How to Visit Mostraumen Fjord (Bergen’s Best Day Trip!)
Mostraumen Fjord is one of the easiest fjords to visit from Bergen.
You leave straight from Bergen city centre, and in less than an hour you’re sailing through the heart of one of western Norway’s most beautiful and atmospheric fjords!
I personally joined a 3.5-hour round-trip cruise to visit Mostraumen Fjord solo in winter, and it ended up being one of the highlights of my entire trip to Norway.
During my cruise, the light was low and moody, mist rolled between the cliffs, and we sailed silently past sleepy fishing villages and underneath tumbling waterfalls.
It was an unforgettable experience!
So, in this Mostraumen Fjord travel guide, I’ll share all of the important logistics you need to know, what you’ll see, how long it takes, the best time to go, what to wear, and the small details that genuinely make a difference – especially if you’re travelling solo!
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Where is Mostraumen Fjord?
Mostraumen Fjord is located at the far inner end of Osterfjord, about 27km from Bergen.
It’s location is close enough for a short, half-day fjord tour from Bergen, but remote enough that it feels like you’re visiting a completely different part of the country!
In terms of its structure, the Mostraumen Fjord is as a long, narrow corridor between steep cliffs, ending at the tiny village of Mo. And the best way to reach it is by boat.
Daily tours leave directly from the pier in Bergen Harbour, sail the length of the Osterfjord, squeeze through the narrow Mostraumen channel (honestly the coolest part of the whole trip!), and then turn around at Mo village before heading back to Bergen.
Is the Mostraumen Fjord Cruise Worth It?
Yes! In fact, Mostraumen Fjord is actually one of my favourite fjords in Norway.
It may be the easiest fjord day trip from Bergen, but you still end up somewhere that feels like you’re deep in nature, a million miles away from the busyness of the city!
When I sailed to Mostraumen, the weather was honestly miserable, with heavy clouds, drizzle, depressing grey skies and wind. So my expectations were incredibly low!
But the moment we sailed into Oserfjord and then into Mostraumen Fjord, I was no longer wishing for sunshine and blue skies!
The mountains looked so moody against the grey, the little houses seemed even more bright and colourful, and the mist curling between the mountains looked cinematic!
Plus, Mostraumen Fjord is also hugely underhyped in my opinion.
Everyone talks about Trollfjord and Geirangerfjord (and they’re stunning!), but for the easiest but still breathtaking introduction to Norway’s fjords, Mostraumen is unbeatable!
Katie’s Top Tip: If the forecast looks gloomy, don’t let it put you off! The atmosphere inside the fjord is genuinely incredible on moody, cloudy days.
What You’ll See on the Mostraumen Fjord Cruise
One thing I loved about the Mostraumen Fjord cruise is that the route has so many beautiful sights to see along the entire voyage.
So it’s not one big attraction and your done, but a whole series of incredible moments:
Leaving Bryggen Harbour
You start right in Bergen’s historic harbour, which means the first thing you see is colourful Bryggen from the water.
(It’s a totally different perspective and my favourite way to admire Bryggen!)
Then from Bryggen, the early stretch of the sailing is calm, more open water, with views of the city, scattered islands and Nordhordland bridge.
Entering the Osterfjord
Once you have sailed under Nordhordland, you’ve almost arrived at your first fjord: Osterfjord.
This is where the scenery starts to get dramatic, with islands, towering cliffs and quaint houses, boathouses and fishing huts dotted along the quiet banks, as you watch the landscape shift from urban to wild and rural.
The Narrow Mostraumen Channel
This is the real star of the trip! The cliffs tighten around you and the fjord becomes so narrow on this short stretch of water that you really wonder how the boat can fit!
The captain slows right down so you can really enjoy the incredible, dramatic views as you enter the narrow Mostraumen Fjord for the first time.
I would absolutely recommend that you head outside to the front of the boat here.
Bergsåa Waterfall
Once inside the Mostraumen Fjord, you’ll admire the towering cliffs above as you sail the narrow channel towards your turning point: the village of Mo.
Along the way, you’ll also see one of the highlights of every fjord cruise to Mostraumen: the Bergsåa waterfall.
Here, the captain will sail the boat directly underneath the mighty falls, close enough that you can feel the spray!
Again, I really recommend being outside for this moment.
Mo Village
Your turning point on this cruise is Mo, a tiny village at the end of the Mostraumen Fjord.
