Information about our Private Cruises

Frequently asked Questions about our Fjord Cruises in Norway

Have questions before booking your private fjord cruise? Here you’ll find helpful answers about our private yacht charters from Stavanger, including cruise length, group size, weather, drop-in tours, helicopter experiences, guided hikes and how to explore Lysefjord, Pulpit Rock and Kjerag by boat. Private Cruise is designed for couples, families and small groups who want a personal, safe and unforgettable way to experience the Norwegian fjords — with a private yacht, your own captain and flexible cruise options tailored to your journey. For anything not covered below, you are always welcome to contact Captain Helge directly. We are happy to help you plan a safe, memorable and tailor-made private cruise experience in Stavanger.

Questions about routes & itineraries

Is it possible with drop-in tours on the Private Cruise?

Yes, check directly with the captain if the boat is available: Phone +47 934 97 707.

Is it possible to share the private cruise tour with somebody else?

Primarily you hire the yacht and captain as a whole, and for your friends and family alone. It is a private cruise, rented for private use. 

There are only two of us traveling, can we still book the yacht?

Yes. The private cruise is ideal for a couple who want to have a private cruise, or a small group to see the amazing nature and cruise with your own captain guiding you through the fjords.

Where do the fjord cruises start and end?
Most of our cruises start in Stavanger, Norway, with typical departure points from Skagenkaien in Stavanger city centre, close to both Eilert Smith Hotel and Victoria Hotel. On longer multi-day journeys, the cruises may also operate between Stavanger and Bergen, with departures or arrivals at Bergen harbour / Dreggekaien.

Depending on the cruise, the exact pickup point and harbour location may vary slightly due to logistics and weather conditions. For multi-day charters, the route and start/end locations can often be adapted within the areas we operate in, including Lysefjord, the Stavanger region and selected Stavanger ↔ Bergen journeys along the west coast of Norway.

We always confirm the exact meeting point, timing and transport details before departure.

What can we see on a Lysefjord cruise?
On a Lysefjord cruise, you can experience some of Norway’s most famous fjord scenery, including Pulpit Rock / Preikestolen, waterfalls, steep mountain walls, Vagabond’s Cave, Flørli and, on longer cruises, Kjerag and Kjeragbolten.

Lysefjord is one of the most spectacular fjords in Norway, and travelling by private yacht gives you a peaceful and comfortable way to see it from the water.

What can we experience on a 2–3 day fjord cruise?

A 2–3 day cruise gives you more time to slow down and experience the fjords properly. You may cruise through Lysefjord, visit Flørli, stop near small villages, enjoy meals onboard, swim from the yacht, use the tender, try paddleboarding, go for short hikes or simply relax on deck.

The route can be tailored to your group. Some guests want an active itinerary with hikes and activities, while others prefer quiet anchorages, good food, beautiful views and time onboard.

What can we experience on a 5–6 day fjord cruise from Stavanger to Bergen?

A 5–6 day cruise can combine several of the best highlights in South-Western Norway. The route may include Stavanger, Lysefjord, Pulpit Rock, Kjerag, Flørli, Røvær, Rosendal, Hardangerfjord, Murangerfjord, Folgefonna Glacier and Bergen.

This type of cruise is ideal for guests who want to see more of Norway in one seamless journey, without changing hotels every night. You travel in comfort, enjoy meals onboard and wake up close to new fjord landscapes, villages and experiences.

How long time is the tour/private cruise if we want to see Kjerag in addition to Preikestolen/ Pulpit Rock?

The Private Cruise Stavanger-Kjerag and back are a 7 hours cruise, included an excursion at the old power plant village Flørli with the world’s longest wooden staircase, 4444 steps from sea level to the top of the mountains. (possibly with snow on top).

What does a typical multi-day private cruise look like?

A typical multi-day cruise combines fjord cruising, scenic stops, meals onboard, time to relax, optional activities and visits to small coastal villages or natural attractions.

