The VIP North cape tour (Honningsvåg – Skarsvåg – the North cape)

The VIP North Cape tour offers a memorable journey into the Arctic wilderness of Norway for a price of $181. With a duration of approximately 5 hours, this tour is designed for small groups, capped at 15 travelers, providing an intimate experience of the region’s most iconic sights. Starting from Honningsvåg, the tour takes you through rugged landscapes, colorful fishing villages, and to the legendary North Cape, the northernmost point of Europe. The tour includes stops at Skarsvåg, the world’s northernmost fishing village, with opportunities to observe reindeer, learn about Sami culture, and see king crabs up close.

What sets this tour apart is the focus on a personalized, small-group experience, guided by knowledgeable staff who lead you through the region’s highlights with care. Notable for the scenic drive, cultural insights, and special inclusions like seasonal Arctic delicacies and a certificate of your visit, it appeals most to travelers seeking an authentic Arctic adventure. Despite some brief stops, the tour keeps a good pace, ensuring you see a lot in a compact timeframe.

Key Points

• Small-group VIP experience with a maximum of 15 participants ensures personalized attention
• Includes all entrance tickets, such as North Cape, museum, and movie center
• Scenic drive through the Arctic landscape with stops for photos and reindeer observation
• Visit to Skarsvåg, the northernmost fishing village, with colorful homes and fishing boats
• Opportunity to meet and hold king crab, plus tasting local Arctic cuisine like reindeer, salmon, and king crab
• Certificate and sparkling wine toast at the North Cape mark the completion of your journey

The VIP Experience Begins at Honningsvåg

The tour departs from the Honningsvåg Tourist Information, located at Fiskeriveien 4d. It offers the convenience of pickup, making it simple to start your Arctic adventure without hassle. The tour is designed for a small group, with a cap of 15 travelers, ensuring a comfortable journey that avoids the crowds common on larger bus tours.

Once onboard an air-conditioned vehicle, the adventure begins with a scenic drive through frozen fjords, mountain passes, and Arctic landscapes. The experience aims to showcase the region’s raw beauty, with frequent stops for photographs and wildlife observations, including reindeer and birdlife.

The timing and pacing are well-managed, with about two hours dedicated to the stops at Skarsvåg and the North Cape, giving ample time to explore and learn without feeling rushed. The drop-off location is usually back in Honningsvåg, but arrangements can be made for alternative drop-off points.

Exploring Skarsvåg, the Northernmost Fishing Village

The tour’s first major stop is Skarsvåg, the northernmost fishing village in the world, with a population of just around 40 residents. Here, the vibrant colorful houses contrast beautifully against the blue ocean and mountain vistas. The guide leads you on a walk through the village, where you can admire the traditional fishing boats and perhaps catch a glimpse of fishermen delivering their catch of the day.

In Skarsvåg, you visit the fishing factory and see centuries-old fishing equipment, providing a glimpse into the region’s fishing heritage. An outdoor aquarium allows you to hold a king crab, an experience that often becomes a highlight. You also have the chance to taste Nordic tapas in the Laavu tent, including seasonal seafood and reindeer meat, offering a true taste of local flavors.

The stop includes a photo opportunity with the colorful village setting and panoramic mountain views, making it a favorite for photography enthusiasts. The scenic mountain pass that leads back to Honningsvåg showcases Norway’s rugged beauty, with opportunities for more pictures along the way.

The Iconic North Cape and the Globe Monument

The North Cape is the centerpiece of this tour, and the experience of reaching this legendary point is memorable. The drive up to the North Cape features impressive views over the Arctic Ocean, with the landscape dotted with frozen terrain and distant glaciers.

At the North Cape, visitors are greeted with a 360-degree viewpoint, offering sweeping sea vistas and cliffside scenery. The tour includes a visit to the North Cape Experience Centre, where you find a photo gallery of Frits Solvang and learn about the region’s fishing and exploration history with traditional artefacts.

A highlight is the visit to the North Cape Globe, the iconic monument symbolizing the end of the European continent. Guests receive a certificate confirming their visit and a glass of sparkling wine to toast the achievement, making this a meaningful moment. The scenic drive and photo stops at the Cape’s vantage points leave lasting impressions.

Interactive Experiences with King Crabs and Sami Culture

One of the tour’s standout features is the interactive outdoor aquarium, where you can hold a king crab, a creature renowned for its impressive size and spiny shell. The fish factory visit in Skarsvåg provides insight into local fishing practices and the region’s seafood industry.

