Sognefjord, known as the “King of the Fjords”, is one of the most stunning sights you can hope to encounter from the deck of your cruise ship and a must-visit destination for those sailing on a Norwegian Fjords cruise. It’s a majestic landscape made all the more special by Fred. Olsen’s smaller, intimate ships.

We are proud of our Norwegian heritage, and if you are planning a fjord cruise or researching the treasures of Norway, this guide is for you. Discover the highlights of Sognefjord and all you need to know, including historic villages, local cuisine, and outdoor experiences.

Read on for the inspiration you need and book your cruise holiday with Fred. Olsen.

Sognefjord is the longest and deepest fjord in Norway and is regarded by many as one of the most beautiful areas in the world.

Located in Western Norway, the fjord stretches 127 miles inland from the coast just north of Bergen into spectacular mountainous terrain. At its deepest point, Sognefjord reaches a maximum depth of up to 4,291 ft (1,308 metres) below sea level, with the deepest sections near Høyanger.

Surrounding Sognefjord is a wonderland of cascading waterfalls, ancient glaciers, and picturesque fjord villages, and this, combined with the dramatic contrast between sea and summit, is what makes it so special. The fjord is a gateway to some of Norway’s most breathtaking scenery, and it is this beauty, combined with its accessibility, that makes it the perfect destination for a cruise.

Lucy, a travel writer who is the founder of the On The Luce travel blog, has visited Sognefjord, and she loved her time there: “The Sognefjord comes with a whole lot of superlatives and even more expectations, but it doesn’t disappoint. We already had a sneak preview of its stunning scenery when we arrived at the fjordside village of Flåm, but to explore it properly, you need to get out on the water.”

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The natural beauty of Sognefjord is what steals the headlines, but it is also home to a collection of charming towns and villages. From historic landmarks to panoramic viewpoints, these communities along the banks of Sognefjord offer a fascinating glimpse into how the locals live.

Flåm is a popular stop on our Norwegian Fjord cruises, a picturesque village famous for its Flåmsbana Railway, one of the world's steepest railway lines. The train winds through narrow valleys and past cascading waterfalls, which are just some of the reasons why it is regarded as one of the best train rides in the world.

At the end of the fjord lies the idyllic village of Skjolden, surrounded by high mountains with spectacular waterfalls and the Jotunheimen, Breheimen and Jostedalen National Parks. The village is often used as a gateway to explore the Jotunheimen National Park, home to Norway’s highest peaks, and it is included in some of our itineraries.

Megan, from the travel blog Traverse, loved visiting Skjolden when she was in Sognefjord: “The backdrop to the village is truly breathtaking, especially when you approach from the water. Several stylish homes dangle over the aquamarine water, making for an impressive arrival. Take a scenic drive to the Jotunheimen National Park, an outdoor enthusiast's paradise.”

Among the must-see sights is the Urnes Stave Church – Norway’s oldest stave church and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Stegastein Viewpoint near Aurland, which offers stunning views high above the fjord. The cascading Kjosfossen waterfall is another incredible sight that cannot be missed.

Fred. Olsen’s smaller ships have a significant advantage, as we can dock closer to smaller ports than larger cruise ships, providing a more immersive experience.

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Sognefjord offers unmissable opportunities and unforgettable experiences. Fred. Olsen’s guests enjoy privileged access to Sognefjord’s narrow waterways, including Lustrafjord and even a special diversion along Eresfjord. These experiences help reveal hidden corners of Norway's iconic landscape that larger vessels cannot reach.

As your ship navigates the glacier-carved channels of Sognefjord, the experience from the water is nothing short of breathtaking. Towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and tranquil green valleys unfold around every bend. Sailing this route gives guests a front-row seat to natural wonders, such as the Feigumfossen Waterfall and the striking Urnes Stave Church. Exploring by water offers a perfect vantage point to admire these landmarks from the comfort of the deck, surrounded by the stillness of the fjord.

But the adventure doesn’t have to end at the water’s edge. Carefully crafted shore experiences provide an opportunity to become immersed in Norway’s great outdoors – what Norwegians call friluftsliv, or “open-air living.” From Skjolden at the head of the fjord, you can venture further inland to the Jotunheimen Mountains or the Jostedalsbreen Glacier. Guided hikes, beautiful train journeys like the Rauma Railway, and high-mountain ascents via the Loen Skylift provide chances to experience the majestic beauty of the region on foot or by land.

So, whether you're gliding through serene waters or setting off on a land-based adventure, Fred. Olsen offers the flexibility to explore Sognefjord from both perspectives.

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The weather in Sognefjord, Norway, is characterised by long days in the summer and cold, snow-capped peaks in spring and autumn. Sognefjord experiences a temperate oceanic climate with significant seasonal variation due to its geography.

The best time to visit: The Norwegian Fjords, including Sognefjord, is a multi-season destination, with cruises available all year round. Spring, summer and autumn are often considered the best seasons for visiting Sognefjord, but it depends on the experience you desire.

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Itching to experience this beautiful part of the fjords for yourself? Take advantage of our latest cruise offers and sail Sognefjord in the season that suits you best.

READ MORE: Why you Should Cruise Norway in the Winter

A cruise through Sognefjord is not only a feast for the eyes, but it also offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's rich culture and culinary delights. This part of Norway offers you a tapestry of authentic experiences, and food lovers will delight in the cuisine found in the area.

Sognefjord and its surrounding areas are well-known for their locally pressed apple cider, smoked fish, lamb dishes, and hearty stews. The restaurants and cafes around the fjord source their food from the fields and waters around them, so you can enjoy a truly local taste when you are eating here.

If you are looking to explore the local culture, the iconic Urnes Stave Church can be viewed from the deck of our cruise ship. You will also find smaller museums throughout the region that showcase the art, traditions and rural life of the area.

Onboard Fred. Olsen’s cruises bring some of these local traditions even closer to you, as you can enjoy tasting sessions, expert talks, or go foraging with a local guide.

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Sognefjord is known as ‘King of the Fjords’ and with its cascading waterfalls, ancient glaciers, and picturesque villages, it is rightly regarded as one of the most beautiful places on earth.

Embarking on a fjord cruise in Norway on our smaller ships enhances your experience, as you can access areas of the fjord that larger vessels cannot reach.

To secure your place on one of our cruises to the Norwegian fjords, book with us today!