As I stepped onto the deck of the Holland America Rotterdam, the crisp Norwegian air filled my lungs. As a full-time travel writer, I’ve been lucky enough to explore places similar in landscape to Norway, but this 7-day cruise did not fail to stun me with its incredible beauty.
From setting sail from Rotterdam (via Amsterdam), I knew this journey would be extraordinary. First, my maternal ancestors are from Norway, and I was able to go on this journey with my immediate family. This was an incredible experience to get an introduction to Norway.
Several members of the ViaTravelers team have visited Norway multiple times. We’ve had plenty of discussions about this incredible country, and it’s been on my list for too long.
I mean, I’m from Minnesota, where we have Scandinavian sister cities, and I’m a huge fan of the Minnesota Vikings; say no more, right?
The agenda for this Norwegian cruise on Holland America Lines piqued my interest since it departed from Rotterdam, a short jaunt from where I live – Amsterdam. It also featured a great blend of towns, cities, and the fjords.
A Norway cruise is like sailing through a moving, living postcard. The towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and quaint villages create a scene that is hard to believe to be real. But trust me, it is—and it is even more stunning in person.
Below is the full video and photography of my experiences, a day-by-day breakdown, and some practical tips for making the most of the experience. This 7-day cruise spans eight calendar days, with the last day as the disembarkation day. Here’s a table summary of the itinerary to help set the stage.
| Day | Itinerary | Arrival | Departure |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sail from Rotterdam, The Netherlands | – | 4:00pm |
| 2 | Sea Day | – | – |
| 3 | Mandal (Kristiansand), Norway | 7:00am | 4:00pm |
| 4 | Eidfjord, Norway Scenic cruising Hardangerfjord |
7:30am | 7:30pm |
| 5 | Stavanger, Norway | 7:00am | 3:00pm |
| 6 | Scenic cruising Sognefjord Skjolden, Norway |
7:00am | 3:00pm |
| 7 | Sea Day | – | – |
| 8 | Debark Ship Rotterdam, The Netherlands | 7:00am | – |
Video of My Experience
Day 1: Sail From Rotterdam
- Departure Details: Boarding begins at 11:30 AM, and the ship departs at 4:00 PM
- Pro Tip: After boarding, take some time to explore the ship before departure and find your favorite bars, dining options, and the deck plan
I have to tell you about kicking off your Norwegian adventure from Rotterdam! This bustling Dutch port city is the perfect launchpad for an unforgettable seven-day fjord cruise. I took the Holland America Line on the MS Rotterdam in July, departing from Rotterdam, Netherlands, for a 7-day Viking Sagas cruise.
I felt excitement as I stepped onto the clean Holland America Line ship. The MS Rotterdam is beautiful, with sleek lines and modern amenities that’ll make you feel right at home. P&O Cruises also sails from here, but I’m partial to HAL’s cozy vibe. Their ships have a way of making you feel like family from day one.
Before you set sail, take some time to explore Rotterdam (read our full guide to Rotterdam or watch our YouTube video). I loved wandering through the quirky cube houses and grabbing a quick bite at the Markthal food hall.
As the ship pulls away from the dock, you’ll feel the thrill of adventure setting in. There was a fun departure deck party at the adult pool of the boat that I absolutely had to enjoy. This was a great way to kick off the cruise.
The North Sea waits ahead, with Norway’s stunning coastline just waiting for you to explore. Keep reading as I share more about the incredible ports we visited on this journey. Get ready for breathtaking scenery and unforgettable experiences!
Day 2: Sea Day
- Pro tip: Pack layers! The weather can be unpredictable, even in summer. I always bring a warm jacket for those chilly fjord mornings.
I love sea days on Norway cruises! They’re perfect for relaxing and enjoying the ship. I usually start my morning briskly walking on the deck, enjoying the fresh sea air and stunning views. Sometimes, I’m lucky enough to spot dolphins or whales playing in the waves.
