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Tromso Harbor Area
Depart from Tromso harbor in the calm polar twilight, as the soft light reflects off the surrounding fjords and mountains. Centrally located, the harbor offers easy access for travelers, making it a perfect starting point for your Arctic whale-watching adventure.
90 minutes
1
Onboard Activities
3 activities
Tickets included (based on selection)
Throughout the journey, enjoy a variety of onboard activities designed to enrich your Arctic experience.
1. Safety Briefing & Informational Presentations
Included in price
Once the journey begins, guests will receive a safety briefing. It will be followed by informational presentations throughout the tour. These will cover life in Tromso, the unique Arctic habitats, and tips on identifying the various whale species found in the area.
2. Arctic wildlife sighting
Included in price
Spot Arctic wildlife like sea eagles, dolphins, and seals from the cruise, with breathtaking views of fjords adding to the enchanting experience throughout the journey.
3. Warm beverages & Snacks
Included (based on selection)
Enjoy warm beverages and snacks based on your selected ticket option during your Arctic whale-watching tour, with additional items available for purchase onboard.
Tonsvik
2
Grotnesdalen
1 activities
Free Admission
Pass by this remote, stunning fjord-side location offering breathtaking views of steep cliffs and serene waters. Known for its untouched natural beauty, it provides a picturesque backdrop to the journey, especially under the magical hues of the Arctic sky.
Photo Opportunity & Sunrise Watching
Included in price
Capture the beauty of the Arctic landscape as you cruise past, with the soft, golden light of the polar sunrise creating a surreal and colorful atmosphere. The unique lighting during this period enhances the dramatic scenery, offering perfect conditions for photography, from the fjords to the mountains.
2 hours
Nordlenangen
3
Skjervoy
120 min
5 activities
Free Admission
Skjervoy is the highlight of your whale-watching journey. Its fjords, rich with marine life, serve as a prime feeding ground for humpback whales and orcas, making it the perfect spot to immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring spectacle of these majestic creatures.
1. Humpback Whales Sighting
Included in price
Skjervoy is a prime feeding ground for humpback whales, renowned for their acrobatic breaches and tail slaps. Witness these magnificent creatures as they feed in the nutrient-rich Arctic waters, offering spectacular close-up views and unforgettable moments.
2. Orcas Sighting
Included in price
Skjervoy is famous for orca sightings, particularly during the winter months. Also known as Killer Whales, these apex predators travel in pods, and their sleek black-and-white bodies can often be seen hunting fish and seals in the fjords, providing thrilling wildlife encounters.
3. Fin Whales Sighting
Included in price
The second-largest whale species, fin whales can be spotted in Skjervoy’s waters. Known for their streamlined bodies and fast swimming, they often surface in small pods, offering a rare but incredible opportunity for wildlife lovers and photographers.
4. Sperm Whales Sighting
Included in price
Although sightings are rare, Skjervoy’s deep waters are home to sperm whales, the largest-toothed whales. With a bit of luck, you may witness these magnificent creatures as they dive deep into the Arctic seas, showcasing their massive size and unique features.
5. Other Arctic Wildlife Sighteeing
Included in price
In addition to whales, expect to see sea eagles soaring over the fjords, dolphins playfully swimming alongside the boat, and seals lounging on rocky outcrops. These magnificent creatures add to the excitement and beauty of the wildlife experience in Skjervoy.
3 hours
4
Haugnoes
1 activities
Free Admission
Haugnoes is a small, scenic village along the stunning coast of Skjervoy. As you pass by on your return to Tromso, enjoy its serene beauty, dramatic fjords, and Arctic wilderness, offering perfect photo opportunities and chances to spot aquatic animals and wildlife.
Photo Opportunity
Included in price
Capture the unique Arctic light and the tranquil beauty of Haugnoes, where you can photograph the contrasting landscapes of rugged coastlines, alpine peaks, and serene waters. The area also offers great shots of local wildlife and birdlife in their natural habitat.
90 km
3 hours
Grotnesdalen
Tonsvik
9
Tromso Harbor Area
End your journey with a safe and comfortable return to the harbour, marking the perfect close to your Arctic whale-watching adventure.
Inclusions
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.
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.
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.
Tromso city
Arctic Cathedral
5
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.
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.
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
Tromso city
Arctic Cathedral
5
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.
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.
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
Tromso city
Arctic Cathedral
5
Kaigata waterfront area
Inclusions
Exclusions
Tromso
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.
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
Tromso
Inclusions
Exclusions
Bus Platforms at Bus Terminal Prostneset
The comfortable RED bus for the small-group whale-watching tour departs from Bus Platforms at Bus Terminal Prostneset (Samuel Arnesens Gate 5, Tromsø). The bus light banner will indicate Whale Route Skjervøy, making it easy to hop aboard the right bus.
4 hours
Ullsfjord
Lyngenfjord
1
Skjervoy
240 min
2 activities
Tickets included
Now that you've arrived at your much-awaited stop and spot for whale-watching, meet your expert Captain and environmental guide to receive brief orientation and safety instructions and hop aboard the heated cruise to go have a whale of a time!
1. Whale-watching
Included in price
Immerse yourself in one of the world's richest marine ecosystems with the opportunity to observe orcas, humpback whales, and other majestic cetaceans in their natural habitat. Learn more about their behavior and get fascinating insights into their environment from your environmental guide onboard.
2. Photography
Included in price
This tour is designed for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts as you get photography tips during the cruise. Apart from that, you can catch glimpses of marine life beneath the waves as the boat is equipped with a night vision underwater camera and hydrophone, helping you tune into the haunting calls of the whales.
Boat
4
Bus Platforms at Bus Terminal Prostneset
Inclusions
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.
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
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
Enjoy driving through the scenic Arctic fjords from Tromso with a small group, lunch, and promising views that make for an exciting adventure
Inclusions
The RIB boats add extra excitement to the whale watching experience. Here's what makes them so special:
The tour from Tromso to Skjervoy is a full-day adventure, typically lasting around 12 hours. Here's a detailed breakdown of the experience:
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.
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!
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
In addition to humpback whales, orcas, and fin whales, you may spot other marine wildlife, such as seals, porpoises, and seabirds, including eagles.
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.
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.