Bergen City Cruise

Welcome aboard Legacy of The Fjords, our 100% electric catamaran, offering you a silent and emission-free journey along Bergen’s coastline. This 90-minute tour takes you through Bergen’s rich history, culture, and architecture—seen from the sea, just as traders and seafarers first experienced the city over 900 years ago. Along the way, you will hear about ancient fortresses, bustling harbors, iconic landmarks, and modern urban developments. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning views of the fjord, the mountains, and the city reflecting in the water. Perhaps you’ll see Bergen from an entirely new perspective? We look forward to taking you on this unique maritime journey through the capital of Western Norway!

You are now gliding past one of Bergen’s most iconic sights – Bryggen. These narrow, tightly packed wooden buildings with their gabled facades facing the sea tell the story of a city built on trade and seafaring. For over 900 years, this waterfront has been a hub for merchants, where dried fish from Northern Norway, grain from Europe, and exotic goods from distant lands were exchanged. From the boat, you can see how the colorful facades reflect in the water—a view that has remained almost unchanged since the Middle Ages. Bryggen was the headquarters of the Hanseatic merchants from the 14th century, and despite several devastating fires, it has been rebuilt according to ancient traditions. Behind the facades, narrow alleyways weave through the historic buildings, once bustling with workers carrying heavy barrels and sacks of goods. Today, Bryggen is one of Norway’s most visited attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Behind the historic exteriors, you’ll find restaurants, artisan shops, and museums that bring its rich history to life. As you continue your boat journey, imagine the medieval ships docking here, filled with cargo and stories from across the world.

High up on the hillside, above the rooftops of Bergen, lies Skansen – one of the city's oldest defensive outposts. This hill has held a strategic position since the Middle Ages, when Bergen had to defend itself against attacks from the sea. In the 1600s, a fortification with cannons was built here, pointing toward the entrance to the bay known as Vågen. Though its military function is long gone, Skansen remains a significant historical symbol. At the top, you’ll see a small fire station built in 1903, which was once a vital part of the city’s fire response system. In a time when Bergen was dominated by narrow wooden houses, fire was a constant threat, and this lookout post played a key role in detecting fires early. Today, Skansen—especially the fire station and reservoir—has become a popular scenic viewpoint, just a ten-minute walk from the city center. From here, you’ll enjoy a panoramic view of Bergen, with Bryggen, Vågen, and the surrounding mountains on the horizon. On a clear day, you can see boats arriving and departing—just like the merchants and sailors did hundreds of years ago. And if you’re looking for an even grander view of this beautiful city, hop on the Fløibanen funicular, which takes you 320 meters up to Mount Fløyen. Fløyen is one of the seven mountains surrounding the city of Bergen, and gives you a panoramic view of Bergen, the fjord, and surrounding mountains.

We are now approaching Bergenhus Fortress, one of Norway’s oldest and best-preserved fortresses. This impressive stronghold has guarded the entrance to Bergen for almost 800 years. In 1665, Bergen was brutally attacked by English warships. Their target was a fleet of Dutch ships seeking shelter in Bergen’s neutral harbor. When the confident English launched their assault, the fortress responded fiercely and sent them retreating back to England in defeat. The short battle became known as "The Battle of Vågen." The fortress was originally established in the 13th century during the reign of King Håkon Håkonsson, and over the centuries it has served as a royal residence, a military base, and an administrative center. From the boat, you can see Håkon’s Hall, the large stone building from the mid-1200s. It was part of the royal estate and hosted grand celebrations and receptions. Closer to the city center lies the Rosenkrantz Tower, a 16th-century defensive tower that also served as the residence of the fortress governor. Bergenhus has undergone many transformations, from medieval castle to modern military installation. During World War II, the Germans used the fortress as their headquarters, and parts of it were damaged in a bombing raid in 1944. Today, Bergenhus is open to visitors and hosts concerts, ceremonies, and historical exhibitions.

Ahead of us, you can now see the Fisheries Museum, a place that takes you into one of Bergen’s most important industries – fishing. Bergen has been a hub for seafood trade for over a thousand years, growing into one of Europe’s leading exporters of dried fish, especially to markets in Southern Europe. The museum is located in one of the old waterfront warehouses, where fish were once stored, processed, and sold. From the boat, you can see how these sturdy wooden buildings stand closely together along the harbor, built to withstand rough weather and sea air. Here, dried fish, salted cod, and herring were handled by traders and workers who helped Bergen’s fishing industry thrive. Inside the museum, you can learn about the history of Norwegian fisheries, see traditional equipment, and gain insight into the lives of fishermen and merchants in earlier times. The museum also shows how modern fishing technology has developed and the important role Norway continues to play in the global seafood industry. You can easily imagine how this harbor was once filled with fishing boats, packed with the day’s catch and ready to be exported across the world.