To note, the sea days for us in July on the MS Rotterdam were generally smooth. My wife gets seasick easily, and she had no trouble on the trip. It only occurred when we dined in the back dining area on a rough sea day. Once she wore her SeaBands she was fine. Otherwise, it was quite smooth!
After breakfast, I like to find a cozy spot to curl up with a good book. The library on board is great, but nothing beats reading on my balcony with a blanket and hot cocoa.
Lunchtime often means trying out one of the specialty restaurants. The food is surprisingly very good, and I don’t have to worry about cooking or cleaning up! I might join a fun activity like trivia or a cooking class in the afternoon. Or I’ll treat myself to a massage at the spa—it’s so relaxing!
As evening approaches, I love watching the sunset from the top deck. The colors reflecting off the water are breathtaking. Then it’s time to get dressed up for dinner and a show.
Sea days are also perfect for learning about Norway. I always attend the port talks to prepare for our upcoming stops. The Arctic Circle lecture was fascinating – I had no idea how unique the climate is there!
Day 3: Kristiansand
- Port Timing: 9 hours (7:00 AM – 4:00 PM)
- Food Tip: Don’t miss trying ‘fiskekaker’ (fish cakes) or ‘sørlandsaure’ (local trout) at the fish market
Kristiansand is a hidden gem on Norway’s southern coast. I fell in love with it on my recent cruise. This charming port city has a perfect blend of urban amenities and natural beauty.
I was amazed by Kristiansand’s beautiful beaches. The Blue Flag-certified Bystranda beach right in the city center is a must-visit. I loved strolling along the soft sand and dipping my toes in the refreshing water.
Food lovers, you’re in for a treat! I had some of the best seafood of my life at the old fish quay, Fiskebrygga. The area is now packed with cozy restaurants serving up fresh catches.
Art and culture buffs will appreciate the striking Kilden Performing Arts Center and the Kunstsilo; both feature distinctive designs that caught my eye immediately. I wish I’d had time to catch a show there!
For shopping and people-watching, I recommend exploring the city center, Kvadraturen. With over 400 shops and plenty of cafes, it’s the perfect place to while away an afternoon. If you love getting on the water and the great outdoors, don’t miss a boat trip to one of the nearby islands or visit the iconic parks in the city.
Day 4: Eidfjord And Hardangerfjord
- Port Timing: 12 hours (7:30 AM – 7:30 PM)
- Food Tip: Sample local apple cider from Hardanger, known as ‘eplesider’, at Hardanger Saft og Siderfabrikk, a 10-minute drive from the port.
I’ve fallen in love with Eidfjord, a tiny village tucked away in the stunning Hardangerfjord. It’s a hidden gem on many 7-day Norway cruises. With just 1,000 residents, Eidfjord feels like stepping into a postcard.
The Hardangerfjord is breathtaking. It stretches 179 km and earns its nickname, “Queen of the Fjords.” I spent hours on deck, mesmerized by the dramatic cliffs and sparkling water. Eidfjord is the perfect launch point for adventures. Cruise ships dock right in the heart of Eidfjord. It’s so convenient to explore on foot or join excursions.
First, I took an incredible morning kayaking trip in the Eidfjord for a morning workout. It was an excursion offered by the cruise. This is where we used our excursion credit since it gave the best bang for the buck.
Then, I took a trip to Vøringsfossen waterfall – a must-see natural landmark! The thundering 182-meter cascade left me in awe, and it’s only a 45-minute excursion with buses waiting right at the port.
For nature lovers, Hardangervidda National Park is right next door. It’s Norway’s largest national park and home to wild reindeer herds. I hiked some scenic trails and felt on top of the world.
Back in town, I wandered the charming streets and popped into local shops. The friendly locals were happy to chat and share stories about life in the fjords.
I also went on a walk down the Eio “river” and discovered an ancient burial ground, the Haereidsmoen Iron Age Burial Field that dates back to 400 to 1,000 A.D. It was amazing to walk next to a burial ground that is so old. You could feel the aura change in the rolling landscape.
