This combination tour answers the question every visitor faces: do I see Preikestolen from the water, or climb it? You do both. The day begins with a RIB boat trip into Lysefjord, where you look up at the plateau from beneath the cliffs and see the waterfalls, farms and rock walls at close quarters. After the boat ride you continue to the trailhead and make the walk to the top. It is a long and active day, but it gives you the fjord from two angles and removes the need to coordinate separate bookings and transport. For anyone with a single day to spare in the region and a good level of fitness, it is the most efficient way to see the best of Lysefjord.
The boat portion is a fast rigid inflatable ride in a flotation suit, with the same spray and speed that make the standalone safari so popular. Expect to cover a good length of the fjord and to stop for the main landmarks, then return to land and change for the walk. The hike is the standard Preikestolen route of about eight kilometres return, with a steep first half and an open plateau section, so you need proper shoes and a day pack with water, food and a rain layer.
Because the two activities run back to back, you should be comfortable with a long day and some tiredness on the descent.
The big advantage is sequencing. Doing the fjord by boat first gives you context: you will already have seen the cliff face and heard the stories, and when you stand on the rock itself you can picture the view from below. It also guards against a weather gamble, since a poor forecast on the day will affect both parts, but you still have a reasonable chance of one good view. Nonetheless, it is worth keeping a spare day in your plans in case operators reschedule.
Think about energy and clothing. You will need a warm base layer for the boat, hiking clothes for the trail and a spare dry top, so pack in layers rather than bringing bulky items. Take sun protection and a water bottle, and eat properly at the break. If you suffer from seasickness, take advice before booking, since the boat can bounce, and anyone with back, neck or heart conditions should check the conditions as for any RIB trip.
This tour is best suited to fit adults and teenagers who want maximum variety in a single outing. It is less suitable for young children and for anyone who prefers a slow pace. If you have two days in the region, doing the boat and hike on separate days gives you more time at each stop, but the combination remains a smart option for travellers who are short on time.
What to expect
The experience
A full-day guided combination of a RIB boat ride on Lysefjord and a hike to the top of Preikestolen, with transfers from Stavanger.
Best time
Summer and early autumn for the longest days and most reliable trail.
How long
A long day, about 8 to 9 hours, with 4 to 5 hours of walking and around 2 to 3 hours on the water.
Tips
Pack layers for both boat and trail, a spare top, water and food, and wear shoes with grip.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Fit visitors who want the cliff from below and above in one day.
- Families
- Best for teenagers and active older children.
- Couples
- A big shared day out with variety.
- Pair with
- An easy, early night and a relaxed morning after.
- Time needed
- A full day, around 8 to 9 hours.
Good questions
Do I do the boat or the hike first?+
Operators set the running order, so confirm it when you book. Many start with the fjord and finish on the trail.
How fit do I need to be?+
You need to manage a steep walk of four to five hours return, plus the boat ride, in a single day.
What should I pack?+
A flotation suit is supplied for the boat, but bring warm layers, hiking shoes, a rain jacket, water, food and a spare dry top.
Is it better than doing each separately?+
It saves time and organisation. If you have two spare days, separate trips give you more time on each.
What if the weather is poor?+
Check the cancellation and rescheduling terms. Low cloud can affect the views from both the water and the plateau.
