Riding to Norway? The ferry from Hirtshals to Kristiansand takes you from northern Jutland to southern Norway in a few hours, and from there you are quickly on some of the best motorcycle roads in Europe. On this page you will find how the crossing works with a motorcycle: which operator, check-in, boarding and what you can and cannot bring.
Quick overview
- Operators: Fjord Line and Color Line both carry motorcycles.
- Crossing time: about 2 hrs 25 min on the Fjord FSTR (seasonal), about 3 hrs 15 min on the Color Line SuperSpeed 1, almost 4 hrs on Fjord Line’s large ships.
- Check-in: no later than 60 minutes before departure.
- On board: your bike is secured according to the ship’s lashing plan. With Color Line you wear your helmet when riding on and off.
- Spare fuel: a jerry can counts as dangerous goods with Fjord Line and needs written approval in advance.
- In Norway: motorcycles pay no tolls at automatic toll stations.
Which ferry suits your motorcycle 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 |
Fjord Line has its own motorcycle package on this route: a return trip Hirtshals-Kristiansand with one motorcycle and, on the FSTR, a standard seat per person. The package is only available for a limited number of places on selected sailings, so book early if you travel in riding season. You will find current departure times in the Hirtshals Kristiansand timetable.
Our tip: a motorcycle takes up little space, but popular sailings on summer Fridays and Saturdays can still sell out. So look at both operators side by side and choose the sailing that fits your first day’s ride in Norway. Compare sailings for your motorcycle →
How much is the crossing with a motorcycle?
There is no fixed motorcycle fare. The price depends on your travel date, departure time, number of passengers and extras such as a seat or lounge. If you ride with a trailer or sidecar, enter the total length when booking. Read more about fares and cheaper sailings on our page How much does the ferry from Hirtshals to Kristiansand cost?
Check-in and boarding
- 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.
- Helmet on: Color Line requires motorcyclists to wear a helmet when riding on and off. Road traffic rules also apply at the terminal and on board.
- Securing: vehicles are secured according to the ship’s approved lashing plan. Follow the crew’s instructions.
- Start on signal: with Color Line you only start your engine when the crew gives the signal.
- Take what you need: the car deck is closed during the crossing. Take your papers, phone and valuables with you.
Practical information about the terminals:
Luggage and spare fuel
With Fjord Line you can carry up to 50 kg of luggage in or on your vehicle free of charge. A spare jerry can with fuel counts as dangerous goods. For that you need a written clearance statement signed by the captain in advance. Request it through Fjord Line’s customer service well ahead of time, no later than 72 hours before check-in. Without approval the jerry can may be confiscated.
Damage? Report it on board
Check your bike when you return to the car deck. If you see damage, report it to Fjord Line before you ride off. On board, you fill in a damage form at the reception. Anything not reported before disembarkation is considered in good condition by Fjord Line.
Riding in Norway
Good news for bikers: motorcycles are exempt from tolls at automatic toll stations and toll rings throughout Norway. You don’t need a toll tag or account for this. On domestic ferries within Norway you do pay a ticket for your motorcycle. Expect an ID check on arrival in Kristiansand, so keep your passport or ID card handy.
Our tip: coming from far away and want to board fresh in the morning? Many riders spend the night before in Hirtshals so they don’t have to rush to make the check-in deadline. Compare hotels in Hirtshals for the night before your departure.
Frequently asked questions about motorcycles on the ferry
Can I take my motorcycle on all ships?
Yes. The Fjord FSTR, Fjord Line’s MS Stavangerfjord and MS Bergensfjord and Color Line’s SuperSpeed 1 all carry motorcycles.
Do I have to strap down my motorcycle myself?
Vehicles are secured according to the ship’s lashing plan. When you ride on board, follow the crew’s instructions on where and how to park your bike.
Can I bring a jerry can with petrol?
With Fjord Line only with a written clearance statement from the captain, requested in advance and no later than 72 hours before check-in. Otherwise leave it at home and fill up in Hirtshals.
Where can I see the current price for my motorcycle?
Enter your date, the number of passengers and your vehicle when booking. That shows the real price for your sailing. Check the price for your motorcycle →
Rules can change. Always check the latest conditions on the websites of Color Line and Fjord Line before you travel.