but my questions are about extras .. So you have sailing in September great. Do you have cinermas on board I know you have shows. Does the spa and viewing place cost extra. There is a free pool and jacuzzi isn’t there. What others facilities are free. Do you have accessible rooms .are they extra . How much are the excursions .can I explore independently.

Hi Jennifer! I would reach out to the cruise company’s customer service team as they will be able to answer your questions on extras. I don’t work for P&O – I just went on one of their cruises a couple of years ago so this is all based on my experience back then. As for the excursions, they vary in price depending on what you want to do. The cruise company will have a list they can share with you. However, you can also explore yourself or book with a local company instead. Hope that helps!

What a brilliant blog and so informative! Thank you so much. We are planning our first ever family cruise to the Norway Fjords and I just wanted to ask you whether this cruise was suitable for disabled people as my mum is in a wheelchair. When the cruise stops for a day of exploring is it suitable for someone on a wheelchair?

Hi Sally! I’m glad you found it helpful and that’s so exciting! The cruise itself is definitely suitable for anyone with mobility issues or in a wheelchair – there are plenty of lifts on the boat to get between the floors and ramps around the deck. As for the excursions, there will be some that you won’t be able to do, but if you book them with the cruise ship they’ll be able to advise on which ones are wheelchair friendly. If you’re going on day tours, there will be a bus and it will have a ramp for wheelchairs. If you just want to explore the towns on your own when you dock, that’s also doable. You won’t be able to get everywhere but there is plenty near where the ship docks to see and do and most of the paths are accessible. Some places do have cobbled streets so it’s a bit trickier – definitely research before you go and ask the cruise company’s customer service team – they are so helpful!

Hi Steph. Fantastic blog post thank you. I was wondering if you had any thoughts about cruising the fjords in April/May? Do you think it’d be limiting? I’ve heard often the ships can’t stop at the ports if the weather is too bad… We are a couple travelling with a baby. Do you think we will be able to do most of the excursions with the baby? We have a backpack so can hike with her. Thank so much!

Hi Rebecca. The nice thing about this cruise is that there are plenty of things to do at each port. Some excursions might not be suitable with a baby but there are plenty of options to choose from so I don’t think it will limit you. I would just research the hiking excursions the cruise ship offers and look into the distance and elevation and decide what you’re comfortable with. As for the weather in April/ May, it’s hit and miss. May might be better as it’s closer to summer so hopefully it will be better, but even in summer can be weather can be unpredictable. I just had a quick look at historical weather by month online and last year it seemed okay. I would have a look and potentially ask the cruise company’s customer service if they had any issues stopping at the ports last year. Good luck!

Thank you this is really helpful. We’re just considering this, I didn’t think I would like a cruise. But the more I look into it, it looks like it ticks lots of boxes. I’m an active person and I would be looking forward to hiking, running kayaking. Are there many/any opportunities for wild swimming?

Hi Charlie – I felt the same way but it was actually a great way to get around Norway and see quite a lot in a short space of time. I don’t think there are any tours where you’d have time for wild swimming but if you decided to explore some places on your own then you probably could! I would check the itinerary for the cruise you’re thinking of doing and then have a quick research of the places it stops at – that should give you an idea of what is in the area!

Thanks for such a detailed info. We are taking the cruise with my parents and trying to book shore experiences. Some of them are sold out but just wanted to check if there are taxis or other form of transport available on the ports to book by ourselves?

There are a few taxis at some ports but not all of them. Places like Olden and Flam are quite small. You could book a taxi in advance but for places like Olden, I would look up different tour providers. That’s what we did and we found Olden Adventures which offered similar tours to those offered by P&O. They usually have space and are slightly cheaper than the boats as well. Good luck!

Thank you Steph, you have given me some ideas for our cruise in September. This is a great blog and I really appreciate the time and effort you have put into this xxx

Thanks Lisa – that means a lot and I’m glad you found it helpful!

Interesting post , keep up the good work. Have a great day.

Thank you so much! That means a lot. Have a great weekend 🙂

Howdy! This post couldn’t be written any better! Reading through this post reminds me of my good old room mate! He always kept talking about this. I will forward this page to him. Pretty sure he will have a good read. Many thanks for sharing!|

Thank you so much – that really means a lot! It’s been a busy few months so apologies for a very slow reply! I’m glad you enjoyed reading it – have a lovely weekend.

What a beautiful trip! A cruise through the fjords is really high on my list! I’m saving this post for future references 🙂

Thanks Coni! It was a wonderful trip and the scenery was spectacular so I hope you get to go one day!

That street is so pretty–I love all the different colored houses! The photos you shared of the fjords are breathtakingly beautiful! I’m definitely adding this to my travel bucket list!

Thanks Farrah! That means a lot 🙂 It’s such a diverse region – I really loved exploring the quaint towns and sailing down the fjords. We’re already planning a trip back to go further North!

Wow your photos are stunning! Is September the best time of year to go?

Thanks Katie – I did a photography course just before I went which came in handy! Although I think it would be impossible to take a bad photo in the fjords! June and September tend to be the best times to go but the weather is very changeable so you need to pack for all seasons just in case! We had a lot of sunny days but it was quite cold in the morning and did rain a bit in the evenings.

Wow! Now, this is my kind of cruise. I’m not usually too keen on cruises, but the Norwegian cruises have always intrigued me. Your photos alone make me want to do this cruise! So beautiful!

Thanks Lindsey! I hadn’t ever considered going on a cruise before this but it was actually a good way to see the fjords. I loved sailing through them as you saw so much more than you would if you were driving. It’s a lovely region to explore – I just wish we had had longer!

Wow! I never would have thought to take a Norwegian cruise but this definitely has brought it to my attention! How beautiful! Love the post!

Thanks Allison! It wasn’t something I would have thought to do either but when we started looking into it we realised it was actually a good way to see the fjords! I was quite hesitant as I’m so used to planning my own itinerary but we had more flexibility in each port that I expected and got to see and do a lot!

Wow! It looks every bit as beautiful as I imagined. I have been hesitant to cruise, but this looks like a great way to cover a lot of ground in a small amount of time – great for us fast-travellers.

Thanks Zoe! I was also very hesitant and it was only when our granddad mentioned it that I realised it was quite a good way to see the fjords. I would have liked to explore some areas more but overall we had quite a lot of flexibility to do what we wanted in each port. We got to see a lot in a short amount of time – it was a nice introduction to Norway!

This looks like my dream vacation! Visiting the Norway fjords is on my bucket list. And your photography is outstanding!

Thanks so much Chelsea! The fjords were absolutely stunning so I hope you get to go one day!

We hope to do this cruise one day. It looks beautiful and your post is so informative Steph

I’m glad you found it helpful Wendy! It was a lovely way to explore this part of the world. I just wish we had had longer!

Our family hasn’t taken a cruise as yet, but I could see us loving this one around the Norwegian fjords. It has such diversity from pretty towns to amazing natural scenery. I will be pinning this for future reference.

Thanks Sharee! We hadn’t ever really thought about doing a cruise until our granddad suggested it. But it was such a good way to see the fjords and it was lovely to see the towns as well as the national parks!

Thank you so so much Steph for writing a beautiful review of the Norwegian fiords cruise. It’s very helpful and has saved us so much time. We will be there in 3 weeks time. Enjoying reading some of your other holiday reviews. Love them! Cheers Kath x

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Bring Exactly What You Need with this Norway Cruise Packing List

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Even if you’ve cruised before, Norway is a whole different animal: the weather is finicky at best and there’s a good chance you’ll fly a low-cost airline to get to your starting and ending ports, where every pound of baggage costs you.  That’s why I’ve compiled the perfect Norway cruise packing list for you.  It fits in a carry-on, yet has everything you need for a week onboard (or more, if you can wash things out in the sink or send it out for laundry).

What to Wear in Norway

When the weather changes in an instant, you’ll want to be prepared for everything from sun to rain or even snow — yup, I encountered snow in Norway on my June vacation although only because I roadtripped into the mountains!

Thankfully, sporty wear is common all throughout Norway (with the exception of Oslo).  You’ll find function over fashion and as long as you’re somewhat neat and put together, there’s no issue wearing something casual.

If you retain nothing else from this Norway packing list, just remember this one thing: choose clothing made out of synthetic material instead of cotton.  It dries quicker for those sporadic rains, wicks moisture during hikes, and keeps you warmer for the temperatures at these higher latitudes.

The Perfect Norway Outfit

I start with a short-sleeve top, which is cool enough to stay comfortable in the midday sun or when you work up a sweat hiking, kayaking, or biking.  I like  Columbia Polo Shirts because the collar makes your outfit instantly look a little more put together, but you still get the performance of high-quality polyester.  [ SHOP WOMENS | SHOP MENS ]

I layer that with a  lightweight fleece jacket .  It’s cool in the morning, evening, and when you’re on the water — or just on the cool days that come around every so often.  Any brand will do, and if you don’t already have one at home, the Amazon Basics brand is surprisingly decent considering its low price. [ SHOP WOMENS | SHOP MENS ]

On the bottom, I always recommend long pants rather than shorts, ideally something made out of nylon or another synthetic material.  I’m obsessed with the Prana Pants I got last year — they move and stretch beautifully for hiking, but look nice enough that you can pull them off as real pants in restaurants or back onboard the cruise ship. [ SHOP WOMENS  “Halle” | SHOP MENS “Hendrixton”]

For all cool or damp destinations, I always recommend paying special attention to your feet. 

A one-time investment in the right socks will protect you from blisters and keep you comfortable if/when your feet get cold and wet.  These days, I *only* travel with merino wool socks .  My personal favorite is the Smartwool brand because it’s not scratchy at all.  Yes, it’s expensive.  Yes, it’s worth it (plus it lasts forever, unlike cotton socks!).  [ SHOP SMARTWOOL ]

Do you need a winter coat on a Norway cruise? You’ll notice I don’t have a lot of cold weather gear on this list.  That’s because most Norway cruises are May – September, when the weather is mild and not super chilly.  On some days, it’s indisputably warm! Warm and sunny on my Pulpit Rock hike In Oslo, you can expect daytime temperatures of 60-75° Farenheit (15-24°C); further north in Alesund, it’s more like 50-60°F (other typical ports like Bergen, Stavanger, Geiranger, and Flam are in-between).  Mornings and evenings will be cooler, but it’s still summer and not freezing! That said, a hat and gloves are small and can easily fit in any suitcase for those “better safe than sorry” moments. Three scenarios for when you might want some extra layers: If you’re from a warm climate and are not used to cool-ish days If your Norwegian cruise takes you farther north to the Arctic Circle If you’re traveling in winter, early spring, or late fall Want specific recommendations on base layers?  Check out my winter packing tips  (opens in new window to read afterward).  

What to Wear Onboard Your Norway Cruise

Although dress codes vary by cruise line ( check yours !), generally speaking, Norway cruises are so active and tiring that guests stay pretty casual onboard.

On deck, for watching scenery, you’ll want to wear the same thing you’d wear outside in port.  I found it could be a little breezy as the ship was sailing, especially on higher decks, so you’ll definitely want a jacket or sweater (a hairband is also useful).  The good news is you can always duck inside if you need to warm up or grab another layer.

For informal nights at dinner, you can get by wearing your polo shirt and Prana pants, which saves you space packing.  Pack a nice sweater to layer with it, since the air conditioning can be intense on some ships.

Hint: wear the  next day’s  outfit at dinner so that it won’t be sweaty from a day’s worth of activities.  Since you’re only wearing it for a few hours, it should be fine to re-wear on your next day’s adventures.  Just hang it up after dinner to air out for the morning!

On formal nights, most guests don’t glitz up the way they used to.  Men, a dress shirt and slacks is adequate (a jacket and tie are optional on most ships).  Ladies, I love Betabrand’s reversible dresses so you can get two totally different outfits while only packing one wrinkle-free dress… get $15 off your order with my referral bonus .

All the Clothing You’ll Need for a Norway Cruise

• 7 Tops — ideally 5 short-sleeve, 1 tank, and 1 long-sleeve (change the tank to an extra long-sleeve in early or late season)
• 2 Sweaters  — one casual fleece, one nicer sweater or cardigan for dinner
• 3 Pants  — ideally 1 pair of my favorite Pranas, 1 pair of zip-offs for warm days, 1 pair of rainproof pants
• 1 Formal Outfit  — yes, it’s okay to wear the same thing twice!
• 1 Rainjacket  — the very best one you have
• 1 Set of Base Layers (Long Underwear & Top)  — most people can skip this
• 2 Pairs of Shoes  — hiking shoes/sneakers for touring and a pair of nicer shoes for dinner onboard
• 7 Pairs of Underwear  — and 2 or 3 bras for the ladies
• 7 Pairs of Socks
• 1 Bathing Suit  — because the ship’s hot tub feels really good after an active day

Some Other Things You’ll Need on Your Norway Cruise Packing List

Sunglasses :  The sun reflects off the fjords and other bodies of water, so these are a must-have!

The Perfect Day Bag:  I swear by my Matador day bag — it holds just the right amount of stuff and when they say it’s waterproof, they really mean it.

Reusable Water Bottle:  Norwegian tap water is safe to drink, so do the environment a favor and skip bottled water (not to mention, you’ll save on costs, which are sky-high in Norway!).  I also was thankful for my reusable travel mug, to drink hot tea on deck during scenic sails.

