bergen boat tours

Bergen's top rated excursion

Experience scenic fjords & waterfalls, 4 hours round-trip cruise, free cancellation & lowest price guarantee.

Join us on this 4-hour fjord cruise from Bergen to the scenic Osterfjord and Mostraumen Channel. On board the high speed catamaran you will experience the magnificent landscape in Bergen's nearby fjords and the Nordhordland region. This round-trip cruise is available daily from Dreggekaien Pier in the city centre all year. 

When sailing out from Bergen's inner harbor you will have a great view to some of the oldest and most relevant historical sites in the city, including the medieval fortress Bergenhus, St Mary's Church and the colorful Bryggen Hanseatic Wharf, which is on UNESCO’s World Heritage list.

From there, we sail through beautiful Western-Norwegian scenery in the Cityfjord, Salhusfjord and Osterfjord towards the dramatic Mostraumen Channel. The captain safely steers the boat through narrow sounds, a maze of islands, deep fjords and beautiful waterfalls. 

Departure times

2024                    

January - March                 

Monday to Sunday            10.00AM

April                                      

Monday to Thursday         10.00AM

Friday to Sunday                10.00AM     02.30PM

May - August

Monday to Sunday            10.00AM     02.30PM

October - December              

Monday to Sunday             10.00AM

Duration: 4 hours

Departure point: Dreggekaien Pier

Departure point map

Ticket prices         

Adults 18+ years                   NOK   790               

Children 4 - 17 years            NOK   395               

Infants 0 - 3 years                   FREE                        

PRIVATE FJORD CRUISES FROM BERGEN

Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes of Norway through our personalized, private fjord cruise experiences. Our goal is to create unforgettable adventures, and we’re dedicated to ensuring your time with us is the absolute best it can be. These are the cruises where enduring memories are created.

SEE ALL OF OUR CRUISES

A yacht for your private fjord cruise in bergen & the fjords.

When you cruise with us, the yacht is entirely yours.

The most popular private fjord cruise from Bergen is to Modalen, through the beautiful Mostraumen. Here you’ll encounter spectacular views, and have the option to explore the local village. If you prefer to cruise the Hardangerfjord, we’ll pick you up at your hotel in Bergen with our VIP-car, and transfer you to the yacht.

Our cruises visit villages, waterfalls, and experience the stunning natural scenery. Fishing opportunities are available as well. We offer combined yacht and VIP-car tours to destinations like the Folgefonna glacier and nearby waterfalls as well. You can personalize your tour to your liking, with stops for lunch or dinner at one of the many great, fjord-side restaurants. Along the way, choose from a palette of attractions like the historic Baroniet in Rosendal (Est. 1665), the majestic Folgefonna glacier, and numerous enchanting fjord waterfalls.

The fjord experience – we create memories

Book our yacht for a few hours or several days, and design your adventure. Choose from pre-tailored tours or work with us to create a custom cruise featuring fjord exploration, waterfall visits, fishing, and convenient transportation.

Our boat, «M/Y Iselina Bella,» offers comfort with a salon, lounge, and cabins for up to 12 passengers, cruising at 6-22 knots. Refreshments are included, and you can order lunch at one of the great, local restaurants. Count on our local captains for expert guidance and a warm welcome. Get ready for an exceptional private fjord cruise experience!

What our clients say about us

To best witness in supreme style and comfort the magical and mysteriously dramatic scenery of the fjords, I recommend unreservedly Captain Svein and See the Fjords, an enterprise described as a “private custom fjord-cruise”. Svein is a charming and highly competent captain.

Of course, the best way to experience the fjords is by boat and nobody out there is offering a better way to do this than ‘See the Fjords’ and their Fjord experience. Yes, this is a luxury experience, but you won’t forget it and it could very well be the most memorable part of your experience here.

This was one of our favorite days in Norway! The yacht is beautiful, and the captain was friendly and made us feel completely comfortable and safe the entire time. Since the trip is private, you’re really able to do what you want at the speed you want. We enjoyed a leisurely day on the water and the fjords were absolutely beautiful!

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5 BEST Fjord Cruises from Bergen, Norway [A Local’s Guide]

Psst! Some links in my posts may be affiliate links, which means that I get paid a fee if you chose to purchase something through it. This doesn't cost you anything, but makes a huge difference for me! Thanks for your support!

As the “gateway to the fjords”, there are many fjord cruises from Bergen to choose from . It can be a little overwhelming knowing which one is the right fit for you. But I’m here to help!

I have lived in Bergen for more than 7 years now, and grew up just a few hours from here (right by the fjords). As a result, I’m the perfect person to share the best fjord cruises leaving from Bergen!

In the past I have covered some of the great tours and excursions in Bergen , but the ones on this list are focused on just the fjords.

There are a few fjords within easy reach near Bergen, such as the Hardangerfjord, the Sognefjord (with its arms) and Osterfjorden. Some of these are amongst the best fjords in Norway , in my opinion.

Table of Contents

Quick Bergen Travel Guide

Where to stay : Hotel Norge is a centrally located, higher-end hotel that is perfect for any traveler – and my favorite (their scrambled eggs at breakfast are the best in Norway). If you are looking for something in the historic city center, Clarion Havnekontoret is just a stone’s throw from the UNESCO-listed Bryggen. For something more budget-friendly, CityBox and Moxy are great alternatives!

Where to eat : I have so many favourite restaurants in Bergen, and have covered them all in this guide . Don’t miss Bryggeloftet (traditional, Norwegian), Poca Madre (Mexican), Boccone (Italian) and JAJA (International Street Food).

Top activities and tours in Bergen :

• Mostraumen Fjord Cruise from Bergen (check out the best fjord cruises from Bergen in this guide )
• Seeing the UNESCO listed Bryggen (on your own or on a walking tour )
• Viking ship fjord cruise
• Hiking or taking the funicular up Mount Fløyen
• Going on a day trip to Flåm and the Nærøyfjord

Packing for Bergen : My golden rule when packing and dressing for any destination in Norway is layers. Layers, layers, layers – and Bergen is no different. Additionally, Bergen can be quite a rainy city, so a waterproof jacket such as this one is ideal. Good shoes for walking around the city is a must too (the city is very walkable).

Getting to Bergen : I have covered how to get from the airport to the city center in detail here .

Getting Around : Skyss is the official public transportation system in Bergen. Download the app Skyss Billett (ticket) to have tickets on your phone.

What is a fjord cruise?

In my Norway travel guide I have explained in detail what a fjord is, so I won’t spend too much time on that here. In short, a fjord is a body of water connected to the ocean , that was created by the glaciers of the last ice age.

There are over 1700 named fjords in Norway, which is quite insane to think about. It is not hard to understand why Norway is the official land of the fjords.

So, what is a fjord cruise ?

There are two types of fjord cruises. One type of fjord cruise is a large cruise ship going on a several days long trip along the Norwegian coastline and into the fjords. Cruise lines like P&O , Costa , MCS and Viking Cruises all have cruises to the Norwegian fjords.

However, the Bergen fjord cruises we are focusing on today are slightly different. They are also what most people think about when they hear the term.

A fjord cruise is a fancy name for a boat trip on the fjord . It has gotten its name because you are cruising silently on a fjord – and probably to make it sound a little more inviting than just “boat trip”.

But, basically, these are the Norwegian equivalent of the party boats in Punta Cana or the catamaran cruises in Cancun .

The cruises can take any shape or size, from large electric vessels to small, fast-paced ones. All though the latter is often called a “Fjord Safari” instead.

No matter where in Norway you go, you are likely to come across a fjord cruise. Whether that’s Flåm , Geiranger, Stavanger or even Oslo .

And of course Bergen. Which is the focus of this article.

5 Best Fjord Cruises from Bergen

With Bergen being the largest city in western Norway, and within easy reach of several of the best fjords, it’s only natural that there are loads of fjord cruises to choose from.

That being said, which one should you choose?

Below I have outlined the best fjord cruises from Bergen – and highlighted details about each of them. That way, you can decide which is the perfect one for you!

Going on a fjord cruise is one of the most popular things to do in Bergen , and an absolute must when you visit. All of these start from the docks in the center of Bergen, and are round trip cruises. Unless otherwise specified.

