English
English
RIB Whale Watching Tours from Tromso
Headout is a brand trusted by millions of guests worldwide offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION12 hours
START POINT
Tromso, front entrance at Scandic Ishavshotel
This experience involves pick-up from various locations. You can choose your pick-up location in the next steps.
A/C Bus
1
Skjervøy
1 activities
Tickets included
After your scenic drive to Skjervøy, you will finally meet your skipper who will hand over thermal suits, a life vest, goggles, a hat, and mittens for your boat tour to spot the whales.
Things to do
1. Whale Watching
Included in price
Spend 3 hours admiring these incredible gentle giants, and watching them feed on the herring shoals that surround Skjervøy.
2. Baguette
Snacks
After getting your fill of the whales, grab your baguette for your return bus journey.
Boat
2
END POINT
Tromso, front entrance at Scandic Ishavshotel
Navigate Norwegian fjords for an unforgettable 3-hour whale-watching cruise, enjoy hot drinks, and a baguette, made convenient with round-trip transfers
- Set sail on the RIB boat in Skjervoy, a lightweight boat that maneuvers to areas closer to the gentle giants, giving you more chances to observe them and hear their sounds.
- From Tromso, get on a scenic coach ride taking you to Skjervoy. The journey, enriched with onboard WiFi, charging points, and air-con, is as delightful as the destination.
- With a professional guide on the boat, search for humpback whales, fin whales, and orcas in their natural habitat and appreciate the beauty of the Arctic.
- As safety and comfort are paramount, get kitted up in an insulated flotation suit, life vest, goggles, hat, and mittens. The Arctic chill won't dampen your spirits!
- Savor a cup of hot chocolate during the tour and a fresh baguette snack for the journey back home, adding a cozy touch to your thrilling adventure.
Navigate Norwegian fjords for an unforgettable 3-hour whale-watching cruise, enjoy hot drinks, and a baguette, made convenient with round-trip transfers
- Set sail on the RIB boat in Skjervoy, a lightweight boat that maneuvers to areas closer to the gentle giants, giving you more chances to observe them and hear their sounds.
- From Tromso, get on a scenic coach ride taking you to Skjervoy. The journey, enriched with onboard WiFi, charging points, and air-con, is as delightful as the destination.
- With a professional guide on the boat, search for humpback whales, fin whales, and orcas in their natural habitat and appreciate the beauty of the Arctic.
- As safety and comfort are paramount, get kitted up in an insulated flotation suit, life vest, goggles, hat, and mittens. The Arctic chill won't dampen your spirits!
- Savor a cup of hot chocolate during the tour and a fresh baguette snack for the journey back home, adding a cozy touch to your thrilling adventure.
Inclusions
- Full-day trip from Tromso to Skjervoy
- Round-trip AC transfers
- 3-hour whale-watching in the fjords
- Professional skipper/guide
- Insulated suit, life vest, goggles, a hat & mittens
- Hot drinks
- Baguette after tour
- Wi-Fi & charging points on coach
- Tip: Humpback whales are known for their enchanting songs and they can sing for up to 20 minutes. Keep your ears open for the sounds!
- Choose safety and comfort: This experience is not the best fit for pregnant people and back issues.
- Safety is a priority so this experience is restricted for guests under the height of 1.4m (4.59ft).
- Carrying photography equipment onboard is at your own risk. We recommend protecting all items using a waterproof bag.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION9 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERBoat
START POINT
Tromso
Passes By
Grøtnesdalen
1
Skjervoy
Free Admission
Your time at Skjervoy can be thoroughly enjoyable if the gentle giants show up for a quick feed! Enjoy the scenic views of the Arctic region as an advantage while you wait for the whales.
2
Haugnoes
Free Admission
Sightseeing & Photography
4
END POINT
Tromso
Get aboard an electric boat or motorboat to connect with whales. Watch them being fed in their natural habitat.
- Opt for the silent electric engine to keep things calm for the whales or the fast motorboat if you are short on time, equipped with Wi-Fi, heated indoors, and more.
- Expert guides will share how offshore orcas feast on sharks, along with other intriguing facts sure to fascinate the marine lover in you.
- The 9-hour cruise offers plenty of time to explore the rich feeding grounds of Orcas, Humpbacks, and Fin whales. Learn about their behaviors and habitats.
- You'll have the chance to witness these magnificent creatures breaching and feeding, as the region is renowned for its seasonal migrations.
Get aboard an electric boat or motorboat to connect with whales. Watch them being fed in their natural habitat.
