You’ll race out from Stavanger by RIB boat into Lysefjord’s deep blue, pass islands and fish farms, spot wildlife if you’re lucky, and feel dwarfed by Pulpit Rock looming overhead. Hear local tales from your captain, taste mist from Whiskeyfalls, and return feeling wide awake—maybe even changed.
Ever wondered what it feels like to skim right across the surface of Lysefjord with nothing but salty air and spray between you and those cliffs? I didn’t, honestly — not until we zipped out from Stavanger’s harbor in these bright orange suits they gave us. Our captain, Eirik (he said just call him Eirik, no titles), grinned at us before gunning the RIB forward. The city faded behind so fast it felt like a trick. I could smell seaweed and engine oil, and the wind was loud in my ears. There were seagulls everywhere, shouting at each other or maybe at us.
We passed tiny islands and these odd fish farms bobbing around — Eirik pointed out some seals lounging on rocks. He told a story about a vagabond who used to hide out in a cave along the fjord; I tried to imagine someone living there with all this dampness and echoing water sounds. When we finally reached Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), it looked even more unreal from below than in photos. The stone just hangs there over the water — I craned my neck back so far I nearly lost my hat. And then there was this waterfall called Whiskeyfalls (Eirik laughed when he said the name), spraying mist that actually tasted faintly metallic on my lips.
I kept thinking how small we seemed down there, looking up at that wall of rock and sky. The whole thing took maybe two hours but time went strange — sometimes slow with silence, sometimes fast when we hit a wave and everyone yelled. Back at Stavanger’s dock, I still felt the buzz in my hands from holding on tight. If you’re after something that makes you feel awake (and a bit windswept), this Lysefjord RIB safari is it.
The tour lasts about two hours round trip from Stavanger’s center.
No hotel pickup is included; tours start within walking distance of Stavanger cruise terminal.
You’ll see islands near Stavanger, fish farms, wildlife like seals or birds, Vagabond Cave, Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen), and Whiskeyfalls waterfall.
Children must be at least 6 years old and accompanied by an adult.
The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues; moderate fitness is needed.
The tour starts and ends in central Stavanger near the cruise terminal.
Your outing covers all taxes and handling fees; you’ll get suited up for the ride before heading out with an experienced local captain. The starting point is easy to reach on foot from central Stavanger or nearby public transport stops—just show up ready for some wind and water spray.
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