Sleep Mask:  Ever hear of the midnight sun?  It makes it hard to sleep, so you’ll want an eye mask to block out light unless you’ve booked an inside cabin.

International Adapter:  Not sure what type of outlets are in your cruise cabin?  No problem if you have a universal adapter (which can also be handy in your European hotel rooms).  Choose one with built-in USB outlets to charge multiple items simultaneously.

Ginger Chews:  Ironically, you probably won’t get seasick on your ship — most of the fjords you’re sailing through are relatively protected.  However, if you’re taking day trips on smaller boats or if you’re roadtripping through twisty mountain roads, these ginger chews can help with nausea without making you drowsy like pills do.

Other Norway  Tips

I’ve got tons of other resources to help fill in the blanks.

Are Packing Cubes Worth It?  

If you’re not used to packing carry-on only, one of my secret weapons is using packing cubes.  For one thing, they compress some air out which means you can fit more things in the same space.  Additionally, packing cubes can keep your things organized — which is a big help in tiny cruise cabins.

Staying Comfortable on Overnight Flights

Get my complete list of essentials for in-flight comfort.  Some of it overlaps with what you’ll need in Norway (like an eye mask and water bottle) although some of it is just for the plane.

6 Norwegian Fjords Cruise Tips: How to Cruise to Norway the Right Way  

Find out how to choose the perfect Norwegian cruise and how to make the most of your adventure!

Norway is Too Pretty for Words

Check out my favorite Norway photos and you’ll notice a mix of rain, clouds, and sun.

Print My Norway Packing List for Easy Reference

Need a handy checklist?  I’ve got you covered.  Just print this Norway cruise packing list and start preparing for an incredible trip!

3 thoughts on “Bring Exactly What You Need with this Norway Cruise Packing List”

With a little pruning, I believe you have an excellent list. Ditch 5 shirts, formal outfit, 3 underwear, conditioner, soap, deodorant, aloe, cream, salves, ear plugs, camera and charger and all optional items (except hat/gloves/pen) and you’ll have all you need! Perhaps add some waterproof trousers if you intend to do any hiking.

@Fran, That’s a little too minimalist for me (I prefer not to do laundry while traveling whenever possible) but I’m glad you’ve got a list that works for you!

Ditto Becky. Your packing list sounds about right. I’m going to Iceland in August and I’ll probably take 3 pants/5 shirts for hiking and a few additional clothes for onboard the ship — black pants and sweater, 2 long sleeve knit dresses for dinner and some joggers/hoodies.

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What We Packed – Summer Cruise to Norway’s Fjords

The choice of cruise line, and indeed the individual ship, can make a big difference to the ambience and formality of your cruise. Knowing I wanted to visit the Fjords, and with limited holiday dates available to us this summer, there wasn't a huge choice of itineraries and I quickly narrowed it down to P&O. This gave us a choice of two ships, and we opted for Oceana as this has fewer evening dress restrictions (formal and smart-casual, but nothing in between as there is on some other ships). We haven't cruised with P&O before so I'm not entirely sure how ‘smart' they are, but from reading around it seems as though they do enforce dress codes in the main dining areas.

If you choose not to take part in the formal dining (dinner or lounge suits required for men, nice dresses for ladies) then you can still eat in the buffet restaurants – and this is what we've done on previous cruises. I don't mind taking the opportunity to dress up myself, but wearing a suit and tie (‘work clothes') isn't hubby's idea of a relaxing holiday. As such we didn't pack formal attire, although we did include something ‘smart' so we wouldn't feel quite so out of place wandering around the ship on those evenings (there are generally two formal evenings per week on most cruises).

The daytimes should see plenty of walking and sightseeing, with potentially very variable weather. Forecasts look pleasantly warm and dry, but things can change quickly and we'll need to be prepared for sun, rain, wind and cold! This makes layers the key, so we can mix and match to wear as much or little as needed. We will be away for one week, with two days ‘at sea' and four days ashore in different locations.

Sailing from Southampton in the UK, there's no need for us to fly on this occasion which makes a welcome change. After a relatively short drive to the port we'll just park up and check in – and your holiday starts straight away! No flying also means no real luggage restrictions (well, you can take as much as you can fit in your cabin!). However I still prefer to pack light – if only to avoid piles of laundry when we get home, and it's good to know it can be done for those times when you do need to cut down. I downloaded our Cruise Packing List , and pretty much stuck to it apart from swapping a couple of items with the assumption it won't be overly hot (e.g. I omitted shorts, but do have the skirt in case of warm days).

The Packing

Leaving the UK on a pleasant June day, I will travel in:

• Walking trousers
• Strappy vest
• Smart/casual short-sleeved t-shirt
• Light jacket
• Comfy walking trainers

And for him:

• ‘Rohan' style walking trousers with detachable legs (can be worn as shorts or trousers) with belt
• Collared short-sleeved polo shirt

In a medium sized suitcase we've packed, for me:

• 7 x underwear
• 2 x each regular socks, sockettes, walking socks (all stuffed inside sandals/shoes)
• 1 set of swimwear
• 1 strappy vest
• 2 long sleeved t-shirts
• 1 smart/casual short-sleeved t-shirt
• 1 ‘active' t-shirt for walking
• 1 smart evening top
• 1 smart cardigain
• 1 pair smart/casual trousers (suitable for day or evening)
• 1 pair leggings (I chose these instead of extra trousers)
• 1 smart/casual dress (dressed up for formal nights with heels and pashmina )
• 1 white linen skirt
• 1 tunic top
• 1 pair sparkly flat sandals (smart but comfortable for walking in too)
• 1 pair kitten heels
• 1 set of jewellery
• Baglett (versatile as a clutch or day bag, and the detachable strap doubles up as a handy belt too)
• Toiletries (decanted into small bottles), make-up and first aid

Most of my clothes have a purple/grey tone, so I know everything will go with everything else. In fact, I have far more potential outfits than I will actually need! If you feel uncomfortable at the thought of wearing the same top for both day and evening, use it on a couple of evenings first (it will only be a few hours) and then relegate it to day wear when you will be more active anyway.

• 5 x regular socks, 2 x sockettes, 2 x walking socks (all stuffed inside shoes)
• 2 long-sleeved rugby style shirts
• 1 collared short-sleeved polo shirt
• 2 long-sleeved smart/casual shirts
• 1 smart white shirt with cufflinks (for formal nights)
• Tie (for formal nights)
• 1 pair tailored trousers with belt (for formal nights – note we omitted a jacket/suit)
• 1 pair smart jeans
• 1 smart wool jumper
• 1 pair formal shoes
• 1 pair smart/casual shoes
• Toiletries (decanted into small bottles)
• 1 backpack for holding sightseeing essentials

We've also packed a rucksack which holds:

• 2 x sunglasses
• 2 x caps (good for shielding sun or rain)
• 2 x packaway raincoats
• Phones, iPad and chargers
• Books/puzzles/games
• 1 foldable water bottle

And my handbag, a roomy Healthy Back Bag that holds my travel wallet with tickets/passports/insurance/money etc.

The Journey

We can highly recommend the service at Cruise Parking  – it's a 15 minute transfer ride to the port at Southampton, the staff were extremely friendly and efficient and gave us a very warm welcome.

Check-in at port was also impressive, as we set foot on board Oceana just 20 minutes after the transfer bus dropped us off. It was certainly more preferable, friendly and efficient than flying! Your cases are handed over as soon as you reach port and are delivered straight to your cabin, so there's very little need to carry them around.

Whilst away we wore almost everything we took, and the selection proved really versatile across a number of activities. We did enless walking on shore, taking in both towns and mountains. We were lucky with the weather which was largely warm and dry on land, but at sea it could quickly turn cold and was very windy on deck – the fleece and gilet came to the fore then.

For ladies on formal evenings, almost any nice dress – worn with nice shoes and jewelry, maybe a pashmina – would fit the bill. There were a very wide range worn, from simple to glamourous, short or full length. TOP TIP: Beware of stormy seas, when the ship does rock around and it can be difficult to walk, so on these nights heels would not be the best choice. Our second formal night coincided with force 9 gales and I opted for flat sandals for safety!

The only things we didn't need, in the end, were raincoats and light jackets – but you would always take them just in case. And we didn't swim or sunbathe (although plenty of others did) so could have omitted the swimwear.

We could perhaps have done with an extra short-sleeved t-shirt in place of a long-sleeved one; it was warmer than expected, though long sleeves were better for the sea days – it's breezy outside and air-conned inside so can feel cool.

There was a launderette, which was free, but you do need your own washing powder. And a shop on board stocks essentials – toiletries, snacks etc – but it would be cheaper to bring them from home.

On shore you can walk for miles if you choose to explore independently, so comfy shoes are essential. If you're likely to step off the beaten track into the mountains this is even more important, so plan ahead. We completed a very challenging, steep climb to a waterfall – only to see two people had done it in flip-flops and wedge heels. They obviously made it up there, but the lady in wedges was really wobbling around and personally I'd fear breaking an ankle. Going down was even more tricky as the dry sandy path made it quite skiddy, my ankles and knees felt quite strained. In wetter conditions it would be even more difficult.

Binoculars were definitely worth taking, to identify birds or ships out at sea. And I loved having the Baglett – just the right size to carry things without feeling weighed down. I used it non-stop, on shore holding my passport and camera and slung across my chest for security. On board it held my camera/phone and my cruise card – which is your access to all the facilities – carried on one shoulder for smarter occasions.

This was a fabulous holiday with amazing sites and things to do, so most of all don't forget your camera!

© Copyright 2019 | What To Wear On Vacation | All Rights Reserved

• Northern Europe & Baltic Sea

Norway cruise in June WHAT TO PACK

By let's go cruising , March 18, 2022 in Northern Europe & Baltic Sea

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let's go cruising

I am getting excited about our upcoming Norway cruise for June. We are starting to think about what we should be packing. We've only ever cruised in the Caribbean or Mediterranean during the summer. I don't know how much cold/hot weather we should plan for. Advice and ideas?

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CruiserBruce

Start with a Google search of weather for a couple of your ports. For example, "Bergen June weather".

June Weather in Bergen Norway. Daily high temperatures increase by 3°F, from 58°F to 61°F, rarely falling below 50°F or exceeding 70°F. Daily low temperatures increase by 4°F, from 45°F to 49°F, rarely falling below 39°F or exceeding 54°F.

From https://en.visitbergen.com/things-to-do/tours/fjord-tours/weather-in-the-norwegian-fjords, summer - plan for both sun and rain.

• The coastal areas of Norway are known for frequent precipitation. That does not mean you need to bring a Sou’wester (although their yellow raincoat counterparts are quite trendy!), but a good quality raincoat is a must.
• While we do recommend bringing a comfy sweater and a light wind jacket for the occasional breeze, summer in Bergen tends to offer temperatures pleasant enough even for a dip in the sea. 
• Don’t forget non-wearables! With light clothing items such as shorts, skirts and t-shirts being your regular packing must-haves, a good camera might be what you’d appreciate the most.
• Leave your crocs at home – if you’re planning on going hiking to see the fjords, you need a pair of sturdy, yet comfortable hiking boots. 

Sea42 is answering your question very well, however in addition to it being Norway in June, it is also necessary that you state where in Norway.  There is a very big difference between Bergen, Tromsø and Honningsvåg.  The right clothes are important - layers of clothing and expect it to rain.  Still Snow in the mountains. I have seen many cruise guests who have packed a suitcase for a Caribbean cruise - it does not quite fit in Norway.

Scottishclover

Agree about a good quality rain jacket! The weather in Norway lived up to its reputation when we did our cruise at the beginning of July. I have never seen rain like it, the day we were in Bergen ( that’s saying something as we’re from Scotland) but we didn’t let it spoil our fun. Saying that, we had beautiful weather in Alesund , which was my favourite port. We did a hike and most of the locals were in shorts. I’d say it was in low 60’s. Temperature is relative - if you normally live somewhere quite hot, you won’t need shorts in Norway. While we thought the temperatures were pleasant and similar to our Scottish summer, there were Americans on our cruise in winter coats and woolly hats. To summarise weather is unpredictable from day to day but waterproof shoes, rain jacket and quick dry trousers are essential. Enjoy your cruise, Norway is amazing.

PurpleTraveller

On my Land of the Midnight Sun cruise in June 2019 the prior weather forecast was for cool temperatures (mid teens C°) and rain. We packed layers, gloves, beanies and a good rain jacket. Our weather turned out to be mostly fine with only a couple of overcast days with occasional light rain in Tromso and Lofoten Islands. We had sunny days elsewhere and at Geiranger and Trondheim were in T'shirts in the middle of the day. We only wore our gloves and beanies once when at North Cape and used our rain jackets more for the wind which was a bit brisk at times. Layers were the key to cover all eventualities so we could add or subtract depending on the weather which could be very changeable throughout the day. It was also quite cool in the early mornings when on deck to watch the sail in to the fjords.

I wrote a lengthy post yesterday, but it did not post. It was marked "hidden" and would need to be reviewed. I have no idea why. I've never had any issues with any of my posts.

It is GONE now, so everything I typed is lost. 

This post went through fine.