The tour also offers a brief visit to a Sami shop, where you can learn about Sami culture and traditions. While some reviews note that the Sami visit is limited to a short stop, it still offers a glimpse into the indigenous people’s way of life, with opportunities to purchase local crafts.

The tour emphasizes local cuisine, serving warm drinks and seasonal Arctic delicacies like reindeer, salmon, and king crab. These tastings enhance the cultural experience and give an authentic flavor of the Arctic region.

Visiting the North Cape Experience Centre and Museum

The North Cape Experience Centre is included in the tour, offering an informative stop with a rich photo gallery, showcasing Frits Solvang’s photography of the Arctic. The center also displays traditional fishing artefacts, giving a tangible connection to the region’s fishing heritage.

Guests can explore the center’s exhibits at their leisure, gaining deeper insight into arctic life and exploration history. The museum entrance is part of the tour package, adding an educational element without extra costs.

Culinary Delights and Refreshments

The tour features seasonal Arctic delicacies, including king crab, reindeer, and salmon, served in a dedicated restaurant in Skarsvåg. These local dishes are paired with warm drinks and snacks, providing comfort after exploring the outdoor elements.

The tapas-style tasting offers a chance to sample fresh seafood and learn about Norwegian cuisine directly from local sources. The culinary experience enhances the overall value, making the tour not just scenic but also flavorful.

The Final Toast at the North Cape

The tour culminates with a toast of sparkling wine at the North Cape, celebrating your visit to Europe’s northernmost point. This moment, combined with the photo opportunities and certificate of visit, marks a memorable finish to a well-rounded Arctic adventure.

The drive back to Honningsvåg offers additional scenic views and allows reflection on the day’s highlights. The small group size ensures a relaxed pace, and the friendly guide makes sure everyone leaves with a good understanding of the region’s history and culture.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

The VIP North Cape tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate personalized service, local cuisine, and cultural insights. Its small-group format suits those seeking a more intimate experience compared to large bus excursions. The tour’s accessible stops and short duration make it suitable for most mobility levels, although some walking is involved.

While the visit to the Sami shop is brief, it still offers a meaningful look into Sami culture, perfect for those curious about indigenous traditions. The interactive king crab experience and scenic drive make this tour a well-balanced Arctic exploration, especially appealing during the summer solstice or other bright seasons when the landscape’s beauty is fully on display.

The Sum Up: A Thoughtful Arctic Adventure

The VIP North Cape tour from Honningsvåg offers a personalized, culturally rich experience with impressive scenery, delicious local food, and interactive activities. Its small group size creates an intimate atmosphere, and the inclusion of all tickets and a certificate adds value to the overall experience.

While the Sami visit is brief, the scenic drive, king crab encounter, and view of the North Cape make this a compelling choice for those eager to explore Norway’s northernmost reaches. The well-organized itinerary and friendly guides contribute to a smooth and memorable Arctic journey.

This tour particularly suits adventurers who enjoy cultural elements, food lovers, and photography enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive yet comfortable Arctic excursion. Considering its positive reviews and thoughtful inclusions, it remains a strong pick for travelers wanting a small-group, high-quality experience at the end of the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
The tour involves some walking at stops like Skarsvåg and the North Cape, but overall, it is accessible for most travelers. If you have specific mobility concerns, it’s best to contact the tour provider directly.

What is included in the tour price?
The price of $181 includes all entrance tickets (North Cape, museum, movie center), transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, snacks, and seasonal Arctic delicacies. A certificate and sparkling wine are also part of the experience.

Can I customize pickup and drop-off locations?
The default pickup is at Honningsvåg Tourist Information. However, arrangements for alternative pickup or drop-off points can be made by contacting the tour provider after booking.

How long is the tour and what is the pacing?
The tour lasts about 5 hours, with two main stops of approximately two hours each, plus additional time at the North Cape and for driving. The pacing is designed to be comfortable, with enough time to explore each location.

Are there any recommendations for the season to take this tour?
While the data does not specify seasons, the tour’s highlight – the North Cape – is best experienced during bright seasons like summer when the midnight sun offers unique lighting and visibility.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable clothing suited for the Arctic climate, camera, and perhaps binoculars for wildlife viewing are advisable. The tour provides warm drinks and local food samples.