RIB Safaris
on the Hardangerfjord
Thrilling Fjord Adventures — All Year Round
Experience Norway’s dramatic fjords up close — from powerful waterfalls and hidden fjord arms in summer to quiet, snow-tipped landscapes in winter. Our certified skippers guide small groups in high-speed RIB boats, blending excitement with safety and storytelling.
What tours are available now?
(next 10 days)
- Local departure points: Join from Norheimsund, Øystese or Ulvik, depending on the season and route.
- Small groups: Our scheduled RIB safaris carry up to 12 guests per boat.
- Distinct routes: Travel into Fyksesund and Botnen or explore Osafjord and the inner Hardangerfjord.
- Equipment included: We provide flotation suits, life jackets and goggles, as well as gloves and beanies when needed.
- Local guiding: The captain makes guided stops and shares stories about the fjord, settlements and landscape along the route.
- Direct booking: Contact the operating team directly about weather, clothing, transport or private departures.

From May to September, scheduled RIB safaris depart from Norheimsund, Øystese and Ulvik. Norheimsund also offers departures during the rest of the year.
Tours from Norheimsund and Øystese travel into Fyksesund and towards the roadless hamlet of Botnen. From Ulvik, you can explore Osafjord or join a longer safari through several parts of the inner Hardangerfjord.
Choose between scheduled tours lasting 60–105 minutes or request a private departure. Waterfall conditions vary with rainfall and snowmelt.
Winter RIB Safaris FRom Norheimsunnd
Our winter RIB safari departs from Thon Hotel Sandven in Norheimsund and travels towards Fyksesund. The experience includes 75 minutes on the fjord, guided stops and the required equipment.
We provide an insulated flotation suit, life jacket and goggles, as well as gloves and a beanie when needed. The captain adjusts the route and speed to the weather and sea conditions. Snow, ice formations and calm water depend on the conditions on the day.


Hardangerfjord and Fyksesund RIB Safari from Norheimsund
- Duration: 75 minutes
- Season: All year
- Route: Norheimsund, Hardangerfjord, Fyksesund and Botnen
- Best suited for: Guests travelling from Bergen or staying in the Norheimsund area
Fyksesund RIB Safari from Øystese
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Season: Summer
- Route: Øystese, Hardangerfjord, Fyksesund and Botnen
- Best suited for: Guests staying in Øystese or looking for a shorter safari to Fyksesund
Osafjord RIB Safari from Ulvik
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Season: Summer
- Route: Ulvik and Osafjord
- Best suited for: Guests staying in Ulvik or the inner Hardangerfjord
Hardangerfjord Ultimate RIB Safari from Ulvik
- Duration: 105 minutes
- Season: Summer
- Route: Several parts of the inner Hardangerfjord
- Best suited for: Guests wanting a longer tour and greater variation in fjord scenery
- Duration: Flexible
- Departure: Available from several ports and hotels along the Hardangerfjord
- Best suited for: Private groups, companies, celebrations and cruise guests
A RIB, or rigid inflatable boat, combines a solid hull with inflatable tubes around the sides. It is an open boat that allows guests to travel quickly between different parts of the fjord and get close to the surrounding landscape.
Hardangerfjord Adventure’s RIBs:
- Carry up to 12 guests
- Have saddle-style, shock-absorbing seats and secure handholds
- Are equipped with up to 600 horsepower
- Carry the required safety equipment for every guest
- Include flotation suits, life jackets and goggles
You will feel the wind and may experience spray during the trip. The captain adjusts the route and speed according to the weather, visibility and sea conditions.

RIB safaris from Norheimsund and Øystese
Norheimsund and Øystese are neighbouring fjord villages approximately 7 kilometres apart. Both can be reached from Bergen or Voss by car or public bus.
Our year-round base in Norheimsund is located at Thon Hotel Sandven. Our seasonal base in Øystese is located at Hardangerfjord Hotel.
Scheduled RIB safaris from both villages travel into Fyksesund and towards the roadless hamlet of Botnen. Tour duration, departure times and availability vary between the two bases, so check the individual product page before booking.
UPCOMING TOURS
(next 10 days)
ALL TOURS
RIB safaris from Ulvik
Our seasonal Ulvik base is located at Brakanes Hotel, with the meeting point in the hotel lobby.
From Ulvik, you can join a 60-minute safari into Osafjord or a 105-minute Ultimate RIB Safari through several parts of the inner Hardangerfjord.
Ulvik is approximately 30 minutes by car from Eidfjord and around 50 minutes from Voss and Lofthus. Public transport is available, but departures are less frequent than between Bergen and Norheimsund. Check the current journey planner before travelling.
UPCOMING TOURS
(next 10 days)
ALL TOURS
Private RIB charters from ports and hotels
Looking for something special? We offer private RIB charters for families, friends, and companies.
Special requests
Private tours are suitable for:
- Companies and organised groups
- Families and private celebrations
- Cruise guests and shore excursions
- Photographers and film crews
- Guests who want a longer or customised route
When
requesting a tour, include your preferred date, departure point, number of guests and available time. We will suggest a suitable route and provide a price for the group.

Common Questions - FAQ
1. Where do the RIB tours depart from?
Scheduled departures are from Norheimsund, Øystese and Ulvik (season dependent). Private tours can be arranged from several towns and ports along the Hardangerfjord. The exact departure point is stated on each product page.
2. How long are the tours?
Most scheduled departures last 60–105 minutes. Private charters can be tailored to your preferences.
3. Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, advance online booking guarantees your seat. If there are any remaining spots, same-day availability will also be shown online. Please note that tours during our peak season (July and August) are usually fully booked in advance.
4. What gear is included?
We provide flotation suits, life jackets and goggles, as well as gloves and hats when needed. Dress in warm layers and closed shoes, especially on rainy or colder days.
5. Are children allowed?
Yes. Scheduled tours have a minimum age of 5 years (accompanied by an adult). On private tours the minimum age is 4 years.
6. Is it suitable with back or neck issues?
RIB tours can be bumpy. Please contact us before booking if you are more than 3 months pregnant or have back/neck problems.
7. What will we see?
Expect dramatic fjord landscapes, waterfalls and small fjord villages. Wildlife sightings vary by season.
8. What if the weather is bad?
We operate in most conditions, but safety always comes first. If we cancel, you will be offered rebooking or a full refund. Waterfalls are often at their most powerful in rainy weather.
9. Can I bring a camera or phone?
Yes, usually without problem. We recommend using a waterproof pouch or strap in rainy conditions.
10. Do you offer private charters?
Yes. We offer private departures for families, groups and companies with flexible routes and durations.













