LYSEFJORD Sightseeing

Ready, set, go! The adventure starts in the heart of Vågen in the central Stavanger city harbor. Here, you'll be greeted by our experienced crew who will ensure you're fully equipped for the journey ahead. Each passenger will receive a life jacket and specialized flotation suit, designed for comfort and safety on the open water. Our crew will provide a comprehensive safety briefing, covering essential rules and guidelines to guarantee your wellbeing during the tour. Once everyone is ready, and all questions are answered, it's time to board the RIB and set off on an unforgettable journey towards the majestic fjord.

On your way out of the harbor, you will pass by Stavanger from the seaside, a true picture of Norwegian history. The speed starts out gentle, allowing you to take in a full view of the vibrant life on the waterfront.

Experience the hustle and bustle of one of the energy capitals of the world, where fishing boats and yachts moor side by side, and quaint 19th century cottages are reflected in the glass facades of cutting-edge shopping centers.

Make sure to catch a glimpse of both the Norwegian Petroleum Museum and the Norwegian Canning Museum to see the seeds of industry that enabled the city to grow into what stands before you today.

Embark on your adventure to Lysefjorden as you move into the open waters and leave the city astern. Equipped with two four-stroke engines of 300 horsepower propelling you forward, you’ll skim across the surface at up to 40 knots, zooming past islets, reefs, and mountains. Close your eyes and focus on the ocean breeze piercing your face or keep them peeled to absorb all the magnificent sights around you. As you race along, you'll see other boats navigating these pristine waters, cozy seaside cabins nestled along the shore, and some sizeable salmon farms. These farms, dotting the coastline, offer a unique insight into the local aquaculture and are a testament to Norway's commitment to sustainable fishing practices.

Your destination is now close at hand. As you get ready to enter a land of natural marvels, a man made one greets your arrival. The majesty of the Lysefjord Bridge should not be overlooked as you pass under it. Known locally as Lysefjordbrua, it’s a suspension bridge that spans the fjord, it connects the municipalities of Strand and Sandnes, serving as a critical link in the region. Constructed between 1995 and 1997, the bridge is a substantial structure stretching 639 meters in length, with 50 meters of height in clearance to accommodate the ferry services that operate in the region. The height of the supporting towers, which are made of reinforced concrete, reach 102 meters.

In recognition of its aesthetic and functional design, the Lysefjord Bridge was awarded the Beautiful Roads Award in 1999 by the Directorate of Roads (Vegdirektoratet) in Norway. This accolade underscores the bridge's importance not only as a transportation route but also as a landmark that enhances the scenic beauty of its surroundings.

The Lysefjord, extending an impressive 42 kilometers in length, with waters up to a depth of 456 meters, is a marvel of natural beauty nestled in the heart of Norway. The fjord, carved by glaciers during the last Ice Age, showcases a dramatic landscape where steep mountains, adorned with lush emerald green forests and cascading waterfalls, rise sharply from pristine waters. The fjord's name, meaning "light fjord," is derived from the light-colored granite rocks along its sides.

World renowned natural formations draw thousands to the fjord every year, including Pulpit Rock, a flat topped 604 meter tall cliff offering breathtaking views, and Kjeragbolten, a large stone wedged solidly in a mountain crevasse 976 meters above the seafloor. Manmade wonders grace the fjord as well, most famously the 4444 Flørli steps, which is the longest wooden staircase in the world.

As you venture through its narrow corridor, you’ll be on the lookout for the bustling wildlife that inhabits the region. On a good day it will be possible to spot seals, porpoises, sea eagles, and more. Then, as you stare furthest into the depths of the fjord, you’ll be spellbound by the blue haze that often lingers on its horizon. This mesmerizing phenomenon, created by the scattering of sunrays, further enchants the fjord and adds to its mystical allure.

Vagabond Cave, known in Norwegian as ‘Fantahålå’, is a deep hidden recess in the fjord’s mountainside. But this landmark isn't just a natural marvel - it also holds a wealth of historical significance. Your Captain will tell you the story of this deep cave, illuminating its history as a secluded shelter for vagabonds and wanderers in the 19th century who sought to evade the watchful gaze of the authorities and avoid paying their taxes, reportedly spending months at a time holed up in there together. As the legend goes, whenever the Taxman got too close, the dwellers of the cave repelled them by pelting them with rocks.

If you want to truly experience the grandeur of Pulpit Rock, known in Norwegian as 'Preikestolen', there's no better way to do it than from the sea. Our tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to behold this natural wonder from the most awe-inspiring perspective possible. Rising 604 meters above the crystal-clear waters of the fjord, you’ll be amazed by the sheer size and scale of this towering cliff face.

But it's not just the size of Pulpit Rock that makes it so magnificent. From the sea, you'll also be able to see the intricate details of the cliff, including its distinctive angular layers of rock that date back to its formation in the last ice age, 10 000 years ago, when a glacier broke off parts of the mountainside.

From its discovery and treacherous first ascent by Thomas Peter Randulf over a hundred years ago, to its descent by one Henry Cavill by way of Tom Cruise in Mission Impossible: Fallout; from daring climbers who scaled its precipice to Nepalese Sherpas who tamed the trail and made the summit accessible to all, our captain will lead you on a voyage through time of the rock’s special place in Norwegian history and culture.

As we approach Hengjanefossen, you'll feel the power of nature in all its glory. This waterfall, also known as ‘Whisky Falls’, stands 75m tall and is unique in that it's not a single, uniform cascade. Instead, it's a complex system of streams and falls that weave together to create a truly mesmerizing sight. As the water pours down the cliff face, it creates a mist that shrouds the mountainside in an ethereal haze. Your captain will take you right up to the base of the falls, giving you a perspective few people ever get to experience. You can even grab a drink if you're up for it, the runoff is crystal clear, though sadly not as potent as the nickname may suggest. This playful moniker actually harks back to a bygone era, a nod to a moonshine distillery that once operated in its vicinity, run by a German fellow named Heinrich Mohr.