We are now in the middle of Sandviksbukten and passing Kristianholm, a small islet with a dramatic history. In the Middle Ages, it was called Toluholm, but from the 1500s it became known as Tjuholmen – a name that reveals much about what once happened here. Between 1560 and 1571, sixteen people were executed on this spot for theft – publicly hanged as a warning to others. At that time, theft was considered a serious crime, and public executions were meant to instill fear and maintain order in society. In 1640, the execution site was moved to Nøstet, and Kristianholm took on a new role. In 1653, it was renamed Fredriksholm when two small fortifications made of stone and earth were built here, equipped with 10 to 12 large cannons. This was part of Bergen’s coastal defense during the ongoing Dutch-British naval war (1652–54). The fortress remained part of the city’s defense system for many years. By 1793, it still held three cannons, and after the Battle of Copenhagen Roads in 1801, the fortification was further reinforced. Today, little remains of Kristianholm’s military past, but from the boat, you can still see the remnants of the islet that once served both as a place of punishment and as a key part of Bergen’s defense.

Here along the shoreline, you’ll see Old Bergen, an open-air museum that takes you back to Bergen in the 1800s. At that time, the city was defined by narrow streets, dense wooden houses, and a bustling atmosphere filled with sailors, merchants, and craftsmen. The museum is located where Bergenhus’ pleasure estate once stood in the 1700s. In the 1800s, the area was known as Elsero and belonged to wealthy Bergen families. Today, Old Bergen consists of around 50 historic wooden houses, many of which were moved here from different parts of the city to be preserved for future generations. From the boat, you can see how the small, white-painted houses climb the hillside – typical of old Bergen. Inside the museum, you’ll find a reconstructed town with shops, workshops, and homes, where actors in period costumes bring history to life. Old Bergen is a reminder of what the city looked like before major fires and modernization transformed its appearance. As you continue the boat ride, imagine the sound of horse-drawn carriages on cobblestones and the smell of freshly baked bread – a little piece of Bergen’s history, lovingly preserved.

Have you noticed the large grain silos towering over the sea here at Hegreneset? They are a well-known Bergen landmark and have long played a key role in supplying the city with food. But before the silos dominated the shoreline, this was home to another vital industry – Hæggernes Valsemølle, or the Hæggernes Rolling Mill. The mill was established in the late 1800s to meet the growing demand for flour in Bergen. Thanks to its strategic seaside location, grain could be transported in by boat, ground into flour, and distributed to bakeries and households across the city. It was a time of rapid industrial growth, and the mill played an important role in the city's development. For decades, Hæggernes Mill kept Bergen’s bread baskets full. But as larger, modern mills took over, operations here ceased, and the area changed. Today, the silos remain as a monument to Bergen’s industrial past. As you glide by in the boat, imagine this shoreline once filled with the sounds of grinding stones, steam engines, and the bustle of busy workers.

Have you noticed how Bergen is surrounded by sea and fjords? Right now, we are in the middle of Byfjorden, the main waterway into the city. From here, you can see several of Bergen’s most distinctive areas: Sandviken to the northeast, the Askøy Bridge connecting the city to the islands in the west, Laksevåg with its long industrial history, and Nordnes, reaching into the fjord with its iconic silhouette. For centuries, Byfjorden has been the lifeline of Bergen. Merchant ships, fishing boats, and travelers from around the world have sailed through these waters. This is where the Hanseatic traders arrived with their goods, and where Dutch and English ships came to collect dried fish and other Norwegian exports. In more recent times, Byfjorden has been an important route for ferries, cargo vessels, and cruise ships. It remains one of Norway’s busiest maritime highways. Unlike the many steamships and diesel engines that have crossed these waters over the years, we are now sailing silently and emission-free on an electric boat. As we glide along, imagine this fjord once filled with sailboats, rowboats, and schooners—sailors shouting commands, and merchants negotiating their trades. Though much has changed, Byfjorden is still the gateway to Bergen, the city that grew out of the sea.

In front of us, you can see the Bruno Submarine Bunker in Laksevåg – a massive concrete structure built by the Nazis during World War II. It was one of several submarine bunkers constructed along the Norwegian coast to protect German U-boats from Allied air attacks. The bunker was built between 1941 and 1943 as part of Hitler’s strategy to control the Atlantic Ocean. Laksevåg and Byfjorden were of strategic importance to the occupying forces. Here you’d find naval bases, shipyards, and factories producing war materials – which made the area a frequent target of Allied bombings. The most tragic event occurred on October 4, 1944, when British bombers attacked the bunker. Many bombs hit their target, but some missed and struck a nearby school. About 60 children were among the roughly 200 people who lost their lives – one of the darkest days in Bergen’s war history. The Bruno bunker was built to withstand heavy bombardment, allowing German submarines to take refuge during air raids. Even with today’s technology, it would be difficult to demolish completely. Still in use by the Norwegian Armed Forces, it stands as a powerful war memorial, a stark reminder of the time when Byfjorden was a hub of conflict and military activity.

