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RIB Whale Watching Tours from Tromso
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Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION3 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERBoat
TOTAL DURATION3 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERBoat
TOTAL DURATION3 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERBoat
START POINT
Kaigata waterfront area
Meet at the pier to the side of Skarven Kro restaurant in Tromso, near the famous Kaigata Street, to hop aboard the Northern Lights cruise.
1
Route options
Free Admission
As you set sail from Tromso in pursuit of the Northern Lights, the cruise passes by three possible routes based on weather conditions on that day.
- North of Kvaloyvagen areas that passes the serene fjords, small settlements, and stunning mountainscapes of Tonsvik.
- Ramfjorden passes Sandvika near Oslo where the striking Sandvika Bridge spans the Oslofjord.
- Southern part of Kvaloya Island with its lush greenery sandy beaches and hiking trails perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
2
Northern Lights Chase
1 activities
Tickets included
The most awaited part of your cruise is right here! As the stunning Northern Lights begin to appear, put on your warm clothes and step onto the outer deck to soak in the views.
Things to do
1. Northern Lights stories
Included in price
Listen to enchanting mythical tales from your guides, paired with scientific insights about this phenomenon, as you await the hues of blue, green, purple, and beyond.
2. Hot drinks & snacks
Snacks
Embrace the Arctic chill by cozying up to your warm drinks and snacks aboard the cruise as you wait for the Northern Lights to make an appearance.
Passes by
Tromso city
Arctic Cathedral
5
END POINT
Kaigata waterfront area
1
Route options
Free Admission
As you set sail from Tromso in pursuit of the Northern Lights, the cruise passes by three possible routes based on weather conditions on that day.
- North of Kvaloyvagen areas that passes the serene fjords, small settlements, and stunning mountainscapes of Tonsvik.
- Ramfjorden passes Sandvika near Oslo where the striking Sandvika Bridge spans the Oslofjord.
- Southern part of Kvaloya Island with its lush greenery sandy beaches and hiking trails perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
2
Northern Lights Chase
1 activities
Tickets included
The highlight of your cruise has arrived! As the breathtaking Northern Lights emerge, bundle up in warm clothes and head to the outer deck to savor the view.
Things to do
1. Northern Lights stories
Included in price
Hear captivating mythical stories from your guides, combined with scientific insights into this phenomenon, as you anticipate the hues of blue, green, purple, and more.
2. Dinner (with veg options)
Dinner
Enjoy a winter dinner menu on the cruise, with vegetarian options to suit your taste. The meals are prepared by a local partner, giving you an authentic taste of Norwegian cuisine as you wait for the dancing lights to show up.
Bicycle
Passes by
Tromso city
Arctic Cathedral
5
END POINT
START POINT
Kaigata waterfront area
Meet at the pier to the side of Skarven Kro restaurant in Tromso, which is near Kaigata 6, and hop aboard the Northern Lights cruise.
1
Route options
Free Admission
As you set sail from Tromso in pursuit of the Northern Lights, the cruise passes by three possible routes based on weather conditions on that day.
- North of Kvaloyvagen areas that passes the serene fjords, small settlements, and stunning mountainscapes of Tonsvik.
- Ramfjorden passes Sandvika near Oslo where the striking Sandvika Bridge spans the Oslofjord.
- Southern part of Kvaloya Island with its lush greenery sandy beaches and hiking trails perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
2
Northern Lights Chase
2 activities
Tickets included
The moment you've been waiting for is here! As the stunning Northern Lights appear, wrap up warmly and step onto the outer deck to enjoy the spectacle.
Things to do
1. Northern Lights stories
Included in price
Enjoy captivating mythical tales from your guides, paired with scientific explanations of this phenomenon, as you await the dazzling hues of blue, green, purple, and more.
2. Snacks and Soup
Snacks
Relish hot drinks and snacks as you wait to see the spectacular Northern Lights in the Arctic skies. Not only that, you also get to enjoy a fish soup on your return to Tromso, a classic delicacy of the region.
3. Fishing
Included in price
With fishing gear provided, try your hand at fishing aboard the luxury cruise while chasing the Northern Lights. You might reel in some luck!
Bicycle
Passes by
Tromso city
Arctic Cathedral
5
END POINT
Kaigata waterfront area
- Why go for it? You can see the Northern Lights on a guided 3-hour cruise as you sail through Tromso's fjords on an electric boat.
- Best for: Catching magical Northern Lights sightings under the Arctic skies, capturing breathtaking pictures, and learning more about this spectacular phenomenon.
- Everything you get: Spend three hours on the cruise of your choice, an English-speaking guide, hot drinks, free Wi-Fi, and options like dinner, a chance to fish, thermal suits, heated lounges, and fishing soup on the return.
- Activities: Chase the Northern Lights on all the cruises and try your hand at fishing on the Luxury cruise option. (fishing gear provided)
- Options: Hot drinks, set dinner menu, fish soup, snacks, thermal suits, and fishing gear.
- Why go for it? You can see the Northern Lights on a guided 3-hour cruise as you sail through Tromso's fjords on an electric boat.
- Best for: Catching magical Northern Lights sightings under the Arctic skies, capturing breathtaking pictures, and learning more about this spectacular phenomenon.
- Everything you get: Spend three hours on the cruise of your choice, an English-speaking guide, hot drinks, free Wi-Fi, and options like dinner, a chance to fish, thermal suits, heated lounges, and fishing soup on the return.
- Activities: Chase the Northern Lights on all the cruises and try your hand at fishing on the Luxury cruise option. (fishing gear provided)
- Options: Hot drinks, set dinner menu, fish soup, snacks, thermal suits, and fishing gear.
