If you’re planning a cruise to the Norwegian Fjords, you’ve probably come across the term “cruise-by” on your itinerary. And if you’ve spent any time in cruise Facebook groups (especially the P&O ones!), you’ll know it causes a fair bit of confusion – often around whether it means the ship is skipping a port entirely, usually Olden.
Honestly, I can see why it causes confusion – especially if it’s your first cruise. “Cruise-by” does sound a bit vague, like you’re sailing past somewhere lovely, but not actually stopping there.
So, I thought I’d put together a post to clear things up and explain exactly what a cruise-by is, how it works, and why it might end up being one of the highlights of your fjords cruise.
What is a cruise-by?
A cruise-by is when the ship sails through or past a particularly scenic area, usually at a slower pace, so passengers can take in the views. There’s no docking or getting off the ship, but it’s still a stunning part of your journey. You might see it listed as scenic cruising or cruising only on your itinerary.
In the Norwegian Fjords, these sail-throughs aren’t just pretty detours, they’re often part of the route to reach your next port. For example, to get to Olden, the ship sails along the beautiful Nordfjord, which might appear on the itinerary as ‘Nordfjord (cruise-by).
You won’t get off the ship during this part, but trust me – with the scenery on offer, you won’t feel like you’re missing out.
Why cruise lines include cruise-bys
Cruise-bys are especially common on Norwegian Fjords itineraries, where the journey is every bit as spectacular as the destinations themselves.
So why are cruise-bys included?
- The scenery is spectacular – from towering cliffs and waterfalls to tiny farmhouses clinging to the mountainside and winding waterways you simply can’t see from land.
- Some fjords are too narrow or small to dock – like Trollfjord or the inner stretch of Geirangerfjord, but they’re still absolutely worth seeing
- You get the full fjord experience – even when a port stop isn’t possible
On my first cruise to the fjords aboard P&O Iona, we docked in Hellesylt and did a cruise-by through Geirangerfjord, passing the iconic Seven Sisters waterfall. It was just as special as any port stop.
What to expect during a cruise-by
Cruise-bys are honestly one of the best parts of a Norwegian Fjords cruise and if you make the most of them, they’ll be some of your favourite memories too.
When sailing into ports like Olden or Flåm, I really recommend setting an early alarm and heading out on deck for the sail-in. In Olden’s case, the approach takes a couple of hours. On both of my visits, we entered the fjord network around 4.30am. Flåm sits even further inland, so the sail-in is even longer (and just as stunning).
The best part? Most of the ship will still be asleep, so you’ll have a peaceful moment to enjoy the fjords waking up. And if the weather’s kind, you might even catch the sun rising over the mountains, something I was lucky enough to witness on my very first fjords cruise. It was truly magical.
The sail-out is just as special, but in a different way. By then, more passengers are out and about, so the decks and indoor lounges can get a little busier. Still gorgeous, just less serene!
Tip: If you’re heading out early for a morning cruise-by, wrap up warm and bring a hot drink. Even in summer, it can get chilly out on deck, but totally worth it for those views.
Is it worth it if it’s just a cruise-by?
Absolutely. Cruise-bys are often a highlight of a Norwegian Fjords cruise. They give you front-row views of some of the most jaw-dropping scenery in Norway, all without even stepping off the ship.
In fact, some of the fjords’ most iconic sights are best seen from the water, including:
- The Seven Sisters Waterfall in Geirangerfjord
- The Suitor waterfall, just opposite the sisters
- Trollfjord, featured on some northern itineraries
- The narrow, winding bends of the stunning Nærøyfjord
With dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and scenery you simply can’t see from land, cruise-bys are what fjord cruising is all about.
What about Olden? Will you get off the ship?
It’s one of the most common questions I see – if Olden is on your itinerary, is it just a cruise-by or a proper stop? The good news is, you do dock there and can get off to explore.
Olden is one of the most popular Norwegian Fjords ports (and one of my favourites!) for good reason. Not only do you get to enjoy a spectacular sail-in and sail-out along the Nordfjord, but you’ll also have the chance to explore ashore – whether that’s heading to the Briksdal Glacier, taking the Loen Skylift up to Mount Hoven, or simply wandering the peaceful village and soaking up the scenery.
I’ve visited twice now and already plan to return. It’s one of those ports that truly offers the best of both worlds: iconic fjord views from the ship, and memorable adventures once you’re ashore.
So yes, if Olden is on your itinerary, you’re getting the full fjords experience, and then some.
The last word
A cruise-by isn’t a missed stop, far from it. It’s a chance to experience the fjords at their most dramatic and beautiful, all while staying on board.
Some of my favourite memories from my fjords cruises came during these moments. I’ll never forget standing on deck, wrapped up warm, watching the sun rise slowly over the mountains as we glided through the still water. And on my second visit, when the weather didn’t quite play ball, I stayed tucked up in bed with a cup of tea, watching the mist drift over the fjords through my balcony window. Just as magical in a completely different way.
So if you see “cruise-by” on your itinerary, don’t worry, you’re not missing out. You’re in for one of the most peaceful, scenic, and unforgettable parts of your cruise.