Tromsø: Skjervøy RIB Whale Watching Tour

Tromsø: Skjervøy RIB Whale Watching Tour

If you’re dreaming of catching sight of Arctic whales in their natural environment, this Skjervøy RIB whale watching tour from Tromsø offers an exhilarating way to do it. Known for its vibrant marine life, stunning landscapes, and expert guides, this journey balances adventure with education.

What we love most? The thrill of zooming across fjords at high speed, the chance to see orcas and humpbacks close up, and the comfort of knowing you’re in capable hands. That said, it’s not for the faint of heart—be prepared for the cold and long bus ride, but the payoff is absolutely worth it. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast who loves wildlife, scenic views, and a good adrenaline rush, this tour could be your next unforgettable experience.

One potential downside? The lengthy journey—about four hours each way—might be a bit tiring for some. But, with quality transportation, warm gear, and a rewarding wildlife encounter, it remains a top choice for serious whale watchers or those eager for an Arctic adventure.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy active, outdoor excursions, don’t mind cold weather, and are eager to learn about marine life in a wild, untouched setting.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Impressive wildlife sightings: Including orcas, humpbacks, fin whales, and more.
• Four-hour scenic bus journey: Comfortable, with Wi-Fi and amenities.
• Expert guides and safety: Knowledgeable, responsible, and attentive to guests’ needs.
• All equipment provided: Thermal suits, boots, goggles, life vests—so you stay warm and dry.
• Authentic Arctic landscape: Stunning fjords and whale feeding grounds.
• Post-tour comfort: Hot drinks, baguette, and a relaxing return trip.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Journey Begins: Transportation and Timing

The adventure kicks off early, with meetings at Tromsø Havn Prostneset around 5:20 am. Expect a comfortable, modern bus ride of approximately 4 hours to Skjervøy, with amenities like Wi-Fi and toilets onboard. The long ride might seem daunting, but many reviewers mention how smooth and well-organized it is. As one guest noted, “The bus was very comfortable and modern, making the journey quite pleasant despite the length.”

Travel time is a key consideration—this is a full-day outing, roughly 12 hours in total, including transportation, whale watching, and breaks. Be prepared for a bit of stiffness after sitting for hours, but this is the nature of Arctic expeditions that involve reaching remote feeding grounds.

The Arrival at Skjervøy

Once on the island of Skjervøy, you’re greeted by your skipper and crew for a pre-departure safety briefing. The guides, such as Hans Christian or Sim, are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and responsiveness. They equip you with thermal protective suits, boots, goggles, gloves, and life jackets—crucial for staying warm in the Arctic chill.

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The RIB Boat Tour: Speed, Sightings, and Safety

The highlight? The 34-foot open RIB speedboat that zips across the fjords at high speeds, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience. The open vessel design is perfect for unobstructed views but does mean you’ll feel the wind and spray—so warm gear and waterproof clothing are essential.

Several reviews highlight how close and intimate the whale encounters are. Guests like Juliette shared, “We saw many orcas and a few whales even at the end of migration season,” emphasizing how dedicated the crew is to finding whales despite seasonal challenges. The guides are attentive to whale behavior, politely keeping a respectful distance while ensuring guests get spectacular views.

Wildlife sightings include orcas, humpbacks, fin whales, and even white-tailed sea eagles soaring above. The guides, like Sim, are praised for explaining whale behavior, making each sighting more meaningful. One reviewer mentioned, “We watched orcas feeding on a huge school of herring just beneath us. It was incredible.”

What You’ll See and Learn

Expect to spot dorsal fins, breaches, and splashes—moments that are both dramatic and humbling. Many reviewers mention feeling fortunate to be so close, often just meters away from these giants. The guides often share fascinating facts, such as how orcas hunt in coordinated pods or how humpbacks are known for their breaching displays.