- Opt for the silent electric engine to keep things calm for the whales or the fast motorboat if you are short on time, equipped with Wi-Fi, heated indoors, and more.
- Expert guides will share how offshore orcas feast on sharks, along with other intriguing facts sure to fascinate the marine lover in you.
- The 9-hour cruise offers plenty of time to explore the rich feeding grounds of Orcas, Humpbacks, and Fin whales. Learn about their behaviors and habitats.
- You'll have the chance to witness these magnificent creatures breaching and feeding, as the region is renowned for its seasonal migrations.
Inclusions
- Full-day silent whale watching
- Experienced English-speaking whale-watching guide
- Purpose-built hybrid-electric whale-watching boat (as per option selected)
- Motorboat tour (as per option selected)
- Heated indoor saloons with panoramic windows
- Wi-Fi
- Toilets
Exclusions
- Food & drinks (available to purchase)
- Tip: Carry your binoculars for a closer view of the whales and other wildlife.
- This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
- While whale sightings aren't guaranteed, the boat captain will go above and beyond to find these majestic creatures for you!
- You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION3 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERBoat
START POINT
Tromso
Set sail from Tromso on an electric cruise and chase the Northern Lights along the Arctic regions. Choose from a regular, dinner, or luxury cruise tailored to suit your plans, with exciting inclusions you don't want to miss.
38 mins
1
Kvaløya island
Free Admission
Set sail along the southern part of Kvaløya island, to get glimpses of the Northern Lights. As you wait for them to appear, enjoy a beverage and snacks.
Things to do
Food/Drinks - Snacks
Snacks
Enjoy comforting hot beverages and snacks on your regular Northern Light cruise. During the duration of the cruise, you can also relish some bread and soup.
2
Food/Drinks - Dinner (based on option selected)
1 activities
Tickets included (based on selection)
As you admire the beautiful dancing lights, the dinner cruise has a set dinner menu crafted by local partners. It gives you a taste of Norwegian cuisine with seasonal ingredients. You will also learn about the fishing industry during your dinner cruise.
Things to do
1. Food/Drinks - Fish soup (based on option selected)
Food & Drinks
If you opt for the luxury cruise, you can relish a traditional fish soup on your return to Tromso, keeping you warm and comfortable during the cruise.
2. Fishing
Included (based on selection)
Grab your fishing gear and try your hand at fishing on the luxury cruise as you chase the Northern Lights. You might just get lucky!
3
END POINT
Tromso
- Why go for it? You'll have the chance to see the Northern Lights on a 3-hour cruise as you sail through Tromso's fjords on an electric boat, for a comfortable experience.
- With expert English-speaking guides, learn about Tromso’s fjords, how the skies take on those magical colors, and the neighboring areas.
- Enjoy the comfort of hot drinks, snacks, soup, and bread. The fully stocked bar on board allows you to purchase drinks of your choice.
- On the Aurora dinner cruise, relish a meal with fresh seasonal ingredients inspired by local flavors owing to the fishing culture in Tromso.
- Enhance your experience on the luxury cruise with its heated lounges, with comfortable seating and a Norwegian specialty – a flavorful fish soup on your return to Tromso.
- Why go for it? You'll have the chance to see the Northern Lights on a 3-hour cruise as you sail through Tromso's fjords on an electric boat, for a comfortable experience.
- With expert English-speaking guides, learn about Tromso’s fjords, how the skies take on those magical colors, and the neighboring areas.
- Enjoy the comfort of hot drinks, snacks, soup, and bread. The fully stocked bar on board allows you to purchase drinks of your choice.
- On the Aurora dinner cruise, relish a meal with fresh seasonal ingredients inspired by local flavors owing to the fishing culture in Tromso.
- Enhance your experience on the luxury cruise with its heated lounges, with comfortable seating and a Norwegian specialty – a flavorful fish soup on your return to Tromso.
Inclusions
- Northern lights cruise on the Artic seas
- Professional guide
- Hot drinks & snacks
- Fully licensed bar with drinks for sale
- Free WiFi
- Warm indoor saloons
- Toilets
- Set dinner (based on option selected)
- Get winter menu here
- Get winter veg menu here
- Fishing gear (based on option selected)
- Thermal suits (based on option selected)
- Tip: Ask your guide about the local Sami folklore associated with the Northern Lights. It offers an interesting cultural perspective on the phenomenon.
- We need to know about any dietary restrictions at least 24 hours in advance (for the dinner cruise).
- This tour requires a minimum of 8 guests on board.
