Shared Speedboat Tour of Trollfjorden Norway from Sortland

Exploring Norway’s Trollfjorden on a Speedboat: A Review of the Shared RIB Tour from Sortland

Travelers seeking a quick yet memorable adventure in Norway’s Arctic region will find this shared speedboat tour to Trollfjorden offers a fantastic blend of scenery, wildlife, and expert storytelling. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the reviews and detailed itinerary paint a compelling picture of what to expect.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the stunning landscapes of Trollfjorden, characterized by dramatic mountain walls and a narrow, fairy-tale-like passage. Second, the chance to spot majestic sea eagles—up to eight at once in some reviews—along with the guides’ engaging calls and fish-throwing antics that attract these impressive birds. Third, the knowledgeable guides who bring the region’s wildlife and history to life, making the experience both fun and informative.

One thing to consider is that this tour isn’t suitable for those with back problems or pregnant women, due to the nature of riding a small, fast boat over potentially choppy waters. This experience is likely best suited for active, curious travelers eager to see Norway’s iconic fjord scenery and wildlife in a condensed time frame.

If you’re after an authentic, scenic adventure with expert guidance, this tour is a strong choice, especially for families with children aged 8 and up, or anyone looking for a quick Arctic escape.

Good To Know

• Stunning scenery: The Trollfjord’s steep mountain walls and narrow passages create a magical atmosphere.
• Wildlife encounters: Up to eight sea eagles can be seen at once, often attracted by guides’ fish-throwing calls.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with wildlife calls and regional stories.
• Value for money: At around $154 per person for 2-3 hours, it offers a memorable Arctic adventure.
• Suitable for children: Recommended for ages 8 and up, with adult supervision.
• Weather-dependent: Tours can be canceled in poor weather, with options for rescheduling or refunds.

The Experience: What to Expect on Your Trollfjorden Speedboat Tour

Starting Point & Logistics

Your adventure begins at Havnegata 3 in Sortland, a well-placed meeting point near public transport. The tour is operated by Vesteralen Adventures, known locally for their reliable and knowledgeable guides. Expect to meet your small group—up to 36 travelers—and don safety gear before heading out on a 2 to 3-hour trip.

The Journey through Raftsundet Strait

The trip kicks off with a scenic ride through Raftsundet, a historic strait celebrated for its rugged beauty and calm waters. This stretch sets the stage for the highlight: Trollfjorden itself. The boat’s speed and agility allow you to get close to towering cliffs and narrow passages, making it a more immersive experience than slow cruises.

Trollfjorden: The Crown Jewel

Once inside Trollfjorden, the scenery becomes truly mesmerizing. Steep, towering walls flank the narrow passage, giving it a fairytale-like feel. The guides will call for sea eagles, and you might find yourself in awe as up to eight birds circle overhead—an impressive sight that’s frequently highlighted in reviews.

Travelers noted that the guides’ calls and the fish-throwing to attract eagles made this wildlife viewing feel interactive rather than passive. One reviewer mentioned, “The guides threw out fish that the eagles fell down to catch,” which added a playful element to the wildlife spotting.

Wildlife & Nature

While the main attraction is the scenery, the birdlife doesn’t disappoint. The guides’ calls and fish baiting create a lively birdwatching experience. You’ll also enjoy the tranquil yet wild atmosphere of the Arctic fjords, with towering mountain walls and crystal-clear waters.

Safety & Comfort

Safety gear is provided, and the guides are experienced in navigating these waters safely. The trip is designed to be comfortable, with enough space for everyone, but it’s important to remember this is a RIB boat—small, fast, and lively.

Who It’s Best For

Families with older children, adventure lovers, and anyone eager for a quick Arctic immersion will find this tour appealing. However, those with back problems or pregnant women should note the potential for rough waters and opt for a different experience.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $153.98 per person, the tour seems a reasonable investment considering the length and quality of the experience. The focus on wildlife, scenic beauty, and expert guidance means that travelers leave with a sense of having truly experienced Norway’s iconic fjord landscape.

The inclusion of wildlife calls and fish baiting, which engage participants actively, adds to the value—making it more than just a boat trip. Instead, it’s an interactive adventure that brings you close to nature and provides plenty of photo opportunities.

While the trip is relatively short, the intensity of scenery and wildlife sightings makes it feel richer. The guides’ storytelling—and their enthusiasm—helps to deepen the experience, making it well worth the price for those keen on authentic Arctic adventures.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Trollfjorden

The main event is the 15-minute stop in Trollfjorden itself. The guides will call for sea eagles and, based on reviews, you’ll get a glimpse of up to eight at once. The quick stop allows enough time for photos, wildlife watching, and soaking in the surreal landscape.

Additional Stops & Transit

The journey through Raftsundet offers scenic vistas and a chance to appreciate the region’s rugged beauty en route to Trollfjorden. The entire excursion lasts approximately 2.5 hours, making it a perfect half-day adventure without feeling rushed.

Departure & Return

Departures are from Sortland, with options for nearby locations such as Kvitnes Gård or Stokmarknes. The activity ends back at the starting point, making logistics straightforward.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear weather-appropriate clothing: Even in summer, it can be chilly on the water, especially if it’s windy.
• Bring your camera: The scenery and bird sightings provide great photo opportunities.
• Book in advance: With a maximum group size of 36, it’s a popular activity, especially in good weather.
• Check the weather forecast: Tours are weather-dependent, and poor conditions can lead to cancellations, with options for rescheduling or refunds.
• Age considerations: Suitable for children 8 and older, but those with back problems or pregnant women should consider safety.

The Sum Up: Is This the Arctic Adventure You Need?

This shared speedboat tour of Trollfjorden offers a swift, scenic immersion into Norway’s iconic fjord landscape. With expert guides, opportunities to spot sea eagles, and stunning mountain scenery, it’s perfect for travelers wanting a meaningful yet time-efficient Arctic experience.

The tour’s value lies in its combination of wildlife encounters, breathtaking views, and knowledgeable commentary—making it more than just a boat ride. It’s a lively, engaging way to connect with Norway’s wild beauty without committing to a full-day excursion.

Ideal for families with children over 8, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone eager for a taste of Arctic Norway’s unique landscape, this tour delivers rich sights and stories in a compact package. Just remember to dress warmly, bring your camera, and prepare for a lively ride.

If you’re seeking a short but memorable adventure that balances scenery, wildlife, and expert guidance, this Trollfjorden speedboat trip is surely worth considering.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The trip lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, including time spent in Trollfjorden and traveling through Raftsundet.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Havnegata 3 in Sortland, Norway, with options for nearby locations if requested.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for children aged 8 and older, provided they are supervised by an adult.

What should I wear?
Dressing in weather-appropriate clothing is recommended, as it can be cool and windy on the water.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, tours require good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket price covers the boat ride, safety gear, and wildlife-guided calls. No additional charges are specified.

This detailed review aims to help you determine if this Arctic adventure aligns with your travel plans. Norway’s Trollfjorden on a speedboat promises scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and expert guidance—a package that’s hard to beat for a short, impactful journey.