Stavanger & Lysefjord: Pulpit Rock RIB Safari with Storytelling

Summary

Speed from Stavanger past salmon farms to Lysefjord’s wild cliffs and waterfalls

You’ll zip from Stavanger’s lively harbor straight into Lysefjord’s wild silence, skimming past salmon farms and ancient cliffs with a local captain steering close to Pulpit Rock. Feel mist from Hengjanefossen waterfall on your face, listen to stories of vagabonds hiding in caves, and spot seals or eagles if you’re lucky—it’s equal parts thrill ride and quiet wonder.

What’s the experience like?

I barely had time to second-guess the bright orange suit before our captain handed me goggles and grinned, “You’ll want these.” Standing in Stavanger’s harbor, the city behind us looked almost too calm for what was coming. The engine started up—a low rumble—and we slipped out past old wooden houses and that odd oil museum (which I still don’t quite get). The water was glassy at first, but then we picked up speed. Cold air slapped my cheeks; I could taste salt on my lips. Our guide pointed out a line of cabins hugging the shore—he called them “hytter”—and some salmon farms bobbing quietly. I tried to wave at a fisherman but he just nodded back, in that Norwegian way.

Once we hit Lysefjord, everything changed. The cliffs shot straight up, pale stone streaked with green where the trees clung on. We slowed near a tiny cove and our captain started telling us about Fantahålå—Vagabond Cave—where some outlaws supposedly hid from the sheriff ages ago. He steered right into the shadow of the cave so close you could smell wet rock and something earthy, almost mossy. It was quiet for a second except for someone’s nervous laugh (not mine… okay maybe mine). And then there it was—Pulpit Rock looming overhead like some impossible shelf. He told us about that first crazy ascent, and how Tom Cruise dangled off it for a movie stunt. I squinted up and honestly felt dizzy just thinking about standing up there.

We got so close to Hengjanefossen waterfall that mist soaked my gloves—icy but clean, like you’d want to bottle it. Someone dared me to taste it (I did; not whisky, sadly). The captain joked about an old moonshiner who used to work nearby. Seals popped their heads up now and then; one sea eagle circled above us for a moment before vanishing into cloud. The whole thing felt fast but also weirdly peaceful—like being let in on some big Norwegian secret. I still think about that view under Pulpit Rock when things get too loud at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Lysefjord RIB Safari from Stavanger

• Meet at Stavanger city harbor
• Receive equipment and safety briefing
• Pass Stavanger waterfront and landmarks
• Depart harbor and enter open waters
• Speed across waters past islets and salmon farms
• Explore Lysefjord and watch for wildlife
• Visit Vagabond Cave in fjord cliffs
• View Pulpit Rock from the boat
• Approach Hengjanefossen waterfall base

Top questions

How long is the Lysefjord RIB safari from Stavanger?

The guided tour lasts around two hours from start to finish.

Is safety equipment provided on this Stavanger RIB tour?

Yes, all necessary safety gear including lifejackets and flotation suits are included for every participant.

What wildlife might I see during the Lysefjord boat trip?

You may spot seals, porpoises, sea eagles, and other local wildlife along the fjord.

Does this tour include seeing Pulpit Rock from the water?

Yes, your captain will position the boat for a front-row view of Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen).

Where does the tour start in Stavanger?

The tour departs from Stavanger city harbor in the center of town.

Is this RIB safari suitable for everyone?

The tour is suitable for most fitness levels but not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries.

Are service animals allowed on this Lysefjord RIB safari?

Yes, service animals are permitted on board.

Will I get wet during this boat trip?

You may feel mist near waterfalls like Hengjanefossen; protective suits are provided.

What’s included

Your day includes all safety equipment—lifejacket, flotation suit in your size (plus goggles and gloves if it’s cold), a two-hour guided RIB safari through Lysefjord with a seasoned local captain who doubles as storyteller, plus close-up views of Pulpit Rock and waterfalls before returning back to Stavanger harbor.