Cruise through Norway’s stunning Lysefjord, passing small islands, cascading waterfalls and the famous Pulpit Rock on a scenic and unforgettable shore excursion from Stavanger.
Our first stop on my Norwegian Fjords cruise was Stavanger, and I couldn’t have picked a better introduction to Norway’s dramatic landscapes. Since I was cruising solo, I decided to do a shore excursion through P&O Cruises to the Lysefjord and Pulpit Rock – partly for peace of mind as it was my first proper cruise, and partly because planning feels a lot easier when someone else handles the details!
First impressions of Stavanger
Stavanger, Norway’s third-largest city and known as the country’s oil capital, is a vibrant mix of history, culture, and coastal charm. But what really sets it apart is the jaw-dropping natural beauty just beyond the city – including the legendary Lysefjord. It’s no wonder that cruising this spectacular fjord is one of the top things to do while you’re in port.
Why the Lysefjord is a must-see
Located just 25km east of Stavanger, the Lysefjord is southernmost of Norway’s major fjords. 42 km long, it is lined with sheer cliffs and pale granite walls that practically glow in the sun. Its name literally means light fjord, thanks to those luminous rocks. In part it is as as deep as how tall the mountains that surround it are. So, very deep!
It’s also home to the legendary Pulpit Rock (or Preikestolen), one of Norway’s most famous hiking destinations. You might never have heard of it but you might well recognise it as it is the the cliff Tom Cruise famously dangled from in Mission Impossible: Fallout.
While hiking to the top sounded amazing, it’s a full-day adventure. Since I wanted to explore Stavanger in the afternoon, I chose the three hour Lysefjord cruise instead. A perfect way to see the fjord and have time for waffles (more on that soon).
Cruising The Lysefjord from Stavanger
Once we stepped off Iona, it was just a short walk along the harbour to meet our smaller sightseeing boat. We set off into the maze of small islands that dot the coast, with our guide sharing snippets of Stavanger’s history and pointing out some of the summer cabin passed down through generations that lined coastline.
Before long, we passed under the Lysefjord Bridge, the only road crossing over the fjord, and entered the dramatic fjord itself.
And wow – it’s a showstopper.
As the cliffs grew steeper and the fjord narrower, I found myself awestruck. It’s one of those landscapes that’s hard to fully grasp until you’re right in the middle of it. It almost takes. your breath away. Towering rock faces surrounded us, and the lightly coloured granite popped brilliantly against the clear blue sky.
Our guide was fantastic – informative, warm, and full of dry Norwegian humour. The captain slowed down in all the right spots so we could take photos and soak it all in – scenic coves and cascading waterfalls.
Hengjanefossen Waterfall
One of the highlights was Hengjanefossen, a waterfall tumbling straight off the cliff face. The captain nudged the boat in so close we could feel the cool mist on our skin. They even collected water in a bucket and passed it around for us to try – glacier-fresh and ice cold. It doesn’t get much more “Norway” than that.
Spotting Pulpit Rock (sort of)
Eventually, we reached the other main highlight advertised on the excursion – Pulpit Rock, one of Norway’s most famous natural landmarks.
Now, I’m going to be honest here, from the water, it’s… well, a bit underwhelming. You’d probably miss it entirely if the guide didn’t point it out. Towering 604 metres above us, it just doesn’t pop the way it does you think it would. In fact, surrounded by such dramatic scenery it hardly stands out at all.
That said, watching tiny silhouettes of people up top, with the occasional camera flash catching the sun, gave a real sense of the scale. I definitely added the hike to my future Norway list – the view from up there must be unreal.
If you do fancy the hike, it is a 8km round trip and it is classed as a moderate hike. However, once you reach the top you are rewarded with incredibly dramatic views over the Lysefjord and beyond.
The real high light – waffles a Lysefjord-Helleren
On our way back, we made a stop at Lysefjord-Helleren — a little café tucked into the cliffs. I’m not exaggerating when I say these were the best waffles I’ve ever had. Crispy on the outside, soft in the middle, and topped with jam and sour cream — I had two, purely for research purposes.
Eating waffles surrounded by towering cliffs and shimmering water? Absolute bliss.
Would I recommend it?
Yes. The Lysefjord cruise excursion is 100% worth it for the scenery, the waterfalls, and the peaceful pace. It’s a perfect half-day option if you want time to also explore Stavanger. The boat was comfortable with plenty of seating inside and on deck, the guide was excellent, and the views? Next level.
As for Pulpit Rock? Unless you’re hiking to the top, it’s probably not going to be the highlight. But the fjord itself – and the waffles! – more than makes up for it.
My tips if you are cruising to Stavanger
- Book excursions early, especially if you’re travelling solo or in peak season – this is a popular one!
- Choose this excursion if you are looking for a relaxing morning or afternoon activity or want to experience a fjord
- Don’t forget your layers, it can be chilly (and windy) one the fjord even on a sunny day
- If you are looking for spectacular views, consider the full-day Pulpit Rock hike.
- Have your camera ready – there are amazing views everywhere so make sure you camera is fully charged and you have enough space or film for all those snaps.
Read more: If you are looking for other things to do, pop over to my Stavanger port guide.
The Last Word
If your cruise itinerary includes Stavanger, don’t miss the chance to experience Lysefjord. Whether you’re standing at the top of Pulpit Rock or cruising peacefully below it, this fjord leaves a lasting impression.
And did I mention the waffles?
You may also like…
- Cruising the Norwegian Fjords on P&O’s Iona
- What it’s really like to visit Briksdal Glacier on a shore excursion
- Exploring the beautiful Geirangerfjord
- What it’s really like to visit the Loen Skylift (& Kjenndalen Glacier) from Olden