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Imagine venturing into the Barents Sea on a high-speed RIB boat from Skjervøy, with the chance to see magnificent whales like orcas, humpback whales, sperm whales, and fin whales in their natural Arctic habitat. For $235 per person, this 3-hour whale-watching tour offers an exciting opportunity to observe these ocean giants up close, guided by experienced crew members. The tour departs from a convenient meeting point at Strandveien 70, right in the heart of Skjervøy, making it easy to join this adventure. The tour is well-suited for those who enjoy marine wildlife, fast-paced boat rides, and learning about whale behaviour — but it’s important to note that children under 6 years, people with back problems, or those under 3 ft 9 in may find the experience less suitable.
While the tour provides thermal suits, mittens, goggles, and life vests, it is geared towards travelers prepared for cold weather and a bumpy ride. The 3-hour duration allows ample time to explore the waters, with the possibility of seeing multiple whale species and witnessing whales breaching and frolicking in the ocean. Good weather conditions are crucial for an optimal experience, as bad weather can limit sightings and make the ride less comfortable. Despite this, the tour offers value through expert guidance and small group sizes.
Key Points
- Departs from Skjervøy’s Strandveien 70 with a 3-hour whale-watching experience.
- Price of $235 per person, including thermal suits, mittens, goggles, and safety gear.
- Search for orcas, humpback whales, sperm whales, and fin whales in the Arctic waters of Norway.
- Expert guides provide insights into whale behaviour and ecology during the trip.
- High-speed RIB boat allows for quick, exciting navigation across the sea.
- Weather conditions influence the likelihood of whale sightings and comfort.
Starting Point in Skjervøy and How to Find It
The tour begins at Strandveien 70, identified by a red door next to Elon and a black flag bearing the tour company’s logo and the words “Explore 70 Degrees”. This central location in Skjervøy makes it straightforward to meet your guide and hop aboard the RIB boat. The end point is the same as the starting location, so there’s no need to worry about transportation after the tour ends.
The meeting is early enough in the day to maximize time on the water, and the small group size limits participation to just 2 people, ensuring a more personal experience. Be sure to arrive on time and dressed warmly, as warm clothing is essential for comfort in Arctic Norway.
Planning more time in Skjervoy? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
What to Expect During the Whale-Watching Trip
Once aboard the RIB boat, the crew leads the group across the Arctic waters in search of whales. The thermal suits and life vests provided help keep everyone warm and secure during the ride. As the boat zips across the water, you’re encouraged to keep a sharp lookout for signs of whales, such as breaches, tail slaps, or spouts.
Throughout the trip, the crew shares interesting facts about the whales’ behaviour and ecology, enriching the experience beyond just sighting them. When whales are spotted, especially orcas, there are opportunities to witness them feeding, frolicking, and even breaching the surface — moments that showcase their size and grace. The riding style of the boat allows for close-up views, often better than from larger vessels.
The Different Whale Species You Might Spot
The waters off Skjervøy are home to a variety of whale species, and the tour aims to bring guests close to sperm whales, orcas, humpback whales, and fin whales. While sightings are not guaranteed, the season and weather conditions can influence success. The expert crew does their best to find these giants, and when successful, you’ll see orcas, known for their grace and intelligence, fin whales with their impressive size, humpback whales with their acrobatic breaches, and sperm whales often seen further out in the deep waters.
In particular, when orcas are spotted, there may be feeding sessions where you can observe their beauty and skill up close. The diversity of species increases the chance of a memorable encounter, making this tour a solid choice for wildlife enthusiasts.
Physical Requirements and What to Bring
Participants should dress warmly, as Arctic Norway can be cold, even in winter. Thermal suits, mittens, and goggles are provided, but bringing additional warm clothing is recommended. The ride can be bumpy, so good balance and comfort are helpful, and the tour is not suitable for children under 6, or for individuals with back problems or who are shorter than 3 ft 9 in.
The tour does not include food or drinks, so it’s advisable to bring water or snacks if desired. Since weather can change rapidly, check the forecast before heading out, and be prepared for cold, windy conditions.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Experience of the Crew and Guide
The small group size enables more personalized attention from the guide. The crew is known for explaining whale behaviour and ecology, adding educational value to the trip. The guide’s friendliness and knowledge make the experience more engaging, especially when whales are active and visible.
According to reviews, the guides’ enthusiasm and care for guests are notable highlights, making the trip both informative and enjoyable. The peaceful ride across the water and up-close whale encounters are often praised as the best parts of this tour.
Weather and Sighting Success
While the trip is designed for whale sightings, it is important to remember that whales are wild animals, and sightings cannot be guaranteed. Bad weather or rough seas can limit visibility and the overall experience. The tour providers prioritize safety and may cancel or reschedule if conditions are unsafe, with a full refund available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.
Travelers should manage expectations and be prepared for possible no-sighting days, especially during winter months when whale activity may vary.
Comparing This Tour to Other Arctic Whale-Watching Experiences
This RIB boat tour stands out for its speed and agility, allowing for closer, faster navigation to whale hotspots compared to larger vessels. The small group size means more personalized attention and better chances of seeing whales up close.
Other similar experiences, such as whale-watching with a heated boat or self-transfer options, may offer different comfort levels, but this tour’s speed and expert guidance can lead to more dynamic sightings. The cost of $235 reflects the quality of equipment, expert guides, and intimate group size.
Booking and Flexibility
The tour offers flexible booking options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure. Travelers can reserve now and pay later, allowing for adaptability in planning. The timing of departures varies, so checking availability for specific dates is recommended.
Since the tour lasts 3 hours, it fits well into a day’s schedule and allows for ample time to enjoy the sea and wildlife without feeling rushed.
Skjervøy Whale-Watching by RIB Boat: Final Thoughts
This whale-watching tour from Skjervøy offers a fast-paced and intimate experience with some of the most magnificent marine mammals in the Arctic. The $235 price covers high-quality safety gear, expert guidance, and the thrill of seeing whales in their natural environment.
While weather conditions can influence the success of sightings, the small group size and speed of the RIB boat maximize the chances of close encounters with orcas, humpbacks, fin whales, and sperm whales. The friendly crew and educational insights add value, making this tour ideal for adventurers and wildlife lovers.
If you’re prepared for cold weather and bumpy waters, this tour can deliver memorable moments amid Norway’s stunning Arctic scenery.
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Skjervøy: Whale and Orca Watching Tour by RIB Boat
“The guide was so nice we loved her ! She tells us about her culture, and how the animals we met lives here. The ride was so peaceful we loved it ! …”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duration of the whale-watching tour?
The tour lasts 3 hours in total.
Where does the tour start?
It begins at Strandveien 70 in Skjervøy.
What is included in the price?
The price includes thermal suits, mittens, goggles, safety equipment, and transportation by RIB boat with a guide.
Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included and should be brought along if needed.
What species of whales might I see?
The tour aims to spot sperm whales, orcas, humpback whales, and fin whales.
Is the tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 6 years or for those with back problems.
What should I wear?
Warm clothing is essential, and thermal suits are provided.
Can I cancel if weather conditions are bad?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours before departure.
How many participants are on this tour?
The experience is limited to 2 participants, ensuring a small, personalized group.
Is whale sighting guaranteed?
No, sightings cannot be guaranteed due to the wild nature of whales and weather variability.
How do I find the meeting point?
Look for the red door next to Elon at Strandveien 70, with a black flag bearing the tour company’s logo.