You won’t get off here, but you will have plenty of time for photos from deck of the quaint church, colourful houses and surrounding waterfalls.
Return to Bergen
Your return voyage to Bergen retraces the route you followed outbound.
This is a good chance to see anything you might have missed on the first sailing or head indoors to warm up with a hot drink if you’ve been outside up until now.
I personally found that even though we were technically sailing the same route, the scenery looked so different because the lighting had shifted.
It’s definitely worth some more time on deck!
Katie’s Top Tip: I would honestly recommend staying outside for the whole voyage, if you can. (I did, even in the cloud, wind and drizzle in winter!) But at the very least, head outside for the sailing under the waterfall and the entrance to the Mostraumen Fjord.
Best Mostraumen Fjord Tours
1. The Original Fjord Cruise to Mostraumen – My Top Pick
If you want the easiest, most relaxing way to visit Mostraumen Fjord, this original fjord cruise to Mostraumen from Bergen is the one I took and highly recommend!
The boat has a large outdoor deck (with plenty of space to walk around and take photos, or sit if the weather is fine), plus a cosy indoor lounge with panoramic windows to warm up in!
The whole route is 3.5 hours return, so it’s ideal if you want a short fjord tour from Bergen.
There is also an audio commentary, toilet facilities and a small shop with a range of snacks and hot and cold drinks to purchase on board.
You’ll also sail slowly past all of the highlights of this route, including Oserfjord, the narrow Mostraumen channel, Mostraumen Fjord, Bergsåa waterfall and the village of Mo.
And as a solo female traveller, I loved how effortless this trip felt!
There was no rush or shoving for seating (yep, I have experienced that before!), no need to claim a spot and stick to it, and you are free to walk around on deck throughout the voyage.
This was my favourite day trip from Bergen!
2. Mostraumen Fjord Safari by RIB Boat
If you’d rather swap the cosy cruise for a thrilling adventure, a RIB safari is for you!
This is a totally different way to visit Mostraumen Fjord. It’s great if you want the adrenaline of speeding through the water and experiencing the drama of the fjord from water level.
It lasts about 2.5 hours, so it’s quicker than the cruise, because of the faster boat used.
The scenery is the same but it’s absolutely not a relaxing cruise, so keep that in mind if you prefer calm sailing, time for photography, and space to take in the views at a slower pace.
3. Private Fjord Cruise from Bergen
If you’re travelling with friends or planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Norway, a private cruise is the most luxurious way to visit Mostraumen Fjord from Bergen!
You’ll have your own boat, a local guide, included drinks and snacks, and five full hours exploring the fjords at your own pace.
As a solo traveller especially, it’s incredibly pricey and you’ll see everything from the original cruise – but you are paying for the incredible, luxurious experience of a private boat.
My Mostraumen Cruise Recommendation
If you’re comparing all options and want the best scenery, comfort, value, and easy logistics (especially as a solo traveller) I 100% recommend the Original Fjord Cruise to Mostraumen.
How to Visit Mostraumen Fjord: Logistics
These are all the practical details that I wish someone had told me before I booked my fjord cruise to Mostraumen. Consider it your one-stop Mostraumen Fjord travel guide!
Time Slots
Most departures for the Mostraumen Fjord Cruise are at 10am all year round.
In summer, extra sailings are also available (usually around 12pm and 2pm).
For reference, I joined the 10am sailing in February, and it was perfect – very quiet, with beautiful lighting inside the fjord, and I had the afternoon free to explore Bergen!
Booking Online in Advance
Mostraumen Fjord cruise tickets do sell out year-round, but especially in the summer when day fjord cruises from Bergen are insanely popular.
Winter is definitely a lot quieter, but I still recommend booking ahead.
Meeting Point + When to Arrive
The boats usually board 15–20 minutes before departure, and it’s worth being there early to choose your spot on deck. I arrived around 30 minutes before departure.
The standard meeting point is Torget 2, 5014 in Bergen Harbour, but always check your ticket because different boats sometimes dock at different piers.
Duration
The Original Mostraumen Fjord cruise takes 3.5 hours round-trip, which makes this one of the best half-day fjord tours from Bergen!
Accessibility
The boats used for this cruise are generally accessible, with a gangplank to board and spaces for wheelchairs. Staff are also genuinely helpful and used to assisting travellers.
If accessibility is important for your trip, I would recommend emailing the operator before you book, just for your peace of mind.
You can also bring dogs on board! The boat can take up to 3 total.
Indoor and Outdoor Seating
Inside: If it’s raining, too windy or too cold outside, aim for a seat by the panoramic windows. The visibility is great, but you’ll still want to head outside for photos, especially when entering the Mostraumen Fjord and sailing under the waterfall. In winter, the lounge fills up fast, so I would recommend reserving your spot first and then leaving something on your seat if you’re popping out for a photo.
Outside: If the weather allows, stay outside. You’ll get much better views and photos, and the deck has room to walk around. In summer, grab a seat at the back by the railing for unobstructed views. In winter, the boat is much quieter, so you can move freely without needing to claim a seat!
Toilets
There are toilets onboard. I found that they were very clean and really nice to have, even on the short 3.5 hour round-trip.
Food + Drink
You can buy drinks and simple snacks onboard. So things like coffee, tea, hot chocolate, soft drinks, pastries, and biscuits.
I grabbed a hot chocolate on my winter trip, and it was perfect for warming up between photo opportunities out on deck!
Audio Guide
The tour also includes an audio guide over the loudspeakers, delivered in English, to tell you more about Norway, the fjords and the landscapes as you pass.
I will say that it was a lot easier to hear this inside rather than out on deck though.
The Best Photo Spots
The scenery is good as soon as you leave Bergen Harbour, but the best shots come later!
Here’s where to prioritise being outside:
- As you enter Osterfjord
- The narrow Mostraumen channel
- Inside Mostraumen Fjord
- The picturesque village of Mo
- Sailing under Bergsåa waterfall
Sailing Under the Waterfall
This is the moment everyone waits for!
You’ll sail close enough to feel the spray, and the crew sometimes even collect fresh water in a bucket for passengers to taste!
You’ll want a waterproof jacket and also a waterproof cover for your camera or phone here though, as the spray is quite fierce and you will get wet out on deck.
Visiting Mostraumen Fjord in Winter
Visiting Mostraumen Fjord in winter is so magical!
Yes, it’s cold and you’re more likely to experience moody skies, snow, rain or wind. But honestly? The quieter, cinematic experience you get in the fjord is so worth it!
When I did my own fjord cruise to Mostraumen in February, the cliffs were dusted with snow, the morning light was dramatic and gloomy, and a light mist drifted between the mountains so the whole fjord looked like a cinematic movie!
But, of course, there are some practical things to know before you visit Mostraumen Fjord in winter:
- Daylight hours are short, so the 10am departure is your best bet for visibility and light throughout the cruise.
- The boats still run, but there are fewer departures compared to the summer season, so you’ll want to book ahead.
- It’s colder on the water than in Bergen, so layer up with thermal base layers, a fleece, a winter coat, a hat, a scarf, and gloves you can use with your phone.
- Expect mixed conditions, as in winter the weather can change from clear skies to rain or cloud quickly. It’s just part of the winter experience in Norway!
- Visibility changes fast, so don’t worry if you start the trip in fog or thick cloud. Chances are, it will just make the fjord look even more moody and dramatic!
- The indoor seating is kept very warm, but if you want the best views head outside, especially when the boat enters the narrow Mostraumen channel.
As a solo traveller, I most loved how calm and quiet the winter sailing felt.
The boat wasn’t packed with fellow passengers, so there was plenty of space to walk around the outdoor decks and into the lounge. And the atmosphere felt very relaxed.
Katie’s Top Tip: Dress for wind, not just cold! A warm coat in Norway is nothing if it’s not also windproof. You’ll want to stay outside for the best views, so being warm enough to do that comfortably is so important.
Best Time to Do a Mostraumen Fjord Cruise
There is no bad time to visit Mostraumen Fjord!
The cruise to Mostraumen runs all year round from Bergen, and the best time to sail depends on what kind of experience you want.
Spring and summer have long days, more stable (and usually nicer) weather conditions, and more departures to choose from. This is the best time if you want to sit outside for the whole journey without freezing!
Autumn and winter bring moodier, more cinematic landscapes, with mist in the fjord, snow dusting the cliffs and a dramatic low light. This is my personal favourite time to visit Mostraumen because the experience is so much quieter, less crowded and more dramatic.
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re visiting Bergen for a few days, keep your Mostraumen Fjord cruise flexible if you can. And book the best weather day on your trip if you don’t want to freeze out on deck!
Mostraumen Fjord Weather Through the Seasons
Mostraumen Fjord in Winter
Expect cold winds, temperatures hovering around 0°C (but this feels colder in the fjord than in Bergen), and possible snow or rain.
The wind chill on deck is the biggest consideration, so make sure you wear good quality insulated, waterproof AND windproof layers.
The light in winter is cinematic but short-lived, so the 10am morning departure is ideal.
Mostraumen Fjord in Spring
The temperatures are still cool, but it’s a lot less cold than in the middle of winter. It can still be very rainy in Bergen in spring, though.
The biggest change is that the waterfalls are at their most powerful in spring, after the snow has thawed and rainfall increases. It’s definitely impressive to sail under them in spring!
Mostraumen Fjord in Summer
Summer is the warmest and most stable season for weather and temperatures in Bergen, although Norway can still surprise you with rain, so good weather is not guaranteed!
You’ll experience more vibrant landscapes, calm waters, longer daylight hours and, logistically, more departures but also more tourists on board with you.
Mostraumen Fjord in Autumn
In autumn, you can expect the return of crisp temperatures, less stable weather and moody skies. Rain is also more common in autumn.
Katie’s Top Tip: Bring at least a small, packable waterproof all year round, even in summer.
What to Pack for the Mostraumen Fjord Cruise
Packing right for the season will keep you comfortable when you visit Mostraumen Fjord, whether you stay inside the lounge or brave the outside deck for photos in all weathers!
Winter
Wear your warmest windproof and waterproof coat, a thermal base layer, a warm fleece or wool mid-layer, a hat that covers your ears, touch-screen gloves and a scarf or neck gaiter.
Also, insulated snow boots with good grip, paired with wool socks are a game-changer for keeping your feet warm in Norway in winter!
It’s not exactly the same, but I do have a blog post about what to pack for a winter cruise in Norway, which you can check out for more inspiration.
Spring + Autumn
Wear a warm fleece or wool layer and a windproof and waterproof lighter-weight jacket to keep yourself warm and dry. Also pack touchscreen gloves, a hat and scarf in your day bag, just in case it gets cold out on the water. For shoes, trainers are usually ok.
Summer
Don’t be fooled by the summer, because even in July, it can be windy or rainy in Norway! Bring a light waterproof jacket, sunglasses to protect against the glare of the sun on the water, and sunscreen. For shoes, trainers are usually ok.
All Year
- Small day backpack
- Power bank for your phone
- Your camera
- Waterproof camera cover
- Waterproof phone pouch
- A microfibre cloth to wipe spray off your camera lens or phone
Katie’s Top Tip: No matter the season, pack layers you can easily take on and off. You’ll be moving between the warm indoor lounge and the outdoor deck, so the ability to adapt easily will make your trip much more comfortable!
How to Combine Mostraumen Fjord With a Day in Bergen
One of the reasons I love the Mostraumen Fjord cruise is that it fits easily into your Bergen itinerary without taking up a whole day. Here are a couple of sample itineraries:
Option 1: Mostraumen Fjord Cruise + Explore Bergen
If you like easy, balanced days of sightseeing (same!), do the 10am cruise to Mostraumen first. The light is soft, the boat is quieter, and you’ll be back around lunchtime.
Once you’re back at the pier, you can then easily walk straight to Bryggen to explore the historic alleyways, grab a light lunch at Kaf Kafe Bryggen, and then take the Fløibanen up Mount Fløyen for the spectacular views over the city and fjords!
This itinerary is perfect if you want to see the best things to do in Bergen in one day!
Option 2: Mostraumen Fjord Cruise Before Boarding the Coastal Express
If you’re joining the Norway Coastal Express (with Havila or Hurtigruten) later in the afternoon, this itinerary works so well.
Boarding for the Coastal Express opens around 4pm, which gives you plenty of time between getting off the fjord cruise (at around 1:30pm if you join the 10am sailing) and getting to the port to check in for your coastal voyage!
When I did this, I actually saw my Coastal Express ship sailing into port as we were returning from Mostraumen!
Final Thoughts
If you’re still wondering whether the Mostraumen Fjord cruise from Bergen is worth it, the answer for me is an easy yes!