6 hours ago, let's go cruising said: I wrote a lengthy post yesterday, but it did not post. It was marked "hidden" and would need to be reviewed. I have no idea why. I've never had any issues with any of my posts.  

That can happen because some word or words in your post, or something you may have named, automatically triggered a review. Usually the post is innocuous and will be approved. Sorry you lost your work! 

1 hour ago, Turtles06 said: That can happen because some word or words in your post, or something you may have named, automatically triggered a review. Usually the post is innocuous and will be approved. Sorry you lost your work! 

I honestly have no idea. I said what ports we were going to and what we would be doing. 

I feel like I'm getting a handle on what to wear off the ship and even during the day. We have a travel trailer and camp in State/National Parks, so Norway is right up our alley. We love birding. In fact, in early May we will be spending a couple of weeks camping/birding along Lake Erie in Northwest Ohio . That should prepare us for what to wear in Norway in June.

HOWEVER, What are people's thoughts/experiences on evening wear? 

We (56F and 58M) are interested in packing light (like Rick Steves) because we will have so many transfers in England. Has anyone packed like that for a cruise? Dinner clothes in the Caribbean wouldn't be so daunting because we have cruised there many times. We've never cruised in a cold(er) climate. 

I LOVE thinking about and planning travel.

3 minutes ago, let's go cruising said: I LOVE thinking about and planning travel.

You still need to list the ports you call at to get the best guidelines - large differences between Bergen, Tromsø or Honningsvåg in June.

2 hours ago, hallasm said: You still need to list the ports you call at to get the best guidelines - large differences between Bergen, Tromsø or Honningsvåg in June.

Thank you - this is in the southern part of Norway. Layers of clothing is the answer to your question - rain and windproof outer layers - it can be cold in the morning when you are on the upper decks to follow the entrance through the deep fjords or into the mountains.  Expect 50% days of rain - but it can be periods of mostly rain or mostly sun.  The temperature will be between 55 ° F to 59 ° F rarely below 50 ° F or exceed 70 ° F  Sunrise is around 4:00 am and sunset 11:30 pm - varies 30 minutes depending on time of month.

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What to Wear And Pack For Norway In The Summer + Packing List

Are you looking for information on what to wear in Norway in the summer and what to pack for your dream trip to the north? After many summers spent in different parts of Norway, I know exactly what clothes to wear to Norway in June, July, and August. Read on and learn everything about packing for summer in Norway – and also find below a full Norway summer packing list.

• Norway summer packing

If there is one question that I get a lot, is what to pack for Norway. I get it , a trip here requires quite a lot of preparation, and in terms of deciding on what to wear in Norway in the summer, or winter, there are many things to take into consideration.

I’ve already written a comprehensive Norway winter clothing guide , that helps you to pack for Norway in the winter , and guide for Norway in the autumn , so now I decided to share with you my Norway summer packing list, and all the tips you need to pack for Norway this summer!

Table of Contents

What to wear in norway in summer, how to dress in norway in summer:, 2. focus on comfort, 3. check weather forecasts, and then pack for all types of weather, anyway., 4. always take rain gear, western norway and bergen, mountains and the fjords, oslo and the southern part of norway, northern norway, 2. lightweight waterproof jacket, 3. sweaters or fleeces, 5. comfortable pants, 6. shorts or skirts, 7. sleepwear, 8. swimsuit, 1. sturdy waterproof hiking boots, 2. comfortable walking shoes, 3. sandals or flip flops, 1. backpack, 2. sunhat or cap, 3. sunglasses, 4. lightweight scarf/buff, 5. travel umbrella, 6. reusable water bottle, 7. power adapter, 8. sleeping mask, 1. sunscreen, 2. insect repellent, 3. travel-sized toiletries, 4. toothbrush and toothpaste, 5. personal medications, 1. energy bars or trail mix, 2. portable water filter, 3. camera and extra batteries, 4. travel pillow and blanket, 5. travel-sized laundry detergent, 6. travel insurance, 7. passport, bank cards, and travel documents, 1. thin warm hat, 2. thin gloves, 3. tent, sleeping mat, and a sleeping bag, 4. hiking poles, evening clothes, gym clothes, are you ready for packing for your summer trip to norway.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means that I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. More details  here .

What to wear in Norway in summer might seem easy at first, but in reality, it’s not.

The general trip to Norway includes cities, and nature, a lot of moving around, probably some hiking or at least a lot of walking, and different weather conditions.

Did you know that it can snow in Norway in the summer? Well, it can. You can even ski in the summer in Norway !

But worry not, I will explain it all to you below, and explain to you what to pack for Norway in summer (June, July, and August).

To ensure you’re well-prepared for every adventure and unpredictable weather, I’ve curated the ultimate packing list that covers everything you’ll need, including clothing, shoes, accessories, toiletries, snacks, and more. Let’s dive in!

Tips for packing for Norway in the summer

1. pack layered clothing.

Norway’s summer weather can vary, so it’s best to pack layers to accommodate changing temperatures. Bring lightweight clothing such as t-shirts, shorts, and skirts, along with a few warmer items like sweaters or light jackets for cooler evenings or unexpected weather shifts.

Layers are the ultimate answer to all your questions regarding how to dress in Norway. The deal is, that the pockets of air captured in between layers of clothes keep the warmth around the body. It’s the same technology they use in jackets or sleeping bags filled with the dawn.

Another advantage of layering up is the ability to take some stuff off when you get too warm. I often struggle with this when the weather quickly changes and suddenly it becomes hot again.

Or typically when you start hiking, it’s nice and hot at the bottom of the hill, and then it gets gradually colder the higher you get. With layers, you can put things on and take them off as needed. It works great in hiking and other  outdoor activities .

Base Layer  – the moisture-absorbing base layer. This is where your thermal underwear goes. I recommend a  Merino wool top  and  Merino wool bottoms . For the summer choose thinner versions of these.

Mid-layer  –  fleece  or   wool sweater – for when it becomes colder. If you don’t have a wool sweater, this is a great souvenir to bring from Norway .

Outer layer  – waterproof and windproof outer layers. For the top, I always recommend a  Goretex jacket , and for the bottom,  waterproof pant s  for hiking, for these extra rainy days (yes, they happen!).

Base layer:  Find it on Amazon here Mid-layer:  Find it on Amazon here Outer layer:  Find it on Amazon here

Comfort, weather protection, and quick dry fabrics of your clothes are more important than their style.

Of course, wear anything that you feel nice in, but bear in mind, that in Norway, sports clothes are worn for every occasion. For example, even in Oslo , the capital of Norway, you can see most people wearing sports shoes, heels, or any other types of shoes are less common.

All the locals and tourists also dress in a practical way, so it will be easy for you to blend in. I remember my surprise seeing my colleagues coming to the office in   waterproof jackets   thrown over their smart shirts. After getting to know the Norwegian weather, I started doing the same.

If you already own some  outdoorsy clothes , the good news, is you don’t have to entirely change your travel wardrobe for your summer Norway trip. There might be some adjustments needed, though.

Remember to check the specific weather forecast for your destination in Norway before you pack, as it may vary depending on the region you plan to visit. The best weather app for Norway is yr.no .

However, as with any weather forecast, it’s sometimes right, sometimes wrong. Especially in Norway, and especially in the mountains, weather can change very quickly. It can be sunny, rainy, or snowy all in one day. So check the weather, but always be prepared for it to suddenly change.

Norway is known for its rain showers even during the summer ( while I’m writing this we are currently in the middle of the drought in the south of Norway, and we need some rain, but this is not normal! ).

Pack a waterproof or water-resistant jacket and consider bringing a compact rain poncho that you can take everywhere with you to stay dry.

Norway winds are not the best for carrying an umbrella, but I sometimes take it with me on calmer days. However, I guess I’ve learned how to operate an umbrella in the strong winds after living in Scotland , so don’t take me for an example, and pack a rain jacket instead.

If you plan to do any hiking, pack waterproof trousers too. Check the price and model here

What to wear in the regions of Norway in the summer

Bergen is known for its rain. It rains on average 239 days out of the year there, so you should really be prepared for that. Stavanger also has generally rainier weather.

The weather in the mountains and fjords of Norway in the summer can vary greatly. There can be 20°C days, and there might be snowing up on top of the peaks.

The weather can also change very quickly. Keeping additional layers in your backpack, even if it’s hot in the morning, is essential, especially on longer hikes.

Oslo and the southern coast of Norway are typically the warmest areas of Norway in the summer. The weather generally stays pretty stable there in the summer months, with highs of 20-25C (in the lowlands). However, it can also rain and temperatures can drop lower.

While generally colder than the south, the coastal areas of Northern Norway, such as Lofoten , Senja , or even Tromso , generally have mild temperatures due to Gulf Stream that warms up the waters. However, be prepared for rain and colder days as well.

Ultimate Norway summer packing list

Below, I share with you my list of what to pack for Norway in the summer. After living and traveling all over Norway for the last 6 years, I know very well what to pack, what to leave behind, what’s essential, and what not to forget when packing for your summer Norway trip.

Packing for Norway in June and July should be quite similar. The beginning of June might still have some snow in the mountains. Packing for Norway in August is also not much different, but the temperatures at night might be a bit lower, especially in the mountains. After that, comes Norway in the autumn (which I highly recommend).

What clothes to wear and pack for Norway in the summer – the best summer packing list for Norway

As I mentioned above – layers are the most important part of packing for the Norway trip. Pack a variety of lightweight, breathable tops for easy layering. I recommend you take a few short-sleeved shirts, long-sleeved shirts, and tank tops to accommodate changing weather conditions.

Norway’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s crucial to have a waterproof jacket to stay dry during unexpected rain showers.  I travel everywhere with my Gore-tex jacket, which is waterproof, wind-proof, and breathable. Perfect for hiking, as well as city walking. Check the price and model here .

Norway’s evenings can get chilly, even in summer. Pack a couple of sweaters or fleeces to stay warm during cooler evenings. If you have one, take sweaters made from wool. Why..? See below.

Wool is my top favorite material to wear in Norway, also in the summer, not only in winter . My woolen clothes are all-year items, that I probably wear the most of all of my other clothes.

My favorite is merino wool, which cools you down when it’s too hot, and warms you up when it’s cold. It also wicks moisture, doesn’t smell, and dries very quickly so it’s perfect for hiking, traveling, and active days.

For the summer in Norway, I recommend taking thinner Merino wool clothes, such as short sleeve merino wool top for hiking , a l ong merino wool top ,  and  merino wool bottoms .

Take versatile bottoms like pants that are comfortable for both city exploration and outdoor activities. I usually take black leggings that I can use for hiking and also for the city. Alternatively, I also take lightweight hiking pants that have zipped-out legs and I can quickly convert them into shorts .

If you plan on hiking, also take waterproof trousers.

For warmer days, include a pair of shorts or thinner trousers (one is enough!) to stay cool and comfortable. I often use long pants that can be zipped out to transfer them into shorts .

Don’t forget to pack comfortable sleepwear for a good night’s rest after long days of exploration.

Norway boasts numerous picturesque lakes and stunning fjords where you can take a refreshing ( refreshing meaning quite cold ) dip, so don’t forget to pack a swimsuit ( check this cute one here! ).

What shoes to pack for summer in Norway:

If you plan to explore Norway’s nature trails and mountains, invest in a pair of sturdy hiking boots to ensure stability and ankle support. There are a lot of rocks, bushes, and uneven terrain on the hikes in Norway.

I suggest you bring waterproof boots, so then you can also wear them if the weather turns (and they will survive the hike in the rain!).   Check the price and model here .

For city walks and exploring urban landscapes, pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes. I recommend sports shoes, everyone wears them here.

If you are not planning to do very big hikes, you can as well pack versatile trail runners and use them in the cities as well as on the hikes instead of the boots. I have Salomon trail runners , and I use them for easier hikes in Norway.

A pair of lightweight and waterproof sandals or flip-flops will come in handy for showers, wearing inside your accommodation, or relaxing by the water.

What accessories to pack for summer in Norway

Bring a durable, waterproof backpack to carry essentials during your outdoor adventures.

The backpack is usually better than a suitcase as you can take it with you hiking . Check the price and model here .

For sunny days and for exposed hikes, take a sunhat to protect yourself from the sun.

Sunglasses are important to pack for summer in Norway with all the water activities on fjords and lakes (the reflections!).

There can also be some snow on the trails, so sunglasses will protect your eyes from the strong sun out there. Check UV sunglasses at a good price here .

A lightweight scarf can keep you warm in cool evenings, you can use it as a throw, a cover, a blanket, and even a towel. And Buff is multifunctional and very useful when hiking or doing sports.  Check the price and model here .

Many people say that umbrella is useless in Norway due to the constant winds, but I still take mine with me to the cities. If you don’t know how to operate the umbrella in the wind, take a waterproof jacket instead.

In Norway, water can be safely drunk straight from the tap (and it’s delicious!), so save some money and help the environment by bringing your own reusable water bottle and re-filling it on the way –  Check the price here .

Norway uses Type C and F electrical outlets, so bring a power adapter to charge your devices.

A good investment is to buy a universal power adapter – I take it with me everywhere. I especially recommend a power adapter like this one , with additional USB plugs. You can charge your camera batteries and phones at the same time .

Due to the midnight sun and white nights, it is very bright at night in Norway in the summer. Therefore, a good sleeping mask will help you have a good night’s sleep despite the brightness.

Norway summer packing list – toiletries

Protect your skin from the summer sun by packing a high-SPF sunscreen. I always take  this sun cream  as it has great protection, and good skincare, and is perfect for kids and adults on the face and body.

Norway’s lush landscapes may attract mosquitos and other insects, so be prepared with insect repellent. Especially July and August are bad months for mosquitos and midges in Norway –  Check the price here .

Bring travel-sized bottles of shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and other essentials to save space in your luggage. Or even better, become a more responsible traveler and take a s hampoo bar  and a  bar of soap instead.

Don’t forget a toothbrush and toothpaste. A bamboo toothbrush is my favorite.

If you have any prescription medications, don’t forget to take enough of them for the duration of your trip.

What to pack for Norway in the summer – snacks and miscellaneous:

Not sure about you, but I constantly get hungry when I’m exploring and hiking. So to keep your energy levels up during hikes and long days of exploration take some easy-to-pack snacks like energy bars or trail mix.

You can of course also buy them in Norway, but keep in mind that they are more expensive (here are some tips on how to travel Norway on budge t and Oslo on a budget , though!). I love   Nakd bars  with only natural ingredients and no sugar.

Norway has many clean natural water sources. In general, they should be safe to drink, but, especially on the most popular hikes, the water quality can drop.

There are also pastures high on the trails and sheep walking around, so for that matter, the water filter is a good idea to make sure you don’t end up with water poising if you plan to drink from natural sources. Sawyer Mini Water Filtration Systems are very good or the clear water tablets would be the best choice for you.

For capturing those great landscape photos. I always recommend mirrorless Fuji cameras for their great quality of pictures, compatibility, and lightness –  Check models and prices here .

For more of my camera set up check here .

If you’re embarking on long journeys or overnight flights, a travel pillow and blanket can ensure a more comfortable rest.

For longer trips, having travel-sized laundry detergent can be useful for washing clothes and reducing the need for excessive packing.

Always have travel insurance when traveling abroad. It doesn’t cost much but can save you when an unfortunate accident happens (like to me in Svalbard !).

Norway is mainly cashless, so taking debit and credit cards that you can use abroad makes the most sense. I recommend Revolut.

Remember to take your passport and other important documents as well.

What to pack for hiking in summer in Norway

If you plan to hike in the summer in Norway (and you should! Check out the best hikes in Norway ), then add the below items to your luggage.

It can get cold and windy on the hikes in Norway even in the summer, so carrying a thin hat is a good idea.

The same goes for thin gloves. If you’re stuck with space, you could skip that, and keep your hands in your pockets when it’s cold, but I can say that I used my thin gloves many times in the summer in the Norwegian mountains in the colder weather.

Summer in Norway is the best time to go camping or wild camping . Nothing beats pitching up your tent in the most beautiful location and waking up in the middle of nature with a stunning view of the fjords. And it also helps you to travel in Norway on a budget since wild camping is free.

If you have space, I recommend you take a tent, a sleeping mat, and a sleeping bag. I have a lightweight and affordable tent  Naturehike Cloud 2 .

Most hikes in Norway are quite steep, so hiking poles are a great help to them. I often take mine with me.

What to skip when you plan on hiking in the summer in Norway

Summer nights in Norway are bright, so you don’t usually need to bring a headtorch with you. Especially if you plan to visit Northern Norway .

For southern Norway, you might need it for a few hours in the middle of the night, but usually, your phone torch would suffice as it’s never really pitch black.

What to pack for a Norwegian fjord cruise in the summer

The packing list for a cruise in Norway in the summer would be the same as above but with a few additions.

Nice evening clothes or party attire would be nice to wear for more formal parties at cruise ships or dinners at fancy restaurants.

Most cruise ships have gyms or jogging tracks, so if you still feel energetic after the whole day of sightseeing, you can hit the gym with your gym clothes.

If you are a light sleeper, earplugs might be handy!

Packing for a Norway trip in the summer might not be the most straightforward thing to do (thanks, to the ever-changing weather…). But, hopefully, the tips above helped you to understand a bit better what to wear for your Norwegian adventures.

Follow the tips above, and you should be well prepared for any adventure, be it exploring cities or natural wonders.

Always remember to pack clothes suitable for changing weather conditions, comfortable shoes, essential toiletries, accessories, and snacks ( they are pricey up here! ).

While this packing list provides a solid foundation for your summer Norway trip, you can always tailor it to your personal preferences, specific activities, and the duration of your trip. Safe travels and enjoy Norway!

What else would you add to the summer Norway packing list? Have I missed anything? Let me know in the comments!

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The Mindful Traveller

Eco Travel Blog & Photography

Norwegian Fjords Cruise: Complete Winter Guide

8 May 2023 · In: Cruise , Norway , Travel

Embark with me aboard the MS Lofoten for a magical cruise along the Norwegian Fjords! For 6 days, I joined the Hurtigruten fleet for an unforgettable winter journey along the west coast of Norway, and it was an experience like no other. This trip taught me so much about myself and slow travel, and I am excited to share more in this article.

So here is a complete guide to cruising Norway, including which boat to choose, the best time to sail, what to pack and my 6-day itinerary, perfect for any time of the year.

From breathtaking landscapes to fishing villages and meeting new cultures, discovering Norway from this point of view is something you will never forget! Enjoy 🙂

Disclosure : Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, we will receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase. For more information, read our full affiliate disclosure  here .

Day 6 – Honningsvåg to Kirkenes

Overview: a magical winter cruise, day 1 – bodø, day 2 – bodø to lofoten islands, day 3 – lofoten islands, day 4 – lofoten islands to tromsø.

• Day 5 – Tromsø to   Honningsvåg

Notes – we started this cruise from Bodø as it was the most convenient place to reach by plane from Manchester, and we wanted to focus on the north. 

Norwegian fjords cruise – Map

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.

Words to know before you go

• Thank you = takk
• Please = vær så snill
• Excuse me = unnskyld meg 
• Hello = hallo
• Goodbye = ha det bra

Detailed itinerary: 6-day cruise in Norway

Please note that this Norwegian cruise is only a guide with recommendations. You are more than welcome to spend more days in one area or add other stops on your journey.

My first visit to Norway, and I could not be more excited!

We flew early in the morning from Manchester to Oslo and changed to Bodø. Everything was already covered with snow, and it was beautiful.

We arrived in Bodø (above the Arctic Circle) in the evening, and it was already dark. It was not snowing, but the wind was extremely strong and cold. We waited a while until we discovered our suitcase was not there but still in Oslo 😐 After filling out a few forms, we went to our first Airbnb, just a 15min walk from the airport.

I guess this day was not on our side! When we arrived at the guesthouse, one of the guests had locked the door from the inside, so we were stuck outside in the cold aha. 

After knocking for a few minutes and desperately trying to contact the host, the guest finally opened the door, and we headed straight to a store to buy and eat some food. 

Around 22:00, the airport contacted us to collect our suitcase, which was a relief, as we were taking the boat the next day. 

23:00, we could finally settle down and sleep! 

Notes – as we had some problems with our suitcase, we did not explore Bodø much that day but had the chance to wander the next. It was a charming city with a lovely harbour to stroll along.

First impression: I already loved the atmosphere of the country! The people were all so friendly and helpful. Plus, the houses were super cute, made of wood and in different colours. 

• Temperature: -7°c (but the wind made it worse)
• Sunrise: 09:00
• Sunset: 14:30

Top experiences in Bodø

🚢 Bodø 15:00 – Stamsund 19:15 – Svolvær 21:00

We woke up early to get ready and wander around Bodø before starting our cruise. 

We first walked to the train station to put our suitcase in a locker (6 Nok) and headed to the harbour. We strolled around, took some photos and had a lovely lunch. 

By that time (early afternoon), the sun was starting to set, and the colours of the sky were incredible, contrasting the turquoise blue of the water. We had a coffee at En Kopp to warm up with a beautiful view. We then returned to the locker to get our suitcase, ready for our adventure. 

Notes – be careful, the floor is incredibly slippery. My partner Matt struggled, and I admit it was funny. It was like watching Bambi walk for the first time. But if you have mobility issues or want to be on the safe side, you can buy crampons to clip under your shoes.

Our boat finally arrived at the harbour, and we were ready to leave around 15:00. I was so excited. For this first journey, we were on the  MS Polarlys  from Hurtigruten, a big (and fancy) boat with different spaces and lounges to relax whilst enjoying the view. 

We stayed on the outside deck for the departure, and it was incredible. The sun was disappearing at the horizon, and the scenery was breathtaking, with cute villages and the surrounding mountains covered with snow.

Notes – as you can imagine, it was cold outside and extremely windy, so be prepared.

After enjoying the view, we went inside to the bar to have a drink and relax. I was amazed by the hospitality of the Norwegian – always smiling and ready to help 🙂 

We arrived in Svolvær , the capital of the Lofoten Islands, around 21:00, and the cold was not too bad, but the road was super slippery. We headed to our Airbnb, 15min walk away from the harbour, where we had a lovely cosy room in an old building. As we were tired, and it was dark, we went to sleep.

🚢 Svolvær 22:00 – Stokmarknes 01:30 – Sortland 02:55 – Risøyhamn 04:35

We woke up early and got ready to explore Svolvær. Our host was very kind and agreed to keep our suitcase for the day, as our boat was arriving at 22:00.

We decided to wander around the city, and the scenery + colours were incredible. We walked over a bridge to reach Kuba Island, where we enjoyed a great view with a stunning reflection of the mountains in the sea. We explored the island for a bit and came back to the city centre to eat a pizza at Fellini Pizza – around 13 Nok for a calzone, which was very good.

We continued to stroll, but the sun started to set very quickly. We then went to a lovely bar called Bacalao to relax and play cards with a beautiful view of the harbour. 

Top experiences in the Lofoten Islands

Notes – the temperature was not cold on that day, around 3°c. Plus, here are a few things I noticed: the locals love to knit, they all wear reflective wristbands, and there are hand  sanitisers  at every entrance (and that was before Covid!).

I enjoyed my day in this city. It was quiet but had something special. Next time, I would love to stay a bit longer and explore more of the islands.

We hopped on our boat around 22:00 and discovered our cabin, which would become our home for the next few nights. Our boat was the  MS Lofoten , the oldest from the Hurtigruten fleet (1964). However, note that this boat is no longer available for cruises. It is now a ship used for teaching, which is sad as it was a beautiful, small but traditional vessel which felt more intimate. Plus, as there were fewer people on board, it was easier to talk and connect. 

Our cabin, 105, was on the lower deck. We had two single beds, a sink and space for our suitcase and bags – a small but cosy room (also the cheapest as prices go high very quickly!).

Once settled in our cabin, we headed to the outside area at the back and enjoyed a traditional drink called Trollknert. We were not exactly sure what it was, but it was good.

We savoured our drink whilst looking for the Northern Lights (I had never seen any before). We did not see any that night, but I was not losing hope for the rest of the trip. 

We then arrived at a very narrow and deep fjord called Trollfjorden . It was nighttime, but we could still see the mountains so close to us. It was impressive! 

We stayed awake on the outside deck until 01:30 to look for the lights, but still nothing. As it was late, we went to bed in our little cabin. I was afraid to be sick, but I felt ok the entire trip. However, I did not sleep well as the engine made a lot of noise, and we stopped several times at different ports. But that did not surprise me as I am a light sleeper. On the other hand, Matt enjoyed his night and was snoring – so I guess it will vary from one person to another! 

🚢 Harstad 07:10 – Finnsnes 11:00 – Tromsø 14:15 – Skjervøy 22:10

We enjoyed our tasty breakfast in the morning with a fantastic sunrise. The buffet was varied, with lots of local food, which was delicious (and included in our room). We then got ready to spend the day outside.

Our first stop was  Finnsnes  at 11:00 for 30min, a small fishing town. The colours were gorgeous, it was so peaceful, and the reflection in the water was perfect.

We continued our way to  Tromsø , and I stayed outside most of the time to watch the scenery and sunset at 13:30. Matt was in the front lounge, relaxing and enjoying a hot chocolate. I met him at one point to warm up with a coffee when suddenly, the captain announced the possibility of seeing Orquas. I jumped outside, but unfortunately, we did not see any.

We arrived in Tromsø around 14:15. The weather was cloudy, and the temperature dropped quickly. We explored the city for the afternoon, enjoyed a mocha at Solid (we even sat outside with heaters) and went shopping to buy a few souvenirs (mugs and coasters). We returned to the boat around 17:30 to relax and nap, as I was tired from the night before. 

Tromsø was a charming city, busier than Svolvær, even a bit too touristy for me. But we still had a great time, and if you want, there are many activities you can do from there 🙂

Things to do & see in Tromsø

Here are some of the best things to do and see in Tromsø:

• Admire the Arctic Cathedral
• Look for the Northern Lights
• Take a reindeer or husky sleigh ride
• Go on a whale safari
• Ride the Fjellheisen cable car
• Explore Tromsø Ice Domes
• Go shopping on Storgata Street

Top experiences in Tromsø

We spent some time in the lounge and went on the outside deck at the end of the day to watch the Northern Lights. The sky was cloudy, but I was still hoping. We saw tiny ones at one point, but they were hiding behind the clouds, so we decided to go to bed. I slept better that night – the boat was quieter.

Day 5 – Tromsø to Honningsvåg

🚢 Hammerfest 05:05 – Havøysund 08:30 – Honningsvåg 10:55 – Kjøllefjord 16:40

I woke up earlier that morning, as I wanted to enjoy it as much as possible, and the daylight was getting shorter (9:30 – 12:30). I had breakfast whilst watching the sunrise before spending time on the outside deck. 

We arrived in a small town called  Havøysund  around 08:45. The sun was still rising slowly, and the colours were gorgeous. As we headed towards the north, the temperature continued to drop. I still spent most of my time outside as I did not want to miss anything, and the scenery was too beautiful. 

We left the town at 09:15 in the direction of Honningsvåg. The journey there was my favourite – from the blue water to the pink sky and white mountains, it felt like a dream. I enjoyed a mocha in the front lounge before returning outside to watch some dolphins. 

We arrived in Honningsvåg at 11:15, and I was already in love with this town – my favourite from this cruise! The houses were all so cute, and it was incredibly peaceful. 

You can also enjoy a trip to the North Cape, which we did not do, but it sounded like a great experience. Instead, we spent some time wandering through the town and strolling along its harbour. 

Notes – I would recommend booking the North Cape excursion in advance with Hurtigruten if it is something you want to try. 

The sun sat quickly, and it felt incredible. We walked around for a while, shopped and ordered a pizza for lunch (about 100 Nok a margarita). We then returned to the boat to eat and relax in the lounge. We left Honningsvåg at 14:45 and continued our cruise to Kirkenes, our last stop.

Notes – on your way there, you will also encounter the lovely village of Kjøllefjord, where you can join an optional excursion to meet local Sámi, learn about their reindeer herding and listen to folk songs.

We fell asleep for two hours and woke up around 17:00 when suddenly, the captain informed us that it was possible to see the Northern Lights. We ran outside, and there they were, shining in front of us! 

They were small at first, but I decided to stay outside for a while. As time passed, they became more powerful, dancing above us – and it was magical! I could not believe what I was witnessing. It felt surreal. The boat was moving a lot, so it was challenging to take photos, but I still managed to take a few good shots. I stayed outside until 22:00, and they never stopped dancing. 

As the waves were getting stronger, we decided to go to sleep, but sadly, I did not sleep at all. The boat was moving too much that night, and I was very uncomfortable in our little cabin. On the other hand, Matt had a great night, which I will never understand aha! + Most people were sick and vomiting overboard.

At 05:00, I went to the lounge to relax before going back to bed.

Notes – the Northern Lights were incredible but slightly different from what I imagined. I always thought they were bright green lights, which is not fully accurate. The camera makes them green, but they look white to the naked eye, which was challenging to see when the sky was cloudy. But if they are strong enough, you will see them right away – and it is fantastic. 

🚢 Båtsfjord 00:00 – Vardø 03:30 – Vadsø 06:55 – Kirkenes 09:00

Our last day on this Norwegian fjord cruise! After a rough night, we woke up at 06:15 to shower, pack our suitcase and have breakfast. 

The time passed quickly, and we arrived in  Kirkenes  at 09:00 (15km from the Russian border). The temperature dropped again, around -12°c and the sea was frozen. It was also snowy and cloudy. 

Unfortunately, we did not have the time to explore the town as our plane was at 11:30. A bus was waiting for us outside (22 Nok) and took us to the airport, 20min away. I was sad to say goodbye to our beautiful boat. 

We arrived at the smallest airport I had ever seen and took our first plane to Oslo. We changed in Copenhagen to finally reach Manchester, where our suitcase was NOT waiting for us, aha – it was still in Oslo…

We got back home at 23:00, and I was so tired. This trip was by far one of the best I had ever experienced. Travelling by boat was incredible and gave us a different perspective on the country. 

I would do it again, maybe in another season, to compare.

This trip taught me a lot about slow travel and simple things. We did not do much during the days, we were mostly sitting on the outside deck, watching the landscapes pass before our eyes or stopping at a harbour for 30min to 1h to wander around. It was easy, and it was great.

I felt so relaxed for the first time in a long time, enjoying the sunrise with my morning coffee, trying to see whales, writing my journal, watching the sunset and waiting for the Northern Lights. I savoured each of those moments.

I guess this is one thing I love the most about travelling, being able to observe the difference between before and after, reflecting on what I have learnt to come back better 💙

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Which boat & itinerary to choose

The boat and itinerary you choose will depend on your preferences, budget and preferred way of travelling. 

On this Norwegian Fjords cruise, we decided to go with  Hurtigruten  after hearing great reviews about them and loving their work towards sustainability (they just launched their  first hybrid cruise ship ).

Hurtigruten also proposes different types of ships and itineraries, and as I am not usually a cruise person, I wanted to find a small boat (which did not feel too touristy). That is why we decided to go with the  MS Lofoten , the oldest and smallest ship in the fleet (no longer available – he retired). The boat was lovely, traditional and felt so intimate. We did not regret our choice! 

But again, it will depend on what you prefer. If you want more space with various lounges and additional amenities or something all-inclusive, then a larger boat will be more suitable. We went with the smallest one as we wanted something that felt private, and we noticed the difference when we did a few hours on the MS Polarlys. It felt more spacious and luxurious, but it was not our thing.

You will find all the Hurtigruten ships  here .

Regarding the sailing route, we wanted to focus on the north and go through the Lofoten Islands, so we chose a cruising itinerary from Bodø to Kirkines for 5 days (we travelled for 6 days in total as we arrived in Bodø the day before). 

However, there are so many possibilities, and it will mainly depend on your budget and time. 

The good thing is that you can also tailor the route to you – and that is what we did. Hurtigruten offered a voyage from Svolvær to Kirkenes, but Svolvær was too difficult to reach by plane, so we opted to land in Bodø and start the cruise there. That is also why you will notice that we took a different boat from Bodø to Svolvær, the MS Polarlys (which suited our schedule better). Plus, it was only a short journey of a few hours – we did not sleep on this boat. 

You will find the sailing timetable  here . All ships follow identical schedules and go through the same ports (but they will stop at different times depending on which way they go – northbound/southbound). So if you want, you can make up your own route and stay in one place for a bit longer. 

Let me know in the comments if you have any questions! I would be happy to help.

What are the possible excursions?

You will spend most of your time on the boat but might want to explore once on land. Here are some optional excursions you can do with Hurtigruten (do not forget to book in advance):

• The North Cape : the northernmost point on the European continent, marked by the photogenic globe monument.
• Birdwatching Safari : visit one of the largest and most impressive bird cliffs on the Gjesværstappan islands.
• Sámi Culture : meet an indigenous Sámi family in their traditional tent to learn more about their lifestyle and culture.
• Snowmobile Tour : drive your snowmobile through gorgeous winter scenery, possibly under the Northern Lights.
• Fishing Village : visit two colourful fishing villages, whatever the time of year.

We did not do any on our Norwegian Fjords trip as we were on a tight budget. But we did not mind much and still had such a fantastic time!

We loved spending our days on the boat, exploring the fishing villages and relaxing in the lounge with a hot drink. I also spent time journalling, and it felt great. 

Best time to do a cruise in Norway

That is a challenging question! But I would answer: at any time of the year.

If you prefer to discover Norway during warmer and sunnier months, prioritise  June, July and August . You will enjoy long days without getting too hot, making it perfect for outdoor activities. 

If you want to explore Norway under a beautiful white coat and experience the Arctic Circle at its best, head to the fjords in  winter . We chose  November  as we wanted to discover the Arctic with some daylight. 

Note that the days become incredibly short in December and January, and the weather can be cloudier (something to keep in mind if you want to see the Northern Lights, as despite what you might think, it is best to see them in September or April when the weather is clear. Although it is darker in December and January).

On our trip in November, we only had a few hours of daylight to enjoy, but it was perfect! Weirdly, the sun never fully rose but was always low and soft in the sky, creating stunning colours. 

The cold was not too bad either! We had temperatures from 3°c to -15°c, but the wind on the boat made the situation a little worse. The essential is to arrive prepared. 

READ MORE: 10 Best Northern Lights Holiday Tours in Norway

Top Northern Lights Experiences

What to pack & wear for a winter cruise.

As I mentioned earlier, the most important on a winter cruise along the Norwegian fjords is to arrive prepared so you can enjoy your trip without freezing. 

Here are some clothing items and gear you will need to pack to be comfortable on your trip to the Arctic: 

• Boots : You will need waterproof boots with good grip to keep your feet warm and dry during outdoor activities and when exploring the fishing villages. I wore my  Sorel boots , and they were perfect. They are very comfortable, and my feet were never wet or cold.
• Winter thermal socks : Wearing quality socks essential to keeping your feet warm. Mine were  thick thermal socks   that I used for this trip (and skiing in Lapland). They were not highly technical, but they did the job and were comfy.
• Coat : One of the most necessary elements for a winter gateway! Choosing a coat that is right for you and can adapt to the types of activities you want to do is essential. I wore a  Fjällräven Nuuk parka , and once again, it was great. Buying a quality cold-weather jacket is expensive, but you will not regret it (I have owned mine for years, and I even wear it at home in the UK). This coat has kept me warm for all my winter trips.
• Base layers and second layers : These layers are crucial if you want to stay warm. The base layers are usually long-sleeved thermal t-shirts, and the second layers can be thin thermal sweaters or thick jumpers, depending on the temperature and how many layers you want to wear. They do not need to be fancy, but I recommend having several to switch over the week. I bought mine in Decathlon.
• Gloves and hats : Enjoying the cold weather on a boat in Norway without gloves or a hat sounds impossible (especially if you like taking photos)! As you might spend some time on the outside deck, you should not forget to protect your head and hands. I also recommend wearing waterproof gloves for extra protection and a padded hat. Again, I bought mine in Decathlon.
• Scarf : The scarf will depend on your preferences, as many people do not enjoy feeling something around their neck. But because the wind can be strong on the boat, I wore a  Buff . It was one of my favourite items! The one I chose was lightweight, thermal and incredibly useful. Buff products are much easier to wear than long scarves and adapt to your activity level.
• Pants : The type of pants you wear will most likely depend on your activity and your preferences. Most of the time, I wore my jeans with tights underneath. Matt did the same (without pantyhose, aha), but he was always warm enough. However, for some places or activities like dog sledding, having windproof/waterproof pants will be essential.

Here are other items you might want to bring along:

• Gripes/crampons

Shop the editable travel packing list

Prepare for your perfect outdoor adventure and explore responsibly.

How to reduce your eco-impact on a cruise

The answer would be to avoid cruises altogether. Back when I went on this trip, I was unaware of the impact of tourist boats. It was only with time and education that I realised that cruises are environmental dinosaurs. Despite continuous improvements in the industry, most ships still have a large carbon footprint, pollute the sea and contribute directly to over-tourism. 

So what do you do if you care about the environment but are not ready to abandon cruises? Here are some tips:

• Look carefully at the company website and learn more about their work towards sustainability .
• Check out the Friends of the Earth website and their report cards that rank major operators against different environmental criteria.
• Consider a smaller cruise (fewer passengers, less busy destinations) – encouraging you to connect with local communities.
• Pack extra! (reduce waste & bring your own towels, food containers, reusable water bottle, etc).
• Make responsible food choices and eat at local restaurants or markets on land.
• Reduce your single-use plastic consumption and say no to plastic straws, cups and bottles (that is why mindful packing is essential!).
• Be careful with your energy and water usage (unplug your electricals, take shorter showers, reuse towels and bedsheets).
• Invest your money and time in local communities (swap organised tours for independent exploring, or use a local guide).

Let me know in the comments below if you have any other tips 🙂 

Want to know more?

• The Complete Guide to Sustainable Travel
• 10 Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
• Best Ecotourism Activities Around the World
• How to Plan an Epic (Eco-Friendly) Road Trip

Eco-friendly gear you might love:

• 10 Best Sustainable Backpacks for Eco-Travel
• 8 Best Filtered Water Bottles for Travel & Hiking
• 10 Best Reusable & Eco-Friendly Travel Mugs

Check out  this page  for more inspiration on eco-friendly products & gear.

Norway travel planning guide

Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your Norway trip stress-free with one of my favourite providers,  Nomad Insurance .

Yes, tap water is safe to drink all over Norway. However, I recommend travelling with the  UltraPress Purifier Bottle , a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated.

Yes, renting a car in Norway is easy and is a great way to explore the country freely. I recommend booking yours with  Rentalcars.com  – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.

The best way to book your accommodation in Norway is with  Booking.com  – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable to luxury.

I recommend booking your plane with  Skyscanner . It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.

Norwegian Fjords Cruise – FAQ

The best time to cruise the Norwegian Fjords is in June, July and August, when you can enjoy long days without getting too hot, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Absolutely, yes! I saw my first Northern Lights on my cruise along the Norwegian Fjords in November, and it was a night I will never forget. And for the best chance of seeing them, travel in October/November or February/March.

I recommend spending at least 5 days when cruising in the Norwegian Fjords as it will allow you to see its best highlights and enjoy its natural attractions without rushing.

