Off The Beaten Path: Yacht Charters To Coastal Scandinavia

Posted January 1, 1970 in Charter by Janine St.Denis

There’s no doubt, you simply cannot be disappointed with a luxury charter experience. With resplendent amenities at your disposal and the world at your fingertips, travels aboard a charter yacht are both incomparable and unforgettable. Nowadays, mainstream charters head to historical favorites, from The Bahamas to the Mediterranean to the Caribbean — and for good reason. But for those with a taste for adventure and a knack for the unknown, charters off the beaten path offer worlds unseen with limitless possibilities.

For your next luxury yacht charter, choose extraordinary. Choose Norway.

The Land of the Midnight Sun

Norway’s essence is as decorated as its landscape — marked by distinct folklore, Viking-rich history, progressive policies, snow-soaked fjords, revered reindeer and its impressive display of the Northern Lights. Whether you’re traveling to ski the rolling mountains or submerge in the cultural birthplace of Thor, the legendary God of Thunder, Norway is sure to take the lead on your top travel memories for years to come.

As your chosen luxury yacht brokerage firm, Northrop & Johnson is delighted to assist you in making these dreams a reality with our devoted team of charter brokers. For your perfect luxury charter to Norway, we’ve selected a few of our favorite spots and Norwegian features.

Starlett Skjolden

Skjolden fjord view

Start your journey throughout Norway with a private helicopter lift to the village of Skjolden, a landscape pulled seemingly straight from a postcard. Boasting crystalline teal water and towering mountains, Skjolden is within reach of the Jostedalsbreen Glacier National Park — the first stop to our Norwegian adventure. The largest glacier in continental Europe, this breathtaking phenomenon is the convergence between flourishing green flora, geological majesty and waves of aquamarine ice. Though it currently encapsulates 487 square feet of landscape, due to recent shifts in climate and atmospheric temperatures, the glacier has been transforming and shrinking over time — making it a must-see on your trip out to Europe.

In the evening, head to the Skari Gard farm for a historical experience with immaculate views. A significant part of Norwegian culture is its focus on ‘Kos’ or ‘Koselig’ where they embrace the true feeling of comfort and–you guessed it–coziness,  by coming together to experience the good things in life.  From a warm cup of coffee to conversation with friends under a warm blanket, Norwegians place an emphasis on this feeling of contentment — and there’s no better way to spend it than at the quaint bayside farm.

Fantastical Flam

Urnes stave church on the hills

At what-would-be dawn, begin your day by cruising from Skjolden and sailing out via the Lustrafjord. You’re sure to enjoy the beautiful waters and magnificent fjords surrounding you. On your journey, take a break to see the renowned Urnes Stave church. Built in 1130 AD, Urnes Stave is a UNESCO heritage site, in due to its role in ancient Norwegian history. Saturated in Viking traditions, surrounded by a medieval cemetery and symbolic of the amazing Norwegian craftsmanship, it is one of the oldest churches in Norway, making it a must-see on your next Viking-based getaway. After visiting, head to Flåm and take a ride on the famous Flåm Railway — one of the steepest and most beautiful railways in the world.

This dynamic train dives deep into the valley of Flamsdalen, showcasing emerald foliage, miraculous mountains and quaint villages with an atmosphere of ‘kos’. In only around two hours’ time, you will have experienced the Scandinavian views to last a lifetime.

Galvanizing Gulen

Nærøyfjord landscape view

Upon returning from your magical train ride, cruise from Flåm through the breathtaking Nærøyfjord before sailing out of the Sognefjord. Arrive in Gulen and enjoy a variety of activities and excursions, including an eagle safari and fishing. Yes. You heard that right. An eagle safari. Not only will this magnificent boat tour show you the fascinating landscapes of the natural Norwegian world, but the tour will also actually allow you to experience these wild creatures performing their hunting rituals. Those aboard will entice the birds to swoop down for an up-front view, thanks to the numerous fish available within eagle-sight on deck. You’re almost guaranteed to hand-feed an eagle while on this magnificent journey.

In the evening, embrace the delight of Norwegian cuisine and enjoy a real Viking barbecue, complete with transport in a Viking ship.

Beckoning Bekkjarvik

Bergan coastal town

After a restful night aboard your luxury charter, cruise south past Bergan to Bekkjarvik, where you’ll come upon an enticing array of local shops, lovely restaurants and a spa. With your N&J charter broker, you can organize a guided tour of this serene town before enjoying dinner ashore prepared by the winner of Bocuse d’Or 2015. At the Bekkjarvik Gjestgiveri, you can settle into the relaxing lodge-like atmosphere of this high-end restaurant with a tantalizing wine package, delectable desserts and a fresh twist on traditional Norwegian cuisine. This phenomenal venue is celebrated for its classy, family-like ambiance. The perfect way to complete your perfect day of window shopping, trinket hunting and spa rejuvenating, you won’t want to miss this little adventure on your charter.

Bring your trophies home to your readily awaiting yacht and crew, and relax into your lavish staterooms to top off your night.

Rosy Rosendal

Rosendal landscape view

In the morning, cruise to the beautiful village of Rosendal, which is celebrated for its fantastic rose garden, barional manor and engaging museum. Now, it’s important to note, the museum isn’t limited to one experience. It actually has three different cultural focal points: shipbuilding, farming and education. There are additionally numerous historical spots to delight in, including the Kvinnherad Church, established in the mid-11th century. And as a luxury charter guest, your possibilities are truly endless. For our more romantic adventurers, have the crew arrange a private dinner and concert in the garden with transportation by a horsedrawn wagon. For our more gritty guests, take to glacial hiking or salmon fishing and witness the magnitude of Norwegian’s natural escapades.

Regardless of your interests, Rosendal is sure to leave a lasting impression on you and your party.

Lovely Lofthus

Canoe on Lofthus still water

From Rosendal, head into the heart of the Hardangerfjord as you cruise alongside idyllic villages and majestic scenery. There are countless sights to take in, embodying why Norway is one of the most desirable yet underrated destinations for charter guests. Upon arrival in Lofthus, take to the skies via a private helicopter tour to get aerial views of some of the most magnificent landscapes in the world. Lofthus is famous for its awe-inspiring waterfalls, turquoise waters and rolling mountains. In the evening, enjoy dinner ashore at the famous Hotel Ullensvang. First-class, decorated in massive windows and marked by a series of indoor and outdoor water experiences, from pools to beaches, Hotel Ullensvang will leave you wanting more.

After a mouthwatering dinner made from the freshest local ingredients, return aboard to wind down with a glass of wine and rest up for your final day in this land of folklore.

Loftus, Final Day

Coastal hut of Lofthus landscape

To conclude your charter, spend the day sightseeing in Lofthus before disembarking via helicopter flight to Bergen’s international airport. Whether you choose to taste the land’s finest local ciders, walk through orchards or take to the mountains, there is no wrong way to spend your final day in the excitement of coastal Scandinavia.


As a world-leading luxury yacht brokerage, Northrop & Johnson delivers professional services in luxury yacht sales and purchasing, private yacht charter, new yacht construction, charter management, crew placement and more. For all your luxury yachting needs and beyond, contact Northrop & Johnson today.  

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