5 Independent Shore Excursions For Cruise Visitors In Flåm, Norway

03.03.2024 - 20:49 / forbes.com

From a ride one of Europe’s most famous railway journeys that twists and turns through a lush valley from a mountain plateau to fjord, to a gentle stroll past waterfalls and picturesque farms to a historic church, Norway’s Flåm offers something for everyone as a cruise port call.

If you’re planning to visit Flåm on a Norwegian fjords cruise this summer, you certainly won't be alone. Last year, 112 cruise ships with almost 240,000 passengers called in at the small Norwegian village.

With the well-publicized ban on most cruise ships entering Norway’s UNESCO World Heritage listed fjords getting ever closer, the 2024 cruising season looks set to be one of the busiest ever in Flåm.

One issue with this popularity is the lack of availability of some cruise line excursions. Some popular organized trips, notably the Flåm Railway, often sell out in advance of the cruise setting sail. But even when cruise excursions are full, that doesn’t mean you are left without options.

Tourists worldwide travel to Flåm to enjoy the breathtaking views, tunnels, and waterfalls of the 12-5-mile-long Flåm Railway.

Highlights include the photo stop at the spectacular Kjosfossen waterfall, which is at its most powerful in the spring and early summer. Make the most of the five minutes out on the platform as it’s a wonderful spot for photography.

Although cruise excursions on the Flåm Railway sell out quickly, that doesn’t mean tickets are unavailable.

Tour operators reserve a number of carriages for use by cruise line excursions. They will be full, while there’s often still space in the regular train carriages. Book a specific departure in advance, or take a chance with availability on the day.

The train’s interior is dated, but large windows give everyone a good view. Try to board early and sit on the right-hand side from Flåm to Myrdal to get the best views. However, don't worry too much, as there are periods of impressive valley views on both sides.

The train station in Flåm is just a few minutes’ walk from the cruise ship dock, so there really is little added value by paying a lot more for the official cruise line excursion.

It may seem unnecessary to get off a cruise ship and immediately board a sightseeing boat, but there are many reasons to do just that in Flåm.

Depending on your itinerary and dinner arrangements, you may miss the sailaway from Flåm. That would be a crying shame, for the hour’s sailing down the Aurlandsfjord is one of the best landscapes in the entire fjord region.

The sightseeing cruise of the Aurlandsfjord will allow you to enjoy these sights at the brightest part of the day, with the added bonus of sailing into the breathtaking Nærøyfjord, something no cruise ship is small enough to do.

It’s also a chance