Inclusions
- Northern lights cruise on the Artic seas
- Professional skipper/guide
- Hot drinks
- Free WiFi
- Access to heated indoor saloons
- Access to large viewing areas
- Set dinner (based on option selected)
- Get winter menu here
- Get winter veg menu here
- Fishing gear (based on option selected)
- Fish soup on return to Tromso (available on luxury cruise)
- Thermal suits (based on option selected)
Exclusions
- Food & fully licensed bar with drinks (for sale)
- 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
- Why go for it? You can sail on this guided cruise through Tromso’s scenic fjords to enjoy the Arctic’s marine ecosystem.
- Best for: Cruising through the scenic Ramfjord, spotting wildlife like white-tailed eagles and reindeer, and sighting the Northern Lights.
- Everything you get: Enjoy a 5-hour fjord cruise, an English-speaking guide, and options like deep fishing stops, snacks, hot drinks, and insulated jackets, with a small group.
- Activities: Deep-sea fishing, wildlife spotting, taking pictures of the marine ecosystem, Northern Lights sighting, and visiting the local fishing facility (based on your preference).
- Options: Hot drinks, stockfish delicacies, snacks, and polar soup
- Why go for it? You can sail on this guided cruise through Tromso’s scenic fjords to enjoy the Arctic’s marine ecosystem.
- Best for: Cruising through the scenic Ramfjord, spotting wildlife like white-tailed eagles and reindeer, and sighting the Northern Lights.
- Everything you get: Enjoy a 5-hour fjord cruise, an English-speaking guide, and options like deep fishing stops, snacks, hot drinks, and insulated jackets, with a small group.
- Activities: Deep-sea fishing, wildlife spotting, taking pictures of the marine ecosystem, Northern Lights sighting, and visiting the local fishing facility (based on your preference).
- Options: Hot drinks, stockfish delicacies, snacks, and polar soup
Inclusions
- 4 to 5-hour tour of Arctic Fjords
- English-speaking guide
- Visit a local fishing facility (based on option selected)
- Deep sea fishing (based on option selected)
- Hot drinks, snacks, & polar soup (based on option selected)
- Insulated jacket (based on option selected)
- Warm indoor saloons
Exclusions
- Transfers
- 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.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION5 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Minibus
START POINT
Comfort Hotel Xpress, Gronnegata 35, Tromso
Ready for a unique small-group expedition? Meet your guide/driver at the Comfort Hotel Xpress prior to the scheduled time so you can hop aboard and start your adventure timely.
89.9 km
79.8 minutes
1
Northern Norway
120 min
1 attractions
1 activities
Free Admission
Drive to some of the most picturesque locations in Northern Norway to experience the true beauty of the Arctic region and enjoy fresh perspectives of the everchanging landscapes.
Things to do
1. Whale island and fjords
Free Admission
On your drive, experience the snow-clad peaks of Whale Island and see the sparkling water of the fjords. The driver makes stops at unique locations so that you can soak in the best Arctic views and enjoy taking pictures as you stop.
2. Wildlife spotting (tentative)
Included in price
The spots you will be driven to are also places you might catch glimpses of sea eagles soaring above in the Arctic skies or reindeer grazing along side.
3. Lunch
Lunch
Enjoy a delicious lunch with vegetarian and vegan options that you can request as per your preference. You can also choose from a variety of warm beverages to brave the Arctic chill.
2
END POINT
Comfort Hotel Xpress, Gronnegata 35, Tromso
Enjoy driving through the scenic Arctic fjords from Tromso with a small group, lunch, and promising views that make for an exciting adventure
- Dive into a thrilling fjord expedition in Tromso, a journey packed with nature trails, historical insights, and an unforgettable Arctic experience.
- With premier vehicles designed to ensure a comfortable ride from Tromso, this small-group tour is perfect for those who enjoy an intimate experience.
- To brave the chill, benefit from the Arctic Extreme suit and Baffin winter boots included with your ticket, ensuring you are cozy.
- Delight in a specially curated Arctic lunch with vegetarian and vegan options and warm beverages, enhancing your Arctic voyage.
- With just 15 guests, enjoy a personalized tour that includes wildlife viewing and stunning fjords. After the tour, you can download photos after the tour.
Enjoy driving through the scenic Arctic fjords from Tromso with a small group, lunch, and promising views that make for an exciting adventure
- Dive into a thrilling fjord expedition in Tromso, a journey packed with nature trails, historical insights, and an unforgettable Arctic experience.
- With premier vehicles designed to ensure a comfortable ride from Tromso, this small-group tour is perfect for those who enjoy an intimate experience.
- To brave the chill, benefit from the Arctic Extreme suit and Baffin winter boots included with your ticket, ensuring you are cozy.
- Delight in a specially curated Arctic lunch with vegetarian and vegan options and warm beverages, enhancing your Arctic voyage.
- With just 15 guests, enjoy a personalized tour that includes wildlife viewing and stunning fjords. After the tour, you can download photos after the tour.
Inclusions
- 5-hour tour of Tromso's Arctic fjords
- Expert guide
- Round-trip premier transport
- Warm drinks
- Lunch
- Arctic extreme suits
- Baffin winter boots (on demand)
- Photos
- There is no personal pick-up for this tour.
- Infant meals are not included on this tour. Please make provision to carry your own.
- Please carry winter clothing (inner and outerwear), sturdy winter shoes, mufflers, mitten,s and windproof attire.
- 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.