Food and Comfort Breaks

After about three hours at sea, you’ll return to the harbor to warm up with a hot drink and a baguette. Reviewers consistently mention how these simple comforts elevate the experience—one even called it “a surprisingly yummy baguette.” The post-tour snacks and hot chocolate help recharge after the cold, wet adventure.

The Return Journey

The trip concludes with the bus ride back to Tromsø, where travelers can relax, reflect on their sightings, and share photos. Many reviews describe the journey as calming and scenic, with some noting how the landscape of fjords and snow-capped mountains adds to the magic.

The Value and Practicalities

Pricing and Value

While this tour isn’t the cheapest option, many reviewers emphasize its excellent value for money given the quality of wildlife sightings and the expertise of guides. Seeing orcas and humpbacks so close, combined with the safety gear and expert commentary, justifies the cost for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour covers transfers, transportation, guided whale sightings, thermal suits, boots, goggles, gloves, life vests, and snacks. However, travelers need to bring warm layers, a camera, and snacks of their own if desired. Drones are not permitted, so you’ll want a waterproof camera or phone to capture the moments.

Accessibility and Suitability

This experience is best for active travelers who can handle cold, long hours, and the physicality of the boat ride. It’s not recommended for pregnant women, those with back problems, or children under 4’6″. The gear provided and the professional guides make it manageable for most, but a good level of physical comfort and stamina is advised.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many past guests have shared their heartfelt impressions. Rick called it “an unforgettable day,” praising the modern bus and friendly driver, while Jade described it as “magical,” thanks to her guide Sim and the whales feeding nearby. Several mentioned the professionalism and knowledge of guides like Hans Christian, emphasizing how their responsible approach added value to the experience.

A common theme? The closeness to whales and the stunning Arctic scenery make this tour more than just a wildlife trip—it’s an immersive, awe-inspiring adventure. Guests often mention how these moments stay with them long after the day ends.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This Skjervøy RIB whale watching tour is ideal for those who crave a mix of adrenaline, education, and natural beauty. It’s best suited for outdoor lovers comfortable with cold weather, long travel times, and active outings. Wildlife enthusiasts will thrill at the chance to see orcas, humpbacks, and fin whales up close, in a setting that feels untouched by human hands.

On top of that, the inclusion of experienced guides and safety gear makes it accessible despite the Arctic conditions. Whether you’re an avid photographer eager to capture dramatic whale breaches or an adventure seeker wanting to feel the rush of high-speed boat rides, this trip delivers a memorable experience.

If you’re ready to embrace the Arctic’s wild side and witness some of the ocean’s most magnificent creatures in their habitat, this tour is a solid choice—offering a perfect blend of excitement, education, and breathtaking scenery.

FAQ

How early do I need to arrive?
Guests should be ready by 5:20 am at Tromsø Havn Prostneset for the pickup. Arriving early can help secure a good seat on the bus.

What should I wear?
Dress in warm, layered clothing. The provided thermal protective suit, boots, and goggles help, but bringing extra layers, gloves, and a hat is advisable for comfort.

How long is the bus ride?
The journey to Skjervøy takes approximately four hours each way, making it a full-day commitment.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see orcas, humpback whales, fin whales, and possibly white-tailed sea eagles. Sightings are guided by the experience and whale activity.

Is the boat ride safe and comfortable?
Yes. The RIB boats are operated by experienced skippers who prioritize safety. The gear provided keeps you warm and dry, though the ride can be bumpy and windy.

What’s included in the price?
Transfers, transportation, whale watching tour, thermal suits, boots, goggles, gloves, life vests, hot drinks, and a baguette are included. Hotel pickup is not provided.

Can I do this trip if I have back problems?
It’s not recommended for people with back problems due to the physical nature of the boat ride and long travel times.

This whale watching adventure from Tromsø offers thrill, beauty, and a close-up look at Arctic marine life. It’s a day packed with excitement, scenic views, and stories to tell for years—perfect for those who want a true taste of Norway’s wild side.

You can check if your dates are available here: