Boat and Ferry

Taking a ferry isn't only fun, it's often necessary in Norway, as they remain an important means of transportation along the west coast. More specialized boat service includes hydrofoil (catamaran) trips between Stavanger, Haugesund, and Bergen. There are also fjord cruises out of these cities and others in the north. Fjord1 and Norled are the main ferry companies.

Norway's most renowned boat service is Hurtigruten, which literally means "Rapid Route." Also known as the Coastal Express, the boat departs from Bergen and stops at 34 ports along the coast in six days, ending with Kirkenes, near the Russian border, before turning back. Tickets can be purchased for the entire journey or for individual legs.

Ferry Contacts

Norled. 51–86–87–00; www.norled.no.

Fjord1. 57–75–70–00; www.fjord1.no.

Ruteinformasjonen (Route information). Call for timetables and fares for your area [except Svalbard]. www.ruteinfo.no.