A Guide To Haugesund, Norway, For Cruise Ship Visitors

27.04.2024 - 16:19 / forbes.com

Located on the southwest coast of Norway, Haugesund is a historic town recognized as one of the country’s premier cruise ports. As a cruise port, it appeals as a gateway to exploring Norway's coastal landscapes and rich Viking heritage.

In 2023, the city welcomed 125 cruise ship visits, accommodating more than 370,000 passengers, thanks to its ability to handle some of the world’s largest vessels.

Among these, Iona, one of Britain’s largest ships with a capacity of 5,206 passengers, makes regular stops here as part of its P&O Cruises Norwegian fjords tour. European focused lines AIDA and Costa Cruises make occasional calls at Haugesund, as do Cunard and Fred Olsen Cruise Lines.

Visitors can explore ancient monuments like the Haraldshaugen, stroll along the bustling waterfront, or venture into the surrounding countryside to discover serene trails and traditional farms.

Despite the rising number of visitors, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore on your own, away from the typical cruise line excursions.

For 3,000 years, nearby Avaldsnes was a pivotal Viking power center, dominating the essential "Nordvegen" sea route.

Today, the Nordvegen History Center delves into its storied past, revealing rulers known from sagas, archaeological discoveries, and tales of the Norse gods. History here is preserved in an underground museum, brought to life through modern storytelling techniques.

A short walk from the visitor center, the Viking Farm transports you back to the Viking Age with live demonstrations inside and out of reconstructed buildings. The site is particularly engaging for families, offering a range of activities that bring history to life.

Local bus routes 209 and 210 serve Avaldsnes on Karmøy Island from the center of Haugesund, with a journey time of approximately 25 minutes. The history center is a 10-15 minute walk from Avaldsnes.

Download the Kolumbus app to pay the 45 kroner fare ($4) or pay by card at one of the ticket machines in the downtown area. Check timetable information with Kolumbus.

Extend your Viking Age experience with a visit to Haraldshaugen, also known as the National Monument of Norway. This site commemorates the 9th-century unification of Norway under King Harald Fairhair, and is believed to be his burial place.

A scenic 45-minute walk from the cruise port through central Haugesund and its northern suburbs, the monument offers panoramic views of the North Sea and surrounding landscapes.

The area is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quiet picnic, absorbing the region’s historical significance at your own pace. On the way, be sure to stop by the statue of King Harald Fairhair, staring out to sea opposite the city park.

If time is short, you can take the five-minute