Ferry from Hirtshals to Kristiansand
Tickets, Prices & SchedulesThe ferry route from Hirtshals in Denmark to Kristiansand in Norway operates year-round, offering 5-6 daily sailings during the summer season and approximately 3-4 crossings per day throughout the rest of the year. The journey takes between 2 hr 25 min and 3 hr 55 min, depending on the company and the type of ferry.
Color Line and Fjord Line serve the ferry connection from Norway to Denmark with both conventional ferries and high-speed ferries. Find up-to-date info, compare timetables, companies and prices, and book your Hirtshals ferry to Norway tickets on Ferryhopper without hidden fees.
Discounts
Enjoy lower-cost ferry tickets from Hirtshals to Kristiansand by taking advantage of the various available discounts. Both Color Line and Fjord Line provide special fares for certain passenger categories, such as:
- Children (4-15 years old): travel with a 50% discount
- Infants and toddlers (up to 3 years old): travel free of charge
On-board services and amenities
The ferries operating the Hirtshals - Kristiansand route provide a diverse range of onboard facilities, whether you choose a conventional cruise ferry or a high-speed vessel. Depending on the operator and ship, passengers can enjoy comfortable lounges, various dining options, shopping, family-friendly zones, and specialized services for those traveling with vehicles, pets, or disabilities.
Conventional ferries
Vessels like Fjord Line’s MS Stavangerfjord and MS Bergensfjord, are designed for a relaxed travel experience with extensive facilities. Typically, you will find:
- Spacious air-conditioned lounges and access to open decks with sea views
- Multiple dining options, including restaurants, cafés, bars, and buffets
- Tax-free shopping with a wide variety of products
- Social and entertainment areas for an enjoyable trip
- Children's play areas and family-friendly zones
- Car decks for vehicle transport
- Free Wi-Fi and charging stations in designated areas
High-speed ferries
The route is also served by fast vessels, such as Color Line’s SuperSpeed 1 and Fjord Line's Fjord FSTR. On board, you can generally expect to find:
- Comfortable indoor seating and access to outdoor decks
- Bistros, cafés, bars, and buffets serving snacks, coffee, and hot meals
- Duty-free shops and onboard shopping facilities
- Play areas for children and family seating zones
- Wi-Fi throughout most sections of the ship
- Vehicle decks for easy transportation
Accessibility
The ferries from Hirtshals to Kristiansand are generally accessible to passengers with disabilities. Both high-speed and conventional vessels are equipped with elevators, accessible common areas, and facilities adapted for those with limited mobility.
If you require special assistance, it is best to contact the ferry operator in advance or during booking. Prior notice is often necessary if you are traveling with medical equipment, need boarding support, or require help in an emergency. Guide and assistance dogs are permitted on board with the required documentation. As features vary by vessel, confirming details with the company before departure is recommended.
Cabins & accommodation
What seating options are available?
Travelers can choose between standard seating (included in the ticket) or optional upgrades to premium lounges.
- Standard seating in indoor lounge areas
- Reclining seats in dedicated zones for added comfort
- Premium lounge seating offering extra services and a quieter environment
How much do business class or lounge seats cost?
Upgrading for extra comfort is an option on both lines. On Fjord Line, lounge seats generally start at approximately €63. On Color Line, upgrades like Voyager Class or Business Class usually start at around €49, depending on availability and the season.
Are there cabins on the ferry from Hirtshals to Kristiansand?
No, cabins are not available on the Hirtshals ferry to Norway route due to the short crossing time and daytime schedule. Passengers can relax in the lounges or upgrade to premium seating instead.
Luggage
Each ferry company operating on the Hirtshals - Kristiansand route has its own luggage policy:
- Fjord Line: passengers can generally bring luggage free of charge.
- Color Line: travelers are typically allowed up to 50 kg of luggage.
If traveling with a vehicle, luggage can be kept inside the car at no extra cost. Foot passengers must be able to carry their own bags and may keep them in seating areas or use onboard storage where available.
Traveling with pets
You can travel with your pet on the Hirtshals to Kristiansand route, though options vary by operator.
Where can pets stay during the crossing?
- Inside your vehicle (common for car travelers)
- In onboard kennels or designated pet zones (subject to availability)
- In outdoor deck areas (under supervision)
Note: pets are generally not allowed in indoor public areas like restaurants and shops, except for assistance dogs.
Can I visit my pet during the journey?
Access depends on the accommodation. If the pet is in a vehicle, car deck access is restricted during the sailing. For those in kennels, visits may be permitted at specific times under crew guidance.
