Kayaking Norwegian Fjords with Kids

Travelling through the Norweigian Fjords is an amazing experience.  On a seven night P&O UK Cruise out of Southampton our passage took us through scenery like no other I have ever seen.

On port stops we were able to get up close and personal to the waterways, in the city of Olden Itchy Feet Family took to kayaks to explore the Nord Fjord.

When looking at shore tours offered on the cruise, this was the only one that resembled any level of physical activity.  The cruise line clearly catering for the more senior cruiser who enjoys a bus journey or walking tour.  We jumped at the opportunity to do something active for the day. 

Olden, with a population of just 2,500, more than doubles in size when a large passenger ship such as the 3,500 passenger Britannia comes in for the day.  Our guide, Richard, loved the opportunity to meet new people and showcase his beautiful part of the world. 

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Although we were travelling in summer (July), the weather was still very cold.  At a cool 13 degrees, we were just thankful it was not raining.  

The boat house was located a short walk from where the ship docked so there was no need for a bus journey to our tour, we were off the ship and in kayaks within an hour.

After boarding the kayaks in a small inlet, we travelled under a bridge before heading out into the large open Fjord. The water was calm for the most part, however the wind did pick up whilst we were out which restricted how far out the Fjord we travelled.

The operator provided lifejackets and waterproof skirts and with the ice cold glacial waters we were encouraged to try stay dry in the boats! For the most part we did, except when the kids decided to test how cold the water was by putting their arms in the Fjord - without rolling up their sleeves!

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The water was fresh on top - although the Fjord ran into the ocean, the salt water sits at the bottom of the Fjord whilst the top is crystal clear drinkable water from the mountains. 

The tandem kayaks allowed us to pair up one adult with one child and although the kids were also given paddles, it was really the work of the adults that got us through the journey. With the kids at the front, their paddles mostly served as large splashing devices with the aim of seeing who could get which parent wetter! 

It was quite an impressive view in the middle of the fjord with the majestic Britannia one side of us and waterfalls and snow capped mountains the other.

We kayaked for two hours on the Fjord, stopping every 15-20 minutes or so for narration from our guides. We learnt the main industries in the area were tourism, farming and petroleum and were encouraged to try the Norweigian strawberries, they came highly recommended. 

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Although the tour did not travel too far from where we started, we could always see the ship from any point of the tour, it was a fun couple of hours and provided some activity in between narration. Much more fun than sitting on a bus.

By the end of the two hours we were quite cold, especially given the children were wet up to their shoulders! If I was to do it again I would make sure we wore wet weather jackets and that the kids rolled their sleeves up before testing the water! 

The short tour also gave us time to head back to the ship to refresh and refuel before taking a stroll around the picturesque town.

Have you taken your kids kayaking on holiday?  Where have been some of the memorable locations?

Penny - Itchy Feet Family

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