Yacht Charter Guide: Norway 

Breathtaking after breathtaking landscapes that stretch out for miles, more wildlife than yachts spotted, and mirror-like waters, welcome to a yacht charter in Norway. The Scandinavian country is for those who are looking for incredible yachting destinations in Europe, but worlds away from the traditional hotspots of the Mediterranean.

The waters in Norway go from some of the deepest and UNESCO-listed fjords in the world, surrounded by towering mountains, to the Arctic Ocean, full of unique, polar landscapes. When cruising the bold scenery and unspoiled wilderness, you will find yourself off the beaten track with not only plenty of photographic opportunities, but also for adventure. 

A yacht charter in Norway is a ticket to the extraordinary. Onboard, the tranquility of cruising the waterways will provide plenty of relaxation and endless chances to spot wildlife and partake in fishing. Take the tenders and kayaks to explore hidden spots further. And, when you step ashore, you can enjoy world-class hiking and cycling, visit fairytale villages, and go in search of dramatic waterfalls and more wildlife encounters.  

What to Consider

When choosing to charter in Norway, there are considerations that will shape your experience. While you can visit year-round, with seasonal advantages, it will depend on which platform you charter. 

Cruising here in the summer months, from June to August, is popular thanks to the ‘midnight sun’, where daylight hours extend into the evening, allowing for more time to take in the landscapes and engage in activities. Norway is also an option for December through February, typically for those more adventurous itineraries, looking to pair a yacht charter with heli-skiing, and a chance for spotting the northern lights. 

For those looking to extend a Norwegian itinerary out of the fjords and up to the Arctic Circle, they should consider doing so via an explorer yacht. While all yachts can technically navigate this region,  especially throughout the winter months, an ice-class hull and an equipped explorer yacht are typically recommended to enhance comfort and safety. 

There are also varying permits and regulations to consider. From 2026, Norway will implement a zero-emission requirement for ferries, which may impact yacht charters in the future. For more information on logistics and regulations for a Norway yacht charter, discuss with your broker. 

Where to Go

With a vast area to cruise, and each area as awe-inspiring as the next, Norway has many itinerary options. The most southern area to cruise is the lower western fjords between Stavanger and Bergen. Many yachts also begin in Bergen,  the city that is otherwise known for facilitating entry into the fjords, or continue north from here. The UNESCO-listed and colourful wharf of Bergen is well worth a visit, take the funicular up for city views, and be sure to stroll the fish market before heading into the fjords. 

Hardangerfjord is typically a yacht’s first introduction into the scenic fjords, where you can head ashore for beautiful hikes and anchor in quiet coves. Next up is the longest and deepest fjord in Norway, Sognesfjord. Here you can take the tender into the narrower  Fjaerlandsfjord, visit the famous town of Flam known for its steep railway line, and visit Baelstrand village, an artists’ haven and gateway for more hiking and cycling. 

Hailed as the most beautiful fjord, the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord, cruising here is a truly unique experience where you can also search out the famous waterfalls: Seven Sisters, The Suitor, and The Bridal Veil. At the foot of this fjord is Alesund, an Art Nouveau town that was completely rebuilt after a fire in 1904. Here, there is an awe-inspiring viewpoint to gain yet another perspective of the scenery. 

Further north and off the mainland’s west coast is the Lofoten Islands, this arctic archipelago is full of untamed, dramatic wild landscapes, idyllic bays, and postcard-perfect fishing villages such as Reine. Known as the world’s northernmost spot for surfing, a range of activities can be added to an itinerary, including fishing, hiking, exploring, and skiing, depending on the time of year. 

Continuing north, you will reach the arctic and modern city of Tromso, offering yet more wilderness adventures. Onwards to Svalbard, this polar bear hangout in the Arctic is an isolated archipelago full of wildlife opportunities and more adventures in the higher latitudes.

What to Do

If marvelling at Norway’s scenic and impressive scenery when cruising throughout the fjords and narrow inlets isn’t enough, there is still plenty to keep you occupied. While underway, photograph the landscapes, spot wildlife, and truly embrace the stillness and peace of the anchorages. 

