Into Norway’s Majestic Fjords with PONANT and Smithsonian Journeys

Norway’s magnificence is embodied in its fjords. Cruising inland along these breathtaking waterways, it’s easy to understand the Norwegians’ pride in their nation’s soul-stirring beauty. We’ve combined an exploration of these epic landscapes with the stunning highlights of select Scottish Isles such as the Shetlands and Orkneys on our Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords Voyage. And we’ve invited Smithsonian Journeys Experts to share their in-depth knowledge with travelers.

In a word, Norway’s deep-cut fjords will leave you astonished. Carved by glaciers over millennia, the massive network of narrow inlets lined with towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush greenery tells rich stories of a geological and human past. In all, Norway’s fjord system is among the most extensive on earth. But for their sheer, jaw-dropping vistas and otherworldly splendor, we think you’ll find – as we have – that Sognefjord and Nordfjord take center stage. We’ve invited Smithsonian Journeys Experts to give an onboard lecture series, bringing additional texture and context to this inspiring corner of Scandinavia.

The Grandeur of Sognefjord

You might imagine that Norway’s fjords are carved into the country’s far northern reaches. But Sognefjord opens into the sea just 75 miles north of Bergen. Here, unspoiled islands and tiny villages nestled between serene mountains and water point our luxury small ship on an inland trajectory toward spectacular vistas.

Sognefjord reaches 127 miles into the heart of Norway’s rugged, soaring heart. The longest and deepest, locals celebrate it as the King of the Fjords. Its steep cliffs are cloaked in vibrant greenery and topped with snow-capped peaks that rise as tall as 5,500 feet while its waters are as deep as 4,200 feet. Imagine: From their underwater depths to their sky-piercing peaks, that means the colossal mountains dwarfing your ship boast a total height of up to 9,700 feet! The King of the Fjords, indeed.

Sognefjord is one of the most diverse fjords in Norway. Green parkland, mirror-like lakes, thunderous waterfalls, and towering white glaciers mark your passage. A dozen smaller fjords feed into it, creating a complex, maze-like ecosystem of waterways that are home to seals, dolphins, whales, and more than 100 bird species. A huge variety of terrain and microclimates – from ocean to inland and from sea level to mountain peak – nurture countless natural environments and types of vegetation.

From Sognefjord, you’ll cruise into the stunning vistas of Aurlandsfjord. Its ravine-like setting dwarfs our ship and mesmerizes even the worldliest traveler. You’ll follow its waters to its end, where the charming village of Flåm greets you. The hamlet’s name loosely translates from Old Norse into “a plain between steep mountains.” With its dramatic and soaring backdrop, you’ll quickly see how it earned its moniker. During your visit, you’ll experience its pastoral ambiance for yourself, strolling among its brightly colored houses.

The Enchantment of Nordfjord

At 66 miles, Nordfjord is the sixth longest in Norway. Its mouth from the Norwegian Sea lies another 75 miles or so north of Sognefjord, between the rugged islands of Bremanger and Vågsøy. More stunning panoramas surround you here: dramatic mountains dusted with snow, rocky coastlines, lush valleys, breathtaking waterfalls, and cozy little settlements that thrive largely in isolation. The fjord widens into a vibrant expanse, surrounded by lush farmland and quaint waterside villages, providing a striking contrast to the sheer cliffs that characterize much of the region. At its easternmost end – our destination – lies the Jostedalsbreen Glacier, Europe’s largest mainland glacier and source of much of the fjord’s waters.

The gateway to visit the glacier is the small village of Olden, nestled at the mouth of the river Oldeelva. This enchanting hamlet provides a pristine snapshot of serene waters, majestic peaks, and old town charm. While here, take advantage of an enlightening visit to the Briksdal glacier, part of Jostedalsbreen National Park. This remarkable ice flow is emblematic of climate change’s impact. Alternately, take a thrilling Skylift from the adjacent village of Loen to the top of Mt. Hoven.

Experience It All with PONANT and Smithsonian Journeys

Our exploration into Norway’s majestic waterways during our Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords Voyage is more than just a cruise. It’s an opportunity to deeply connect with nature, culture, and some of the most extraordinary beauty in the world. With PONANT and Smithsonian Journeys, you’ll discover not only the majestic Sognefjord and Nordfjord. You’ll fall in love with the heart and soul of Norway itself.

We hope you’ll join us in 2025 or 2026. Learn more about this remarkable journey and choose your preferred departure date here. Please visit each voyage’s webpage for details, as itineraries are subject to change.

PONANT is also collaborating with Smithsonian Journeys on our Cruising the Norwegian Fjords voyage. Want to explore further? Go deeper into history, nature, and culture with our PONANT and Smithsonian Journeys worldwide. Click below to learn more.