From Tromso: Whale Watching in Magic Skjervoy

If you’re dreaming of spotting majestic whales in their natural habitat, this whale watching tour from Tromso to Skjervoy might be exactly what you need. It promises a full day of adventure, wildlife sightings, and Arctic scenery, all wrapped up in one well-organized experience. While it’s a long day—lasting about 12 hours—it’s packed with moments that make time fly, especially if you’re an animal lover or nature enthusiast.

What really makes this tour shine are the expert guides who know where to find the whales, the intimate group size (max 12 on the boat), and the opportunity to see orcas and humpbacks chasing herring up close. The panoramic drive to Skjervoy offers a scenic prelude, and the rigid-inflatable boat (RIB) ensures a feeling of adventure and closeness with the wildlife.

One consideration? The sea can get quite rough, and the weather unpredictable—so you’ll want to pack plenty of warm, waterproof layers. But for those prepared, the chance to witness whales in the wild makes every moment worth it. This tour suits wildlife lovers, photographers eager for once-in-a-lifetime shots, and anyone craving a genuine Arctic adventure.

Key Points

• Close Encounters: Small group size provides a more intimate experience with the whales.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides help locate the whales and share fascinating facts.
• Comfort & Equipment: Warm flotation suits, boots, and gear are provided for comfort and safety.
• Scenic Journey: The drive from Tromso to Skjervoy is just as impressive as the whale sightings.
• Wildlife Focus: Expect to see orcas, humpbacks, and possibly other marine life in their natural environment.
• Long but Rewarding: A 12-hour trip that balances travel, wildlife viewing, and comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Whale Watching Experience

Starting Out: Early Morning Pickup and Scenic Drive

The adventure kicks off bright and early, with a pickup from Tromso’s Scandic Ishavshotel at 5:20 am. If you’re not a morning person, this might be the toughest part—getting up before dawn to chase whales—but the promise of seeing majestic marine mammals makes it worthwhile.

The bus ride to Skjervoy takes about 3.5 hours, but it’s far from boring. The route passes through stunning Arctic landscapes, with snow-capped peaks and fjord views that feel like scenes from a postcard. According to reviews, the coaches are comfortable, with some offering WiFi and toilets, which is a considerate touch during such a long trip.

Preparing for the Sea

Once in Skjervoy, you’ll meet your guide, who will fit you with a warm flotation suit, essential for staying dry and warm during the boat ride. As one reviewer notes, “All the gear provided, including suits, boots, balaclavas, glasses, and gloves—times it by 1000” in cold weather. Being well-layered underneath is advised; many reviewers emphasize the importance of waterproof, insulated clothing.

The Rigid-Inflatable Boat (RIB) Experience

The core of the tour is the 2.5-hour whale watching ride on a RIB with no more than 12 people. This smaller size ensures a more personal, less crowded experience—perfect for wildlife viewing and photography. The boat ride itself is exhilarating and slightly bumpy, with many reviewers describing the sound of waves and wind as loud but energizing.

Guides are praised for their expertise—many are locals who know the waters well. “Bridget, our guide, was very knowledgeable and knew exactly where to find the whales,” recounts a traveler. This focus on experienced guidance means more time spent actually watching whales rather than just searching.

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Wildlife Encounters

During the trip, you’re likely to see orcas and humpback whales, especially between November and January when they chase herring. Several reviewers describe the thrill of seeing whales “swimming right beside us,” with some even witnessing whales breaching or jumping out of the water.

A common highlight is the size difference—seeing the massive humpbacks and sleek orcas up close is unforgettable. One traveler shared, “We saw a large pod of orcas with many babies and spent a good while with them.” The guides’ knowledge adds depth, sharing facts about each whale species, which enhances the experience.

The Return Journey & Refreshments

After the boat ride, you’ll return to shore for some hot sandwiches, tea, and coffee—a welcome comfort after hours at sea. The reviews often mention the quality of the food as a plus, with some noting the sandwiches are simple but satisfying, and the hot drinks hit the spot on cold days.

The bus ride back to Tromso is just as scenic as the trip there; many travelers say the comfort of the coach, combined with the day’s wildlife highlights, makes the overall experience feel well-worth the price.

The Value and Practical Aspects

Price & Inclusion

At first glance, the tour might seem pricey, but considering what’s included—bus transfers, high-quality gear, guide expertise, and a 2.5-hour boat trip—the value holds up well. Plus, the small group size maximizes the chances of whale sightings and personal attention.

Group Size & Duration

With just 4 to 12 participants per boat, you’re less likely to feel lost in a crowd, making this ideal for travelers seeking a more personalized adventure. The total 12-hour duration may be long, but it balances travel, the thrill of whale watching, and comfort.

Suitability & Accessibility

The tour has some restrictions—it’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or mobility impairments. The physical requirement is moderate; you’ll need to be at least 140 cm tall. The tour is conducted in English and is designed for fit, active travelers prepared for cold weather and boat motion.

Weather & Conditions

Weather in Arctic Norway can be unpredictable. Some reviews mention rough seas and cold winds, but the provided gear does a lot to mitigate discomfort. The guides are experienced in navigating changing conditions and prioritizing safety. Keep in mind that sightings are wildlife, so they aren’t guaranteed, but most reviewers agree that the likelihood of seeing whales is high.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

Many mention how knowledgeable guides like Bridget and Norbert make the trip special. “Bridget can whistle to attract whales and knows where to find them,” one reviewer recalls. Their expertise and enthusiasm help make the experience feel personalized and exciting.

Several travelers highlight the quality of the equipment, saying the provided dry suits, gloves, and boots are essential for staying comfortable. As one reviewer put it, “It was freezing, but thanks to all the layers and the dry suit, I didn’t get cold.”

The scenery, both at sea and on land, consistently receives praise. Think snow-covered mountains, icy fjords, and wild, open waters—perfect for lovers of pristine nature.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This whale watching experience is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone craving a true Arctic adventure. If you’re comfortable on a boat and prepared for chilly conditions, the chances of seeing whales up close make it worth the early start and 12-hour day. It’s great for those who want a more personalized encounter with nature, rather than a large, crowded tour.

Families with children over 140 cm tall can participate, but the physical demands mean it’s best suited for active, adventurous travelers.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
It departs at 5:30 am, so be at the meeting point by 5:20 am to ensure a smooth start.

How long is the bus ride from Tromso?
The scenic drive to Skjervoy takes approximately 3.5 hours each way, allowing plenty of time to enjoy Arctic landscapes.

What should I wear?
Bring lots of warm, waterproof clothes to layer under the flotation suit. It’s advisable to have a change of clothes for after the trip, especially if you get wet.

Are meals included?
Yes, you’ll get sandwiches, tea, and coffee after the boat ride, which helps warm you up after hours at sea.

Is the whale watching guaranteed?
Wildlife sightings depend on natural conditions, but the guides’ expertise and local knowledge make sightings highly likely during the migration season.

Can children participate?
The minimum height requirement is 140 cm, so older children who meet this can join, but the tour is best suited for physically active travelers.

Final Thoughts

This whale watching tour from Tromso to Skjervoy offers an authentic chance to see whales in their natural environment, with the added bonus of breathtaking fjord scenery. The small group size, professional guides, and well-organized logistics make for a smooth, memorable experience. While it requires some preparation for cold weather and a long day, the opportunity to be so close to orcas and humpbacks makes it all worthwhile.

Ideal for adventure seekers and wildlife lovers who value expert guidance and genuine encounters, this tour delivers on its promise of unforgettable Arctic magic. If you’re prepared for the elements, you’ll leave with stories—and photos—that will last a lifetime.

You can check availability for your dates here: