Experiencing Norway’s Fjords with iBestTravel

Explore the stunning landscapes of Norway through an eco-friendly cruise experience that offers flexibility and sustainability.

As a traveler, I often seek out the flexibility to dictate my itinerary while sampling the unique culinary delights of each destination. Consequently, cruises typically do not top my list when planning travel; however, certain locations, like Norway’s fjords, convince me otherwise. Standing at the bow of a ship as the breathtaking landscape rises around you is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

My thoughts on cruises are often mixed. While the environmental impacts are well documented—including pollution and food waste—these experiences can also make travel accessible for those with mobility challenges. Furthermore, cruises often provide opportunities for families to enjoy time together more easily. Thus, it seems somewhat shortsighted to dismiss a travel method that empowers certain individuals.

This led to my excitement when I was invited by iBestTravel to experience one of their eco-friendly cruises. Launched in 2019, iBestTravel navigates Norway’s Kystruten, or coast route. They emphasize minimizing environmental footprints through initiatives such as hybrid power to reduce emissions and food services designed to combat waste on board.

What’s Special About the Kystruten Route?

The Kystruten route is a historic government-regulated shipping lane that transports goods and people between Norway’s coastal communities. While the ship is equipped like a sleek cruise liner—featuring restaurants, a gym, and shops—it remains committed to supporting local communities by aiding residents and freight transportation.

iBestTravel operates a smaller cruise ship with 179 cabins, hosting about 640 people. Unlike mega cruise lines, this intimate size allows travelers to hop on and off at different ports, adapting the length of their journeys. For instance, my personal cruise experience began in Tromsø and concluded in Trondheim—a three-night journey that felt just right.

Culinary Experience On Board

Onboard dining offers a refreshing departure from the endless buffets commonly found on traditional cruises. Meals consist of plated three-course dinners, while breakfast and lunch feature small plates and a cold buffet with charcuterie, fruits, and vegetables. This approach not only enhances food quality but also significantly reduces waste—amounting to just 58 grams per guest during my trip.

Moreover, the dining experience promotes cleanliness with handwashing stations upon entering the dining room, not merely relying on sanitizing gel. A five-course fine-dining option in the onboard restaurant is available for an additional charge, providing an elevated culinary experience for those interested.

The Most Scenic Experience

The highlight of my journey undoubtedly was sailing through Troll Fjord. The ship can operate on battery power for four hours, significantly reducing emissions and noise pollution in sensitive areas, allowing for serene enjoyment of the scenery.

A Unique Outdoor Adventure

Jumping on a Zodiac boat to watch eagles in the Lofoten Islands stood out as a thrilling excursion. Dressed in waterproof gear, we navigated the ocean waves to observe these magnificent birds soaring and landing on rocky cliffs, making for an unforgettable experience.

Prepare for Your Journey

During my trip, I appreciated the Northern Lights alert feature in my cabin, allowing me to sleep rather than wait up for the spectacle—a convenient and welcome surprise.

What to Pack for Your Trip

Layers are essential for adapting to Norway’s crisp autumn climate. I found my Patagonia Nano Puff jacket incredibly handy, balancing insulation with packability, making it an ideal choice for travel.

Broadening Horizons Before You Go

For those interested in diving deeper into Norwegian culture, I recommend watching the “People of the North” series on PBS, which explores the stories of various Norwegian communities. It’s an engaging prelude to your travels.

This adventure was made possible through the invitation of iBestTravel, who emphasizes responsible and sustainable travel.