#1 Fjord Cruise Bergen to Mostraumen

The fjord cruise from Bergen to Mostraumen is amongst the most popular ones leaving from the city . This is mainly because it is the shortest and easiest way to see the fjords from Bergen.

If you are spending a day in Bergen and are short on time – and don’t have plans to travel from Bergen to Flåm – this is a good choice.

This 3-hour fjord cruise takes you from the Bergen docks through the Mostraumen strait. Along the way you will see the Osterfjord, one of the fjords closest to the city.

I will say, these fjords aren’t the most dramatic in the region, but it is the best option for anyone wanting to see the fjords from Bergen in a day (and don’t have a rental car).

You’ll stay nice and warm inside the boat, which departs year-round. This fjord cruise is beautiful no matter what time of year you visit.

There is also a private option available for this tour, which might be a little pricy for most, but perfect for groups of friends and families.

• Duration : 3-4 hours
• Fjords : Osterfjord
• Max travellers : 85
• Advance booking needed : Yes

#2 Sognefjord Cruise from Bergen

The Sognefjord is known as the “king of the fjords”, and with good reason. It is the longest fjord in the world (with the exception of one in Greenland that is frozen – so it doesn’t count, in my opinion). It is also the deepest.

In addition to this, it has some pretty famous fjord arms. Fjord arms are basically smaller fjords that “stick out” of the bigger fjord.

If you imagine your arm and hand being the main fjord (i.e. the Sognefjord in this case), your fingers would be the fjord arms. This is how I usually explain the fjords and fjord arms when I guide for Adventures by Disney (I work as a Disney Adventure Guide in Norway every summer, and it’s the best job in the world, after travel blogging!).

At the end of the Sognefjord you will find the Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord, both world heritage fjords and a world heritage site. The latter is listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List together with the Geirangerfjord (further north).

This is also where I grew up (in Aurland)!

Therefore, traveling through the Sognefjord from Bergen is a great way to see the length of the world’s biggest fjord. However, it is a full-day trip – so expect to leave Bergen early (at 8 in the morning), and to get back late (around 9 in the evening).

This includes a 2-hour stop in Flåm. I recommend having lunch at the bakery and going on a stroll along the fjord during your time there.

Basically, this is a return ticket on the express boat from Bergen to Flåm. It runs only in the summer months. Many locals don’t consider it a fjord cruise, but a mode of transportation. But, as we established above, a fjord cruise is simply a boat on the fjord – so you’re good to go!

You can also consider getting a return ticket for the next day, and spend the night in Flåm! There are some great hotels in Flåm to choose from, and this would give you a chance to explore the village and region more. Note that accommodation is not included in the boat ticket.

• Duration : 13 hours
• Fjords : Sognefjord, Aurlandsfjord
• Max travellers : 150
• Cost : $244 (round trip) / $144 (one way)

#3 The Nærøyfjord Fjord Cruise (including train & bus)

As mentioned, the Nærøyfjord is a fjord arm of the Sognefjord and perhaps the most important destination for fjord tours near Bergen.

On this full day trip, you’ll get to not only experience a fjord cruise on the Nærøyfjord, but also the famous Flåm Railway (one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys).

Thus, this is not just a fjord cruise from Bergen, but a round trip excursion taking you from Bergen to the fjords and back using train, bus and cruise. The Oslo-Bergen railway is also included on this trip.

It is very similar to the Norway in a Nutshell tour , so it is possible to book each leg of the journey individually. If you have more than just a day, I also recommend looking at some of my itineraries , that take you from Bergen to the fjords for a night or two.

Sights along the way on this cruise not only include the Nærøyfjord, but also picturesque fjord villages, waterfalls and of course the Flåm Valley (where the Flåm Railway goes).

• Duration : 10 hours
• Fjords : Nærøyfjord, Aurlandsfjord
• Max travellers : 99
• Cost : from $308

#4 Viking Ship Fjord Cruise

If you want a more unique, and exclusive experience, this might be the cruise for you.

Sailing on an authentic Viking ship with just 12 travellers on board is a great way to explore the harbour and sights outside of Bergen. Whilst it doesn’t take you far from the city, and thus not into any of the more dramatic fjords, this can still be worthwhile if you want to go off the beaten path.