If you look toward the land, you'll see the district of Laksevåg. This area has a long and rich history. The name comes from the Old Norse Laxavágr, meaning “the bay where there is salmon,” and originally it was a small fishing village. Thanks to its favorable location by Byfjorden, Laksevåg gradually developed into an important center for trade, maritime activity, and shipbuilding. In the 1800s, Laksevåg became a hub for shipyard industry, with major shipyards delivering vessels to both Norwegian and international customers. The quays were bustling with workers and craftsmen, and the air was filled with the sounds of hammers, steam engines, and metal striking steel. These shipyards provided jobs and contributed significantly to Bergen’s economic growth. During World War II, the shipyards were used by the occupying forces, making the area a target for Allied bombings. After the war, Laksevåg remained a key industrial district, although in more recent times much of the heavy industry has been replaced by residential areas, business centers, and modern workplaces. Today, Laksevåg is a district in transformation, where old industrial zones meet new urban projects. From the boat, you can see how this part of Bergen has evolved – from a humble fishing village to a vibrant urban neighborhood, still closely tied to the sea.

We are now at the innermost part of Puddefjorden, a branch of the fjord that separates the districts of Laksevåg, Damsgård, and Bergen West from the city center. For centuries, this has been an important waterway for trade and industry. In front of us lies Damsgårdsundet, a narrow channel once known for shipyards, boathouses, and industrial activity. Nearby is Bystrand Slippen, also called Marineholm, where large shipyards once dominated the area. Today, the slip has been transformed into a beautiful beach for the city's residents – and that’s only part of the story. Furthest in lies Store Lungegårdsvannet, an inner bay that stretches right into the heart of Bergen. It once played a central role in marine transport and trade, but is now a green and recreational area, with walking paths and open spaces. What used to be home to industrial and maritime businesses is now part of a major urban development project. The vision is to create a new urban beach, where the waterfront is reopened for public life and recreation – a stark contrast to the industrial past. Here, you can witness how Bergen has gradually evolved – from a city of industry to a modern, people-friendly city, where the waterfront is once again part of daily life.

In front of us lies Nøstet, an area with deep roots in Bergen’s maritime history. The name comes from the old “nøster” – boathouses and warehouses that lined the waterfront for centuries. In the 1700s and 1800s, Nøstet was a key part of the city’s shipbuilding industry, filled with shipyards, ropewalks for making ropes, and rows of sea sheds along the water. But Nøstet is also known for a darker chapter in its history. From 1640 to 1877, this was Bergen’s official execution site, where people were publicly put to death before gathered crowds. Today, traces remain – like the small road called Galgebakken, or "Gallows Hill". Nøstet was also home to many taverns, and in 1875, the city’s last two brothels were closed here. In recent years, the area has gone through a major transformation. The old sea houses have become homes, cafés, and cultural venues, and Den Nationale Scene, Norway’s oldest theater, is just around the corner. The harbor promenade has been expanded, and Nøstet is now a vibrant neighborhood for both residents and visitors. Across the water, you can see the Sydnes pier area, where Hurtigruten and several cruise ships dock regularly.

We have now arrived at Verftet, a neighborhood with deep maritime roots. Here stood Georgernes Verft, later known as Dekkedokken, where ships were built and maintained for centuries. In the 20th century, the area shifted to a new industry – United Sardine Factories (USF), one of Norway’s largest producers of canned sardines. For decades, fish were smoked, canned, and exported from this location. When the sardine industry declined, the building was left empty – until the 1980s, when it was transformed into USF Verftet, one of Norway’s largest cultural centers. The past lives on in the names of the venues here: Sardinen USF for intimate concerts, Røkeriet USF for larger events, and Kippers Bar & Café, named after smoked herring. Today, Verftet is a vibrant hub of creativity, home to housing, studios, and galleries. The old industrial site has become a lively meeting place for art, music, and urban life – a reminder that the city is always changing. Who knows what Verftet will become a hundred years from now?

High above us lies Fredriksberg Fortress, one of Bergen’s historic defense posts. The fortress was named after the Danish-Norwegian King Frederik III, and construction began shortly after the dramatic naval battle in Vågen in 1665 between English and Dutch warships. It was expanded further in the 1690s. Thanks to its strategic location, the fortress offered a clear view of the entrance to Vågen and worked together with Bergenhus Fortress to protect the city. It consisted of ramparts, cannon emplacements, and a commander’s residence, and was used by the military for over 200 years. In the 1800s, it lost its military importance and was later used as a prison and army barracks. Although it never saw combat, the fortress remained in operation until 1872, when it was finally decommissioned. Today, little remains of the original structures, but parts of the walls and cannons are preserved. The site is now a public park, offering one of the best views in Bergen – overlooking the fjord, Nordnes, the city center, and the surrounding mountains. Fredriksberg stands as a reminder of a time when Bergen was vulnerable to attack – and shows how historic fortifications can find new life as places for recreation and reflection.

