Cycling to Norway? The ferry from Hirtshals to Kristiansand is a popular crossing for cycling holidays, because great routes start right on both sides. On this page you will find how the crossing works with a bicycle: booking, check-in, on board and where to ride in Norway.
Quick overview
- Operators: Fjord Line and Color Line both carry bicycles on all ships on this route.
- Booking: add your bike when you book. Any cost is shown before you pay.
- Check-in: no later than 60 minutes before departure, in the vehicle lane.
- On board: your bike stays on the car deck, which is closed during the crossing.
- E-bike: charge the battery beforehand; Color Line does not allow small electric vehicles to be charged on board.
Which ferry suits your cycling trip?
| Ship | Operator | Crossing time | Sails |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fjord FSTR (catamaran) | Fjord Line | approx. 2 hrs 25 min | 2026: 27 March to 20 September |
| SuperSpeed 1 | Color Line | approx. 3 hrs 15 min | all year |
| MS Stavangerfjord / MS Bergensfjord | Fjord Line | approx. 3 hrs 45 min to 3 hrs 55 min | all year |
Arriving in Hirtshals by train and riding the last bit? Note that the Fjord Line terminal is about 35 to 40 minutes’ walk from the town centre; by bike you are there much faster. You will find current departure times in the Hirtshals Kristiansand timetable.
Our tip: plan your first day of riding in Norway when you choose a sailing. With a morning boat you still have a whole afternoon to ride from Kristiansand; with an evening boat it is better to book a place to sleep near the port. Compare sailings with a bike →
How much is the crossing with a bike?
A bike usually adds little on top of your own ticket, but there are no fixed prices. The fare depends on your travel date, departure time and extras such as a seat. Always add your bike when booking, so there is space for it. Read more about fares on our page How much does the ferry from Hirtshals to Kristiansand cost?
Check-in and on board
- Be on time: with both operators you check in no later than 60 minutes before departure. With Fjord Line, boarding closes 20 minutes before departure.
- Where: with a bike you follow the signs to your operator’s vehicle lane. In Kristiansand, Color Line has separate check-in desks on the quay for cars, motorcycles and bicycles.
- On the car deck: follow the crew’s instructions on where to leave your bike. Road traffic rules also apply at the terminal and on board.
- Take your bags up: the car deck is closed during the crossing. Take your papers, phone, valuables and anything you need during the trip.
Practical information about the terminals:
With an e-bike
Color Line does not allow small electric vehicles, such as e-scooters, to be charged on board, and there is no power on the car deck. So make sure your battery is full when you board. If you are unsure about taking a loose battery up to the passenger areas, check with your operator in advance.
Cycling from Kristiansand
Kristiansand is on the North Sea Cycle Route (EuroVelo 12). In Norway the route follows National Cycle Route 1 from Bergen to the Swedish border. The stretch from Bergen to Kristiansand is locally called the “North Sea Cycle Route”, and heading east you continue on the “Archipelago Route” to Larvik. A national cycle route through the Setesdal valley towards Haukeli also starts in Kristiansand.
Note that some tunnels in Norway are closed to cyclists. Plan your route in advance and check whether you need a detour.
Our tip: arriving late in Hirtshals or leaving early? Book a hotel in Hirtshals close to the port, so you don’t have to ride in the dark and can board well rested.
Frequently asked questions about bikes on the ferry
Can I take my bike on all ships?
Yes. The Fjord FSTR, Fjord Line’s MS Stavangerfjord and MS Bergensfjord and Color Line’s SuperSpeed 1 all carry bicycles. Do add your bike when booking.
Can I stay with my bike during the crossing?
No. The car deck is closed while sailing. You spend the crossing in the passenger areas, so take what you need with you.
Can I charge my e-bike on board?
Don’t count on it. Color Line does not allow small electric vehicles to be charged on board. Arrive with a full battery.
Where can I see the current price with a bike?
Enter your date and number of passengers when booking and add your bike. That shows the real price for your sailing. Check the price with a bike →
Rules can change. Always check the latest conditions on the websites of Color Line and Fjord Line before you travel.