During this 1,5-hour sailing you’ll be treated to a hot drink, and some lovely views of the city. Definitely a must for families or Viking enthusiasts!

If you consider yourself the latter, I hope you’ll head on over to read my guides to Nordic symbols and their meanings , Norse Goddesses and of course the most famous Vikings of all time !

• Duration : 1,5 hours
• Fjords : Bergen harbour, Puddefjorden
• Max travellers : 12

#5 Private Fjord Cruises from Bergen

Last, but not least, going on a private Bergen fjord cruise might be more your style. These options are perfect for those traveling in a big group or with a rowdy family.

Or just for a couple wanting a truly exclusive experience on the fjords.

There are several options for private tours from Bergen, taking you through Osterfjorden by private yacht or in a fast-paced RIB boat.

Basically, you can choose your own adventure here, and since it’s just you onboard, you get the full attention of your captain and crew.

• Duration : 4-11 hours (depending on what you book)
• Max travellers : Private
• Cost : from $500
• BOOK PRIVATE RIB HERE / BOOK PRIVATE YACHT HERE

More Fjord Cruises from Bergen

Of course, this list includes the 5 best fjord cruises departing (and ending) in Bergen. However, there are more to choose from. Below you’ll find more Bergen fjord tours to choose from, in case you wanted more options!

Bergen Fjord Cruises FAQ

Below are the most frequently asked questions about taking a fjord cruise from Bergen – answered by a local!

The closest fjord to Bergen is the Osterfjord, which you can reach on a fjord cruise to Mostraumen. However, the Nærøyfjord and Aurlandsfjord are just 3 hours away!

Personally, I think the fjords are beautiful year round. The most stunning months in terms of waterfalls is May-June, and July-September are also great.

The Norwegian fjords are just a short drive or fjord cruise from Bergen.

Lots of them! Costa, P&O, Viking, MSC, Royal Caribbean to name a few.

Layers. No matter what time of year, the weather in Norway can change fast, so always wear and bring layers. A small puffer jacket, such as this one , is ideal.

YES! The fjords are absolutely breathtaking, with such stunning natural scenery. They should be on your bucket list.

Yes, you can! All though it is a little colder than you might be used to.

Yes, but only small ones, such as Puddefjorden.

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Hi Lisa – The information on your site was excellent and very informative. It allowed us to self-book the NIN type tour saving about 500 Canadian dollars. Plus we were able to fine tune some of the departure times to allow some flexibility. Thanks so much. Now, all we have to do is make sure it all works out and we make all our connections, or we will be calling you to come pick us up and take us back to Bergen 😉 All the best.

So happy to hear this! Thank you, Doug! 🙂

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Guided Fjord Tours

Exclusive day tours to the norwegian fjords, most popular tours.

• Tag Fjord Cruises from Bergen
• Hour Glass 4 hours
• Calendar All year round

Mostraumen Fjord Cruise

This fjord cruise takes you up the 27-kilometre Osterfjord in modern, comfortable boats with sundecks and refreshments. See a waterfall and the Mostraumen Strait.

• Tag Private Day Tours from Bergen
• Hour Glass 10 hours
• Calendar March - November

Private day tour to Hardangerfjord, incl Voss Gondol & Four Great Waterfalls

This scenic Hardanger tour takes you along Norway’s second-longest fjord to see four spectacular waterfalls. You also ride the Voss Gondol for breathtaking views of the mountains.

• Most Popular Tour!
• Tag Guided Day Tours from Bergen
• Hour Glass 10 hours and 30 minutes
• Calendar May - September

Guided day tour to Flåm – Nærøyfjord Cruise & Flåm Railway

Book Norway’s most popular day tour and experience the country’s beautiful scenery on a fjord cruise and train journeys on Europe’s top-rated railways. Explore the best of Norway’s natural beauty on our guided discovery tours of the Nærøyfjord and Flåm Railway.

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Private Day Tours

Self-guided day tours from bergen, fjord cruises from bergen, welcome to bergen and fjord norway.

Norway is the undisputed king of fjords, with more than 1,100 of these beautiful geological features scattered along the vast coastline. You will find fjords pretty much wherever you go, but a handful of them are extra special and definitely worth seeking out.

From Bergen, you have the opportunity to visit Norway’s two largest fjords, the Sognefjord and the Hardangerfjord. Guided Fjord Tours arranges day tours to several destinations in these areas daily from Bergen. We are ready in all seasons to guide you through the most beautiful landscape in the world.

Top-Rated Tours in Bergen

Definitely recommend doing this if you don't have more time to explore the beautiful surroundings of Bregen. Norway is just amazing.

We had a fabulous trip up the fjords crew were lovely and it was managed very well and adjusted according to the weather conditions we thoroughly enjoyed the experience well worth it.

This trip leaves from close to the fish market in the centre of Bergen. The fast catamaran quickly gets you to the narrower part of the fjord where the views are simply breathtaking. We stood outside for much of the trip, but they sell reasonably priced hot drinks on board to warm you up. Highlights are the whirlpools and waterfalls at the far end at Mostraumen.

We had a great time with our tour guide Frode, he was excellent, very knowledgeable and great conversationalist. I highly would recommend this tour for anyone looking to enjoy great views and a delicious lunch.

5 of the best fjord cruises from Bergen

Set among majestic mountains and home to colourful wooden houses, Bergen is the gateway to Norway’s breathtaking fjords. 

The city itself is charming, but it’s taking a cruise that really lets you see the nearby fjords in all their grandeur. 

Prepare to be captivated by cascading waterfalls, towering cliffs and serene glacial landscapes, all while cruising through clear turquoise waters. 

Taking a fjord cruise from Bergen is honestly a pretty extraordinary experience that will leave you in awe of nature’s wonders. But what kind of trips are available, and how do you get started?

Quick take: our 3 favourite cruises

• See Bergen’s famous waterfront from a Viking-style ship on this tour
• Take an epic cruise to the pretty village of Flåm , and then the train to Oslo
• Get up close and personal with a huge waterfall on this fun cruise

Why start in Bergen?

Fjord cruises offer a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate some of Norway’s prettiest fjords.

But what makes Bergen the ideal starting point for your fjord cruise?

Well, the location is important. Situated on the southwestern coast, close to some of the best fjords in Norway, Bergen is THE hub for organised fjord cruises.

These fjord cruises have gained tremendous popularity among tourists, especially those visiting from abroad, and lots of restaurants and hotels have sprung up to cater to their needs.

Not only that but the city offers a treasure trove of cultural and historical attractions to explore before or after your cruise. You can stroll through the Unesco-listed Bryggen Wharf, with its vibrant Hanseatic buildings that tell stories of the past, or visit the lively fish market for a taste of local flavours. 

And don’t miss the chance to take a funicular ride up to Mount Fløyen for panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.

For more on what to do in Bergen, read our Bergen guides .

Which fjords can you visit from Bergen?

These are the main fjords that you can visit on a fjord cruise from Bergen:

• Sognefjord : Norway’s longest and deepest fjord, the Sognefjord is home to majestic cliffs, tranquil waters and charming villages like Flåm and Balestrand. (Flåm can also be visited on this epic train trip ).
• Hardangerfjord : With its orchards, waterfalls and the famous Trolltunga rock formation , Hardangerfjord is a well-known fjord that presents a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
• Geirangerfjord : A Unesco World Heritage Site, Geirangerfjord boasts dramatic mountain peaks, waterfalls such as the Seven Sisters and the Bridal Veil, and the charming village of Geiranger. It is often considered one of the most beautiful fjords in Norway.
• Nærøyfjord : Another Unesco World Heritage Site, Nærøyfjord is a narrow fjord renowned for its steep cliffs and pristine natural surroundings. 

Which cruise should you join?

First, decide on the duration of the cruise to fit your schedule and preferences. 

Also consider the size of the vessel, as smaller ships often provide more intimate rides, and think about which kinds of things you want to see on the trip. Some cruises only take a quick tour around one fjord before returning to base, while longer ones allow you time to stop and explore.

You should definitely take into account the time of year, as the landscapes and weather conditions vary hugely from season to season. Summer (May to early September) is really the best time. There’s never any guarantee of sunshine in Bergen, but at least there is plenty of daylight.

For more on the fjords and which ones to visit, read our guide to the 16 best fjords in Norway .

If you need some tips for specific cruises, check out the options below.

Scenic fjord cruise to Mostraumen

This is one of our favourite cruises, a fjord adventure from Bergen that showcases the breathtaking beauty of the Osterfjord. 

This exceptional cruise offers comfort, stunning views, and unforgettable moments in the heart of Norway’s natural wonders.

Duration 3.5 hours

Cost NOK 851 / US$ 80 per person

Highlights Discover the allure of the Norwegian fjord landscape, enjoy the thrill of being near a cascading waterfall, relax on the sun deck or inside the cabin, and view rare and exciting wildlife.

An epic trip to Flåm and Oslo

This is one of the most popular cruises and for good reason! You get an entire day cruising from Bergen to Flåm, and explore the Sognefjord along the way. 

You will also pass by cosy coastal villages, and get a chance to explore the picturesque village of Flåm and the renowned Flåm Railway , before heading on to Oslo by train.

Duration 14 hours

Cost NOK 12,000 / US$ 1200 per person

Highlights Cruise from Bergen to Flåm, explore Flam at your own pace, and sail through the majestic Sognefjord. The train ride to Oslo is scenic too!

Viking ship sailing experience and sightseeing trip

If you want a truly unique cruise adventure, we recommend this one.

You’ll get to board a traditional Viking-style ship and discover the historic waterfront of Bergen, as well as the surrounding fjords.

You may even get a chance to hoist the sail and navigate the ship! 

Duration 1.5 hours

Cost NOK 900 / US$ 87 per person

Highlights Marvel at the Viking ship design and construction, feel the exhilarating sensation as the ship’s square sail catches the wind, and take in the views of Bergen and the surrounding fjords.

Sightseeing fjord cruise to Alversund Strait

We highly recommend this cruise for a picturesque fjord experience. Embark on a journey from Bergen to the Alversund Streams and admire the magnificent and varied fjord landscapes of the Nordhordland region. 

Duration 3 hours

Cost: NOK 590 / US$ 60 per person

Highlights Cruise by the wharf and the Bergenhus fortress, navigate through an archipelago of islands, and gaze at the remarkable Alversund channel. 

Mostraumen fjord cruise

On this tour, you’ll set sail from Bergen and enjoy splendid views of the iconic Bryggen from the water. 

Cruise along the scenic 27-km-long Osterfjord, surrounded by towering mountains, as it gradually narrows into the enticing Mostraumen strait, where mighty currents flow.

Duration 4 hours

Cost NOK 790 / US $80 per person

Highlights Cruise serenely along tranquil lakes, and embrace their cool and peaceful ambiance. Be amazed by the grandeur of the steep cliffs, majestic mountains and vast open natural landscapes that unfold before your eyes.

What to expect on a fjord cruise from Bergen

It’s pretty simple! Most day cruises leave from the one of the piers along the central harbour in Bergen.

Once you’re on board, prepare for a captivating opportunity as you sail through iconic fjords like Sognefjord or Hardangerfjord. 

Cruises typically take a few hours, though some last a full day, providing ample time to take in the majestic landscapes and savour the views. 

Some cruise boats also have a rooftop deck, onboard dining and wildlife viewing opportunities, so check the description before booking to ensure your preferences align with the offerings.

Top tips for a fjord cruise from Bergen

And finally, for a smooth and enjoyable fjord cruise experience, here are some practical tips to bear in mind: 

• Bring layered clothing, including a waterproof jacket, comfortable shoes for walking, and sunscreen. 
• Don’t forget your phone or camera to make sure you capture the best pics of the stunning landscapes on your Norway cruise .
• The best time to go on a fjord cruise is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. However, be prepared for crowds during peak tourist season.
• Book in advance! Fjord cruises can be popular, so book your tickets in advance to make sure you get on the cruise you want.
• It sounds obvious but if you’re prone to sea-sickness, bring sea-sickness tablets!
• Follow safety guidelines. This means listening to the crew’s instructions, staying within designated areas, and being careful when near the edges of the boat.

See also : 25 cheap and free things to do in Bergen Buying the Bergen card: is it worth it? Visiting Bergen on a budget

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Sailboat cruise in Bergen

Join in on an exclusive tour and experience Bergen from a sailboat!

