Discover the stunning natural beauty of Norway’s fjords and glaciers on the Guided Fjord & Glacier Tour from Balestrand to Fjærland. This captivating 4.5-hour adventure combines a serene boat cruise and an up-close encounter with the awe-inspiring Bøyabreen Glacier. Explore the region’s rich history and learn about the dramatic impact of climate change as you trek across the ice with knowledgeable guides. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable experience, this tour promises to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Key Points
- A 4.5-hour guided tour from Balestrand to Fjærland, including a boat cruise through Fjærlandsfjord, a visit to the Norwegian Glacier Museum, and a trip to Bøyabreen Glacier.
- The tour is wheelchair accessible and provides live guides in English and Norwegian, with a rating of 4.7/5 from 12 reviews.
- The itinerary includes a 1.5-hour boat cruise to Fjærland, followed by a bus transfer to the Norwegian Glacier Museum and Bøyabreen Glacier.
- The onboard experience offers meals, snacks, and beverages, with scenic views of steep mountainsides and the Jostedalen Glacier.
- The glacier exploration allows visitors to experience the majesty and fragility of the natural wonders, including touching ancient ice and learning about glacier formation and climate change.
Tour Overview
This guided Fjord & Glacier Tour from Balestrand to Fjærland offers a comprehensive 4.5-hour experience showcasing the region’s stunning natural beauty.
Priced from $137.25 per person, the tour includes a boat cruise through the Fjærlandsfjord, a visit to the interactive Norwegian Glacier Museum, and a trip to the impressive Bøyabreen Glacier.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and live guides are available in English and Norwegian. Travelers can enjoy meals, snacks, and beverages during the scenic cruise.
This guided tour is wheelchair accessible, with live guides available in English and Norwegian. Travelers can enjoy meals, snacks, and beverages during the scenic cruise.
With a 4.7/5 rating from 12 reviews, this tour is recommended for those seeking a memorable day trip from Balestrand.
Looking for more options in Balestrand? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary
The tour begins with a 12:10 departure from Balestrand by boat, allowing passengers to cruise through the stunning Fjærlandsfjord.
After a 1.5-hour journey, the group arrives in Fjærland at 13:25. They then take a bus transfer to the Norwegian Glacier Museum, an interactive family-friendly attraction that focuses on glaciers and climate.
At 14:25, the group departs the museum by bus and heads to Bøyabreen Glacier, a branch of the massive Jostedalsbreen Glacier. Following a 45-minute visit, they return to the Fjærland pier at 15:25 and depart by boat, arriving back in Balestrand at 16:45.
Cruise Experience
Passengers can enjoy a delightful onboard experience as they cruise through the stunning Fjærlandsfjord.
Passengers can savor a variety of dinner options, snacks, and beverages while taking in the breathtaking views of the steep mountainsides and the majestic Jostedalen Glacier.
The boat’s interior provides a comfortable setting for passengers to relax and appreciate the scenic landscape.
The guided tour ensures an informative and engaging journey, with the knowledgeable guide sharing insights about the region’s history, geology, and natural wonders.
The cruise offers a memorable and immersive way to explore the captivating fjord and glacier environment.
Glacier Exploration
After disembarking the boat, passengers can explore the magnificent Bøyabreen Glacier, a prominent branch of the larger Jostedalsbreen Glacier.
Trekking across the ice field, they’ll marvel at the glacier’s stunning blue hues and serrated edges. A knowledgeable guide provides insights into the glacier’s formation and the impacts of climate change.
Visitors can touch the ancient ice and learn about its crucial role in the local ecosystem. The glacier’s sheer size and power leave a lasting impression, reminding all of the majesty and fragility of these natural wonders.
This hands-on experience caps off the memorable fjord and glacier tour.
More Great Tours NearbyNorwegian Glacier Museum
Following their exploration of the Bøyabreen Glacier, passengers board a bus for the short transfer to the Norwegian Glacier Museum.