Have you ever experienced a Norwegian Fjords cruise or would you like to try one day?  Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡ Lucie

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What to Pack for a Cruise to the Fjords

• 19 September 2014
• Written by: Jo - Cruise Expert

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The choice of itinerary and activities on board a ship have never been better or more affordable. The huge numbers of people who head on their annual holiday with a cruise have made a wise choice.

Dressing and what to pack is fairly straightforward and many cruise lines have recognised that casual wear in dress now reigns. For those balmy days at sea, it is smart casual, for dinner depending upon the cruise line it can go up a bit. Dress codes on cruise ships are far more relaxed than in the past and dressing for dinner has become more optional.

There is one type of spring, summer and autumn cruise holiday that a little more change to the norm is in order. The cruise with itineraries that head further north for instance to the Norwegian Fjords.

Before you start packing, make a checklist of everything you need to and should bring.

HERE ARE SOME ESSENTIALS YOU WILL WANT TO INCLUDE

1. A waterproof wind jacket helps protect you from any sudden cold winds and rain that are commonplace in Norway. Use it in conjunction with a waterproof hat or a hood.

2. Inclement weather is not unusual and can surprise you at any time. This calls for an excellent pair of closed toed shoes with soles that offer a good grip, especially for walking on the deck. In addition, bring some sturdy walking boots for those trips to hike in the picturesque countryside, in small villages and stepping onto a glacier. An extra pair of socks should always be on you as they will keep your feet dry if they get wet whilst out.

3. A warm jacket or coat should be brought along as the temperatures in Norway can dip especially during May and October. Even in the midst of summer, the higher elevations will decrease the temperatures by several degrees and you will appreciate the warmth. If weight is a concern, go for a fleece or micro fabric that adds the warmth but not the bulk.

4. In a similar manner, pack clothing that can be layered. Hoodies or pullover jumpers are a few examples. It will be appreciated on those cool days or evenings and if the sun is blasting, and the temps rise; they can easily be peeled off for comfort. T-shirts are a must for extra insulation but are light enough to wear alone if the temperature increases during the day.

5. Try to coordinate basic colours that blend and will interchange easily with each other. Have your primary outfit in monochromatic neutrals such as browns, greys and blacks. Then add the layers in the colour you prefer to look sharp.

6. If formality is standard on the ship of your choice, bring along dressier dining outfits. Most cruisers like to take a stroll on deck after dinner. For men, a dinner jacket or a sports jacket will do, whereas for women a thick wrap should suffice.

7. Bring some light plastic sheeting or a large cloth to take when you go on shore to cover your belongings. However, better yet, invest in waterproof carry ons such as handbags and backpacks to store your belongings safely from the elements.

8. You may be lucky with the weather as it can happen in Norway as well. However, the best bet is to do as you do at home and place a small umbrella in your day pack.

9. Just as you should for any holiday away, don’t forget to pack the camera. The beauty of Norway is exceptional and you’ll be snapping away from the moment you step onboard.

10. Finally, make sure to pack blister plasters. Walking can cause them to happen especially when wearing a brand new pair of boots or shoes.

Go ahead and bring those sandals and flip flops on your cruise. Most ships have coverings over their pool areas and are temperature controlled for you to take a dip.

As you can see, packing for a cruise to the Norwegian fjords is not all that different from packing for any other cruise holiday. It just takes a bit of organisation. Remember, if you forget something, there are shops onboard the cruise ship and plenty of stores whilst in port to obtain what you need.

Written by Veronica Shine

You may also be interested in this post: Cruising the Norwegian Fjords

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What To Wear On A Cruise To Norway

Published: December 10, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Maisie Schram

• Travel Destinations
• Travel Guide
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Embarking on a cruise to Norway is an exciting and breathtaking experience. From towering cliffs and rugged fjords to picturesque coastal towns and stunning Northern Lights displays, Norway offers a plethora of natural wonders to explore. As you prepare for your Norwegian adventure, one important aspect to consider is what to wear during your cruise.

Choosing the right clothing for your cruise to Norway is crucial, as the weather can vary greatly depending on the season and the regions you will be visiting. This article will provide you with valuable insights and packing tips to ensure you are well-prepared and comfortable throughout your voyage.

Before diving into specific clothing recommendations, it’s important to understand the weather patterns in Norway. The country experiences a generally cool climate, even during the summer months, due to its northern latitude and proximity to the Arctic Circle. This means that layers and versatile clothing are key to staying comfortable in changing weather conditions.

Throughout most of Norway, temperatures in the summer range from around 50°F (10°C) to 70°F (20°C), with coastal areas tending to be milder. However, it’s important to note that weather can be unpredictable, and sudden changes are not uncommon. In the winter, temperatures can drop significantly, with coastal regions averaging between 20°F (-6°C) and 32°F (0°C).

When packing for your cruise, it’s important to strike a balance between practicality and style. You’ll want to be prepared for outdoor excursions, while also having enough dressier options for evenings onboard the ship.

Weather in Norway

Norway’s weather can be quite diverse and can vary greatly depending on the region and the season. It’s important to have a good understanding of the weather conditions you can expect during your cruise to ensure you pack appropriately.

During the summer months, from June to August, the weather in Norway is generally mild, but it can still be unpredictable. In the southern parts of the country, temperatures typically range from 50°F (10°C) to 70°F (20°C). However, as you venture further north, temperatures tend to be slightly cooler. Along the coast, temperatures can be influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, making them milder compared to inland areas.

While daylight hours are long during the summer, it’s essential to come prepared for possible rain showers. Norway is known for its green landscapes and beautiful fjords, which are a result of the frequent rainfall. Be sure to pack a waterproof jacket or a raincoat to stay dry during your outdoor excursions.

In the winter months, from December to February, temperatures in Norway drop significantly. Coastal areas can experience temperatures ranging from 20°F (-6°C) to 32°F (0°C), while inland regions and the far north can see even colder temperatures. Additionally, snowfall is common during the winter, especially in the mountainous areas.

Whether you’re traveling in the summer or winter, it’s important to be prepared for changing weather conditions. Layering is key so that you can adjust your clothing accordingly and stay comfortable throughout the day. Packing versatile pieces of clothing that you can mix and match will ensure you’re ready for any weather scenario.

Packing Tips

When it comes to packing for your cruise to Norway, it’s important to consider the weather, activities, and dress code onboard the ship. Here are some helpful packing tips to ensure you have everything you need:

• Check the weather forecast: Before you start packing, take a look at the weather forecast for the duration of your cruise. This will give you an idea of the temperatures and any potential rain or snowfall.
• Layering is key: As the weather in Norway can be unpredictable, layering your clothing is essential. This allows you to add or remove layers as needed to stay comfortable. Pack a mix of lightweight base layers, sweaters or fleeces for insulation, and a waterproof jacket.
• Opt for versatile clothing: Choose clothing items that can easily be mixed and matched. This will help you create different outfit combinations without packing excess items. Neutral colors are a good choice as they can be easily paired with other pieces.
• Don’t forget your swimwear: If your cruise itinerary includes stops at Norwegian coastal towns with hot tubs or swimming pools onboard the ship, don’t forget to pack your swimwear.
• Consider the dress code: Check with your cruise line to see if they have any specific dress codes for onboard dining or formal nights. Depending on the cruise, you may need to pack some dressier options such as cocktail dresses or suits.
• Bring comfortable shoes: Norway is known for its stunning landscapes, and you may find yourself exploring natural wonders or taking part in outdoor activities. Pack comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots to ensure you can enjoy these experiences without discomfort.
• Don’t forget the essentials: Remember to pack your essentials, including underwear, socks, and sleepwear. Also, don’t forget accessories like hats, scarves, gloves, and sunglasses, which can come in handy during sunny days or colder temperatures.
• Pack a day bag: A small backpack or tote bag is useful for carrying items like a water bottle, sunscreen, camera, and snacks during your excursions off the ship.

By following these packing tips, you’ll be well-prepared for your cruise to Norway and ready to embrace all the adventures that await you.

Clothing Essentials

When it comes to packing clothing essentials for your cruise to Norway, it’s important to focus on versatile and comfortable pieces. Here are some key clothing items to consider:

• Base layers: Pack lightweight and breathable base layers that can be worn under your clothing to provide warmth. Opt for materials like merino wool or synthetic fabrics that wick away moisture and regulate body temperature.
• Sweaters and fleeces: Bring a few sweaters or fleeces to layer over your base layers for added insulation. These can be easily added or removed depending on the temperature.
• Long-sleeved shirts: Pack a few long-sleeved shirts that can be worn on their own or layered under sweaters. Look for fabrics like cotton or linen for breathability.
• T-shirts and tops: Bring a mix of short-sleeved t-shirts and tops for warmer days or for layering. Choose lightweight and quick-drying materials.
• Pants and trousers: Pack a pair of comfortable jeans or trousers for everyday wear. Additionally, consider bringing a pair of waterproof or water-resistant pants for outdoor activities on rainy days.
• Dresses/skirts (for women): If you prefer dresses or skirts, pack a couple that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. Consider materials that are wrinkle-resistant.
• Jacket/Coat: A waterproof or water-resistant jacket is essential for your trip to Norway. Look for one with a hood and sealed seams to keep you dry in case of rain. For colder months, consider a down jacket or a heavier coat for added warmth.
• Swimwear: Don’t forget to pack your swimwear if your cruise ship has pools, hot tubs, or spa facilities.

Remember to pack enough clothing for the duration of your cruise, as onboard laundry facilities may be limited. It’s always better to have a few extra options to ensure you have enough clean clothes throughout your trip.

By including these essential clothing items, you’ll be well-prepared for the varying weather and activities during your cruise to Norway.

Layering Options

Layering is key when it comes to dressing for the unpredictable weather in Norway. By layering your clothing, you can easily adjust your outfit to stay comfortable no matter the temperature. Here are some layering options to consider:

• Base layers: Start with a lightweight base layer, such as a long-sleeved thermal shirt or leggings made from materials like merino wool or synthetic fabrics. These will provide insulation without adding bulk.
• Mid-layers: Add a mid-layer, such as a sweater or a fleece, over your base layer for extra warmth. These can be easily added or removed depending on the temperature.
• Versatile tops: Pack a mix of short-sleeved and long-sleeved tops that can be worn on their own or layered underneath sweaters or jackets.
• Vest or gilet: A lightweight insulated vest or gilet is a versatile layering piece that provides warmth without restricting movement. It can be worn over a base layer or under a jacket.
• Jacket or coat: The outermost layer is crucial for protecting you from rain, wind, and colder temperatures. Choose a waterproof or water-resistant jacket or coat with a hood to keep you dry during rainy days.
• Accessories: Don’t forget to layer accessories like scarves, gloves, and hats. These can add both warmth and style to your outfit.

When layering, it’s important to consider the fabrics and materials of each layer. Opt for moisture-wicking and breathable fabrics to keep you comfortable throughout the day. Merino wool is an excellent choice for base layers as it regulates body temperature and wicks away moisture, keeping you warm and dry.

Remember, layering allows you to adapt to changing weather conditions. You can easily add or remove layers as needed, ensuring you stay comfortable whether you’re exploring the outdoors or enjoying the amenities onboard your cruise ship.

Footwear Recommendations

Choosing the right footwear for your cruise to Norway is essential, as you’ll likely be doing a fair amount of walking and exploring. Here are some footwear recommendations to keep in mind:

• Hiking boots: If you plan on venturing into nature or participating in outdoor activities like hiking or walking along rugged trails, a sturdy pair of hiking boots is essential. Look for boots with good ankle support and a durable outsole for traction.
• Comfortable walking shoes: For days when you’ll be exploring cities, towns, or more relaxed terrains, a pair of comfortable walking shoes or sneakers is recommended. Choose shoes with good arch support and cushioning for long hours of walking.
• Waterproof shoes: Given the likelihood of rain in Norway, particularly in coastal areas, having a pair of waterproof shoes is a wise investment. Look for shoes with a waterproof membrane to keep your feet dry in wet conditions.
• Slippers or lightweight shoes: Onboard the cruise ship, you may want to have something comfortable to wear in your cabin or around the common areas. A pair of slippers or lightweight shoes can provide that extra bit of relaxation and comfort.
• Flip flops or sandals: If your cruise ship has swimming pools, hot tubs, or spa facilities, don’t forget to pack a pair of flip flops or sandals for easy and convenient use.

Remember to break in your new shoes before your trip to avoid any discomfort or blisters. It’s also a good idea to pack a few pairs of moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet dry and comfortable throughout the day.

Having a variety of footwear options ensures that you’re prepared for any activity or weather condition during your cruise to Norway. Comfort and functionality should be your top priorities when selecting footwear, allowing you to enjoy all the magnificent landscapes and experiences this beautiful country has to offer.