Have you ever swum in a heated seawater pool with a view of the fjord? We're now passing Nordnes Sjøbad, one of Bergen’s most iconic bathing facilities. Bergen locals have been swimming here since 1910, come rain, shine, or snow. Nordnes, the peninsula we’re rounding, has played a vital role in Bergen’s history for centuries. Originally, it was dominated by boathouses and trading houses, but in the 1600s, the city’s wealthier citizens began building mansions here. Later came the Fredriksberg fortress, and today Nordnes is a lively district filled with homes, parks, museums, and cultural institutions. Here, you can choose between a swim in the heated saltwater pool or plunge into the cold, refreshing fjord – a perfect contrast of hot and cold. The bath is popular year-round, especially among winter swimmers. Nordnes has always been connected to the sea – from trade and shipping to today’s recreational joy. Perhaps it’s this closeness to the fjord that keeps Bergen’s residents coming back – for commerce, for peace, or simply for a refreshing dip.

We are now passing Nordnes Point, the outermost tip of the Nordnes peninsula, where Bergen meets the sea. Here lies Nordnesparken, a green oasis with a majestic view of the fjord and the entrance to the city. The park was established in the 1880s and has since been a popular recreational area for both locals and visitors. At the top of the park, you can spot Bergen Aquarium, the largest in Norway and one of the city's most visited attractions. Since its opening in 1960, the aquarium has offered insight into life beneath the surface, featuring seals, penguins, tropical fish, and reptiles. A surprising sight here is the Canadian totem pole, a gift from British Columbia in 1970, symbolizing Bergen’s maritime ties with Canada’s west coast. The colorful carvings serve as a reminder of international friendships and cultural exchange. Today, Nordnesparken is a peaceful escape from the city’s busy streets – where people stroll among old trees, breathe in the sea air, and enjoy the view. Perhaps it’s the closeness to the ocean that gives this place its special calm.

Looking inland, you now see the old Customs House area, where for centuries, Bergen welcomed goods, travelers, and sailors from around the world. This was the city's official customs station, where goods were registered and taxed before entering the local market. The first customs building was established here in the 1500s, but the current structures date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. The customs area was especially important during the age of sailing ships, when Bergen was one of Norway’s busiest ports. Norwegian exports like fish and timber were inspected here before being shipped abroad, while imports like coffee, spices, and textiles were unloaded onto the quay. Today, the area has been transformed into the "Aktiv Tollbodkai" – a 5,000 m² activity plaza and public meeting space for all ages. You’ll find climbing frames, swings, sports areas, and accessible exercise equipment. There are seating areas, a public grill, and even raised garden beds with herbs and vegetables. Everything is designed for inclusion, so children, adults, and seniors of all abilities can be active together. The Tollbodene has shifted from Bergen’s bustling trade center to a lively urban space, where history meets modern city life by the sea.

This area is known as Strandsiden, one of Bergen’s oldest districts, famous for its boathouses, merchant homes, and narrow streets. It has always been closely connected to the sea, and many of Bergen’s tradespeople and merchants settled here. A little up the hill, you can now see Nykirken, one of Bergen’s most recognizable landmarks. The church was originally built in 1621 to serve the growing population on Strandsiden, driven by the city’s increasing trade. It has been destroyed by multiple city fires, most recently in 1944, when an explosion in the harbor severely damaged the area. Each time, it was rebuilt. The church has a simple yet elegant architecture, with a distinctive green dome that has shaped Bergen’s skyline for centuries. It remains an important part of the local community and is especially known for its children’s outreach programs, including “Barnas katedral,” which fosters culture and community among the city’s youngest. Nykirken is a symbol of Bergen’s resilience – a church and neighborhood built on trade, craftsmanship, and the power to rebuild after disaster.

We’re now nearing the end of this 90-minute journey by sea, and we hope you've gained a new perspective on Bergen – a city that has lived in harmony with the sea for centuries. From historic fortresses to modern harbor districts, we’ve seen how Bergen continues to evolve while carrying its proud legacy. Legacy of The Fjords has taken us on this experience emission-free, and it is precisely such sustainable solutions that ensure future generations can also enjoy the city's stunning coastal landscape. Thank you for choosing The Fjords as your travel host today. We hope you’ve had a wonderful time and that you’ll take home lasting memories from Bergen – whether it’s your first time here or you already know the city well. Enjoy the rest of your day, and welcome aboard again anytime!