For example, a 2–3 day cruise may focus on Lysefjord, Ryfylke, Pulpit Rock, Flørli, waterfalls, quiet anchorages and beautiful island communities. A 5–6 day cruise can take you further along the west coast from Stavanger towards Bergen, Hardangerfjord, Rosendal, Røvær, Folgefonna and other highlights.

The exact route is never completely fixed. We adapt the itinerary to the weather, sea conditions, season and what you would like to experience.

Do your fjord cruises follow fixed routes?

No, our private cruises are flexible. We always plan a suggested route, but the final itinerary can be adjusted based on weather, guest preferences and local conditions.

This is one of the main benefits of booking a private cruise instead of joining a standard fjord tour. You have more freedom, more privacy and more opportunities to shape the experience around your group.

Can we extend the private cruise while on the yacht i.e. from 4-hour cruise to 8-hour cruise?

Normally not in the high season, as the Yacht has a busy schedule, but pending availability, yes – ask the captain.

Can we choose where to stop along the way?
Yes, where possible, we can adapt stops to your interests. You may want to visit small coastal villages, go ashore for a walk, stop for lunch, swim in a quiet bay, visit Flørli, explore Rosendal, dine at a local restaurant or add an excursion.

Some stops depend on weather, harbour availability, season and timing. We will help plan a route that gives you the best possible experience within the time available.

Is it possible to hike from the fjord up to Preikestolen or Kjerag?

Yes, it’s possible with a hiking guide, contact Captain for further details.

Can we bring a dog aboard the yacht??

Unfortunately not, we do not allow dogs about the yacht as other guests might have allergies.

Are there any weather limitations four our Private Cruises?
Stavanger and the surrounding sea area east of Stavanger is protected for rough seas by high mountains, fjords and idyllic islands so weather is rarely a safety factor. However, safety is always our main priority and the Captain may cancel the cruise for safety reasons.

Questions about activities & experiences

Is it possible with drop-in tours on the Private Cruise?

It can be both. Some guests prefer to spend most of the time cruising, relaxing onboard and enjoying the scenery. Others want a more active itinerary with hiking, swimming, paddleboarding, tender trips, village visits or additional excursions.

What do you actually experience during the cruise?
The experience depends on the length of the cruise, weather conditions and what type of journey you would like to have. Our cruises mainly operate in the Stavanger and Lysefjord region, as well as on multi-day journeys between Stavanger and Bergen.

Along the way, guests may experience some of Norway’s most spectacular fjord scenery, including:
Lysefjord, Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), Kjerag, Flørli and the famous 4444 wooden staircase, Hardangerfjord, Maurangerfjord, Rosendal and smaller hidden fjord communities and anchorages that are difficult to reach any other way.

Every itinerary is weather dependent and tailored to the guests wishes too, within the distances we operate in. 

What activities can we do during a multi-day cruise?
Depending on the route, weather and season, activities may include hiking, swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, tender rides, sightseeing, village visits, restaurant stops, glacier-related excursions, helicopter tours or simply enjoying the yacht and fjord views.
Is it only cruising, or are there activities as well?
A private cruise is much more than simply travelling from one place to another.

Depending on the route and the preferences of the guests, the experience can include fjord hikes, swimming, paddleboard or tender excursions, visits to small villages and coastal communities, or relaxing onboard with chef-prepared meals while surrounded by dramatic fjord landscapes.
Some guests prefer a more active itinerary, while others simply want privacy, beautiful scenery and a calm, relaxed pace onboard the yacht.

Can we go hiking during the cruise?

Yes, hiking can be included in the itinerary. Popular options may include shorter walks in places like Flørli, scenic hikes near fjord villages or selected hikes such as Bondhusvatnet on longer routes.

At Flørli, guests can explore the area and walk parts of the famous 4444 wooden steps, known as the longest wooden stairway in the world.

The hiking options depend on your route, fitness level, time available and weather conditions.