Accessories and Extras

When it comes to packing for your cruise to Norway, accessories can add both style and functionality to your outfits. Here are some essential accessories and extra items to consider bringing along:

• Hats: Pack a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the sun during outdoor activities. For colder months, consider a beanie or a wool hat to keep your head warm.
• Scarves: A lightweight scarf can be a versatile accessory, adding a pop of color to your outfits while also providing extra warmth when needed. Look for scarves made from breathable materials like cotton or silk.
• Gloves: Depending on the season, you may want to pack a pair of gloves to keep your hands warm. Opt for gloves that are touchscreen-compatible, allowing you to use your smartphone or other devices without removing them.
• Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the glare of the sun by bringing a pair of sunglasses. Opt for sunglasses with UV protection to shield your eyes from harmful rays.
• Daypack: A small daypack or backpack is essential for carrying essentials during your excursions off the ship. Look for a lightweight and compact bag with enough room for a water bottle, snacks, camera, sunscreen, and any other items you may need throughout the day.
• Binoculars: Norway is renowned for its stunning landscapes and wildlife. Bringing a pair of binoculars can enhance your experience, allowing you to better appreciate the details of the scenery and wildlife.
• Power adapter: If you’re traveling from outside of Europe, be sure to pack a power adapter to charge your electronic devices. Norway uses the European standard plug type, so an adapter with Type C or Type F sockets will be necessary.
• Reusable water bottle: Staying hydrated is important, especially when exploring new destinations. Pack a reusable water bottle to help reduce waste and ensure you always have access to water during your adventures.

These accessories and extra items will add convenience and style to your cruise experience in Norway. Don’t forget to consider the specific activities and season of your trip when determining which accessories to bring along.

Dress Code on Cruise Ships

When preparing for your cruise to Norway, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the dress code onboard the cruise ship. Different cruise lines and ships may have varying dress code expectations, so it’s advisable to check with your specific cruise provider for their guidelines. Here are some common dress code categories you may encounter:

• Casual attire: During the day, the dress code on most cruises is generally casual. You can wear comfortable, casual clothing such as shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, or casual trousers. Swimwear is usually restricted to pool or deck areas only.
• Smart casual: In the evenings, many cruise ships have a smart casual dress code. This typically includes slacks, skirts, or dresses for women, and collared shirts and trousers for men. Jeans, shorts, and athletic wear are typically not permitted in the main dining areas during dinner.
• Formal attire: Some cruises have formal nights or events where guests are expected to dress up. This usually means cocktail dresses or formal gowns for women, and suits or tuxedos for men. It’s best to inquire about the number of formal nights in advance so that you can plan accordingly.
• Theme nights: Depending on the cruise, there may be theme nights where guests are encouraged to dress according to a specific theme or era. Examples may include a tropical night, 80s disco party, or maritime-inspired attire. Participating in these theme nights can add to the fun and festive atmosphere of the cruise.

It’s worth noting that while dress codes exist, cruise lines are increasingly becoming more relaxed and catering to a variety of preferences. Even on formal nights, there are often alternative dining options available for those who prefer a more casual experience.

Ultimately, the dress code on a cruise ship should be seen as an opportunity to dress up and enhance the overall experience. It’s always beneficial to pack a few dressier clothing options to ensure you are prepared for any formal or themed events should you choose to participate.

As you prepare for your cruise to Norway, carefully considering what to wear is essential to ensure your comfort and enjoyment throughout your voyage. Norway’s weather can be unpredictable, with variations in temperature and potential rain showers, so it’s important to pack clothing that is versatile and suitable for layering.

Key clothing essentials for your Norwegian cruise include base layers, sweaters or fleeces for insulation, and a waterproof jacket to protect against rain and wind. Don’t forget to pack comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots for exploring the beautiful landscapes, as well as swimwear for onboard activities.

Accessories and extras like hats, scarves, gloves, sunglasses, and a daypack can enhance your experience and provide added convenience while exploring the stunning sights of Norway. It’s also worth familiarizing yourself with the dress code of the cruise ship to ensure you have appropriate attire for different occasions such as formal nights or theme parties.

By taking these factors into consideration and following the packing tips provided, you’ll be well-prepared for your cruise to Norway and able to fully immerse yourself in the remarkable beauty and unique experiences that this magical country has to offer.

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Packing for a Norwegian Cruise Holiday

Off the top of my head, I can count over a dozen posts that I’ve written on cruise holidays. Despite that I was confounded when I had to pack for our recent cruise to the Norwegian Fjords . I might have written a detailed guide on  packing for a Mediterranean Cruise Holiday  but those clothes just wouldn’t do for a colder cruise vacation. Our guide on  packing for skiing and winter sports  had too many sensible clothes for a glitzy cruise holiday in Scandinavia. Packing for Scandinavian weather can be quite the conundrum – it’s cold but Scandinavians are terribly fashionable.

My mind was brimming with ideas – faux fur and sequins for evenings on the ship, pastel coats for days out in Norwegian ports, statement loafers for walking around new towns and cities,  and oversized beanies. Suddenly, I had this packing malarkey all figured out. I stuck to these ideas and managed to swim through the week with clothes to spare! Score 🙂

Here’s some of what I packed:

Gold Loafers and Black Court Shoes: New Look

Trench Coat and Fedora:  H&M

Down Jacket: Icewear

Crochet Playsuit: H&M

Maxi Dress: ASOS (similar ASOS Maxi Dress )

Faux Fur Coat: Vintage

I layered oversized smock dresses with pastel coats for excursions in the Norwegian countryside. I added a warm pink beanie to complete the outfit. Of course, I didn’t want to resemble a giant cupcake in my all-pink ensemble.  The rose gold aviators and metallic gold loafers make the outfit edgier.

The metallic loafers stayed on my feet all week. They’re perfect to dress up an outfit while still being comfortable. I walked miles in them, without once feeling the need to change into more sensible shoes. On our day out in the gorgeous town of Alesund, I paired them with a white crochet playsuit, metallic sunglasses, and a black fedora.

Of course, I had to resort to hardcore outwear and comfy sneakers on the days we went climbing glaciers or hiking in the Norwegian Fjords. I never stray from my Icewear down jacket (Scandinavian brands make the BEST outerwear, so pick one up for yourself while you’re there!) which can me toasty in sub-zero temperatures. I love it!

Dressing up for dinners probably constitutes my favourite part of cruise holidays. I find the entire ritual so much fun. I resorted to fail safe black dresses on most nights. My favourite evening dress is this glittery number from ASOS. I paired it with a faux fur jacket and basic black heels for evenings out on the ship’s deck.

Curious about cruises? Read all our articles on Cruises here

Booked a cruise holiday? Read our article on packing for a cruise holiday

Going to Scandinavia? Here’s another  handy packing list

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14 thoughts on “ packing for a norwegian cruise holiday ”.

Lovely post with great packing ideas! It’s very important to know how is the whether of the place you are going to. I like the detailed packing list – I do forget those stuff pretty often. Therefore I think to make a mine packing list with the basic stuff I need for traveling. Greetings

Hey April – I’m exactly the same. Knowing the weather is definitely a pre-requisite to packing well 🙂

Hi Savi and Vid –

Maybe I missed it, but when did you guys visit Norway? I bought an impromptu ticket to Copenhagen for September and am trying to plan out my vacation 🙂 Thanks!

Hey Apurva,

We visited Norway on a cruise in 2015 – it’s mentioned in the first sentence of this article (and the article is also linked)

Hello!! We are planning a trip to Norway next year , any pointers on applying for a Schengen Visa for Norway directly ? Your pictures are all gorgeous and a clear reflection of how much fun you’ll have while traveling! Cheers

Hey Divya – Visa rules keep changing, so it’s best to consult the country’s embassy/Consulate directly. However as a rule of thumb advance bookings of hotels and flights along with address proof and bank statements is sufficient documentation

Hey Guys, Me and my husband are planning a trip to Norway. Any pointers. How many days would be sufficient ?

Hi Niharika,

We went to Norway on a cruise so not sure how many days will be enough if you’re doing a road trip there. Perhaps a week to 10 days?

Hi Savi & Vid!

Love your blog 🙂 wanted to check if this cruise started and ended within Norway? We are looking for Norway exploratory cruises once we reach there – which cruises would you recommend?

Hey Kasturi nope – this one started in UK. Just google for exploratory cruises in Norway – but do read reviews thoroughly before booking 🙂

Heyy! Planning my honeymoon in September, what do y’all suggest Iceland or the Norwegian cruise?? Please help!

Hey very hard to say as it’s personal choice. But if you prefer a relaxing holiday, then the Norwegian cruise is better as Iceland can get quite hectic with all the moving around!

Also, if it’s Norwegian cruise that starts from Tromso and ends in in the south Norway, any packing tips for September?

Hey the packing list remains the same as the weather tends to veer b/w summer heat and cold grey days in September – it’s very unpredictable, so pack everything listed above 🙂

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Norwegian Fjords Cruises

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Experience Norway’s spectacular fjords with Norwegian Cruise Line.

On your cruise to Norway, explore a fairytale landscape of cascading waterfalls, lush forests and rugged mountains that seemingly slide into the sea. From fly fishing and kayaking to hiking and more, this country truly is an outdoor playground with a diverse lineup of activities. Tour picturesque villages, including Geiranger , and vibrant cities like Olso where you can dive into Viking history, savour local cuisine and enjoy a glimpse of local culture set against a spectacular natural backdrop - all on one unforgettable cruise holiday.

About NORWEGIAN FJORDS CRUISES

Unpack Once and Experience the Best of Norway

Enjoy front-row seats to incredible vistas whilst cruising Norway's dramatic fjords. Serene waters, rugged cliffs rising from the sea and unlimited outdoor adventures await your discovery. View Europe's largest mainland glacier in Jostedalsbreen National Park, located outside Måløy. Enjoy a boating tour of Hardangerfjord - one of the world's longest fjords - and hike through lush forests to towering waterfalls.

Cruise from Bangkok , Hong Kong or Singapore and immerse yourself in the natural beauty, dramatic history and rich cultures of Southeast Asia on a once-in-a-lifetime vacation. In Phuket , visit historic Buddhist temples or splash the day away on some of Thailand’s most spectacular beaches. At the Samui Elephant Sanctuary on the island of Ko Samui , learn about these incredible animals during close-up encounters. Explore traditional kampung  (villages) in Langkawi or journey inland and hike among waterfalls and hot springs.

Dive Deeper into the Country's History and Culture

Famous for its stunning art nouveau architecture, Ålesund stretches across seven islands and is surrounded by natural beauty. Tour the city's historical churches and unique architecture or reel in a grand adventure in what is considered Norway's fishing capital. Then in Oslo, explore the city's historic roots with a visit to the Viking Ships Museum which includes three well-preserved Viking-era burial ships.

Enjoy front-row seats to incredible vistas while cruising Norway’s dramatic fjords. Serene waters, rugged cliffs rising from the sea, and unlimited outdoor adventures await your discovery. View Europe’s largest mainland glacier in Jostedalsbreen National Park, located outside Måløy. Enjoy a boating tour of Hardangerfjord — one of the world’s longest fjords — and hike through lush forests to towering waterfalls.

Remarkable Port Cities Cruises to Norwegian Fjords

Kristiansand, Norway

Geiranger, Norway

Bergen, Norway

Oslo, Norway

Delightful shore excursions on norwegian fjords cruises.

Discover More of Norway with a Shore Excursion

Uncover the awe-inspiring natural beauty of Norway's fjords or journey into the region's dramatic past whilst exploring Viking history on a shore excursion with Norwegian.

Uncover Hidden Gems On A Norwegian Fjords Cruise

Alesund, Norway

Cruise to Alesund, one of Norway's most beautiful towns, renowned for its Jugend-style architecture and art nouveau style.

Bruges, Belgium

The ultimate European city, Brussels has tonnes of museums, fountains, gardens and great shopping.

Cruise to Norwegian Fjords FROM COPENHAGEN

Before embarking on your fjords cruise, experience all Copenhagen has to offer. With 250 miles of bike lanes, the city is ideal for touring and riding alongside its peaceful canals. Stroll along one of Europe's longest pedestrian-only shopping avenues, Strøget. Then visit some of Copenhagen’s historic sites including the 17th century Rosenborg Castle.

We’ve revamped everything from the carpets to the chandeliers and created brand new places and spaces in one of our most extensive ship renovation yet. Unwind in luxury and enjoy the breathtaking views from your spacious balcony in the new, exquisitely finished Haven Deluxe Owner’s Suites. The brand-new Pit Stop, a 1950’s American bar, takes you back to the era when classic cars sported chrome finishes. And dance the night away at Bliss Ultra Lounge, the newest hot spot on the club scene. Come aboard the newly polished Norwegian Jewel and see what makes her shine.

We’ve revamped everything from the carpets to the chandeliers and created brand new places and spaces in one of our most extensive ship renovations yet. Unwind in luxury and enjoy the breathtaking views from your spacious balcony in the new, magnificently refinished staterooms. Savor every bite at six new restaurants, including the addition of our fine Italian outlet, Onda by Scarpetta. And dance the night away at Bliss Ultra Lounge, the newest hot spot on the club scene. Come aboard the exquisitely updated Norwegian Spirit, completely reimagined from the outside in.

Explore Our Norwegian Fjords CRUISE ITINERARIES

12 Themed Cruises You Should Have On Your Radar In 2024

T aking a cruise is an experience unlike anything else. Days at sea on a ship full of entertainment and relaxation make for a fantastic vacation. But what if you want even more from your cruise? A theme might be what's missing. In addition to all the usual cruise experiences, themed cruises allow fans of a particular artist, lifestyle, hobby (or even animal), to celebrate their passion on the high seas with activities, events, surprises, and sometimes special guests.

There are dozens of themed cruises on offer each year, usually hosted by major cruise lines like Norwegian , Carnival, and Royal Caribbean. But don't let their numbers fool you. According to  Business Insider , themed cruises are rapidly climbing in popularity, and some trips are selling out in record time. That means it's important to find your dream-themed cruise and reserve your tickets as early as possible.

Fortunately, even if they're sold out, most themed cruises will let you join a waiting list, so there's still hope! Here are 12 themed cruises that will set sail in 2024 and are well worth boarding, either now or the next time they hit the high seas.

Read more: Under-The-Radar Beaches You Need To Visit In The Caribbean

The Emo's Not Dead Cruise

If you truly know it's not a phase, the Emo's Not Dead Cruise is perfect for you. Gather with fellow emo fans for four days (and nights) of concerts, activities, and even a private party at Great Stirrup Kay in the Bahamas. Over a dozen bands will perform, including Yellowcard, Senses Fail, and Armor for Sleep. Alongside themed activities like a masquerade ball, cruisegoers can also enjoy surprisingly cheerful activities like a bellyflop competition in the ship's pool.

The first Emo's Not Dead cruise was in 2022. Cruisegoer and emo fan TheReelChris shared highlights on  YouTube , calling it "EPIC." Fans in the comments section agree, with Schecterplayer92 adding, "This was one of the best experiences of my life." With a killer lineup and entertaining activities scheduled, it seems like Emo's Not Dead 2024 will also be a rad experience. The cruise will be hosted on the Norwegian Pearl, leaving from Miami on February 26 and returning on March 1, 2024. But what would an emo-related cruise be without a little sadness? Unfortunately, the cruise is already sold out. If you're interested, you can  sign up for the waiting list  and hope.

Meow Meow Cruise

Some of us know that no matter how great a vacation might be, cats would make it even better. Meow Meow Cruise has solved that problem. While guests unfortunately aren't allowed to bring their own furry friends aboard Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady, the four-day cruise will give them their feline fix in plenty of other ways. 

Activities include cat-themed trivia and a scavenger hunt. But the best part may be communing with fellow cat people (many of whom stroll around the ship wearing cat ears). You'll also be able to mingle with real cats -- one of 2024's ports of call is Key West, where you'll find the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum and its community of about 60 friendly polydactyl kitties, many of them descended from one of the author's own pets.

It's hard to find reviews for Meow Meow Cruise, but the fact that this themed cruise has been going on annually since 2015 speaks for itself. The 2024 Meow Meow Cruise sets sail from Miami on February 21, with a return date of February 25. Tickets are still available, but to be sure you don't miss out, consider booking right now.

In My Cruise Era

Sure, cruises are great — and cruising is a multi-billion dollar industry — but is anything more popular than Taylor Swift? For those who can't imagine anyone saying "no" to that question, there's no better cruise than In My Cruise Era. While not officially affiliated with Taylor Swift, this themed cruise is a passionate fan homage. Swifties will be able to dress up in their favorite Taylor-inspired looks, exchange friendship bracelets, perform their idol's songs during karaoke sessions, and more. We're also guessing there will be of lots impromptu song breaks throughout the ship from Taylor's extensive catalog.

Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas will host this cruise, which sets sail from Miami on October 21, 2024 -- which, as People Magazine points out, is one day after the Eras Tour will be in the city. Fans lucky enough to attend the concert can continue their Taylor euphoria for four more days on the high seas. Since this is a new themed cruise, there aren't any reviews, but based on the positive fan vibes from Eras Tour concerts and movie viewings, among other events, we're guessing it's going to be a great time for Swifties. Swifties must agree, since the cruise is already sold out. Cancellations do happen, though, so hopeful fans can join the waiting list.  Contact the cruise's organizers to sign up.

Disney's Halloween On The High Seas

Go on just about any cruise-related blog or website and you'll see that Disney Cruise Line's Halloween-themed cruise, officially called Halloween on the High Seas, is a popular favorite. As you probably expect from Disney, this themed cruise is perfect for a family vacation , so it's not too scary. The cruise is hosted on multiple Disney Cruise Line ships, and each one is decorated with the care and attention to detail you'll find in most Disney-related enterprises. The Pumpkin Tree is the highlight of the decor, with pumpkins that eventually appear on its branches and transform into lit and unlit jack o'lanterns.

Halloween on the High Seas also features Halloween activities (including a trick-or-treating night) and exclusive Halloween-themed desserts. Disney cruises in general are known for their opportunities to meet the studio's beloved characters, and during the Halloween on the High Seas cruises, some of those characters are in costume. Notably, Disney Cruise Line's official site tells us, Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck, and Clarabelle Cow will be dressed as the Sanderson Sisters -- who wouldn't want to see that? 

This magical mixture of whimsy, fun, and exclusive opportunities is the perfect way to cast a spell on Disney fans of all ages. Luckily, Halloween on the High Seas is held during a number of different times in September and October, so you and your family should be able to find a place on board!

The Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise

Sure, Hallmark Channel Christmas movies might be a little on the cheesy side, but let's be honest: lots of us dream of being in one in real life. You can get a little of the real-life Hallmark movie experience by visiting some of the movies' filming locations , but now there's a way to have an even more immersive experience: The Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise.

Passengers will get to meet Hallmark Channel movie stars, attend panels and photo ops, and get to see a new Hallmark Christmas movie before its world premiere. Maybe best of all, passengers can take part in lots of Hallmark Christmas movie-inspired activities, including tree lighting and cookie decorating -- all while wearing their favorite ugly Christmas sweaters.

2024 is the first year of the Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise. It was originally intended to be just one cruise, but a second one was added after the first one sold out. As of now, two Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruises are scheduled for 2024. Both go from Miami to the Bahamas and back and last four days in November. ... And both are sold out. But Christmas is a time of miracles, so if a Hallmark Channel Christmas experience on the high seas sounds like your dream come true, sign up for the waiting list as soon as you can!

Hurtigruten Northern Lights Cruises

Themed cruises are often about fandoms and hobbies. But Norway-based cruise line Hurtigruten offers a themed cruise that's about something even bigger: the Northern Lights . There are several Northern Lights-themed cruises out there, including some luxurious options by Cunard. Unfortunately, the Northern Lights aren't always visible, but Hurtigruten stands out by offering a Northern Lights Promise for cruises scheduled between September 26 and March 31 and lasting longer than 11 days. If the Northern Lights aren't visible during your cruise, they'll give you another one. So if you're serious about seeing the Aurora Borealis, this is the company to choose.

The Northern Lights are the focus of Hurtigruten's eponymous cruises, but there are also other things to do on board, including scientific lectures and photography lessons. There are excursions, too -- notably a dog sledding option. Passengers who've taken one of Hurtigruten's cruises unanimously praise the stunning fjords and landscapes you can admire from the ship and during excursions, not to mention their experiences of seeing the Northern Lights. Some warn that the ships aren't as luxurious or modern as many other cruise ships, primarily because Hurtigruten's ships are also functional vessels intended to transport and deliver mail to various points on the Norwegian coast. Still,  Cruise Critic reviewers like cmolaison praise the friendly crew, the surprising level of comfort, and the "stunning vistas" you'll see, saying he and his family "highly recommend" taking a Hurtigruten cruise.

Cruise & Crop Crafting Cruises

If the perfect vacation for you is a combination of R&R and crafting, you're in luck! There are several crafting-themed cruises. One of the most popular is organized by Cruise & Crop, with ships around the world hosting different crafting- and arts-themed trips. This makes them the most accessible themed cruises on our list, with different price ranges, departure points, itineraries, and ports of call. One thing all crafting cruises have in common, though, is groups of like-minded people exploring their creativity amid the other joys of cruising.

For instance, one of Crop & Cruise's 2024 offerings is a Mexican Riviera cruise aboard Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas, featuring scrapbooking and other papercraft classes taught by artist Barb Warne. The ship departs from Los Angeles on April 19, returning April 26. Many Cruise & Crop cruises sell out quickly, so if this idea has sparked both your wanderlust and your creativity, be sure to check their list of 2024 cruises and reserve as soon as you can.

Star Trek: The Cruise

For seven days and nights every year, thousands of Star Trek fans gather to be a part of a fandom extravaganza at sea. Star Trek: The Cruise is an experience that features celebrities aboard (2024's guests include LeVar Burton and Wil Wheaton, among many others), costume and cosplay events, and lots of fun activities. 

But what makes Star Trek: The Cruise truly unique is that audience participation is very much encouraged. Passengers and celebrity guests are all considered the crew of one great, big, intergalactic vessel. Passengers get to interact with the guest stars in events like karaoke battles, and stars share parts of their earthly lives with Q&A sessions and even glimpses at other projects they may be involved in.

The first Star Trek: The Cruise was held in 2017 and since then it's been a fan favorite. Star Wars and cruising aficionado Aaron Bossig writes on  Trek Movie.com that many fans go on the cruise every year, and proudly wear t-shirts from the previous ones. He calls Star Trek: The Cruise "an extra special convention experience." 2024's edition will be held on the Mariner of the Seas, departing from Cape Canaveral, Florida, on February 22 and returning on February 29.

Literature Festival At Sea

Once a year, aboard the legendary Queen Mary 2, passengers can mingle with writers, poets, journalists, and critics in a full-blown literary festival in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Literature Festival at Sea invites writers in all genres to host round table discussions, participate in Q&As revolving around their work and areas of expertise, host workshops, and converse with passengers.

Whether passengers want to participate as much as possible or just attend a few events, the Festival seems to be an excellent addition to a typical Queen Mary 2 voyage. On TripAdvisor , passenger Artemis C writes of her experience at a previous Literature Festival at Sea that "the whole week was a joy". 

2024's lineup features crime novelists, journalists, historians, and more, for what's sure to be a fascinating week of discussion and discovery. If you'd like to combine an elegant transatlantic cruise and a literary experience, 2024's Literature Festival at Sea will take place from November 13-20, departing from Southampton, U.K., and arriving in New York. Cunard has also launched an Australian Literature Festival at Sea, scheduled from December 11-16, 2024, on the Queen Elizabeth, which departs from and returns to Sydney. 

Chefs Making Waves

Many cruise lines are proud of their food offerings. Some cruises feature dishes created by world-famous chefs, and others even host food and wine festivals. But no culinary cruise event seems quite as, well, fun, as Chefs Making Waves. This culinary-themed cruise will set sail for the first time in 2024. Onboard will be a number of beloved celebrity chefs, including Anne Burrell and the Cake Boss himself, Buddy Valastro. Cooking demos and, of course, food tastings of all kinds (including sit-down meals, desserts, and street food) are on the menu. Best of all, Chefs Making Waves is an all-inclusive cruise, so everyone can eat and drink without having to pay extra!

There will be all of the usual cruise-related fun, from swimming to excursions, to help you work up an appetite. There will also be unique games, with some of the chefs participating in events like bingo and a celebrity chef sing-off. If this sounds like an awesome cruise, you're not the only one who feels that way. Chefs Making Waves will take place from March 25-29, departing from Miami with excursions in Great Stirrup Cay and Nassau, Bahamas ... and it's already sold out. But you can still  sign up for the waiting list . With a little luck, you'll be able to enjoy this delicious, themed cruise experience.

Soul Train Cruise

Imagine a festival with a lineup featuring some of the best soul and R&B acts of all time. Now imagine it's on a relaxing cruise ship. This dream is actually reality -- it's called the Soul Train Cruise. The popular themed cruise will be celebrating its 11th year in 2024 and the lineup is on fire. Dozens of groups and artists will perform, including The Temptations, Boyz II Men, and En Vogue. Passengers can also learn how to dance like people did back in the old school days of Soul Train's TV show, with lessons from some of the show's actual dancers. There will also be wine tastings, Q&A's, comedy shows, and a lot more.

With all of this on offer, it's no surprise that the Soul Train Cruise is sold out. But sign up on the waiting list and keep your calendar free from January 27-February 3, and you may get lucky. If you do, the cruise leaves from Fort Lauderdale, with ports of call in Tortola (British Virgin Islands) and St. Maarten.

The Gothic Cruise

The Gothic Cruise is an annual event held on an ordinary cruise ship. Goths mingle with "norms" but have their own private events on board, mostly DJ sets and concerts. There's also a masquerade ball, with Goths decked out in their finest Victorian-style garb ... as long as it meets ship safety requirements, that is. The cruise's website specifies that simulated weapons aren't allowed and notes that hoop skirts are fine for the ball but not in the ship's dining areas, "due to the close proximity of the tables". And yet, the Goth community thrives on these cruises -- and even gains norm fans along the way. 

In a Porthole Magazine article about the Gothic Cruise, longtime attendee Spike Pittman says that many mainstream passengers are wary of the Goths at first, "But by the end they're begging to get into our private events." Some even book their future cruises to coincide with the Gothic Cruise, even if they don't plan on attending every event. 

The Gothic Cruise has been held since 1989. Cruising doesn't seem very Goth, but in the end, the article points out, it comes down to what all themed cruises offer: a sense of community (in this case, one that often stays up all night and sleeps during the day). If this moves your little black heart, the 2024 Gothic Cruise will be held on the Norwegian Escape (but book through the Gothic Cruise's website for private event access), departing from Orlando on March 2, and returning March 9.

Read the original article on Explore .