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Cruising through the Norwegian fjords is a dream for many travelers, and it’s easy to see why. Beautiful scenery, and charming villages create a stunning backdrop that feels almost otherworldly.

A Norway cruise offers a unique combination of natural beauty, peaceful surroundings, and rich Scandinavian culture. However, as spectacular as this journey can be, there are a few things that may catch you off guard if you are not fully prepared.

When we planned our cruise to Norway, I did plenty of research. I looked into the ports, checked the weather forecasts, and packed what I believed would be just right. Despite all the preparation, there were still several things that took me by surprise.

From the changing weather conditions and higher-than-expected prices to cultural nuances and the challenge of sleeping during the midnight sun, this cruise experience was unlike any other.

In this post, I share everything I wish I had known before we set sail. If you are planning your first cruise to Norway or already have your trip booked, these tips will help you make the most of your time, avoid common mistakes, and enjoy every moment of this unforgettable adventure.

10 Things You Need to Know Before Cruising to Norway

1. Be Ready for Unpredictable Weather

Our cruise was in late June, so I assumed the weather would be comfortably warm. I had packed for cooler conditions, but right before we left, the forecast changed.

It turned out some ports were going to be much warmer than expected. Luckily, I added a couple of sundresses and my husband tossed in an extra pair of shorts at the last minute.

The takeaway? Norwegian weather can be unpredictable. You will want to pack layers, including warm sweaters and a light rain jacket with a lining to keep the dampness out.

However, it’s a good idea to also bring a few lighter items just in case the sun comes out in full force.

2. Do Not Worry About Bringing Norwegian Krone

Before the cruise, I debated whether to bring Norwegian currency. Since I was not sure when I would return to Norway, I decided against it. I am glad I did. Credit cards were widely accepted, even for small purchases, and our cruise director confirmed this before we disembarked.

If you do want to tip, know that it is not required, but appreciated. We tipped a tour guide in euros, which worked perfectly fine.

3. Norway Is Not Like Alaska

Many people assume Norway is similar to Alaska, especially with the dramatic landscapes and fjords. While the scenery can be comparable, the experiences are quite different.

In Norway, we saw almost no wildlife. The focus is much more on natural beauty, hiking, and exploring local villages rather than wildlife encounters or adventure excursions.

Related: Alaska VS Norway Cruise: Similarities, Differences & Unexpected Surprises

4. Prepare to Walk

Norwegians are generally very active and the shore excursions reflect that. Hiking, kayaking, and walking up steep hills or long staircases are common.

While there are some less physically demanding tours, many excursions require a reasonable level of fitness. Be sure to check excursion descriptions closely and know your limits.

We learned this firsthand in Eidfjord, when we booked a kayaking excursion that sounded like a peaceful way to enjoy the scenery. The views were absolutely breathtaking.

Paddling across calm, glass-like water surrounded by mountains and waterfalls felt like something out of a postcard. However, we were not prepared for the challenge of paddling upstream.

It turned into a much more intense workout than we expected, and our arms were sore for days afterward. It was still a highlight of the trip, but definitely more physically demanding than anticipated.

If you are considering an active excursion, take time to assess your energy level and physical ability. Norway is a place where outdoor activities can truly enhance the experience, but choosing something more relaxed can be just as rewarding depending on the day.

5. You Do Not Need to Book an Excursion in Every Port

This was a pleasant surprise. In several ports, we simply got off the ship and explored the town on foot. Many fellow cruisers did the same and enjoyed walking through villages, visiting local cafes, or finding small trails to hike.

Not every port requires a paid tour, and sometimes wandering on your own makes for the best experience.

That said, some excursions are worth every penny. For instance, our sea kayaking excursion Eidfjord, was an incredible memory and one of the highlights of our trip. Others on our cruise raved about a “Waterfalls and Waffles” tour. The key is to research each port and plan accordingly.

6. Norway Is More Expensive Than You Might Expect

Norway has a higher cost of living than many countries, including other parts of Europe. We started our trip in Amsterdam, which already felt a bit pricey. Norway took it to another level.

If you are on a budget, this is something to keep in mind. Bringing a credit card helped, since it allowed us to track expenses easily.

7. Expect Cultural Differences

One thing we noticed a few days into our cruise was how quiet Norway is. Even in cities like Kristiansand, people spoke softly.

In the villages, you could hear the streams and the rustling of leaves. It felt peaceful and calm, but very different from most places we have visited in North America and Europe.

8. You Probably Will Not See the Northern Lights

A common question I get is whether we saw the Northern Lights. The answer is no. If you are cruising Norway in the summer, it is unlikely you will see them. The best chances to view the Northern Lights are during the winter months, typically from November through March.

There is also some possibility of seeing them in September or October, depending on the weather and location. If seeing the Northern Lights is a priority, be sure to plan your cruise during the appropriate season and check itineraries that travel far enough north to increase your chances.

9. Bring Binoculars for the Best Views

Norway’s fjords are all about the views, and while they are stunning from your balcony or the top deck, a good pair of binoculars can take the experience to the next level. From spotting distant waterfalls cascading down cliff faces to catching a glimpse of small villages tucked into the hillsides, binoculars help you appreciate the details you might otherwise miss.

Many cruisers wish they had brought a pair once they realize how much there is to see along the way.

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10. Do Not Underestimate the Midnight Sun

This was the biggest surprise for me. I had heard of the midnight sun, but experiencing it was something else. At midnight, it looked like it was the middle of the afternoon. While it was beautiful, it completely threw off my sleep schedule.

We had a balcony cabin, which was amazing for enjoying the fjords at all hours of the day. However, I like sleeping with the curtains open to wake up with natural light.

In Norway, that meant sleeping with daylight streaming in all night long. I regret not packing a sleep mask, and it is now at the top of my packing list for any future northern cruise.

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Do you have a Norway cruise planned this summer? Please let me know in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

Ilana

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