Can we visit small villages and local places?
Yes. Visiting small coastal communities and fjord villages is one of the things that makes a private cruise special.
Can we swim from the yacht?
Yes, swimming may be possible when conditions allow. Many guests enjoy swimming in the fjord or from quiet anchorages during the warmer months.
Please note that fjord water in Norway can be cold, even in summer. Swimming is always based on safety, weather and local conditions.
Do you have paddleboards or a tender?
Yes, activities such as paddleboarding and tender rides may be possible depending on the cruise and conditions. Barolo III also has a Williams tender, which can be used to add more flexibility and adventure to the experience.
Can we just relax onboard?
Absolutely. Many guests book a private cruise simply to relax, enjoy the yacht, take in the scenery, eat well and spend quality time together.
Can we add a helicopter tour?
Yes, helicopter tours may be added to selected cruises, depending on availability, weather and route. Helicopter tours are listed as an optional add-on for longer cruises.

We recommend requesting this early, as it requires extra planning.

Food & drinks

Is food included on multi-day cruises?

Yes, our multi-day cruises are all-inclusive. This means breakfast, lunch and a 3-course dinner are included, with no surprise costs for the planned meals onboard.

On the 5–6 day Stavanger to Bergen cruise, the current offer includes a private yacht with captain, gourmet chef, breakfast, lunch and 3-course dinner.

Menus are planned based on the cruise, the route and your preferences.

Are your cruises all-inclusive?
Our multi-day cruises are designed to be all-inclusive, so guests can relax and enjoy the experience without worrying about unexpected meal costs onboard.
Can the menu be adapted to our preferences?
Yes, the menu can be adapted to your group. Please tell us about your preferences, dietary needs, allergies or special requests when booking.
Can we bring our own drinks?
Please ask us when booking. Food and drink arrangements depend on the cruise type, route and package.
For multi-day cruises, meals and planned onboard dining are normally part of the experience. If you have specific requests for wine, Champagne, soft drinks or other beverages, let us know in advance so this can be arranged properly.
Is there a chef onboard?
A gourmet chef can be arranged on selected cruises and is included in some multi-day cruise concepts, such as the Stavanger to Bergen cruise.

Questions about practical information

Where do we meet before the cruise?
For many cruises, the pickup point is in Stavanger city centre, while the main harbour or departure point may be a short drive away. The exact meeting point will be confirmed before your cruise.

Typical departure locations are:
• Skagenkaien (Stavanger)
• Bergen harbor / Dreggekaien

If you are arriving from a hotel, airport, cruise ship or another location, let us know. We can help coordinate the logistics.

How do we get to the boat?
We will provide clear instructions before your cruise. Depending on where the yacht is departing from, you may be able to walk, take a short taxi ride or arrange transport.
What should we pack for a private fjord cruise?
We recommend packing comfortable clothes, warm layers, a windproof jacket, good shoes, swimwear if you want to swim, sunglasses, sunscreen and any personal medication you may need.
Even in summer, the weather in the Norwegian fjords can change quickly. It is best to bring practical clothing that allows you to enjoy both sunny moments and cooler conditions.

For overnight cruises, bring normal travel essentials, but try to pack in soft bags rather than large hard suitcases, as storage onboard is more limited than in a hotel.

What are the cabins like onboard?
Barolo III has 3 VIP double guest cabins, each with its own bathroom with shower, sink and toilet. This makes the yacht suitable for up to 6 overnight guests.
The yacht also has spacious shared areas, including indoor seating, dining space, outdoor lounge areas and a flybridge with panoramic views.
How many people can sleep onboard?
Up to 6 guests can sleep onboard Barolo III on overnight and multi-day cruises. The yacht has 3 double guest cabins, making it ideal for couples, families or small private groups.

For day cruises, the yacht can take up to 12 guests plus crew.

Is there a bathroom onboard?
Yes. Each of the 3 guest cabins has its own bathroom with shower, sink and toilet. There are also comfortable shared areas onboard for dining and relaxing.
What is the standard onboard?
Barolo III is a spacious 21m / 72ft Princess yacht designed for comfort, privacy and premium fjord experiences. The yacht has indoor and outdoor seating areas, dining areas, a flybridge, double cabins and private bathrooms.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Safety always comes first. The captain may adjust the route, change the itinerary or cancel the cruise if weather conditions make it unsafe, such as strong winds or poor visibility.

For multi-day cruises, the route is planned with flexibility so we can adapt to the best and safest conditions. Sometimes this means changing the order of stops, choosing a more sheltered route or adjusting activities.

Can we cruise all year?
Some cruises are available all year, including selected Lysefjord experiences. The full-day Lysefjord cruise is listed as available all year, with the fjord described as stunning in all conditions.

For multi-day cruises, the best season is typically from April to October, when the days are longer and conditions are better for activities, village stops, swimming and overnight cruising.

What is included?
Our multi-day charters are designed as fully all-inclusive experiences, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the journey without worrying about additional onboard costs.

The experience includes a private yacht with captain, host and chef, accommodation onboard, breakfast, lunch and 3-course dinners, drinks, fuel and harbour fees. Menus and onboard experiences can also be adapted to guest preferences whenever possible.

Can you help with transport before or after the cruise?
Yes, transport can often be coordinated or recommended as part of the planning process. This may include transport from a hotel, airport, cruise ship or other meeting point.

Please share your travel plans when sending your request, and we will help make the logistics as smooth as possible.

Questions about booking & availability

How do we book a private cruise?
You can send a booking request through the website. A request is not a final reservation. After you send the form, the team will contact you to confirm details, availability, route, food, activities and final arrangements.
How early should we book?
We recommend booking as early as possible, especially for multi-day cruises, summer dates, special occasions and larger groups.

Private cruises are limited by yacht availability, crew, weather windows and itinerary planning. The earlier you contact us, the more flexibility we usually have to create the best experience.

How flexible should we be with dates?
For multi-day cruises, it is helpful to have some flexibility. Weather and sea conditions can affect the ideal route, and flexible dates make it easier to plan the best possible fjord experience.

If you are travelling to Norway for a specific period, let us know your preferred dates and any alternative dates that could work.

What is the best season for a cruise?
The best season for multi-day cruises is usually from April to October, when conditions are ideal for longer fjord journeys, outdoor dining, hiking, swimming, paddleboarding and exploring small villages and coastal communities along the route.

Day cruises operate almost year-round, as the fjords around Stavanger and Lysefjord offer spectacular scenery in every season.

July and August are the most popular months and generally have the highest demand

While spring and autumn often provide quieter fjords, softer light and a more peaceful and exclusive experience overall.

Can we book at short notice?
Sometimes, yes. Short-notice bookings may be possible if the yacht and crew are available.

However, for multi-day cruises, special menus, activities, transport or celebrations, we recommend booking earlier so everything can be properly planned.

Are prices per person or for the whole yacht?
Prices are for renting the yacht and captain/crew, not per person. This means the price is usually the same whether you are 1 guest or a full group within the yacht’s capacity.
Who handles the booking?
Bookings, activities and logistics are handled by Top The Fjords in partnership with Private Cruise AS. This helps ensure a smooth and professional planning process for guests.
Can we add extra days?
Yes, extra days may be possible depending on yacht availability, season and route. Longer cruises give you more time to explore fjords, islands, villages, restaurants and inland excursions.

Let us know how many days you are considering, and we can suggest a suitable itinerary.

Can we request a completely custom itinerary?
Yes. Custom itineraries are one of the main strengths of a private cruise. We can tailor the route, stops, food, activities and pace based on your group’s preferences.

If you have specific places you want to visit, activities you want to include or a special occasion to plan around, tell us when sending your request.

