Hardangerfjord Rib Boat Safari: A Detailed Review

Okay, picture this, you are standing at the edge of the Hardangerfjord, probably one of Norway’s most awesome natural wonders. Now, that you’re there, almost imagine the wind in your hair, so you’ll definitely feel the cool spray of the fjord as a powerful Rib boat slices its way through the glistening water. We, kind of, put this guide together, really, to give you the lowdown on the Hardangerfjord Rib boat safari, that is if you are thinking about doing it, which is what makes this, truly, a remarkable adventure, for those that are thinking about doing it.

Why Choose a Rib Boat Safari in Hardangerfjord?

Why should you, maybe, go for a Rib boat safari over, say, a standard ferry tour? To be honest, it really boils down to experiencing the fjord, so a lot more intimately and at your own pace, pretty much. These Rib boats, that are what give you the chance to, really, get up close and personal with the dramatic scenery of Hardangerfjord. You, basically, aren’t stuck behind, that is if you are on a big vessel; so you have a front-row seat, almost to the action. So the fact is, these smaller boats can, literally, get into areas, like smaller inlets and near waterfalls, almost inaccessible to the larger tour boats. Really, for anyone, almost wanting a bit of an adventure, paired with breathtaking views, honestly a Rib boat tour, probably, is where it’s at.

It seems like you’ll, perhaps, see the fjord’s natural wonders up close. I mean think of the majestic waterfalls that come cascading down steep cliffs, plus the remote islands. Also the cute, almost picturesque villages dotting the shoreline. Really it’s way better than peering, just a little bit, from a distance. That’s before we even get to the local wildlife; there is that whole extra bit that adds some value too it. I mean, so if you’re rather lucky, you might catch a glimpse of eagles soaring above, or seals playing in the water.

What to Expect on Your Fjord Safari

First off, is that you’re likely to find most tours starting, pretty much, from the main towns around Hardangerfjord, really like Eidfjord, Ulvik, or Odda, kind of, so depending on the operator. Don’t think that the tour, is going to be some kind of drag, or anything, so before you head out, probably, there will be a safety briefing and you’ll, rather, get kitted out with essential gear, too. What you are getting kitted out with is a flotation suit, too. This suit isn’t just a little life preserver; so this is what keeps you warm and dry, regardless of the weather, pretty much.

It seems like the Rib boat trips themselves usually run for, basically, around two to three hours, so tours differ depending on the package. Typically they usually pack in key sights, plus things such as the impressive Hardanger Bridge and spots near some pretty awesome waterfalls. That you also might get some interesting tidbits about the area, too, as most guides know a thing or two about the area, also they often share stories about the local history. Oh by the way, they also tend to throw in a bit of information on the area, just in case you are interested. So you are not only enjoying what is around you, almost while understanding what it is that surrounds you.

Choosing the Right Tour Operator

Not all tour operators have the same offers, more or less, which is why picking the correct one really is key, maybe, to getting a tour you’ll enjoy, to be honest. Really, so what I mean by this, is that some tour companies focus, kind of, a bit more on high-speed thrills. That they, may be ideal for adrenaline junkies, too, basically looking for a speedy experience. And yes, there are companies who give a slightly slower more relaxed tempo tour, typically placing an emphasis, too it’s almost all about the sights, or points of interest, instead.

What else, also, really should you consider? Actually there’s a couple of other things; read customer reviews, too, just to find out more on how well their previous tours went, perhaps. Safety should arguably be high on your list, really so double-checking that the operator is a reputable one is just a very basic step, to getting started on the correct foot. Then look for certified guides plus, basically, well-maintained equipment. Also think, slightly, about what your tour package does, clearly some may offer extra inclusions. Think such things as photo opportunities. Perhaps they even come with a bite to eat?

What to Bring for Your Hardangerfjord Adventure

Right, so we know a tour normally offers the essential gear needed. However, bringing some extra stuff means that you, too can, ensure a bit more comfort, maybe. Clearly here are a few of the essentials to consider.

Warm Layers: Arguably you, really will want to wear layers, as temperatures near the fjord could be pretty unpredictable. Thermal underwear, plus a fleece, actually under the flotation suit could make a pretty big difference.
Waterproof Gear: I mean, if the tour doesn’t provide waterproof over-trousers; almost consider taking your own, as this, can protect you even a bit more, typically from splashes.
Gloves and a Hat: A warm hat, combined with gloves could mean that you’re just that bit warmer as this would help your body conserve even a bit more heat.
Sunscreen and Sunglasses: On sunny days; UV levels have been known to be, almost particularly high around water, it would appear. So using sun protection, also, makes a bit of sense.
Camera or Smartphone: And I’m guessing you’re wanting to grab a load of photos and videos of all this beauty, that could really impress those back at home. Make certain it’s, too in a waterproof bag!

Don’t get the hump because your electronics, or phone, got water damage, almost when you are trying to create some amazing memories!

Maximizing Your Hardangerfjord Experience

Why not just enhance, maybe, your trip to Hardangerfjord to the next level? So it seems that if you are thinking of making the trip longer, in that case you’ll get a bit more from the area. Really this could involve you thinking about doing activities, maybe after, almost before, the tour is, so you could get a chance to dig deeper into the environment. Almost, and it sounds, as though there’s so much you could see and do around the area. From, honestly, checking out other close tourist hot-spots. To things such as exploring walking routes, to basically discovering some cultural stuff. The opportunities, seemingly, have few limits!

Visit Local Villages: In that case, if time permits, also consider paying some time, just to visit the little charming towns that surround the Hardangerfjord region. Each has their individual character and some cute traditional stuff that just scream ‘pictures’.
Hiking Adventures: It seems that there are hikes of most, so every different intensity. It’s almost like there is one for anyone, no matter what your hiking competency happens, apparently, to be! Don’t forget, really that hiking, means you, obviously, will see what is up from above, after you have got your thrills by experiencing it down, by the fjord. I’m, pretty sure, this alone adds a ton of points.
Fruit Farms: In other words, Hardanger is famous, as you might well know, also for its fruit production; So what is stopping you going to a local orchard, so you could sample some really rather fresh produce?
Cultural Sites: Learn even a little, apparently about Norwegian heritage, as visiting a spot or museum does, pretty much that exact thing.

The Best Time to Visit Hardangerfjord for a Rib Boat Safari

In effect, what time of the year might make your visit even that a lot more exceptional? Probably the sweet spot, actually, for any trip around the Hardangerfjord has always appeared to be that of, say the warmer months. Especially that between May and September.

For starters, come those hotter months, also things get way more appealing due to weather that, is really good for the tour, I am pointing at the warm sunlight for this to begin with, which should increase any experience had, a ton. The amount of daylight you get does increase too, so more views! It’s almost like those cold months barely offer any at all. And those increased wildlife activities? Seemingly those just help make your trip that that bit better! But please think too; since any higher point months might cause an ever bigger increase in visitors? Therefore, I feel thinking and planning, I guess for any period you should go is, probably really important if seeing Norway is a place you may choose for your trip.