Haugesund Cruise: Best Cruises to Haugesund

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Haugesund Cruise Port Guide

On a cruise to Haugesund, you’ll discover the home of the Viking kings in Norway. Located between the towns of Stavanger and Bergen, Haugesund is a destination brimming with Nordic history, culture, and spectacular natural beauty at every turn.

Visit an ancient Viking settlement and learn all about the grounds where powerful kings once ruled. Head to Langfoss Waterfalls and enjoy the cooling mist of one of the world’s most beautiful waterfalls on your skin. Walk on top of an icy blue glacier and admire the unrivaled scenery as you make your way down the gorgeous fjords that make Norway cruises a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Cruises to Haugesund, Norway

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Top Sights and Attractions on a Cruise to Haugesund

Haraldshaugen

Embark on a scenic walk on your way to Haraldshaugen, also known as Norway’s National Monument. This obelisk landmark is said to be the burial site of Viking King Harald Fairhair, the leader who unified all of Norway in 872. One thousand years later, this memorial was erected in 1872 in honor of King Harald I’s historic achievement.

Langfoss Waterfall

Just outside of Haugesund, you’ll find the lovely Langfoss Waterfall. Measuring over 2,000 feet high, Langfoss’ water gently cascades down the side of a mountain into a serene fjord below. Witness this natural wonder, which has been consistently voted as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world, from either the comfort of your car, while on a boat cruise down the fjord, or by foot, where you’ll get to enjoy the gentle mist that emanates down the mountain.

Folgefonna Glacier

Admire the glistening blue facade of the Folgefonna Glacier, the third-largest icefield in the country. Located inside Folgefonna National Park, this stunning natural attraction is surrounded by sparkling rivers, waterfalls, and green mountains, making it one of the most breathtaking destinations in the area. Snap pictures from down below or go on an adventurous walk on top of this massive frozen block of ice.

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Top Things to Do in Haugesund

Visit Skudeneshavn

Go on a day trip to the small island of Karmøy, an idyllic escape with sandy beaches, lush forests, and the picturesque village of Skudeneshavn. Walk around blooming gardens and marvel at over 100 white wooden houses from the 1800s, all of which have been impeccably preserved throughout centuries. Don’t miss taking a stroll around its equally photogenic harbor, where there are plenty of shops, art galleries, and local bakeries selling freshly made waffles.

Learn About Vikings in Avaldsnes

Step back in time at Avaldsnes, a Viking settlement on the nearby island of Bukkøy. Learn all about Viking history in this farm, which once served as the home of King Harald Fairhair, and step in and out of reconstructed buildings that recreate what life was like in the pre-Christian era. There are daily guided Viking tours that take you around the settlement’s medieval church and monuments, as well as the comprehensive Norway History Centre, where you can learn even more about the area’s history while kids can wear Viking costumes for fun.

Watch Live Glassblowing

Explore the local art scene on a Haugesund cruise and stop by a glass studio. Watch as artisans create pieces of glass art right before your eyes. Aside from seeing how these colorful pieces come together, you’ll also have the chance to shop for unique gifts to bring back home.

Top Food and Drink in Haugesund

Like the rest of Norway, Haugesund is a great destination to try fresh seafood and lamb. Regional restaurants feature ingredients that come straight from the ocean, so you’ll often spot clams, herring, and seaweed on the menu. As for those with a sweet tooth, order the local specialty dessert, a Queen Maud fromage, which is a cream and chocolate confection that is quite popular in Western Norway.

Culture and History of Haugesund

Haugesund is known as the birthplace of Norway, as it was the site where King Harald Fairhair unified the country in 872. In fact, Norway’s name comes from a shipping lane in Avaldsnes, the Viking settlement in the city, that was called “Way to the North,” which eventually morphed into Norway. In the past, Haugesund rose to prominence because of its profitable herring fishing industry, which allowed the town to develop rapidly into an important maritime town. Today, while the city remains an important trading center, most of the city’s economy is focused on offshore oil drilling and aluminum processing.

Haugesund Port Facilities & Location

The Haugesund cruise port is located near the city’s downtown area. You can walk into town or take the free shuttle bus from the port. In the city center, you’ll find a variety of stores and restaurants to explore, while the natural attractions, like Langfoss Waterfall and Folgefonna National Park, are farther away and can only be reached via bus or car.

Transportation in Haugesund

Shopping Near the Haugesund Cruise Port

Near the Haugesund cruise port, you’ll be able to walk to the main shopping area of the town, which is concentrated in two streets: Skaregata, where you’ll find designer stores and big-name retailers; and Haraldsgata, a smaller alley with boutique shops selling local items and gifts. There are also two large shopping malls in Haugesund: Oasen, in the south side of the city, and Amanda Shopping Center, the largest mall in the area.

Local Currency & Tipping Customs

The local currency in Haugesund is the Norwegian krone. Credit cards are used widely throughout the city, but you’ll need to present a valid ID when paying with one. Tipping is not common, but if you experienced great service, you can always leave a little something extra to show your appreciation.