Tromsø: Skjervøy RIB Whale Watching Tour

Planning a trip to Tromsø and eager to see the Arctic’s majestic whales in their natural environment? This 12-hour tour offers an exhilarating day on the waters of the Barents Sea, combining scenic bus travel with an unforgettable RIB boat adventure. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply craving a dramatic Arctic experience, this tour promises plenty of close encounters with orcas, humpbacks, and other marine life.

What really makes this experience stand out are the knowledgeable guides, the breathtaking fjord scenery, and the value for money—especially considering all the gear and food included. On the flip side, be prepared for long bus rides and chilly conditions, which might not suit everyone. It’s perfect for those who don’t mind a cold adventure and want a high-energy, authentic wildlife experience.

If you love wildlife spotting, enjoy outdoor adventures, and are comfortable with a bit of travel (the journey to Skjervøy alone takes about four hours), this tour will be right up your alley. Just remember to bundle up and bring your camera!

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Key Points

Wildlife Close-Ups: Spot orcas, humpbacks, and fin whales in their natural feeding grounds.
Expert Guides: Learn about whale behaviour from knowledgeable and friendly guides like Sim and Hans Christian.
Comfort and Safety: Gear up with thermal suits, life jackets, and goggles provided. Comfortable transportation and onboard facilities are a bonus.
Authentic Arctic Experience: Combine scenic fjord views with the thrill of high-speed RIB rides.
Food and Warmth: Enjoy hot drinks and a baguette after the tour, perfect for warming up.
Long Day, Big Reward: Prepare for a 12-hour adventure, packed with excitement and stunning scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Whale Watching Experience

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Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure kicks off bright and early at Tromsø Havn Prostneset at 05:20, where you’ll meet your bus driver for the scenic four-hour drive to Skjervøy. The bus is well-equipped with Wi-Fi, toilets, and comfortable seating, as many reviews mention it’s a relaxing way to start the day. Expect to be entertained or catch up on some rest during the long ride, which travelers say is “very comfortable,” with “ chargers for your phone” and “a nice and funny driver” making the journey fly by.

The Journey to Skjervøy

While four hours might sound daunting, this leg of the trip is part of the overall experience. The beautiful landscapes of Northern Norway, with snow-capped mountains and fjord views, make the time pass quickly. One reviewer shared that “the scenery of the mountainous fjords, the lighting, everything is just perfect,” highlighting how scenic the route is even before the boat ride begins.

Pre-Departure Briefing

Once you arrive in Skjervøy, you’ll meet your skipper for a safety briefing and gear distribution. The tour provider, Arctic Adventure Tours AS, ensures everyone is warm and ready, providing thermal suits, boots, mittens, goggles, and a life vest. Several reviews mention how well-organized and attentive the staff are, with guides like Sim and Hans Christian going beyond just safety—they’re friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about wildlife.

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The RIB Boat Adventure

This is where the magic truly happens. Riding in a 34-foot open RIB boat, you’ll zip across the waves, feeling the wind and spray as you hunt for dorsal fins and splashes. The RIB boat allows for a closer, more dynamic view of the whales, compared to larger vessels, giving you an immersive experience. Reviewers describe it as “an experience even more amazing than you can imagine,” with many saying they saw “so many orcas and humpbacks.”

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Wildlife Encounters

This tour prides itself on observing whales in their natural habitat. Expect to see either orcas, humpbacks, fin whales, and possibly white-tailed sea eagles. Some travelers mention that whales were feeding right underneath them, creating moments of awe. Guides like Sim and Hans Christian are praised for respecting the whales’ behaviour, ensuring the animals aren’t disturbed while you enjoy the show.

Learning and Photographing

Your guides are not only there for safety but also to share insights about whale behaviour and marine ecosystems. Many reviews highlight the guides’ professionalism and detailed explanations. Plus, the scenic backdrop makes for incredible photos—just be sure to protect your camera in waterproof bags, as many review their equipment getting wet during the ride.

Post-Ride Warm-Up

After approximately three hours at sea, you’ll return to the harbor and warm up with a hot drink. The included baguette is a surprisingly tasty way to refuel, and travelers say it’s “a nice touch after hours on the water.” The warmth of the drinks and the camaraderie of fellow travelers make for a perfect end to an exhilarating day.