It’s one of the easiest ways to get a taste of Norway’s famous and scenic fjords, without committing to a long and expensive day trip or having to travel to more remote fjords like Geirangerfjord, near Ålesund.
Whether you’re sailing in winter under moody light and snowy cliffs, or in summer with warm temperatures and a lively atmosphere, this fjord cruise is spectacular all year round!
Mostraumen Fjord FAQs
Can you see wildlife on the Mostraumen Fjord cruise?
You can, but think of it as a bonus, not a guarantee. The Mostraumen Fjord cruise passes through areas where you might spot white tailed eagles, gulls and cormorants. So keep your eyes up along the cliffs for birds riding the wind along the ridgelines.
Wildlife isn’t the main attraction of this cruise, though. It’s more about the dramatic scenery, waterfalls, and the experience of sailing through the narrow Mostraumen channel.
If wildlife is a priority for you, I’d recommend visiting Trollfjord near Svolvaer in the Lofoten Islands, for regular sightings of eagles!
Can you visit Mostraumen Fjord in winter?
Yes – and honestly, winter is when the landscape feels the most dramatic and the cruise is at its most peaceful!
When you visit Mostraumen Fjord in winter, the low sun creates a moody light that makes the cliffs and waterfalls look even more dramatic. I did this cruise solo in winter, and the mist drifting through the narrow channel was unforgettable!
Plus, the interior lounge is heated, so you can stay warm between times out on deck.
Just be prepared for a cold wind out on the upper deck and more unpredictable weather conditions. And also, the route may occasionally adjust due to ice in the fjord, but this is normal and won’t affect your experience.
Which side of the boat to Mostraumen Fjord is best?
This cruise doesn’t really have one side that is consistently better than the other. But I personally loved the back of the boat leaving Bergen, and then the front of the boat sailing through the fjords to Mo.
Most people shift around between indoor seating and the outer decks anyway, so don’t stress about getting the perfect spot. I loved just walking around wherever I felt the views were best!
How long is the Mostraumen Fjord cruise?
The Mostraumen Fjord cruise is around 3.5 hours round-trip, starting and ending in Bergen Harbour.
It’s one of the best fjord tours from Bergen because you experience the dramatic landscapes of Mostraumen Fjord without needing a full day spare!
And even though it’s only half a day, you’ll see so much incredible scenery, from quaint villages and steep cliffs to powerful waterfalls and the narrow Mostraumen channel!
Should you book the Mostraumen Fjord cruise in advance?
Yes, I definitely recommend booking ahead, especially in summer or on weekends.
While you can sometimes buy a ticket on the day, it’s not guaranteed, and the last thing you want is to turn up and find it sold out.
Plus, booking online lets you choose the best departure time for your itinerary, which matters if you’re trying to fit in other sights or coordinate with the Coastal Express.
In winter, sailings are quieter, but the schedules are also more limited, so advance booking is still important.
What if it rains?
The cruise still runs in the rain, and honestly, some of the best scenery happens when the weather turns moody! Rain also makes the waterfalls stronger, and the fjord feels more dramatic.
This is western Norway, so rain is just part of the experience!
Plus, the boat has an enclosed, heated cabin with panoramic windows, so you can enjoy the scenery even in the rain.
Read More About Travel in Norway:
- Northbound vs Southbound Norway Coastal Express: Compared
- What to Wear in Norway in Winter? (+ Norway Packing List)
- How to Plan a Trip to Norway in Winter (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Norway vs Iceland in Winter: Ultimate Solo Travel Comparison
- Where to Stay in Bergen (+ Best Areas For Solo Travellers)
- Where to Stay in Tromsø (+ Best Areas For Solo Travellers)
- Hurtigruten vs Havila: Which is Best For Solo Travellers?
- Is Saltstraumen Worth Visiting from Bodø? (+ What to Expect)
- How to Get Around Norway in Winter (Without a Car!)
- How to Visit Trollfjord: Northern Norway’s Most Iconic Fjord
- How to Visit Mostraumen Fjord (Bergen’s Best Day Trip!)
- 7 Things To Do in Hammerfest (Hammerfest Travel Guide)
- Mount Aksla Hike: How to Find the Best Ålesund Viewpoint
- 8 BEST Things To Do in Brønnøysund, Norway: Havila Port Stop
- 21 Most Beautiful Places in Norway You Have To Visit
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