Bodø: Kjerringøy & Silent Coastal Cruise

Bodø: Kjerringøy & Silent Coastal Cruise – A Deep Dive into the Arctic Coastline

If you’re exploring Norway’s Nordland County, this half-day cruise offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical charm. For just $107 per person, you’ll spend around 4 hours gliding through Nordfjord, soaking in spectacular mountain views, and stepping onto the well-preserved Kjerringøy Handelssted, a 19th-century trading post.

What makes this trip special? First, we loved how smoothly the cruise moved through Mistfjorden and Nordfjorden, giving us peaceful moments of silence interrupted only by the sounds of nature. Second, the visit to Kjerringøy felt like stepping back in time, with its traditional wooden buildings and quaint atmosphere.

One thing to consider is the limited time at each stop—if you’re eager to explore every detail, you might find 10 minutes at Kjerringøy to be somewhat brief. Still, for those wanting a quick but meaningful glimpse of coastal Norway’s wildlife, history, and scenery, this tour hits the mark. Perfect for nature lovers, history buffs, or anyone craving a peaceful excursion with beautiful views and engaging storytelling.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Majestic scenery: Glide silently past towering mountains and scenic beaches, providing plenty of photo opportunities.
• Authentic history: Visit an impeccably preserved 19th-century trading post with original buildings and boats.
• Wildlife insights: Guides share stories and facts about the local wildlife and natural environment.
• Comfort & convenience: Spacious, modern boat with large windows, free WiFi, and facilities accommodating all travelers.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance or reserve now and pay later.
• Authentic experience: Small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure a personalized experience.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

This cruise begins in Bodø, a lively coastal city known for its dramatic landscape and vibrant port life. Departing from the pier in front of Bryggerikaia Restaurant, you’ll quickly settle into your seat—preferably one with a good view, as large windows make it easy to take in the scenery without feeling crowded.

As you set off, your guides will point out Landegode Mountain, a prominent peak that dominates the skyline, and the quaint Hovsundet Beach, famed for its narrow, picturesque shape. We loved how the boat moved smoothly along the rugged coastline, with the quiet hum of the engine blending into the natural sounds of the sea and wind.

The first notable area is Mistfjorden, which at times lives up to its name with fog drifting over the water and mountains. Here, the silence is almost meditative, broken only by your guide’s stories about local wildlife and natural features. As the fjord splits into two, you’ll enter Nordfjorden, where towering mountains up to 800 meters high rise sharply on either side, creating a dramatic backdrop for your voyage.

After about 45 minutes of sailing, the boat approaches Kjerringøy. Here, you’ll step onto land for a short 10-minute walk through the lush forest that leads to Kjerringøy Handelssted. This open-air museum is a genuine window into the past, with several well-preserved 19th-century buildings, including old wooden boats and trading warehouses.

Visitors describe the experience as “like walking into a movie set,” with some reviews mentioning how well-maintained and authentic the site feels. It’s a relatively brief visit, but enough to imagine what life was like here 200 years ago. The atmosphere is tranquil, and the scenery around the trading post—surrounded by greenery and views over the fjord—is unforgettable.

On the return leg, the boat retraces its path, passing by Mjelle Beach, another picturesque spot, and offering the chance to purchase snacks or drinks onboard. Many travelers enjoy relaxing with a coffee or cinnamon bun, as one reviewer noted, “We enjoyed the beautiful nature and views immensely, clearly visible through the large windows and from the decks.”

The Guides and Comfort

A highlight of this tour is the passionate, knowledgeable guides who share stories about wildlife, local history, and the landscape. Reviewers frequently mention how friendly and helpful the crew is, especially noting the facilities that accommodate all—including those with disabilities. One reviewer appreciated the lift on board and the friendly assistance provided to her wheelchair-bound sister, emphasizing how inclusive the experience feels.

The boat itself is new and spacious, with large windows that make it easy to see the scenery from inside, even on a cool or rainy day. The upper deck offers benches and open space for those who prefer to stand or enjoy the fresh air, making the cruise adaptable to different preferences.

Practical Details and Value

For $107, this cruise offers a solid value, especially given the included entrance to Kjerringøy and the guiding service. The price also covers free WiFi and tap water, making the experience comfortable without extra charges. Food and beverages are not included, but the onboard shop or nearby cafes at Bodø provide options before or after the trip.

Booking is flexible—cancel up to 24 hours beforehand with a full refund, or reserve now to secure your spot without immediate payment. The tour runs for about 4 hours with a variety of departure times, so you can choose a slot that fits your schedule.

This experience is especially suited for those who appreciate scenic quietness, authentic historical sites, and informative guides. It’s a relaxing way to see the coast, learn about local culture, and enjoy some of Norway’s most striking natural features—all in a comfortable, small-group setting.

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Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who want a peaceful, scenic experience without a long day of travel. It’s ideal for those interested in Norwegian coastal landscapes and history, or anyone looking for a family-friendly outing with easy accessibility. The reviews highlight that even visitors in wheelchairs felt welcomed and well-cared-for, making it a good choice for travelers with mobility concerns.

If you’re curious about wildlife, the guides’ stories make this trip educational and lively. Those who enjoy photography will appreciate the unobstructed views and opportunities to capture both nature and historic architecture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The cruise lasts about 4 hours, including the time spent at Kjerringøy and the sailing time.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the cruise itself, entrance to Kjerringøy, an English-speaking guide, free WiFi, and free tap water onboard.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and beverages are not included, but you can purchase items onboard or bring your own.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the boat has a lift and facilities that accommodate disabled travelers, as noted by reviews praising inclusive access.

When should I arrive?
Plan to meet 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time at the pier in front of Bryggerikaia Restaurant.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or reserve now and pay later.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing (even in summer), camera, and personal essentials. The large windows make it easy to view scenery even if you’re inside.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed pace and scenic nature make it appropriate for families and kids who enjoy quiet boat trips.

Will I see wildlife?
Guides share stories about local wildlife, so you might find this a great opportunity to learn about and possibly spot some marine animals or birdlife.

What is the weather like?
Norwegian coast weather can be unpredictable—bring layers and waterproof gear just in case.

Final Thoughts

The Bodø: Kjerringøy & Silent Coastal Cruise offers a well-balanced mix of beautiful scenery, historical charm, and relaxed comfort. You get to glide through the majestic fjords, learning stories from passionate guides, and step into a historic trading post that feels like stepping back in time. It’s a trip that’s ideal for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a peaceful escape from busier tours.

The tour’s high praise from previous travelers — many of whom appreciated the friendly staff, large windows, and authentic atmosphere — suggests it delivers on its promise of an enjoyable, hassle-free experience. It’s a wonderful way to see the Norwegian coast from a different perspective, with just enough time to connect with the landscape and its stories.

If you’re in Bodø and looking for a short, scenic, and enriching excursion, this cruise could be just what you need for a memorable day that combines nature, history, and tranquility.

You can check availability for your dates here: