Where Can I Book a Cruise to the Norwegian Fjords from the UK?

If the thought of gliding through glassy waters, surrounded by towering cliffs, tumbling waterfalls and colourful little villages sounds like your kind of adventure – a cruise to the Norwegian Fjords might be calling your name.

But where do you actually book one? And more importantly, how do you make sure you’re choosing the right cruise for you?

We’ve done several fjord cruises ourselves from the UK, and in this post we’ll guide you through your options – whether you’re after a no-fly round-trip from Southampton, a small-ship voyage with more off-the-beaten-path stops, or something luxurious and adult-only.

Let’s get stuck in.

First things first – do I need to fly?

Nope! One of the best things about cruising to the Norwegian Fjords from the UK is that you don’t have to fly at all.

There are loads of no-fly cruises that sail directly from UK ports like:

• Southampton (the most popular option)

• Newcastle

• Liverpool

• Rosyth (Edinburgh)

• Greenock (Glasgow)

These round-trip itineraries mean you can simply drive to the port or get the train, hop on the ship, and wake up a day or two later in some of the most stunning scenery Europe has to offer.

Which cruise lines sail to the Norwegian Fjords from the UK?

There’s a wide range – from big family-friendly ships to smaller, more intimate ones. Here are some of the most popular options:

🚢 P&O Cruises

• Sails from: Southampton

• Best for: British feel, great value, no-fly cruising

• Ships: Iona, Britannia, Aurora

• Why we love them: P&O are experts at these itineraries. We’ve done a couple ourselves, and they balance scenic cruising with great port days. Iona even has a SkyDome so you can enjoy the fjords without worrying about the weather.

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🚢 Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines

• Sails from: Liverpool, Newcastle, Rosyth, Southampton

• Best for: Smaller ships, lesser-known fjords, a traditional experience

• Ships: Borealis, Balmoral

• Why we love them: They visit some of the less touristy spots like Åndalsnes or Narvik. Perfect if you’ve already seen the big-name fjords.

🚢 Cunard

• Sails from: Southampton

• Best for: Classic elegance and scenic cruising

• Ships: Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, Queen Anne

• Why we love them: Expect formal nights, string quartets, and stunning views from the wraparound promenade deck. Ideal for a special occasion.

🚢 MSC Cruises

• Sails from: Southampton

• Best for: Family-friendly options with lots to do onboard

• Ships: MSC Virtuosa

• Why we love them: Great for multigenerational trips, especially with kids. Often competitively priced, too.

🚢 Princess Cruises

• Sails from: Southampton

• Best for: North American touches with British comforts

• Ships: Sky Princess, Caribbean Princess

• Why we love them: Brilliant shore excursions, nice cabins, and friendly service.

  
  

🚢 Ambassador Cruise Line

• Sails from: Tilbury (near London)

• Best for: Adults-only value cruising (plus some family sailings in school holidays)

• Ships: Ambience, Ambition

• Why we love them: One of the newer cruise lines aimed at British travellers. Often visit ports like Eidfjord and Flam.

Which cruise line is best for me?

With so many cruise lines to choose from, it can feel a bit overwhelming. So here’s a quick guide based on what you’re looking for.

💸 Best Budget Option: MSC Cruises

If you’re after value for money, MSC is hard to beat. Their fares are often cheaper than most – especially if you don’t mind an inside cabin. You still get stylish ships, big shows, and plenty of dining options.

Bonus tip: Keep an eye out for last-minute deals from Southampton on MSC Virtuosa.

✨ Best Luxury Option: Cunard

Sailing with Cunard is a proper ‘dress up for dinner’ kind of cruise. Think white-gloved service, string quartets, and afternoon tea. The ships are elegant without being stuffy, and the scenic cruising is second to none.

Ship to look for: Cunard's newest ship Queen Anne.

👨‍👩‍👧 Best Family Option: P&O Cruises

With kids’ clubs, family cabins, and child-friendly dining, P&O is brilliant for family fjord adventures. Iona especially has loads to offer – from splash zones and entertainment to ice cream stations and pizza by the slice.

Bonus tip: Fjord cruises during the school holidays sell out fast, so book early.

🧘‍♀️ Best Adults-Only Option: Fred. Olsen or Ambassador

For a quieter, more traditional cruise without little ones running around, try:

• Fred. Olsen – smaller ships, classic cruising, great itineraries

• Ambassador – adults-only most of the year, great value, sails from Tilbury

You’ll find a slower pace, fewer crowds, and plenty of scenic sail-ins without elbowing for a spot.

When’s the best time to go?

Fjord cruise season runs from April to September, with May and June offering lush green landscapes and waterfalls at full force (thanks to snowmelt). July and August tend to be warmer, but busier. September has fewer crowds and a cosy feel – ideal for autumn colours.

If you’re into photography or love a peaceful vibe, try a shoulder-season cruise in April or September.

Where do the cruises actually go?

Norwegian Fjord cruises from the UK usually include a mix of:

• Olden – for Loen Skylift or lake kayaking

• Flåm – ride the Flåmsbana railway or cruise Nærøyfjord

• Geiranger – jaw-dropping fjord views, waterfalls and hairpin bends

• Ålesund – art nouveau town with great viewpoints

• Stavanger – visit the iconic Swords in the Rock or hike Pulpit Rock

Some also include Bergen, Norway’s second-largest city, known for its colourful harbour and funicular to Mount Fløyen.

How long are the cruises?

Most are 7 nights, though you’ll find some shorter 5-night sailings (often fewer ports, more sea days) and some longer 10–14 night options that add Iceland or the Arctic Circle into the mix.

Where can I actually book one?

You’ve got a few choices depending on how much help you want:

✅ A cruise specialist travel agent

We work with our trusted friends at Magical Traveller to help you find the best advice, deals, and cruise holidays to the Norwegian Fjords and beyond.

Booking with a cruise specialist means you’ll get:

• Help choosing the right ship, itinerary and cabin

• Access to exclusive offers, upgrades and perks

• Friendly support before and after you book – no call centres!

If you’re unsure where to start or want someone to do the hard work for you, just get in touch – we’re always happy to help.

✅ Direct with the cruise line

Visit their official websites – like P&O Cruises, Cunard, or MSC Cruises – and search by departure port and destination.

Good if:

• You know exactly what you want

• You’re using a Future Cruise Credit or loyalty discount

✅ Cruise comparison sites

Try:

• Iglu Cruise

• Cruise.co.uk

• Bolsover Cruise Club

Great for comparing prices, cabin types and perks across multiple lines.

Final tip – book early!

Fjord cruises are incredibly popular, especially during school holidays and peak summer. If you’ve got your eye on a balcony cabin (and trust us – you’ll want one), don’t leave it too late.

Ready to set sail?

The Norwegian Fjords are like nowhere else – serene, dramatic, and absolutely breathtaking. And the best part? You don’t even need to get on a plane.

Whether you’re after wildlife, waterfalls or waffle-topped hot chocolate (yes, that’s a thing in Flåm), there’s a cruise out there waiting for you.

If you’d like help finding the right itinerary or ship, just give us a shout. We’re always happy to help fellow cruisers plan their next escape.