- Northern Lights sightings are not guaranteed and depend entirely on the weather conditions.
- This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
- Please note: In the early season, from the end of August to mid-September, the departure time is 22:00 due to the light situation.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION4 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERBoat
START POINT
Tromso
Passes By
Ramfjord
Ristraumen
1
Kvaløya
Tickets included
Stop at the local fishing facility in Kvaløya to learn about the influence of the fishing culture in northern Norway and its importance in family and culture.
Things to do
Fish products
Snacks
On the island of Kvaløya, you will learn about traditional and famous drying racks and how they make it to the plate. As you get to know about this, you will get to try out some products that were and are still made at the facility.
4
END POINT
Tromso
Set sail on this guided cruise through the fjords of Tromso, visit the local fishing facility, and taste stockfish delicacies
- You’ll see the iconic skyline of Tromso, the scenic Ramfjord, historic fishing facilities, and wildlife like white-tailed eagles and possibly reindeer.
- You’ll experience a guided visit to an old fishing facility, learning about traditional stockfish production, and tasting locally made products.
- What else you get: Knowledgeable English-speaking guides, free onboard Wi-Fi, warm indoor saloons, and grab your binoculars to spot diverse marine life above and below the water.
- Indulge in delicious food and beverages available for purchase onboard while soaking in the sights under the magical Northern Lights.
Set sail on this guided cruise through the fjords of Tromso, visit the local fishing facility, and taste stockfish delicacies
- You’ll see the iconic skyline of Tromso, the scenic Ramfjord, historic fishing facilities, and wildlife like white-tailed eagles and possibly reindeer.
- You’ll experience a guided visit to an old fishing facility, learning about traditional stockfish production, and tasting locally made products.
- What else you get: Knowledgeable English-speaking guides, free onboard Wi-Fi, warm indoor saloons, and grab your binoculars to spot diverse marine life above and below the water.
- Indulge in delicious food and beverages available for purchase onboard while soaking in the sights under the magical Northern Lights.
Inclusions
- 4-hour guided tour of Arctic Fjords
- English speaking guide
- Visit to a local fishing facility
- Access to café with food & beverages for purchase
- Free tap water
- Free Wi-Fi
- Warm indoor saloons
Exclusions
- Transport
- Note that the stop on land and use of the underwater drone is weather dependent.
- Dogs and cats are welcome on board as long as they are leashed.
- This experience is suitable for guests with reduced mobility;
- Ensure you arrive 15 minutes early at the meeting point to avoid missing the cruise.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Top things to do in Tromso
What makes RIB whale watching tours special?
The RIB boats add extra excitement to the whale watching experience. Here's what makes them so special:
- Proximity to whales: Because RIB boats are smaller and more agile than larger vessels, you can often get closer to the action while respecting the animals' space.
- 360-degree views: The open design of RIB boats allows for unobstructed, panoramic views of the stunning Arctic scenery and wildlife, giving you the best vantage point for spotting whales.
- Eco-friendly and quiet: RIB boats are often quieter than larger boats, meaning less disturbance to the whales, allowing for a more peaceful whale-watching experience.
- Speed and adventure: RIB boats are fast, turning the ride into an adventure as you zip through the icy fjords.
What to expect on a RIB whale watching Tromso tour?
The tour from Tromso to Skjervoy is a full-day adventure, typically lasting around 12 hours. Here's a detailed breakdown of the experience:
Starting your journey: Scenic transfer from Tromso
Your adventure kicks off early morning in Tromso, where you'll hop onto a comfortable coach for a scenic 3.5-hour ride to Skjervoy, a prime whale-watching location. Along the way, you'll be treated to beautiful views of snow-covered mountains and stunning Arctic landscapes.
The bus comes equipped with WiFi, charging points, and air conditioning to keep you comfortable while you soak in the Arctic's serene beauty.
Setting sail to the fjords from Skjervoy
Once you reach Skjervoy, the adventure begins. You'll be outfitted with insulated flotation suits, life vests, goggles, a hat, and mittens to keep you warm in the cold Arctic weather. Safety is the top priority, so rest assured, you'll be well taken care of.
Before the boat takes off, your guide will brief you about the tour and all the guidelines. Then, the journey across the majestic Arctic fjords begins!
Whale spotting in the fjords
An experienced skipper will take you on a three-hour cruise through the fjords, where you'll search for some of the ocean's most magnificent creatures. The most commonly spotted whales in Tromso include Humpback Whales, Orcas (Killer Whales), and Fin Whales.
