From Tromsø: Skjervoy Whale Watching RIB Boat Tour

Key Points

• Price and Duration: This 12-hour tour costs $374 per person and is perfect for those wanting a full day of Arctic wildlife and scenery.
• Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see orcas, humpbacks, fin whales, and minke whales during peak winter feeding season, with opportunities to observe sea eagles as well.
• Active, Small Group Experience: Limited to 12 participants, this intimate tour uses a fast RIB boat for agility and close wildlife viewing.
• Full Equipment Included: Tour provides insulated flotation suits, warm boots, mittens, goggles, and life jackets to keep you warm and safe in winter conditions.
• Practical Tips: Bring extra food and drinks, wear warm wool layers, and be prepared for an active, cold day on the Arctic waters.
• Highly Praised Guides: Knowledgeable skippers share fascinating insights about marine life and Arctic ecology, making the experience both exciting and educational.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tromsø’s RIB Whale Safari to Skjervøy Begins Early

This 12-hour adventure from Tromsø to Skjervøy offers an in-depth look at the Arctic’s impressive marine life. Starting with a scenic transfer through dramatic fjords and snow-covered landscapes, the journey sets a captivating tone. Upon arrival in Skjervøy, you’ll receive a safety briefing and an introduction to the marine inhabitants you’re about to encounter.

The tour emphasizes speed and agility with a rigid inflatable boat (RIB), designed for close wildlife encounters and navigating Arctic fjords efficiently. This makes it stand out from larger, less maneuverable vessels, increasing the chances of seeing whales up close. The small group size ensures personalized attention and a more immersive experience in the natural environment.

The Route from Tromsø to Skjervøy: Scenic Fjords and Arctic Waters

The coach transfer from Samuel Arnesens gate 5 in Tromsø to Skjervøy lasts approximately 4 hours, giving ample opportunity to enjoy the spectacular fjord scenery. The route passes through snowy landscapes and jagged mountain views, setting a dramatic backdrop for the day ahead.

Once in Skjervøy, the boat departs into the Arctic waters in search of whales. The return trip also takes about 4 hours, allowing travelers to reflect on the day’s wildlife sightings and appreciate the stunning landscapes during the journey back. The entire itinerary balances travel time with whale-watching, making every moment worthwhile.

Whale Watching: Orcas, Humpbacks, and Other Giants

The peak winter season makes this region one of the best places in the world to see orcas, humpbacks, fin whales, and minke whales in the wild. These animals are usually seen hunting herring, breaching the surface, or simply swimming in the fjords.

While sightings cannot be guaranteed, the expert skippers navigate with skill and share fascinating insights about whale behavior and Arctic ecology throughout the trip. The close approach possible with the fast RIB enhances the chance to observe these massive creatures up close, providing incredible photo opportunities at every stop.

The Arctic Scenery: Mountains, Fjords, and Sea Eagles

Beyond the whales, the tour offers breathtaking views of the Arctic landscape. Passengers have opportunities to photograph jagged mountains, glassy fjords, and the dynamic marine environment.

Sea eagles are also part of the spectacle, often seen hunting or soaring overhead during the whale-watching hours. The stunning scenery combined with wildlife sightings makes this tour an impressive showcase of nature’s power and beauty in the Arctic.

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The RIB Boat Experience: Speed, Agility, and Close Encounters

The rigid inflatable boat (RIB) is built for speed and agility, making it ideal for navigating the icy fjords and chasing whales. This vessel allows for fast travel and sharp maneuvering, which significantly enhances the odds of close encounters with wildlife.

The boat’s design also stimulates a greater sense of connection with the environment, compared to larger vessels. Its small size permits better photo opportunities and intimate wildlife observation, which is praised by many visitors in reviews.

Comfort and Safety in Cold Arctic Conditions

The tour includes insulated flotation suits, warm boots, mittens, goggles, and life jackets as standard equipment. Guests are advised to wear warm wool layers, including a wool sweater and wool socks, to stay comfortable during the active, outdoor experience.

Since the tour is physically active and involves winter conditions, it’s not recommended for children under 12, pregnant women, or those sensitive to cold. Travelers should also bring extra food and drinks for the long day, as food options are not provided onboard.

Practical Details: Meeting Point, Group Size, and Recommendations

The meeting point is at the bus terminal on Samuel Arnesens gate 5 in Tromsø, located under the large grey harbour terminal building. The tour is limited to 12 participants, fostering a small group environment and personalized attention.

The 12-hour schedule includes transport by bus to and from Skjervøy, with whale-watching taking about 3 hours. The tour operates during the winter season, with availability limited each year. It’s recommended to bring extra food and drinks and dress warmly for the entire day.

Reviews Highlight the Guides’ Knowledge and the Close Wildlife Encounters

Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and skippers who share fascinating insights about whale behavior and Arctic ecology. The small RIB boats enable closer views of orcas, humpbacks, and fin whales than larger tour vessels.

Travelers consistently mention the stunning wildlife sightings, with orcas playing near the boat and humpbacks logging in the water. The friendly, skilled crew ensures that animal respect is maintained during sightings, adding an educational aspect to the adventure.

Limitations and Considerations: Weather and Equipment

The winter Arctic weather can be tough, with some reviews noting cold conditions despite the provided gear. Travelers are advised to wear thermal clothing and bring extra layers for comfort.

Sightings cannot be guaranteed, as whales are wild animals with unpredictable behaviors. The tour’s active nature and small boat size may also be less suitable for those with mobility issues or back problems.

Comparing Similar Experiences

This tour stands out for its small group size, speedy RIB boat, and close wildlife encounters. It is often praised over larger boat trips for offering a more intimate, dynamic experience.

Similar tours are available, including hybrid-electric boats, longer fjord cruises, and orca safaris with included lunch, which offer different focuses but share the common goal of Arctic whale watching in Tromsø.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour

The From Tromsø: Skjervøy Whale Watching RIB Boat Tour is ideal for adventurers who seek a physically active, wildlife-rich experience. It appeals especially to those eager to see orcas, humpbacks, and other whales in their natural habitat, in a small group setting.

While the winter weather demands warm clothing and preparedness, the close encounters, stunning scenery, and expert guidance make it a memorable Arctic journey. This tour offers great value for the immersive, nature-focused experience it promises.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long is the tour?
  It lasts approximately 12 hours from Tromsø, including transfer, whale-watching, and return.

• What gear is provided?
  The tour supplies insulated flotation suits, warm boots, mittens, goggles, and life jackets.

• Do I need to bring anything?
  Bring extra food and drinks for the long day, and wear warm wool layers including a wool sweater.

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  It is not recommended for children under 12, pregnant guests, or those sensitive to cold or motion.

• What wildlife can I expect to see?
  Expect to see orcas, humpbacks, fin whales, and minke whales, along with sea eagles.

• What is the maximum group size?
  The tour is limited to 12 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

• Where does the tour start?
  The meeting point is at the bus terminal on Samuel Arnesens gate 5 in Tromsø.

• Can sightings be guaranteed?
  No, wildlife sightings depend on whale behavior and weather conditions; however, the skippers’ expertise maximizes your chances.

• Is it safe to go in winter conditions?
  Yes, with provided gear and safety equipment, the tour is designed for winter Arctic safety. Travelers should be in good health and free of injuries.

• How does this tour compare to larger boat tours?
  The small RIB boat offers more agility and closer wildlife encounters than larger vessels, along with a more intimate connection to the Arctic environment.

  You can check availability for your dates here:
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