Return Journey

The bus ride back to Tromsø is another four hours of scenic beauty and relaxation. Reviewers often comment on how smoothly the transfer goes, with plenty of time to reflect on the day’s sightings. Many mention that they feel the experience was “absolutely worth” the long journey, thanks to the incredible wildlife encounters.

The Experience: What Makes It Special?

Close Encounters with Marine Life

This tour’s primary draw is the chance to see whales up close in their Arctic feeding grounds. Many travelers have raved about the number of whales they saw, including orcas, humpbacks, and fin whales. One review recalls seeing “a pod swimming and hunting together, including a newborn calf,” highlighting the raw beauty of nature on display.

Guides Who Know Their Stuff

The guides, including Sim and Hans Christian, are consistently praised for their friendliness and expertise. They’re attentive and respectful of the whales, often adjusting their location or approach based on whale behaviour. Reviewers mention that guides like Gabriella and Hans Christian made the experience even more memorable with their professionalism and warmth.

Scenic Fjords and Arctic Landscape

Even if whales aren’t your only focus, the scenery alone is worth the trip. The snow-dusted mountains, icy fjords, and clear blue waters make for spectacular views. Several reviews describe the landscape as “breathtaking,” “magnificent,” and “like a dream,” making the entire day visually stunning.

Food and Comfort

While the primary focus is whale spotting, the included hot drinks, biscuits, and baguette help make the day more comfortable. Many mention how the warm drink and snack are much appreciated after hours in the cold. The thermal suits and waterproof gear provided are highly valued, especially since adventurers warn that the cold can be intense during the boat ride.

The Value for Money

Considering the long day — 12 hours including transportation, gear, guidance, and food — many reviewers agree this tour offers excellent value. Seeing multiple whale species and experiencing the Arctic wilderness at close range is a rare opportunity. The reviews highlight that this is a “well-organized, professional operation” that respects both wildlife and traveler safety.

Practical Tips for the Best Experience

Dress in layers: Even with thermal suits, bring warm layers, gloves, and a hat. The guides recommend wearing a face mask or ski mask to protect your face from the cold.
Bring your camera: Waterproof bags are a good idea, as you might get splashed or wet. Many reviewers captured stunning shots of whales breaching.
Prepare for the long day: The bus and boat rides add up, so bring snacks, entertainment, and patience.
Arrive early: The meeting point is at 05:20, but arriving a bit earlier can help secure a good seat on the bus and in the boat.
Note the limitations: This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, children under 4’6″, or those with back problems due to the physical nature of the boat ride.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, transfers to Skjervøy from Tromsø are included, with a comfortable air-conditioned bus.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly with layers, and use the thermal protective suits, boots, mittens, and goggles provided. A face mask or ski mask is recommended for protection.

How long is the boat ride?
The RIB boat tour lasts approximately three hours, giving plenty of time for wildlife viewing and photos.

Are food and drinks provided?
Yes, hot drinks and a baguette are included, making the return journey more comfortable after the cold and excitement.

What whales might I see?
You can expect to see humpback whales, orcas, fin whales, and possibly white-tailed sea eagles in their natural Arctic habitat.

Is this suitable for children?
It’s generally not recommended for children under 4’6″ (140 cm) or for pregnant women and those with back issues due to the physical demands of the boat ride.

What if I don’t see whales?
While sightings are common, they aren’t guaranteed. The guides are experienced at finding whales, and many reviewers have said they saw “so many whales, close to us.”

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there Wi-Fi on the bus?
Yes, the bus offers Wi-Fi, making it easier to relax or share your pre- and post-boat adventure photos.

This whale watching tour from Tromsø offers a fantastic mix of scenic travel, marine wildlife encounters, and Arctic adventure. The long journey is balanced by the thrill of spotting whales in their natural environment and the professionalism of guides like Sim and Hans Christian, who go out of their way to ensure your safety and enjoyment.

The high-speed RIB boat provides a close-up view of the whales that larger boats can’t match, making it a must for wildlife lovers and adventure seekers alike. With all gear, food, and transportation included, the tour offers great value—just remember to dress warmly and bring your camera.

Ideal for those who love outdoor exploration, marine life, and scenic landscapes, this experience captures the essence of Arctic Norway. If you’re prepared for a full day and a bit of cold, this tour promises memories that will last a lifetime.

Ready for an Arctic adventure? Book this whale watching tour for a day of wildlife, wild fjords, and unforgettable moments in Tromsø’s stunning landscapes.