You might even get lucky enough to witness a pod of Orcas hunting or a Humpback whale performing its signature breach.
Comfort amidst the Arctic chill
To make your Arctic adventure more enjoyable, you'll be treated to a warm cup of hot chocolate during the tour—a cozy indulgence amidst the icy surroundings.
On the way back to Tromso, you'll be served a fresh baguette to refuel after your adventure. These thoughtful touches add comfort and warmth to your experience, even in the Arctic chill.
Plan your RIB whale watching Tromso tour
Timings
Meeting point & getting there
Facilities
Rules
Tips
Departure from Tromso: 5:30am
Duration: 12 hours
Best time to go on a RIB whale watching tour in Tromso: from November to February (this is when the whales migrate to the Arctic fjords to feed on herring).
Tromso whale seasonMeeting point: Scandic Ishavshotel
Address: Fredrik Langes gate 2, 9008 Tromsø, Norway | Find on map
Getting there:
- On foot: If you're staying in central Tromso, Scandic Ishavshotel is easily accessible by foot. It's located near the harbor, about a 5-10 minute walk from the city center, depending on where you start.
- By bus: Tromso has an efficient bus system. You can take buses that stop at Tromso Prostneset central bus terminal, which is located just a 3-minute walk from the hotel.
- By taxi: Taxis are readily available in Tromso, and a quick ride from most parts of the city center to Scandic Ishavshotel will take less than 10 minutes.
- Round-trip AC transfers to Skjervoy from Tromso
- Professional skipper/guide on the RIB whale watching Tromso tour
- Insulated suit, life vest, goggles, hat & mittens for the RIB tour
- Hot drinks and baguettes served on the return journey to Tromso
- For safety reasons, guests must be at least 1.4 meters (4.59 feet) tall to join the tour.
- RIB tours are not recommended for pregnant individuals or people with back issues due to the bumpy and fast nature of the ride.
- You will be equipped with flotation suits, life vests, and other protective gear to ensure warmth and safety in the Arctic conditions.
- Carry valuable or fragile equipment like cameras at your own risk. We recommend using waterproof bags to protect your belongings.
- Please carry a valid photo ID at the meeting point for a seamless experience,
- While you'll be given a flotation suit, it's essential to wear warm layers underneath, especially thermal clothing, a thick hat, gloves, and wool socks.
- While you may stay dry during the tour, it's always a good idea to bring a waterproof bag to protect any cameras, phones, or personal items.
- If you plan to take photos, use a camera with a fast shutter speed to capture the whales as they breach the surface. If using your phone, make sure to have a wrist strap to avoid accidents.
- Keep in mind that whale watching can be unpredictable since you're observing wild animals in their natural environment. On some days, you may spot many whales, while on others, it might be a bit quieter.
Frequently asked questions about RIB whale watching Tromso tours
Is the RIB tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Unfortunately, the RIB whale watching tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility issues. Boarding the RIB boat requires a certain level of physical agility, and the ride can be bumpy due to the speed and sea conditions.
Do I need prior boating experience to join the RIB whale watching tour?
No prior boating experience is needed. The tour is led by experienced skippers and guides who will provide all the information and safety instructions you need for an enjoyable experience.
Is whale watching in Skjervoy guaranteed?
The likelihood of seeing whales in Skjervoy is high, but it's not a 100% guarantee. However, the tour guides work hard to give you the best possible experience.
What should I wear for an RIB whale watching tour?
While you'll be provided with an insulated flotation suit, it's essential to dress warmly in layers, including a thermal base layer, warm socks, and a woolen cap. Be sure to wear waterproof boots, as it can get wet on the boat.
Are children allowed on the RIB whale watching tours?
Due to safety regulations, this tour is restricted to individuals over 1.4 meters in height. Families with young children might want to consider alternative Tromso whale watching tours on larger boats.
Can I cancel my RIB whale watching Tromso tours?
Yes, you can cancel your tour up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.
What wildlife can I expect to see besides whales?
In addition to humpback whales, orcas, and fin whales, you may spot other marine wildlife, such as seals, porpoises, and seabirds, including eagles.
Is there a toilet onboard the RIB boat?
RIB boats do not have onboard toilet facilities due to their small size. Make sure to use the restroom at the meeting point or during the coach transfer before boarding the RIB.
Can I get seasick on the RIB boat, and how can I prevent it?
RIB boats move quickly and can be bumpy on choppy waters, which might cause seasickness in some passengers. If you're prone to motion sickness, consider taking seasickness tablets before the trip and focus on the horizon during the ride.