Winter Whale Safari from Skjervoy
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Unlike Tromsø’s full-day whale safaris, this tour takes you straight to Skjervøy, where orcas and humpbacks gather just minutes from the harbour. With less sailing and more time whale watching, it’s a short, powerful Arctic adventure. Guests already in Skjervøy can join the Boat Only option directly at the harbour, while those in Tromsø can choose the Bus + Boat package, which includes a scenic transfer on a modern Best Arctic coach with Wi-Fi, USB charging, toilets, and panoramic windows. Onboard the historic RS 78 Hagbart Waage, a former Norwegian rescue vessel, you’ll enjoy comfort and authenticity — a heated indoor lounge, outdoor decks, and free hot drinks. Our expert guides share insights about whales and the Arctic ecosystem, and with our Whale Pass, if no whales are seen you can rebook another tour free of charge within 12 months.
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Easily reachable by the Best Arctic Bus from Tromsø (optional add-on when booking) or by Hurtigruten coastal ferry.
Warm, layered clothing is essential as much of the experience takes place outdoors.
Tours are weather-dependent and may be canceled due to rough seas for safety.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Experienced in-person guide
WiFi on board
Safety equipment (life jackets, safety briefing)
Heated indoor lounge with panoramic views
Restroom on board
Coffee and/or Tea
We recommend bringing a packed lunch or extra snacks for the day
Warm clothing (please dress in layers suitable for Arctic conditions)
Seasickness medication (please bring your own if you know you get seasick)
What To Expect
Skjervoy
Step aboard the historic RS Hagbart Waage in Skjervøy Harbour and set sail into the Arctic fjords. From the very first moments, you’ll be surrounded by towering snowy peaks and the crisp beauty of Norway’s winter coast.
Skjervoy
Whale Watching Grounds - Enter the heart of Kvænangen Fjord, one of the best whale feeding grounds in the Arctic. Here, powerful orcas hunt in family pods and humpback whales rise dramatically from the deep. Seabirds circle overhead while our guides share stories of this wild ecosystem.
Options
Tromsø Bus + Whale Safari
Scenic Bus from Tromsø: Round-trip coach journey on a modern Best Arctic bus with Wi-Fi, USB charging, toilets, and panoramic windows.
Duration: 10 hours: Full-Day Arctic Experience includes 8 hours of bus travel and a 2–3 hour whale safari aboard RS 78 Hagbart Waage in Skjervøy.
Tromsø → Skjervøy → Tromsø: Morning bus from Tromsø, 2–3 hour whale safari in Skjervøy, then return bus to Tromsø in the afternoon.
Bus & Boat Combo: Travel by Best Arctic coach from Tromsø to Skjervøy, then board RS Hagbart Waage for a 2–3 hour whale safari.
Hassle-Free Arctic Adventure: The easiest way to see whales in Skjervøy from Tromsø — transport and safari in one hassle-free package.
Starting point:
Prostneset Bus, Boat & Hurtigruten Terminal, Samuel Arnesens gate 5, 9008 Tromsø, Norway
Winter Whale Safari from Skjervøy
Whale Safari in Skjervøy: A 2–3 hour Arctic whale watching tour aboard RS 78 Hagbart Waage, with chances to see orcas, humpback whales, and seabirds.
Duration: 2 hours: Approx. 2–3 hours — direct whale watching from Skjervøy Harbour with less sailing and more whale time.
Hot Drinks & Snacks: Enjoy complimentary coffee, tea, and biscuits served onboard.
Skjervøy–Fjords–Skjervøy: Depart Skjervøy Harbour, explore nearby whale feeding grounds, and return to Skjervøy.
RS 78 Hagbart Waage: a safe and authentic Norwegian rescue vessel with heated lounge, toilets, and outdoor decks.
Direct from Skjervøy: Best for travelers already in Skjervøy — a short, direct, and unforgettable whale watching adventure.
Starting point:
Skjervøy kystrutekai, Skjervøy municipality, Norway
Related Experiences
Operated by Arctic Whale Tours AS