Last Updated on February 20, 2026
Like most people, our main reason for visiting Norway was to experience some of the best Norwegian fjords. One of the top ways to do that is on the Flåm to Gudvangen ferry!
This 2-hour fjord cruise between Flåm and Gudvangen takes you through the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord, gliding past towering cliffs, remote villages, and waterfalls that plunge straight into the water.
While we were blown away by the beauty, there are a few things you’ll want to know before boarding. We detail everything you need to plan your trip below – including ferry operators, ticket prices, and our 9 best planning tips.
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Who Runs the Ferry – and What It Costs
Two main operators run the Flåm Gudvangen ferry route:
The Fjords offers modern, fully electric vessels designed with quiet engines and panoramic viewing decks. This is the one we took and we were happy with the smooth, silent ride.
- It runs year-round.
- Adult tickets start at NOK 595 one-way (~ $58 US) or NOK 960 round trip (~ $94 US) during peak season.
- Children pay less and under 4 are free.
- Book at Norway’s Best.
Lustrabaatane operates a more traditional ferry. This option is cheaper and less crowded, but the older style ferry is louder and has less-than-optimal viewing areas.
- It runs seasonally from April through October.
- Adult tickets start at NOK 520 one-way (~ $51 US) or NOK 780 round trip (~ $77 US) during peak season.
- Just like The Fjords vessel, children pay less and under 4 are free
- Book at Lustrabaatane.
9 Tips for an Unforgettable Flåm Fjord Cruise
While many people just book a ticket and hop on board one of the ferries, there are some things to think about first in order to have the best experience. Number 4 below can’t be overstated – but they’re all important and will elevate your fjord cruise.
- Book early. During summer, ferries often sell out days in advance. Buy tickets online as soon as your travel dates are set. Tickets on both The Fjords and Lustrabaatane are fully refundable if you cancel at least 48 hours before departure, so there’s no risk in booking early.
- Pick the right ferry for you. We loved the silent, electric vessels from The Fjords with their outstanding viewing areas. They cost a bit more, but if you’re looking for the best Norwegian fjords experience, it’s worth it.
- Get outside. While the views from inside are impressive, the Nærøyfjord truly comes alive once you step out onto the decks where you’re surrounded by cliffs and waterfalls in every direction. The electric ferries are especially well-designed for outdoor viewing because of their sleek, unique design and multiple viewing platforms.
- Dress for the weather. Even in summer, fjord weather can be chilly, windy, or damp. Dress in layers and bring a waterproof jacket, hat, gloves, and sunglasses (for water glare). On our fjord cruise in May, we even wore long underwear and water-resistant hiking shoes, since the temperature felt like it dropped 20 degrees once we set sail. Wearing layers kept us comfortable so we could spend the entire two hours out on the viewing decks.
- Choose your direction wisely. The scenery is stunning in either direction, so you’ll want to pick the direction that best matches your onward travel plans (e.g. toward Bergen or Oslo). Many people take this ferry as part of the popular “Norway in a Nutshell” route between Bergen and Oslo. (Read this article for 9 important Norway in a Nutshell tips!)
- Arrive early. There are no assigned seats, so arrive 30-45 minutes before departure for the best deck or window spots.
- Bring snacks. Onboard cafés are limited and pricey. Pack food, drinks, and even a thermos of coffee to enjoy along the way.
- Watch the weather and be flexible if possible. Flåm averages 240 rainy or snowy days a year, so expect overcast skies. The fjords are breathtaking in any weather, but if you have the chance to swap tickets for a sunny time of day, do it. We kept an eye on the weather and were able to exchange our tickets two days in advance at no additional cost in order to get a sunny, blue sky morning departure. (Watch our short Fjords video here!)
- Combine with Other Attractions. Don’t rush through Flåm. Stay at least half a day – or better yet overnight – to enjoy highlights like the Flåm Railway, Stegastein viewpoint, and several hiking trails. We loved taking the Flåm Railway up to Myrdal and hiking back down to Blomheller station before catching the train back to Flåm.
The Flåm to Gudvangen Ferry: A Scenic Highlight
The Flåm Gudvangen ferry was easily the most scenic highlight from our trip to Norway. Towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and storybook villages make this journey unforgettable and one of the best Norway fjords experiences.
Plan ahead, dress for the elements, and slow down enough to savor the magic of the Norwegian fjords – this truly is a highlight of any Norway fjords itinerary.
Have you taken the Flåm Gudvangen ferry? What did you think? Any tips to share? Leave us a comment. We’d love to hear from you!
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