Norwegian Fjords Cruise: What is a 'cruise-by'?

George and Dan

3 min read

Norway’s fjords are legendary for their jaw-dropping beauty, and cruising through them is an absolute must for any travel enthusiast. These natural wonders form the backbone of many cruise itineraries, offering passengers the chance to sit back, relax, and soak up the scenery during what’s known as “cruise-bys.” Think of it as a slow-motion postcard – the ship glides through serene waters while you’re wrapped in a blanket with a warm drink (or perhaps a cheeky cocktail). Let’s dive into six of the most iconic fjords often included on these itineraries.

Innvikfjorden

Calm lake reflecting mountains under a cloudy sky; green hills and scattered houses in the distance. Serene and peaceful atmosphere.

Innvikfjorden is like the opening act to a breathtaking symphony of nature. It’s a branch of the larger Nordfjord and is famed for its gentle charm. As the cruise ship slows down here, you’ll notice lush green hills that seem to tumble straight into the water, dotted with picture-perfect farms and quaint Norwegian villages. The reflections on the still waters are mesmerising, so make sure your camera is handy – this is a place that demands to be Instagrammed. The peaceful vibe here sets the tone for the fjord-filled days ahead.

Nordfjord

Aerial view of a fjord at sunrise, mountains with snow, green valley, and sun rays casting a warm glow over the landscape. Calm and serene.

If Innvikfjorden is the warm-up, Nordfjord is the headliner. Stretching over 100 kilometres, it’s one of Norway’s longest fjords, and you’ll feel its grandeur as your ship meanders along its dramatic curves. Towering cliffs and snow-capped peaks dominate the landscape, with the occasional glacier peeking out as if to remind you just how ancient this place is. It’s also home to some charming towns, like Olden, which often act as gateways for excursions. But even if you don’t disembark, Nordfjord is more than enough of a feast for the eyes from the deck.

Aurlandsfjord

Snowy mountains surround a calm blue fjord under a partly cloudy sky. The right foreground features green pine trees. Serene and majestic.

Now this one’s a real gem. Aurlandsfjord is a tributary of the Sognefjord, and it’s pure Norwegian magic. Smaller and more intimate than some of its counterparts, Aurlandsfjord is where you really feel the weight of the towering cliffs pressing in. At its heart is the idyllic village of Flåm, a popular stop for its famous railway. But during a cruise-by, you can simply gaze at the dramatic scenery and enjoy the sheer quietness of the fjord. Keep an eye out for seals sunbathing on the rocks – they love this area almost as much as we do.

Sognefjord

Majestic fjord under a blue sky with scattered clouds. Steep cliffs and calm water create a serene and awe-inspiring landscape.

The “King of the Fjords,” Sognefjord is the longest and deepest fjord in Norway, and it definitely knows how to make an impression. At over 200 kilometres long, it’s the big daddy of fjords, cutting a path from the coast deep into the heart of Norway. The sheer scale of it is mind-boggling, with cliffs that seem to scrape the sky and endless layers of green forests. Your ship might feel like a toy boat in comparison! There’s a reason this fjord is a highlight of so many itineraries – it’s pure, unfiltered nature at its most magnificent.

Sunnylvsfjorden

Verdant mountains surround a calm fjord under a cloudy sky. A small waterfall cascades down the hill. © Cruise Escapes in the corner.

Sunnylvsfjorden often feels like the gateway to Geirangerfjord, but it’s a showstopper in its own right. It’s narrower and more dramatic than some of the larger fjords, which makes cruising through it feel almost like an adventure movie. Waterfalls tumble down cliffs in delicate ribbons, and the rugged scenery feels untouched and timeless. This fjord also boasts one of the most iconic sights in Norwegian cruising: the Seven Sisters Waterfall. Make sure to grab a spot on deck when the ship slows down here – it’s the kind of view you’ll remember forever.

Storfjorden

Mountainous landscape with lush green hills by calm water under a cloudy sky. A serene and tranquil scene. Text: "Cruise Escapes."

Finally, we have Storfjorden, the “big fjord” that certainly lives up to its name. It branches off into smaller fjords, including Sunnylvsfjorden and the famous Geirangerfjord, making it a hub of natural wonder. The calm waters and surrounding mountains create a tranquil yet imposing atmosphere that’s perfect for a slow cruise-by. Storfjorden is a fitting grand finale, with scenery that embodies everything people love about Norwegian fjords: majestic, peaceful, and utterly unforgettable.

Cruising through Norway’s fjords is the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. These “cruise-bys” give you front-row seats to some of the most spectacular natural wonders in the world – all without leaving the comfort of your ship. Whether it’s the serene charm of Innvikfjorden, the grandeur of Nordfjord, or the epic scale of Sognefjord, each fjord offers something unique. So, grab a hot drink, head to the deck, and let Norway’s incredible landscapes work their magic on you.