Ålesund from the Sea: Island Hopping and Harbours
# Ålesund from the Sea: Island Hopping and Harbours
Ålesund is built on islands – and should ideally be experienced from the water. The famous Art Nouveau architecture along Brosundet, the lively harbour scene and the hundreds of islands in the Sunnmore archipelago make this one of Norway's most spectacular coastal cities. Here we guide you through the best experiences by boat from Ålesund.
The Art Nouveau Architecture from the Sea
Ålesund burned down in 1904 and was rebuilt in the leading architectural style of the time – Jugendstil (Art Nouveau). The best vantage point for this architecture is actually from the sea. Cruise slowly through Brosundet – the narrow canal that divides the city centre – and admire the colourful facades with their towers, ornaments and bold shapes.
From the water you also see the Fjellstua viewpoint from a completely different perspective, with Mount Aksla as a backdrop above the distinctive rooftops.
Island Hopping in Sunnmore
Outside Ålesund lies an archipelago of hundreds of islands and islets. Here are some favourites:
- Giske – A historic island with a marble church from the 1100s. Giske is linked to the lineage of Gange-Rolv (Rollo of Normandy) and has a beautiful sandy beach at Alnes.
- Godoy – Home to Alnes lighthouse, which offers one of the coast's finest views. The lighthouse houses a cafe and gallery.
- Valderoy – The largest of the islands outside Ålesund, with varied scenery and several fine bays for anchoring.
- Runde – Norway's southernmost seabird cliff, with puffins, white-tailed eagles and hundreds of thousands of nesting seabirds. Runde is about 30 nautical miles from Ålesund and makes a full-day trip.
With a RIB you can cover several islands in a day, while a slower boat gives you time to explore more thoroughly.
Geirangerfjorden – the World's Most Beautiful Fjord
Distance: Approx. 60 nautical miles from Ålesund (one way).
From Ålesund you can take the boat into Storfjorden and onwards into Geirangerfjorden – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Norway's most iconic fjords. The journey takes several hours, but along the way you pass some of western Norway's most dramatic landscapes.
The famous waterfalls – the Seven Sisters, the Suitor and the Bridal Veil – are best seen from the water. At the head of the fjord lies Geiranger with its cruise ships and tourist shops, but from your own boat you have the freedom to stop wherever you wish.
Tip: This is a long trip. Plan overnight accommodation in Geiranger or along the route. Check our guide to fjord adventures: Ålesund and Geiranger for more detailed planning.
Harbours and Guest Harbours
The Ålesund region has several good guest harbours:
- Ålesund Guest Harbour (Brosundet) – Right in the city centre, with restaurants and bars within walking distance. Limited space – arrive early in peak season.
- Skateflua Marina – Larger marina with good capacity, shore power and water. Short bus ride to the centre.
- Fosnavag – Approx. 25 nautical miles south of Ålesund. An active fishing village with a guest harbour and seafood restaurants.
- Ulsteinvik – Approx. 30 nautical miles south. Known for its shipyard industry, but also has a pleasant guest harbour.
Fishing Outside Ålesund
Sunnmore is one of Norway's best areas for sea fishing. Outside Ålesund the seabed drops rapidly to great depths, and there is abundant cod, saithe, ling and tusk. Several local fishing spots are known for yielding large saithe over 10 kilos.
For those who want to try deep-sea halibut fishing, the Sunnmore coast is one of the best places in the country.
Practical Tips
- Boat rental: Check available boats in Ålesund for prices and availability.
- Weather: Sunnmore is exposed to the North Sea. Always check wave and wind forecasts before heading out.
- Fuel: Available at Ålesund harbour and Skateflua.
- Season: May–September is best. June–August offers the longest days and warmest weather.
Find your boat in Ålesund and experience the Art Nouveau city's archipelago from the sea.
