Hardangerfjord ultimate RIB safari from Ulvik
Two contrasting fjord branches, roadless settlements, and dramatic landscapes – the most complete RIB safari from Ulvik.
4.8/5 guest rating on GetYourGuide and Viator/Tripadvisor - Two fjord branches - Max 12 guests - Local captains and guides - Equipment included
Book directly with the local operator
When you book here, you book directly with Hardangerfjord Adventure – the team operating the tour. You get our latest availability, local travel advice and direct support if you have questions about weather, clothing, transport or private departures.
Duration
105 minutes
Difficulty
Easy
Prices from
NOK 1345
Age
5+
Season
May–September
About the trip
Join us on the most varied and scenic RIB safari from Ulvik, a guided nature tour and exciting speed boat tour through some of the most dramatic fjord landscapes in Hardanger.
This extended fjord experience takes you across open waters and deep into contrasting fjord arms – from iconic bridges and steep mountain walls to forgotten settlements where the road ends. It is a more active fjord cruise alternative for those who want to feel closer to the fjord, the landscape, and the stories behind it.
The journey begins in Ulvik, heading across the Hardangerfjord towards the mighty Hardanger Bridge – Norway’s longest suspension bridge and a striking symbol of fjord engineering. We then continue into the Simadalsfjord, a steep-sided fjord branch near Eidfjord known for its waterfalls, power stations, and wild, vertical landscapes carved by glaciers and shaped by generations of people living close to nature.
From there, the tour heads into the serene and remote Osafjord, a narrow 13 km fjord arm where time moves slower. Once only reachable by sea, the fjord is still home to roadless farms and hidden settlements. Silence, steep mountainsides, and abandoned boathouses tell the story of past lives lived close to the water.
We make several scenic stops during the tour, giving you time to soak in the contrasts, capture photos, and let the atmosphere settle in. Your local guide shares stories about nature, culture, and everyday life in this remarkable landscape. This is also a great wildlife sightseeing experience – and with some luck, we might spot seals, porpoises, or sea eagles along the way.
This is a tour of contrasts – where
speed meets stillness, and
landmarks meet the untouched. You’ll feel the rush of the open fjord – and the calm of drifting through places where the road never reached.
Prices
Adult/Youth: NOK 1,345
Children (5-11 years): NOK 995
Private tour: NOK 14,000 for up to 12 people
Departure
Ulvik
Meeting point:
Reception/lobby of the Brakanes Hotel 20 minutes before departure (Promenaden 3, 5730 Ulvik)
Starting times
Please check the calendar for departure times from Brakanes Hotel in Ulvik. Outside the main season, we add extra departures on days when cruise ships call in Ulvik.
Guiding
English
How to do this as an easy day trip from Voss
Ulvik is a beautiful fjord village close to Voss, making a RIB Safari a great choice for an easy day trip if you are staying in Voss or arriving there by train.
If you travel by public bus, start your journey at Voss Station. From there, take bus 990 and continue with the connecting bus towards Ulvik. The bus journey takes about 55 minutes. Get off in Ulvik, with Brakanes Hotel as your final destination. Our meeting point is in the reception/lobby of Brakanes Hotel, about 150 meters from the bus stop.
Buy your ticket and check the latest timetables in the Skyss app before departure. Some departures may go directly from Voss to Ulvik, while others may require a connection along the way.
If you travel by car, the drive from Voss to Ulvik is about 44 km and normally takes around 50 minutes. Free parking is available near Brakanes Hotel.
We recommend planning some extra time, so you arrive at Brakanes Hotel 15–20 minutes before the RIB safari starts. This gives you enough time for check-in, getting dressed in the safety gear, and the safety briefing before departure.
Additional information
Our experienced local guides prioritise safety and comfort throughout the year, ensuring an enjoyable trip in all seasons. The RIB has saddle-style seats arranged in two rows and carries up to 12 guests.
As this is an open boat, you will feel the elements. Dressing appropriately for the day’s weather will make your experience both comfortable and memorable.
What’s Included:
- Insulated, wind- and water resistant flotation suits (children 128–164 cm, adults XS–XXL)
- Life jackets
- Protective goggles
- Neoprene gloves
- Beanies/hats if needed
Recommended Clothing:
- Windproof and warm footwear, or waterproof shoes on rainy days
- Warm layers to wear underneath the flotation suit
- Buff/neck warmer and insulated mittens/gloves on colder days
- Sunglasses and sunscreen in sunny weather
Important Restrictions:
- Not recommended for guests with back or neck problems.
- Not suitable for pregnant travellers beyond 3 months.
- Scheduled tours have a minimum age of 5 years when accompanied by an adult. On private tours, we may consider children from 4 years.
Transport & Parking:
- Public transport: Bus 945 (corresponds with bus 990 from Odda/Voss)
- Parking: Free parking is available at the meeting point
Why choose this tour?
- explore two contrasting fjord arms in one extended RIB safari.
- experience a scenic speed boat tour and a more active fjord cruise alternative.
- see the Hardanger Bridge – Norway’s longest suspension bridge – from the water.
- venture into secluded, roadless fjords with untouched landscapes and abandoned farms.
- learn about nature, wildlife, history, and authentic local life from a certified local skipper.
- enjoy a personal guided nature tour far from the busiest tourist routes.
Who is this tour ideal for?
- families
- groups of friends
- couples
- cruise guests docking in Ulvik
- visitors staying at Brakanes Hotel or elsewhere in Ulvik
If you'd like to book this tour as a private experience, send us a request
Common Questions - FAQ
1. Where is the meeting point?
The meeting point is the reception/lobby of Brakanes Hotel, Promenaden 3, 5730 Ulvik. Please arrive 20 minutes before departure for check-in, suit up and safety briefing.
2. What is the duration of the RIB safari?
The RIB safari itself lasts about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Please arrive 20 minutes before departure for check-in and safety briefing, and allow 10 minutes afterwards for changing out of the gear.
3. 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.
4. 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. Tours during peak season can sell out, especially on busy cruise days.
5. What gear is included?
We provide flotation suits, life jackets and goggles, as well as gloves and hats if needed. Dress in warm layers and closed shoes.
6. 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.
7. Is this tour suitable for guests with back or neck problems?
RIB tours can be bumpy. Please contact us before booking if you are more than 3 months pregnant or have back/neck problems.
8. What will we see?
You'll see two contrasting fjord arms: the dramatic Simadalsfjord with steep cliffs and waterfalls, and the tranquil, roadless Osafjord with hidden farms and untouched nature. Highlights include the Hardanger Bridge, scenic photo stops, and possible sightings of seals, porpoises, or sea eagles.
9. Can I bring a camera or phone?
Yes, usually without problem. We recommend using a waterproof pouch or strap in rainy conditions.
10. Is this tour suitable for cruise guests in Ulvik?
Yes. The meeting point is the reception/lobby of Brakanes Hotel. The cruise ships tender pier is in front of the hotel. Please check your ship’s schedule and arrive 20 minutes before departure.