Questions about guests and events

Who is a private cruise best suited for?

A private cruise is ideal for couples, families, friends, honeymooners, birthday celebrations, corporate guests, VIP travellers and small private groups who want a more personal way to experience the Norwegian fjords.
It is especially well suited for guests who value privacy, comfort, flexibility, good food and unique nature experiences.

Is the cruise private or shared with other guests?
The cruise is private. You do not share the yacht with other guests outside your group.
How many guests can join?
Barolo III can take up to 12 guests on day trips and up to 6 overnight guests on multi-day cruises. The overnight capacity is based on 3 double guest cabins.
Is this suitable for couples?
Yes. A private cruise is a great experience for couples, especially for honeymoons, anniversaries, proposals or romantic getaways.
A multi-day cruise gives you privacy, beautiful scenery, meals onboard and time to enjoy the fjords without crowds.
Is this suitable for families?
families the freedom to travel at their own pace and adapt the experience to both adults and children.

Please tell us the age of the guests when booking, so we can plan the safest and most suitable route and activities.

Is this suitable for groups of friends?
Yes. A private cruise is perfect for small groups of friends who want to celebrate, explore the fjords, enjoy good food and experience Norway in a more exclusive way.
Can we book for a corporate group or VIP guests?
Yes. Private Cruise welcomes corporate guests, VIP travellers, small businesses, sightseeing groups and individuals.

The yacht is suitable for client hosting, executive experiences, team events, incentives and private business-related travel.

Can we celebrate a birthday, honeymoon or anniversary onboard?
Yes. Private cruises are well suited for special occasions such as birthdays, honeymoons, anniversaries, proposals and family celebrations.

Please tell us what you are celebrating when booking, so we can help personalize the experience with food, drinks, route suggestions or special details.

Questions about value & expectations

What makes a private cruise different from a regular fjord cruise?
A private cruise offers a completely different experience compared to a traditional fjord sightseeing tour. Instead of following a fixed route together with large groups of passengers, you have the yacht entirely to yourselves, with a flexible itinerary tailored to your group, interests and pace. This creates a far more personal and comfortable way to experience the fjords, with the freedom to slow down, stop where possible, enjoy chef-prepared meals onboard and combine the journey with activities and excursions along the way.

One of the biggest advantages of a private cruise is the ability to access quieter places away from the crowds while enjoying personal service, privacy and a more relaxed atmosphere throughout the journey. The experience combines luxury, nature and authentic local experiences in a way that feels exclusive, yet still deeply connected to the Norwegian fjord landscape.

Is a private cruise worth it?
If you want privacy, comfort, flexibility and a more personal experience of the Norwegian fjords, a private cruise offers something very different from standard sightseeing tours.
How exclusive is the experience?
The experience is highly private and exclusive. Barolo III is described as one of the largest and most exclusive yachts available for private tours in Stavanger, with spacious indoor and outdoor areas, guest cabins and premium onboard facilities.
Will we have enough time to enjoy the places we visit?
Yes, the itinerary is planned to give you time to enjoy the experience, not just pass by the scenery.

On shorter cruises, the focus is often on seeing the highlights from the water. On full-day and multi-day cruises, there is more time for stops, meals, activities and going ashore.

Can the cruise replace a hotel stay?
For multi-day cruises, yes, the yacht becomes your private floating base. You sleep onboard, enjoy meals onboard and travel between fjords, islands and villages without needing to pack and unpack at different hotels.

Some guests may also choose to combine the cruise with hotel stays before, after or during the journey.

private cruise norway fjord cruise summer 2023 042 - Private Cruise
The captain Helge, founder of private cruise

The captain

Helge Ljones is both the captain and the Owner of the Stavanger based company Private Cruise. He will take great care of you during the entire cruise, and make sure that you have an unforgettable and safe experience in the majestic Norwegian landscape. 

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Telephone: +47 934 97 707

E-mail: post@privatecruise.no

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