As we sailed through Hardangerfjord, I marveled at the scenery and the ship’s comfort. The cruise allowed us 12 hours in Eidfjord, and I made the most of this time to explore by taking a kayaking trip on the fjord and spending some time in the village’s charming downtown.
Day 5: Stavanger
- Port Timing: 8 hours (7:00 AM – 3:00 PM)
- Food Tip: Try ‘Komle’ (potato dumplings) at Renaa Matbaren or fresh seafood at Fisketorget
I love Stavanger! This Norwegian city is a must-see on any 7-day cruise. Our ship docked in Stavanger for 6 hours, giving me a full day to explore the city. However, I wished we had more time because Stavanger was incredible, full of both of my kinds of things: great dining and nightlife and charming history.
I leveraged my Norwegian history since my maternal ancestors are from there and my cultural knowledge to make the most of my time experiencing Stavanger’s rich heritage. As I wandered the streets, I was struck by how easy it is to explore on foot. The compact center is perfect for a leisurely walking tour.
My favorite part was Gamle Stavanger. It’s like stepping back in time! The white wooden houses are so charming. I couldn’t stop taking photos of the narrow cobblestone streets.
To counter the white, we went to the colorful Fargegaten neighborhood which is filled with bars and restaurants. This modern neighborhood has vintage shops, wine bars, and quirky gift shops. Perfect for souveniers. It does get crowded with walking tours, though. So be prepared.
For a dose of culture, I checked out the Norwegian Petroleum Museum. It’s super interactive and gives a cool look at Norway’s oil industry. Who knew learning about oil could be so fun? Right outside of it is a fun kid’s park that uses recycled sea equipment for a park.
But a bit of a miss for me was missing out on the hike or trip to Pulpit Rock. I’ve heard so many incredible things about visiting. The best way to see Pulpit Rock is usually departing from Stavanger, so if you can, make sure you fit this into your agenda. If you’re short on time, take a Lysefjord cruise instead. You’ll still get amazing views without the hike.
You won’t be disappointed if you’re into history, nature, or just soaking up the atmosphere. It quickly became one of my favorite stops on my Norway cruise.
Day 6: Sognefjord And Skjolden
- Port Timing: 8 hours (7:00 AM – 3:00 PM)
- Food Tip: Taste local goat cheese ‘Undredal brunost’ at Marianne’s Bakery in the village center.
I’ve been lucky enough to cruise through the stunning Sognefjord, and let me tell you, it’s breathtaking! This majestic fjord is the longest in Norway, stretching over 200 km inland. As our ship glided through the calm waters, I was in awe of the towering cliffs and lush green landscapes.
At the end of Sognefjord lies the charming village of Skjolden. This tiny hamlet is a gateway to adventure. I loved exploring the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Some of my favorite activities in Skjolden included:
- Hiking scenic trails
- Waterfall spotting
- Kayaking on the crystal-clear fjord waters
- Visiting local farms and tasting fresh produce
For a memorable adventure, ride on the famous Flåm Railway. This scenic train journey offers incredible views of waterfalls and mountains. Nature lovers will be in paradise here.
If you prefer traveling on foot, I can recommend a walk along the Eidsvatnet to enjoy the reflective water (it really is a mirror), and see the waterfalls. You can walk to the waterfall, or stop at the Wittgenstein’s House. The home of Austrian Ludwig Wittgenstein, a philosopher who spent time alone in this lodge he built on the beautiful lake. You can see it from the south side of the Eidsvatnet along the walking trail.
The clean air and peaceful atmosphere were so refreshing. Skjolden may be small, but it packs a big punch regarding natural beauty. I found it the perfect place to relax and connect with nature.
Also, this was the best place to buy souvenirs. The shops are truly local and have local delicacies like reindeer and whale sausage. I picked up a hand-woolen sweater and sausage for home.