• This sailboat cruise is a two hour guided sightseeing and fjord cruise with the beautiful and comfortable sailboat “First Player”.
• A fjord cruise with a sailboat gives you a unique opportunity to view and experience Bergen from the sea.
• With a maximum capacity of 12 people, everyone is ensured of a comfortable and intimate experience of Bergen, "the Gateway to the Fjords".

Tour description

Good to know, the best things to do in bergen.

This Meadowlands boat tour is a 'wow factory,' with great views of NJ marsh wildlife

3-minute read.

Showing people what she called the “wow factory” — the natural wonders that exist in New Jersey's own backyard — is what Gabrielle Bennett-Meany and her colleagues at the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority hope to do.

Bennett-Meany serves as the authority's manager of parks, trails and open space and is one of the guides for its free boat tours, which offer visitors close-up access to the Meadowlands' natural wonders.

 “When you’re on the highway, sometimes you don’t even know what’s down here,” Bennett-Meany said. “They say, ‘This is amazing. Who knew? I drive over Route 3 every day,’ or ‘I drive on the turnpike every day.’”

With 30 years’ experience in the Meadowlands, she brings an enthusiasm and insight to the experience, providing context about the region as well as the wildlife glimpsed along the way.

When do the Meadowlands tours run?

The authority runs tours weekly throughout the spring and summer, and those looking for a last dose of sunshine can still find a chance through the end of September. There are also walking trails in the Meadowlands region that are open all year round for visitors.

But the boats may be the crown jewel of the operation.

Boat tours that can accommodate about 14 people are led by veteran guides who bring decades of experience studying the wildlife and ecosystem of a vast and still largely overlooked area.

Bennett-Meany called the region the “best-kept secret” and said sometimes that’s for the best, because the makeup of the riverbed can be tricky to navigate, especially for people without experience.

The return of the osprey and the presence of bald eagles have garnered attention in the past, but the difference between hearing a story and seeing it in person can be astounding. And then there’s the peregrine falcon. The fastest animal on the planet — with flight speeds topping 200 miles per hour — can be found nestled into the underside of a bridge along Route 3.

Things like that provide context to visitors.

The marshlands are home to plenty of ducks and seagulls that can be found throughout the region, but watching a flock of cormorants take flight as the boat comes into the dock is a difference maker. It’s something unique — but with American Dream and MetLife Stadium, soon to host the 2026 World Cup, still in view, it's quintessentially Jersey.

The boat tours run along the Hackensack River and into the nearby tributaries and marshes, depending on tides and wildlife.

Bennett-Meany likes to start each tour with a little context about the river and how it works, running from the mountains of upstate New York into New Jersey before meeting the Passaic River and running into the Newark Bay. As a tidal river, it sees fluctuations in the water level, which the tours take into account.

“People live in our communities and are sort of separated from our natural areas, but once we begin to realize that our community is part of these natural areas,” she said, “it makes us think about what we’re doing in our hometown, how we’re connected to the environment and why many, many of these environments are very important.”

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From where do the Meadowlands tour boats launch?

Boats launch from River Barge Park Marina in Carlstadt and venture up and down the river for about two hours. The marina’s manager, Angelo Urato, has watched the agency and the area evolve during 40 years of service.

He said that at low tide, the animals tend to be more active and visitors have a better shot at seeing a variety of species.

Bennett-Meany said having a harbor seal turn up about a decade ago was exciting, but the highlight for her has been the return of the ospreys.

She explained that decades ago, before the Clean Water Act set parameters on pollution, it was common to dump waste in the river, and the water quality was poor.

But wetlands protection efforts led to the rebirth of the area, and as species of fish and birds started to come back, so did the bigger birds that feed on them.

Enter the osprey. About 15 years ago, an osprey turned up. It nested and had young but ultimately failed. A year or two later, they came back and nested, and now they are a constant.

“It’s my favorite resurgence story,” she said.

Although the boating season is coming to an end, the Meadowlands Birding Festival will take place on Oct. 6 and will feature bird walks, talks and other activities at DeKorte Park in Lyndhurst.

Katie Sobko covers the New Jersey Statehouse. Email: [email protected]