If you’re looking for an adventure that combines adrenaline, breathtaking scenery, and a touch of wildlife magic, the Trollfjord RIB Boat Tour in Sortland might just be your next highlight. While we haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, the overall buzz and positive reviews suggest it’s a solid pick for travelers craving a quick but memorable coastal experience.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the thrill of high-speed RIB boat riding through Norway’s waters offers an exhilarating way to see the fjord. Second, the chance to spot Norway’s majestic sea eagles in their natural habitat adds a special wildlife touch. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the weather-dependent nature of the experience, which can impact comfort and visibility.
This tour is best suited for those who enjoy quick, lively excursions and are comfortable on boats. If you’re after a scenic, active outing that doesn’t demand a full day but still delivers plenty of wow moments, it might be just what you’re after.
Key Points
- Fast-paced adventure with a RIB boat ride that appeals to thrill-seekers.
- Spectacular scenery of the steep mountains and narrow fjord passages.
- Wildlife viewing opportunities, especially for sea eagles.
- Comfort and safety are prioritized with proper gear and modern boats.
- Duration and value make it a good short activity for your Norway itinerary.
- Weather considerations could affect your experience, so dress accordingly.
An Overview of the Trollfjord RIB Boat Tour Experience
This three-hour trip begins in Sortland, a charming town known as “the blue city,” which acts as the perfect jumping-off point for exploring the surrounding fjords. The tour takes you through the Raftsundet strait—a stretch famous for its dramatic cliffs and narrow passageways—before arriving at the Trollfjord, a tiny, fairy-tale-like inlet only 2 km long and as narrow as 100 meters at its tightest point.
The highlight? The speed and agility of the RIB boat. These boats are designed for safety and performance—lightweight, sturdy, and capable of handling rougher seas—making them ideal for navigating Norway’s often unpredictable waters. Expect a high-energy ride that gets your adrenaline pumping while providing excellent views of the jagged mountain walls that surround the fjord.
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What’s Included and What to Prepare For
You’ll be provided with full safety equipment—including a life suit, life jacket, goggles, and warm gloves—ensuring you’re prepared for the brisk Norwegian air and waves. Keep in mind, food and drinks are not included, so bring snacks if you’re hungry or have specific dietary needs.
Meeting and Departure Details
The meeting point is conveniently located at the Scandic Sortland hotel. The tour typically lasts around 2.5 hours of boat time, with additional time for safety briefings, sightseeing, and photo stops. The guides are fluent in English and Norwegian, making the commentary both informative and accessible.
What You Can Expect on the Trip
Once aboard, the adventure kicks off with a safety briefing. Then, you’ll set off into the strait, where you can marvel at the towering mountain cliffs and narrow, winding passages that feel straight out of a fairytale. The ride itself is fast-paced but manageable for most, thanks to the RIB’s design, which is built to withstand the often-steep sea conditions.
One of the tour’s most treasured moments is the chance to see the sea eagles soaring overhead. These impressive birds, with wingspan reaching up to 2.5 meters, are Norway’s largest bird of prey and protected species. Observing them gliding effortlessly above the fjord offers a moment of awe and connection with nature.
The fjords’ narrow, dramatic landscape is another highlight. The steep mountain walls, jagged peaks, and quiet, almost mystical atmosphere make you feel like you’re in a hidden corner of the world. While the trip is fast, the scenery is so striking that you’ll want to keep your camera ready.
More Great Tours NearbyAuthentic Feedback from Travelers
Reviewers frequently describe the experience as “good value for money”, emphasizing the thrill of the ride combined with scenic beauty. One mentioned, “We loved the way the boat sped through the strait and how close we got to the cliffs.” Others appreciated the wildlife sightings, noting the eagle viewings as a memorable part of the trip.
Some travelers did mention that weather can be a factor—riding in colder, windier conditions can make the experience less comfortable, especially if you aren’t dressed warmly. Therefore, dressing in warm layers, hat, gloves, and sturdy shoes is highly recommended.
The Itinerary in Detail
Start at Havnegata 3 in Sortland. This location makes for easy access and a quick start to your adventure. Once aboard, you’ll head through the Raftsundet strait, which is known for its dramatic landscape. The guides often include commentary about the area’s geology and history, making the journey both visually and intellectually engaging.
During the scenic drive, there are opportunities for photo stops and sightseeing. The narrowness of the fjord and the towering cliffs create an almost otherworldly ambiance, which makes for stunning photographs and memorable moments.
Arriving at the Trollfjord, you get a chance to observe the natural surroundings up close—a feat made more exciting by the boat’s speed and agility. Returning to Sortland, you’ll reflect on the adventure and the breathtaking views seen along the way.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This RIB boat trip is perfect for adventure lovers who want a quick, high-energy experience that combines scenery and wildlife. It’s suited for those over 8 years old who are comfortable on boats, as younger children or those with back problems might find the ride less enjoyable.
If you’re someone who enjoys wildlife watching or photographic opportunities, this trip offers plenty of both. The wild nature of the fjord and the soaring sea eagles make it a memorable outing.
However, if you’re sensitive to cold or weather-dependent activities, be prepared for possible changes or less comfortable conditions. This tour is less ideal for pregnant women or people with certain health conditions due to the speed and nature of the ride.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?
In terms of value, this tour hits the sweet spot for many travelers. For around $167, you get an action-packed, scenic adventure that’s just long enough to satisfy your curiosity without demanding a full day. The modern RIB boats and safety gear ensure a safe experience, while the opportunity to see Norwegian sea eagles in their natural habitat adds a special wildlife dimension.
If you’re after a fun, fast-paced way to see Norway’s stunning fjords, and you’re comfortable with some wind and water, this tour offers a lot for the price. It’s a great choice for those who want the thrill of a boat ride combined with impressive scenery, especially if you’re short on time but still want a memorable Norwegian experience.
In short, this trip delivers good value, memorable vistas, and a dose of adventure—all set in one of Norway’s most beautiful coastal areas.
Sortland: Trollfjord RIB Boat Tour
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for children over 8 years old, provided they are comfortable on boats and accompanied by a responsible adult.
What should I wear?
Dress warmly with layers, including a hat, gloves, and warm shoes. Weather can be chilly and windy, even in summer.
Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the trip’s comfort and visibility can be affected by weather conditions. It’s best to check the forecast and dress accordingly.
Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks if needed.
What safety equipment is provided?
You’ll get a life suit (sizes from 8 years up to 4XL), a life jacket, goggles, and warm gloves.
How long is the actual RIB boat ride?
The boat ride itself lasts about 2.5 hours, with additional time for safety briefings and sightseeing.
Can I organize departures from other locations?
Yes, departures from Kvitnes Gård or Stokmarknes can be arranged upon request.
Is this experience good value?
Based on reviews, many travelers feel it offers good value for money considering the thrill, scenery, and wildlife sightings included.
If you’re craving a swift but exciting peek into Norway’s coastal wilderness, the Trollfjord RIB Boat Tour offers a lively, scenic, and wildlife-rich adventure that’s well worth considering. Just remember to dress warmly, hold onto your camera, and prepare for an adrenaline rush amid some of Norway’s most striking landscapes.
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