Exploration yachting has become the next big thing and the majestic Norwegian fjords are among some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in the world you could explore.

From your privileged position aboard a luxury charter yacht you’ll have access to the most unbelievable cruising grounds. Sail among glaciers and dramatic mountain scenery as your traverse the turquoise water of Norway’s exquisite fjords. Sognefjord is Norway’s longest and deepest fjord, and you can sail down the arm of Nærøyfjord for some of the most magical, spectacular scenery in existence.

A yacht charter in Norway can include endless adventure activities. As well as viewing the impressive Pulpit Rock from a private yacht, you can also climb it for an unforgettable view of the Lysefjord. Visit the peaceful town of Kinsarvik – formerly home to 300 Vikings – and then go on to explore the lush Hardangervidda National Park. Admire the emerald fjords and gushing waterfalls of Odda, and see the four waterfalls of Husedalen Valley. 

Adventure activities are seemingly limitless here – from hiking in lush national parks to climbing a glacier, if you dare. Hike up to the famous Pulpit rock (Preikestolen), which rises to an impressive 604 metres above the fjord, on a private tour, or visit Avaldsnes village where you can take a guided tour of the Viking Farm, exploring traditional Viking villages. Guests might then be tempted to have a go at traditional Viking activities like archery and axe throwing!

The UNESCO-protected Geirangerfjord is one of the most beautiful sights of Norway. Surrounded by high, snow-capped mountains, several waterfalls spill down the steep mountain walls into the fjord below. View the waterfalls from the water (the most notable being The Seven Sisters and The Suitor), or take the Waterfall Walk which includes 327 steps and many fantastic viewpoints of the Storfossen waterfall and the Geirangerfjord. Of course, you can also go kayaking in the fjord or make a splash on a high-speed RIB boat tour.

Catch your breath in the picturesque village of Norheimsund on the Hardangerfjord. The Steinsdalsfossen is a gorgeous waterfall that you’ll want to visit while chartering in this region. 

Include the district of Voss in your itinerary to up the ante on your adventure yacht charter. Dubbed the adventure capital of Norway, Voss offers tons of action-packed activities like bungee jumping, skydiving, paragliding, canyoning and white-water rafting. In winter the two ski resorts are sure to please, while in other seasons visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fishing and hunting.

Tie up in Kinsarvik Bay to explore the Hardangerfjord, replete with majestic mountains, fruit orchards and excellent walking trails to visit spellbinding waterfalls. For a more challenging hike, charter to the Jostedalsbreen glacier, where you can climb an arm called Nigardsbreen. Another fantastic hike is Reinebringen in the Lofoten Islands, where the payoff for a strenuous climb is an incredible view of the midnight sun. 

Wildlife abounds in Northern Norway, where you can spot animals in their natural habitat or seek them out at Polar Park or Namsskogan Familiepark. Cruise to Andenes, Stø or Tromsø for sightings of orca, humpback and sperm whales. Or go in search of wild reindeer on Hardangervidda. Svalbard archipelago, the most accessible slice of the polar north, is easily reached by boat or plane. In summer, many birds migrate to the archipelago to nest, and rich flora emerges in a previously wintry landscape. Thousands of polar bears call this magical part of the world home – in fact, they outnumber people. You’re likely to see them on a winter snowmobiling or skiing expedition, or on your private charter around the islands.

Best time to go

Visit Arctic Norway to experience the Land of the Midnight Sun during the summer, where the sun doesn’t ever move out of sight, or the magical Northern Lights – Aurora Borealis - during the winter. The best chances of seeing the Northern Lights are between November and April, when there is a limited amount of daylight.

Insider tip

You can climb a part of the Jostedalsbreen glacier, an arm called Nigardsbreen. In summer there are daily hikes on the glacier with experienced guides, offering everything from simple walks for children to more challenging overnight hikes.