What should I keep in mind before traveling?
- Ensure you have a valid EU pet passport and all health documents.
- If your pet stays in the car, provide adequate food, water, and ventilation.
- Always check the specific fees and rules with the ferry company when booking.
Useful tips for your ferry trip to Kristiansand from Hirtshals
Take a look at some useful tips for your Hirtshals ferry to Norway trip:
- We recommend arriving at the port of Hirtshals at least 1 hr before departure, or up to 1.5 hr in advance if you are traveling with a vehicle, especially in summer.
- Although the crossing is relatively short, the Skagerrak Strait can sometimes be windy or choppy. If you are prone to seasickness, consider choosing a seat in a central indoor area for a smoother ride.
- Make sure to carry a valid passport or national ID, as you will be traveling between Denmark and Norway.
- For your return trip, you can also check the Kristiansand - Hirtshals ferry route and book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
- Hirtshals is a major ferry hub in northern Denmark (Jutland), with connections to several destinations in Norway. You can also travel from Hirtshals to Bergen and Hirtshals to Stavanger. Make sure to find the port of arrival that suits you best.
Where to take the ferry from Hirtshals to Kristiansand
Ferries heading to Kristiansand depart from the dedicated ferry terminal in Hirtshals, located on Denmark's northern coast. The port is well signposted and easy to navigate for both passengers traveling on foot and those with vehicles.
While the exact departure point may vary by ferry operator, all terminals are situated within the main Port of Hirtshals. Specifically, Fjord Line departs from Containerkajen 4, while Color Line from Fergeterminalen Norgeskajen 2. The area is conveniently linked to the road network and the town center is just a short drive away for those traveling by car or taxi.
How to get to the port of Hirtshals
- By car: the port is directly connected to major roads, providing easy access from northern Jutland and the rest of the country.
- By taxi: this is a quick and simple way to reach the port from the town center or nearby transit hubs.
- By train: local rail services connect other destinations in northern Denmark to Hirtshals via the town's station.
Where does the ferry arrive in Kristiansand?
The ferry from Hirtshals docks at the Kristiansand ferry terminal, situated right on the central waterfront.
The terminal’s central location is highly convenient for foot passengers, with the city's main bus and train stations just a short walk away. You’ll find basic facilities nearby, and the city’s shops, restaurants, and sights are all within easy walking distance.
How to get from the port of Kristiansand
- By bus or train: major transport links are located very close to the terminal, making it simple to continue your journey through Norway.
- By car: the port is well-integrated into the local road network, with clear signage directing you to the rest of the country.
- On foot: if your destination is in central Kristiansand, the terminal is just a short walk from many major hotels and local attractions.
How long is the ferry ride from Hirtshals to Kristiansand?
The Hirtshals ferry to Norway usually lasts between 2 hr 25 min and 3 hr 55 min, depending on the ferry company and the type of vessel.
Hirtshals - Kristiansand ferry companies
FAQs
Yes, ferries traveling from Hirtshals to Kristiansand have car decks, so you can easily bring your vehicle and explore Norway at your own pace. Starting prices are typically:
- €122 for a car + 1 passenger (standard seat)
- €70 for a motorbike + 1 passenger (standard seat)
- €172 for a van + 1 passenger (standard seat)
Please note that final ticket costs may vary based on availability, the season, and your choice of seating.
Important: make sure you have your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance papers ready.
Yes, high-speed ferries serve the Hirtshals - Kristiansand route. The quickest crossing is provided by Fjord Line, taking just 2 hr 25 min. With several daily departures during the summer, it is a great option for flexible travel.
The distance between the ports of Kristiansand and Hirtshals is approximately 70 nautical miles (around 130 km).
Schedules for the Hirtshals to Kristiansand ferry depend on the season, the day of the week, and the operator. Generally, multiple crossings are available every day of the year. In the summer, services often begin at 09:30 and run until the early evening, with the final departure usually around 22:50. During the low season, sailings are less frequent and typically take place between the morning and early afternoon. To find the most current schedules and the best option for your trip, check the available crossings on Ferryhopper.
With Fjord Line and Color Line, you can book your Hirtshals to Kristiansand tickets online on Ferryhopper and pick them up in paper form from the company's collection point at the port before the trip.
Find detailed answers to all your questions about ferry ticket changes, cancellations and refunds.
Remember that you can also use Ferryhopper's online booking modification service, available with certain ferry companies.