This interactive family-friendly museum focuses on glaciers and climate. Visitors can explore exhibits that explain the science behind glaciers, their formation, and their changing role in the environment.
An interactive museum exploring the science and changing role of glaciers in the environment.
Interactive displays allow guests to touch glacier ice and learn about the effects of climate change. The museum also features a panoramic cinema, offering an immersive experience.
After their museum visit, travelers reboard the bus, ready to continue their journey back to Balestrand.
Scenic Views
What makes the scenic views on this tour so captivating? The cruise through the Fjærlandsfjord offers breathtaking panoramas of steep mountainsides and the majestic Jostedalen Glacier. Towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and lush green valleys create a dramatic landscape that leaves a lasting impression. As the boat glides across the fjord, passengers can revel in the serene beauty of the surroundings.
| Scenic Feature | Description | Notable Characteristics |
| — | — | — |
| Fjærlandsfjord | Narrow, glacier-carved fjord | Steep, rugged cliffs line the waterway |
| Jostedalen Glacier | Largest glacier in mainland Europe | Vast, imposing expanse of ice and snow |
| Mountainsides | Steep, snow-capped peaks | Dramatic, awe-inspiring vistas |
| Waterfalls | Cascading streams and rivers | Add a sense of power and movement |
| Green Valleys | Lush, verdant landscapes | Provide a serene, picturesque contrast |
| Overall Scenery | Varied, breathtaking panoramas | Create a truly memorable experience |
Customer Feedback
Twelve customer reviews for the Guided Fjord & Glacier Tour to Fjærland rate the overall experience an impressive 4.7 out of 5 stars.
Travelers praised the stunning fjord scenery and majestic Jostedalen Glacier. The knowledgeable guide received positive feedback for providing informative commentary throughout the tour.
Customers also enjoyed the interactive exhibits at the Norwegian Glacier Museum. A few noted the tour’s family-friendly nature and recommended it for those seeking a memorable day trip from Balestrand.
Practical Information
The tour departs from Balestrand at 12:10 and arrives in Fjærland around 13:25, where you will then transfer by bus to the Norwegian Glacier Museum.
At 14:25, the group departs the museum by bus to visit Bøyabreen Glacier, a branch of the Jostedalsbreen Glacier.
After an hour at the glacier, the tour returns to the Fjærland pier, departing by boat back to Balestrand around 15:30 and arriving at 16:45.
The wheelchair-accessible tour is led by live guides in English and Norwegian, with the option to enjoy on-board refreshments during the scenic fjord cruise.
Common Questions
Is There a Minimum Group Size for the Tour?
The tour does not have a minimum group size. Individuals are welcome to join the tour, which is conducted with a live guide available in English and Norwegian.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
Yes, passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the boat. The tour allows travelers to enjoy their own snacks and beverages while taking in the scenic fjord and glacier views during the cruise.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children Under 5 Years Old?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for children under 5 years old. However, parents should consider the long duration and activities, and ensure their young children’s comfort and safety throughout the excursion.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Glacier Visit?
You don’t need any special equipment for the glacier visit. The tour provider will provide necessary gear like warm jackets and boots. Just wear comfortable, warm clothing and sturdy shoes to fully enjoy the glacier experience.
How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Limited Mobility?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for individuals with limited mobility. The guided boat ride and bus transfers allow easy access to the Norwegian Glacier Museum and Bøyabreen Glacier, ensuring an inclusive and memorable experience.
The Sum Up
The Guided Fjord & Glacier Tour from Balestrand to Fjærland offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in Norway’s breathtaking natural beauty. From the serene boat cruise through the Fjærlandsfjord to the awe-inspiring exploration of the Bøyabreen Glacier, this tour provides an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. With knowledgeable guides and accessible facilities, it’s a must-do for anyone seeking to create lasting memories in the heart of Norway’s magnificent fjords.
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