Full-Day Trip: King Crab Safari to Norway from Saariselkä Including Lunch

Experience a Unique Arctic King Crab Adventure from Finnish Lapland to Norway

The Full-Day Trip: King Crab Safari to Norway from Saariselkä Including Lunch offers a rare chance to pull wild arctic king crabs from a Norwegian fjord over 14 hours of memorable activities. For $694.63 per person, this tour combines scenic travel, adventure, and culinary delights. It departs early from Saariselkä, with hotel pickup, and takes travelers over 174 miles (280 km) to the Norwegian border, crossing into Kirkenes. The tour is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor excitement, seafood, and Arctic scenery.

While the bus journey can be tiring and the snowmobile sledge ride feels brief, the crab harvesting experience and delicious king crab tasting make this tour stand out. It suits adventurers comfortable with cold weather and eager to learn about fishing and local Arctic culture.

Key Points

• Full-day tour from Saariselkä to Norway, lasting approximately 14 hours
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off at designated Saariselkä hotels
• Travel by coach and snowmobile sledge through Arctic wilderness
• Experience ice fishing and harvesting of wild king crabs in Norwegian fjords
• All necessary gear such as thermal overalls, socks, boots, and a balaclava are provided
• Meals included: breakfast at the start and a lunch of king crab in Norway

Starting Early with Hotel Pickup in Saariselkä

The tour begins bright and early at 5:15 am, with pickup from selected hotels in Saariselkä. This early start ensures plenty of time for the long scenic drive to Norway, crossing the border into Kirkenes. The climate-controlled coach makes the journey comfortable, but be prepared for a roughly 4.5-hour ride that some might find tiring. The trip offers views of Northern Finland’s winter landscapes and sets the stage for the day’s adventure.

Crossing into Norway and the Journey to Kirkenes

The border crossing from Finland into Norwegian territory signals the start of the crab safari. The route is scenic, with occasional stops for photos or to watch the Northern Lights if conditions permit. Once in Kirkenes, the focus shifts to the crabbing activity, with travelers donning thermal overalls, socks, boots, and balaclava to stay warm against the Arctic cold.

Snowmobile Sledge Ride to the Fjord

The highlight of the on-site experience is the snowmobile sledge ride to a picturesque fjord near a snowy farmhouse. The guide leads the group on this exhilarating ride through frozen landscapes, offering ample opportunity to take photos and enjoy the silent beauty of the Arctic winter. The ride lasts just enough to feel adventurous without being overly exhausting.

Ice Fishing and Harvesting Arctic King Crabs

Once at the fishing site, participants help saw a hole in the ice — a skill taught by the local guides — then assist in bringing up the king crab traps. The harvesting process is hands-on and engaging, providing insight into Arctic fishing techniques. The king crabs pulled from beneath the ice are fresh and abundant, offering an authentic taste of wild-caught seafood.

Tasting the Freshest King Crab in a Stunning Setting

After gathering the crabs, the group enjoys a lunch centered around the king crab, regarded as super fresh and delicious. The meal is served in a remarkable Arctic setting, making the tasting experience particularly memorable. The quality of the crab and the explanations provided about its harvesting process enhance the meal’s value.

Returning via Snowmobile Sledge and Coach

Post-lunch, the group retraces their steps, riding snowmobiles back through the frozen landscape to the Norwegian border, then traveling by coach towards Saariselkä. The return trip typically includes a stop if the weather conditions permit, allowing everyone to watch the Northern Lights — a spectacular bonus if the skies are clear.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What to Expect

This tour includes all necessary gear for the outdoor activities, such as thermal overalls, socks, boots, and a balaclava, ensuring guests stay warm during the crab harvesting and snowmobile rides. The meals are integrated into the schedule, with breakfast at the start and a lunch of king crab in Norway. The trip is designed for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 15, maintaining a personal touch.

Weather Considerations and Cancellation Policy

Because this experience depends on good weather, cancellations can occur if conditions are unfavorable. In such cases, a full refund or a reschedule is offered. The tour is non-refundable once booked unless canceled due to weather, so planning for cold temperatures and variable winter conditions is wise.

Reviewer Insights: Strengths and Limitations

The guide’s knowledge and friendly demeanor receive praise, especially during the crabbing explanation. The king crab tasting is consistently highlighted as a delightful highlight. However, some note that the bus journey can be tiring, and the snowmobile sledge ride might feel short relative to expectations. The crab experience and meals are among the most praised aspects of this tour.

Who Should Book This Arctic King Crab Safari?

This tour appeals most to adventurous food lovers and those eager to explore Arctic fishing methods and Norwegian fjord scenery. It suits travelers comfortable with cold weather and long travel days, and who are keen on learning about local seafood. The small group size and personalized experience make it ideal for those seeking an authentic Arctic adventure.

Final Thoughts on the King Crab Safari from Saariselkä

The full-day king crab safari offers a rare opportunity to witness wild Arctic crustaceans at work and taste them in a breathtaking setting. The combination of scenic travel, interactive fishing, and culinary enjoyment creates a well-rounded experience. While the long coach ride and short snowmobile ride might be drawbacks for some, the delicious king crab and spectacular Arctic environment compensate fully.

This tour is best suited for adventurers who appreciate outdoor activities and seafood, and are prepared for cold weather. It provides an authentic taste of Norwegian Arctic life while offering the comforts of guided support and all-included meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes meals (breakfast and lunch), local guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, transport by coach, and thermal gear such as overalls, socks, boots, and a balaclava.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 14 hours, starting early in the morning with pickup and returning in the evening.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to be accessible for most. However, the cold outdoor conditions and long travel hours should be considered.

What is the main activity in Norway?
Guests help harvest king crabs from beneath the ice, then enjoy fresh crab tasting in a remarkable Arctic setting.

How is the transportation arranged?
Travel is by climate-controlled coach for the long drive, and snowmobile sledge for on-site excursions.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

What gear is provided?
Thermal overalls, socks, boots, and balaclava are supplied to keep participants warm and comfortable.

Can I see the Northern Lights?
If weather conditions are favorable, the driver may stop along the route to watch the Northern Lights during the return trip.

Is the trip physically demanding?
The activities involve outdoor exposure and moderate physical effort—suitable for most, but those with mobility concerns should consider their comfort level.

How far in advance should I book?
The average booking window is 32 days in advance, so early reservation is recommended to secure a spot.

This king crab safari from Saariselkä combines adventure, culinary delights, and Arctic scenery into a memorable full-day experience that highlights the best of Norwegian fjord life.