Published on
September 24, 2025
Kristiansund, on Norway’s stunning west coast, is rolling out the red carpet for cruise travelers with fresh, unforgettable adventures. During a recent Cruise Norway press trip on September 22, 2025, journalists explored the town’s cultural treasures, breathtaking views, and tasty food, all the while tasting the cruise-ready magic that Kristiansund offers. The visit took guests past ancient maritime stories, up cozy fishing-boat alleys, and into the aromas of local kitchens, planting the perfect seeds for tomorrow’s tourism boom and putting the region’s one-of-a-kind views and hidden gems into the spotlight.
Scenic Tourism Experiences Await
Kristiansund’s welcoming environment for cruise guests was demonstrated in the activities during the Cruise Norway familiarisation trip. The group began with a tour of the picturesque wooden settlement of Innlandet, dating back to 1650. This part of the town is known for its charming wooden houses and historical significance. The group also visited Lossiusgärden, a mansion built in 1780, which tells the story of the clipfish trade. This property, with its beautifully restored rooms and original artwork, provided visitors with a rich glimpse into Kristiansund’s past. For cruise tourists, this tour is an excellent way to experience local history firsthand while enjoying traditional Norwegian food like pancakes served with sour cream and jam.
The Lossiusgärden experience includes a guided tour, where visitors can enjoy a historical walk through the mansion, taking in the garden and the captivating interior. The excursion also offers add-ons such as afternoon tea, musical performances, and guided tours of the surrounding historical area. Such activities provide an immersive experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.
Kristiansund’s New Cultural Hub: A Tourist Magnet
The Cruise Norway familiarisation trip also provided a sneak peek at a new cultural centre, set to open on October 6. The centre is designed to celebrate the region’s rich cultural heritage through both permanent and temporary exhibitions. It will also be home to a cultural school where local residents can learn musical instruments, reflecting Norway’s inclusive approach to arts education.
For cruise tourists, the cultural centre offers a wide variety of experiences. Visitors will be able to enjoy ballet performances, classical music concerts, and even engage in musical performances themselves. The centre’s main stage can accommodate up to 570 people, ensuring that there is ample space for large events, while its symphonic hall and ‘black box’ offer more intimate performance spaces. This venue will not only help bring more tourists to Kristiansund but will also provide new opportunities for arts education and cultural engagement within the community.
The Call of the Atlantic Ocean Road: Photography and Scenic Excursions
A unique opportunity for tourists is the upcoming photography workshop offered by The Nordic Light photography studio. This popular gallery is a favourite among tourists visiting the area, and soon it will offer a photography tour of the iconic Atlantic Ocean Road. Led by a seasoned photographer, the excursion will include stops at scenic locations along the road and a chance to learn professional photography techniques. This workshop will attract photography enthusiasts and tourists looking to capture the stunning landscapes of Norway, further cementing Kristiansund’s place as a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Grip Island: A Historical Gem
One of the highlights of the familiarisation trip was a visit to Grip Island, located just 12 km northwest of Kristiansund. This remote island, known for its deep ties to Norway’s fishing industry, offers an authentic Norwegian experience. Tourists can explore the world’s northernmost stave church, built in the 18th century, and taste local delicacies like award-winning blue cheese. Though Grip Island is uninhabited for most of the year, the island’s historical significance and breathtaking natural beauty make it a top destination for cruise visitors.
The Gripruta service, operated by Sundbåten, offers daily trips to the island, and the excursions include a guided tour of the stave church. With a capacity for up to 47 passengers, these tours are a unique way to experience the rich history of Norway’s fishing industry while taking in spectacular views. For those interested in photography, Grip Island offers some of the most scenic and untouched landscapes, perfect for capturing the essence of Norway’s remote beauty.
Culinary Delights and Local Attractions
The trip also highlighted Kristiansund’s culinary offerings. The group visited Kranaskjaeret, a local restaurant with panoramic views of the harbour. Guests enjoyed a traditional Norwegian meal of cheese-gratinated clipfish, mashed potatoes, bacon, vegetables, and baked apples with vanilla cream. Such experiences allow tourists to indulge in authentic Norwegian flavours while enjoying the picturesque surroundings.
For those seeking more cultural and natural beauty, Kristiansund offers a variety of attractions. The guided tour of the city included a visit to the contemporary Kirkelandet Church, renowned for its 320 coloured glass panes, and the Varden viewpoint, which offers stunning views of the surrounding fjords and islands. The Varden viewpoint is a short walk from the city centre, making it an ideal spot for tourists to take in the breathtaking Norwegian landscapes.
Kristiansund: An Expanding Cruise Destination
As Kristiansund continues to grow as a cruise destination, the local port infrastructure is also expanding to accommodate the increasing number of cruise ships. With two centrally located quays, Kristiansund is able to handle a variety of vessels, and the town welcomes 20-25 cruise ships annually. With shore power options for smaller vessels and plans for future improvements, Kristiansund is committed to providing a seamless and sustainable experience for tourists.
The city’s well-developed transport and tourism infrastructure make it a prime location for both short and long-term cruise visits. As cruise tourism continues to increase, Kristiansund’s rich history, cultural offerings, and scenic landscapes will no doubt attract more visitors in the coming years.
Kristiansund’s Bright Future in Tourism
The Cruise Norway familiarisation trip to Kristiansund revealed the town’s vast potential as a cruise destination. From its rich cultural heritage to its stunning natural beauty, Kristiansund offers tourists an immersive and unforgettable experience. The expansion of tourism infrastructure, along with the introduction of new attractions, will undoubtedly help bring more visitors to this Norwegian gem.
Kristiansund’s smart mix of heritage and forward-thinking already sets it up to be a must-see stop for cruise ships arriving in Norway. With rich history, fabulous food, and breathtaking views, this little city has just what travellers want, and that’s why visitors will keep coming for a long, long time.