When you depart and cruise through the Sognefjord, you can’t miss spotting the Feigumfossen and the Urnes Stave Chuch, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Both are incredibly iconic and spotting them from the cruise ship allows you to gaze at them for an extended period.
Day 7/8: Final Sea Day and Arrival in Rotterdam
I woke up to the ship’s gentle rocking on our last day at sea. It was bittersweet knowing our Norway fjords adventure was coming to an end. But I was determined to make the most of it! First, I headed to the top deck for a morning walk and pickleball. The fresh sea air and stunning ocean views made it extra special.
After a hearty breakfast, I joined a cooking demo in the ship’s theater. The chef whipped up some tasty Norwegian dishes. I can’t wait to try making fiskesuppe at home!
For dinner, I splurged on the specialty steakhouse restaurant. It’s the perfect way to cap off an amazing week! After my meal, I caught the farewell show in the main theater.
I ended the night with a cocktail on deck, gazing at the stars and reflecting on all the incredible memories from our fjord cruise.
The next day, we arrived back in Rotterdam at 7:00 am and started the disembarkment process around 9. Disembarkment went smoothly and we headed on to our next adventure.
Holland America Line-Specific Information
- Embarkation Strategy: On our July departure day, Holland America recommended a staggered boarding process. Our deck (Deck 5—Gershwin Deck) was scheduled for check-in at 1:00 PM. Arriving at the suggested time helped us avoid too long lines and start our vacation smoothly.
- Disembarkation Strategy: Our ship, the MS Rotterdam, arrived in Rotterdam, Netherlands, at 7:00 AM. To avoid the rush and potential long waits, we opted for self-disembarkation. We packed our bags the night before and left the ship around 9:30 AM. There was a bit of a line to leave, but it moved quickly, and I was surprised by how efficient it was to grab our luggage. It was waiting for us right outside.
- Dining Reservations: Our booking included one night of specialty dining. We made our reservation when we boarded to secure our preferred time and restaurant.
- Shore Excursion Booking: Our cruise included a shore excursion discount. We booked our tours well in advance to take advantage of this perk and ensure availability.
- Balcony Room Benefits: Our Verandah stateroom (5041) provided a private viewing spot for the stunning Norwegian scenery. It was particularly valuable during fjord cruising days.
- Beverage Package Usage: The Elite Beverage Package was included in our fare. We learned to pace ourselves and stay hydrated by alternating between alcoholic drinks and water or juice.
- Formal Night Preparation: Our 7-day cruise included two formal nights, one night was an Orange Party for the Netherlands and that was a ton of fun! We packed appropriate attire and checked the daily program for the exact date to be prepared.
- On-board Entertainment: Our cruise had a casino, two pools (one for everyone, one for adults only), pickleball, walking/running path, basketball, indoor gym, spa, relaxation area, library, theater (with nightly shows), shops, and multiple bars with live music, trivia, and competitions. There is so much to do, it is hard to choose!
Practical Tips to Consider
- Port-Specific Advice: In Mandal (Kristiansand), we learned that tender service was required and wheelchair access was limited. If you have mobility concerns, check with the ship’s staff about accessibility options for such ports.
- Maximize Port Time: Our itinerary gave us 12 hours in Eidfjord (7:30 AM – 7:30 PM). We made the most of this extended stay by booking a morning excursion and exploring the town independently in the afternoon.
- Currency: While Norway uses the Norwegian Krone (NOK), many shops in cruise ports accept Euros and US Dollars, and credit cards are widely accepted.
- Time Zone: Norway is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), UTC+1.
- Tipping: Unlike on the ship, tipping is not customary in Norway. A service charge is usually included in restaurant bills.
- Weather: Even in summer, temperatures can vary. I found layering essential, especially for early morning fjord cruising.
- Internet: Free Wi-Fi is available in most ports but can be slow. Consider purchasing an onboard internet package if you need reliable connectivity.
What an unforgettable journey it was! I can’t wait to go back to Norway. Have you been to Norway or been on a cruise through Europe? Leave a comment below and let us hear about your experiences!