Once anchored, take the tenders and toys out for a spin to explore hidden coves. The undisturbed waters are the perfect place to enjoy paddling, kayaking, or paddleboarding around the anchorages. Another activity from the yacht in Norway is deep-sea fishing, particularly south of Bergen, where the village of Bekkjarvik is a great starting point to learn about sustainable deep-sea fishing practices from experts on board. The Lofoten islands are another prime fishing destination. 

Meanwhile, ashore, there are endless ways and means to enjoy the landscape. Firstly, getting all points of view of the scenery is recommended, from the water’s edge, from two feet on the landscape, and up in the air. Depending on the yacht, helicopter tours can be arranged to depart and return to the yacht itself or at a convenient spot ashore. Flying above the fjords gives you a bird’s-eye view and a close-up look at the mountainous landscapes and glaciers. 

To explore the glaciers, you can also take a guided ice climbing excursion, depending on fitness and adrenaline levels. Or, for lighter hiking, there are countless trails to experience. The bucket list hikes, such as the iconic Trolltunga and Pulpit Rock, are standout options, but with various trails to try out, you will never be short of a hike or two on a yacht charter itinerary in Norway. Back onboard, soothe your muscles in the onboard Jacuzzi, or try a traditional Norwegian sauna ashore. 

Stepping ashore isn’t just for exercise and elevated viewpoints; there are plenty of opportunities in an itinerary to visit some of Norway’s villages and towns. Villages like Rosendal, home to Scandinavia’s smallest castle, are in the heart of Hardangerfjord. Or larger cities such as the picturesque Bergen and the more modern Alseund with its signature architectural style. The Lofoten archipelago is home to a selection of small yet characterful villages, such as the dramatic scenery of Reine and Nusfjord, known for its rich fishing heritage. 

Cruising the fjords and arctic regions offers incredible opportunities for nature spotting. Whether out on a hike, kayaking, or just looking out from the deck, you will no doubt come across various species. The fjords are ideal for whale watching, especially in the winter months off Tromso, and the Lofoten Islands offer a chance to swim with orcas. While above a range of sea birds will be circling alongside seals, reindeer, and others. In Svalbard, there are chances to encounter walrus colonies, seals, and polar bears. 

What to Eat

The Norwegian landscapes provide a combination of flavourful ingredients, and the land and sea typically inspire menus, drawing on locally available ingredients, from the famous wild king crab to foraged vegetables. Eating alfresco is an indulgent experience, pairing locally caught fresh fish with the dramatic backdrops. 

While you may feel away from the crowds, there are still a range of dining options to consider ashore. One of those is the standout, the Michelin-starred restaurant Iris. Opened in 2023, it is located in Hardangerfjord, within the ‘Salmon Eye’ – an experience centre for sustainable seafood production. Accessed by boat, you can enjoy the 18-course innovative menu full of foraged and local produce. 

Another unique experience, and a Michelin star, is at Under, the underwater restaurant in Lindesnes. Half-submerged, this spot gives you a dining experience under the sea with a panoramic view. The seasonal tasting menu, unsurprisingly, features lots of seafood. For more seafood, one of Norway’s best is Cornelisu on Holmen Island south of Bergen, a perfect place for a seafood lunch. There are also many restaurants where you can experience a fully authentic experience, like at Anita Seafood in Reine, a restaurant showcasing the best of the Lofoten Island culinary traditions. For more fine dining, Alesund hosts Bro, where you can indulge in Nordic classics served with a twist.  

Wild, Untamed Beauty 

Cruising through UNESCO-listed fjords to exploring Arctic archipelagos, Norway is a truly unique yacht charter destination. On a yacht charter itinerary to Norway, you can encounter wildlife, head ashore for endless activities and an exceptional dining scene, while returning to the peaceful isolation of the fjords either under the midnight sun or with a chance to spot the magic northern lights. Norway has plenty on offer for those who want to experience the fjords or continue the journey up to the Arctic Circle, offering further adventures and wilderness.