A fjord is a long, narrow arm of the sea with steep sides, carved by glacial activity. Often regarded as the very symbol of Norway, fjords are found in several countries around the world, offering some of the most breathtaking landscapes and unique sailing experiences. These stunning natural formations are not just limited to Norway; fjords in New Zealand, Chile, and other regions also offer spectacular views and adventures.
Here are 12 of the most incredible fjords you can sail and explore.
1. Geirangerfjord: Norway’s Crown Jewel
Geirangerfjord is often considered the most iconic of all the fjords in Norway. With its snow-capped mountain peaks, cascading waterfalls, lush green vegetation, and deep blue waters, Geirangerfjord offers an unparalleled scenic experience. Visitors can explore this majestic fjord by booking one of the many cruise ships that frequent the area or by taking the car ferry between Hellesylt and the picturesque town of Geiranger.
| Travel Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Norway |
| Best Time to Visit | June to August |
| Activities | Cruising, Hiking, Kayaking |
| Nearby Attractions | Seven Sisters Waterfall, Dalsnibba Mountain |
| Open Time | 24 Hours |
| Close Time | 24 Hours |
2. Milford Sound: New Zealand’s Coastal Wonder
Milford Sound is one of New Zealand’s most famous tourist destinations and was named the world’s top travel destination in TripAdvisor’s 2008 Travelers’ Choice Awards. Located at the northern end of Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound is known for its dramatic peaks, deep blue waters, and cascading waterfalls. Frequent rainfalls only enhance the beauty of this South Island fjord, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.
| Travel Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | South Island, New Zealand |
| Best Time to Visit | November to March |
| Activities | Cruising, Hiking, Wildlife Viewing |
| Nearby Attractions | Mitre Peak, Stirling Falls |
| Open Time | 24 Hours |
| Close Time | 24 Hours |
3. Naeroyfjord: Norway’s Wild Beauty
Naeroyfjord is a branch of the larger Sognefjord in Norway and is considered one of the most dramatic and beautiful fjords in Europe. This 17-kilometer-long fjord is incredibly narrow, with the narrowest point being only 250 meters wide. The passage through Naeroyfjord offers some of the most stunning and wild scenery in the world, making it a popular destination for fjord tours.
| Travel Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Norway |
| Best Time to Visit | May to September |
| Activities | Cruising, Kayaking, Hiking |
| Nearby Attractions | Gudvangen Village, Sognefjord |
| Open Time | 24 Hours |
| Close Time | 24 Hours |
4. Doubtful Sound: New Zealand’s Remote Wilderness
Doubtful Sound is the second-largest fjord in Fiordland National Park, New Zealand, and is known for its remote wilderness and abundant wildlife. The fjord is three times longer and ten times larger than the more famous Milford Sound, offering a more secluded and tranquil experience. Visitors can explore Doubtful Sound by boat, often encountering dolphins, seals, and even penguins.
| Travel Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | South Island, New Zealand |
| Best Time to Visit | November to April |
| Activities | Cruising, Wildlife Viewing |
| Nearby Attractions | Lake Manapouri, Wilmot Pass |
| Open Time | 24 Hours |
| Close Time | 24 Hours |
5. Ilulissat Icefjord: Greenland’s Icy Wonderland
The Ilulissat Icefjord is located on the west coast of Greenland, close to the town of Ilulissat and 250 km north of the Arctic Circle. The fjord stretches for 40 kilometers from the Greenland ice sheet to Disko Bay. It is renowned for its stunning icebergs, calved from one of the world’s fastest-moving glaciers, creating a breathtaking and dramatic landscape.
| Travel Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Greenland |
| Best Time to Visit | June to September |
| Activities | Iceberg Viewing, Boat Tours, Hiking |
| Nearby Attractions | Disko Bay, Ilulissat Town |
| Open Time | 24 Hours |
| Close Time | 24 Hours |
6. Misty Fjords: Alaska’s Remote Marvel
Misty Fjords is a remote and wild National Monument located on the southern tip of the Alaska Panhandle. The steep-walled fjords are often shrouded in mist, creating a mystical and serene atmosphere. While large cruise ships cannot navigate these narrow fjords, they offer excellent opportunities for sea-kayaking, allowing adventurers to get up close to the towering cliffs and waterfalls.
| Travel Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Alaska, USA |
| Best Time to Visit | May to September |
| Activities | Sea-Kayaking, Wildlife Viewing |
| Nearby Attractions | Ketchikan, Tongass National Forest |
| Open Time | 24 Hours |
| Close Time | 24 Hours |
7. Aisen Fjords: Chile’s Scenic Wonders
The Aisen Fjords are located in the Aisén Region of southern Chile, a landscape marked by glaciations that have formed numerous lakes, channels, and stunning fjords. The area is home to Laguna San Rafael National Park, which is only accessible by boat or plane. The park features some of the highest mountains in Patagonia and is a popular destination for tourists seeking unspoiled natural beauty.
| Travel Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Aisén Region, Chile |
| Best Time to Visit | December to March |
| Activities | Boat Tours, Glacier Viewing |
| Nearby Attractions | Laguna San Rafael, General Carrera Lake |
| Open Time | 24 Hours |
| Close Time | 24 Hours |
8. Lysefjord: Norway’s Adventure Hub
Lysefjord is a popular tourist attraction in southwestern Norway, known for its dramatic scenery and two famous hiking destinations. Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) is a plateau situated 604 meters above the fjord, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. At the end of the fjord lies Kjerag mountain, another popular hiking spot with even more spectacular drops.
| Travel Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Norway |
| Best Time to Visit | May to September |
| Activities | Hiking, Cruising |
| Nearby Attractions | Pulpit Rock, Kjerag Mountain |
| Open Time | 24 Hours |
| Close Time | 24 Hours |
9. Kenai Fjords: Alaska’s Glacial Paradise
Kenai Fjords is a 650,000-acre National Park located on the Kenai Peninsula in south-central Alaska. The park’s landscape is dominated by towering mountains and massive glaciers that flow down to the sea, creating mile-deep fjords. Kenai Fjords is a haven for wildlife, including seabirds, sea otters, harbor seals, and sea lions, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.
| Travel Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Alaska, USA |
| Best Time to Visit | June to August |
| Activities | Cruising, Wildlife Viewing, Hiking |
| Nearby Attractions | Exit Glacier, Seward |
| Open Time | 24 Hours |
| Close Time | 24 Hours |
10. Howe Sound: Canada’s Coastal Playground
Howe Sound is North America’s southernmost fjord, located just northwest of Vancouver, Canada. Surrounded by towering peaks that rise straight out of the sea, Howe Sound is a popular playground for sailing, fishing, diving, camping, and other recreational activities. The fjord also features several large, mountainous islands that add to its scenic beauty.
| Travel Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | British Columbia, Canada |
| Best Time to Visit | June to September |
| Activities | Sailing, Fishing, Hiking |
| Nearby Attractions | Bowen Island, Squamish |
| Open Time | 24 Hours |
| Close Time | 24 Hours |
11. Saguenay Fjord: Canada’s Eastern Gem
Saguenay Fjord in Quebec, Canada, is one of the longest fjords in the world, stretching for over
100 kilometers. The fjord is lined with towering cliffs and is a popular destination for whale watching, kayaking, and hiking. The area is also known for its unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
| Travel Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Quebec, Canada |
| Best Time to Visit | June to October |
| Activities | Whale Watching, Kayaking, Hiking |
| Nearby Attractions | Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park, Tadoussac |
| Open Time | 24 Hours |
| Close Time | 24 Hours |
12. Aurlandsfjord: Norway’s Tranquil Escape
Aurlandsfjord is another branch of the famous Sognefjord in Norway and is known for its tranquil beauty. The fjord is less crowded than some of the more famous Norwegian fjords, making it a perfect destination for those seeking peace and solitude. Visitors can explore the fjord by boat, enjoy the picturesque village of Flam, or take a scenic drive along the Aurlandsvegen, one of Norway’s most beautiful roads.
| Travel Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Norway |
| Best Time to Visit | May to September |
| Activities | Cruising, Hiking, Scenic Drives |
| Nearby Attractions | Flam Railway, Stegastein Viewpoint |
| Open Time | 24 Hours |
| Close Time | 24 Hours |
