As I’ve mentioned in my previous Norwegian posts, the fjords are a unique part of Scandinavian topography. What’s a fjord? I had the same question before I set foot in these parts. Most of the Norwegian coast is made up of jagged, narrow inlets to the sea, with steep and rather spectacular cliffs. You can see them when flying directly overhead or up-close by boat.
During my time in beautiful Stavanger, I took Norwegian’s version of a jetboat, and a quick ferry ride. Both are beautiful ways to see what Norway has to offer along the water.
Fjordevents, located at Strandkaien 37 along the docking area, has daily cruises with several different route options. The ride is quite adventurous, with lots of quick turns and splashes. You too can look super cool in an oversized neon water-suit and don’t forget to hold on tight!
The goats that live along these steep cliffs are wildly impressive. Below you’ll see a few cuties eating bologna someone tossed from a boat.
In the next photo, you’ll notice a cliff that jets outward from the mountain face. This is called Pulpit Rock, aka Preikestolen. It is a popular hiking destination and a really great place to view the fjords from above (given the clouds don’t block your view). It’s not uncommon for reckless hikers to get too close to the edge and fall to their deaths. So if you make the trek–be careful! 
I also took a ferry ride from Stavanger to Tau–a little village off the Horgefjorden shore. (You can read more about it here.) It took about an hour and a half round trip. The views are a bit different than the jetboat because you spend more time on open seas.
First, scroll through the next few images to see typical Norwegian homes long the the water’s edge. Isn’t it beautiful that people have found a way to live among the fjords? Note the bright colors and architectural ingenuity in the details.
To board the ferry, you set off from Fiskepiren in Stavanger. Many people use it as the starting point for their hike to the top of Pulpit Rock. The ferry ride is a much more relaxed boat ride with stunning views. However, it isn’t purely a ride for pleasure. Most riders are commuters. 
As a Texan, I was confused by the snacks offered on the ferry (pictured below). Perhaps Tex doesn’t even stand for Texas. Anyone have any idea what these little treats are?
After getting a peak behind the scenes, which boat ride would you prefer? The jetboat or the ferry?
for the love of nike 