Tromso is a standout destination for canoe and kayak experiences thanks to its dramatic Arctic scenery, crystal-clear waters, and abundant wildlife. Whether you’re paddling through fjords blanketed in snow or exploring the midnight sun’s glow, Tromso offers a variety of opportunities that make paddling in Norway unforgettable. For those seeking a winter adventure, the Winter Sea Kayaking Tour with wildlife sightings is a favorite, combining Arctic paddling with close encounters with seals and eagles. Meanwhile, the Midnight Sun Sea Kayaking Tour lets you experience the surreal phenomenon of the midnight sun while exploring peaceful islands and beaches. If wildlife watching is your priority, the Seal Watching Winter Kayaking Tour is an ideal choice for intimate moments with Arctic seals and soaring sea eagles.
The list below features four outstanding canoe and kayak tours in Tromso, each offering something different—from winter wildlife encounters to summer midnight sun adventures. Whether you’re after a guided experience, flexible timing, or scenic exploration, there’s a perfect trip waiting.
1. Tromsø: Winter Sea Kayaking Tour with Wildlife Sightings
This 5-hour guided tour invites you to paddle through the icy waters of the Arctic while marveling at snow-covered mountains and spotting wildlife like seals and sea eagles. For just $197 per person, you get full instruction, safety gear, and transfer options either from Tromsø or the Sommarøy Arctic Hotel. The tour is designed for beginners—no experience necessary—so even first-timers can enjoy paddling in this stunning winter landscape.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of Arctic paddling with wildlife encounters in their natural habitat. You’ll glide past fjords and islands, feeling the crisp winter air while keeping a lookout for seals lounging on ice floes and sea eagles circling overhead. After your paddle, relax at basecamp with hot drinks and snacks around a fire, sharing stories of your Arctic adventure. The tour’s flexibility and friendly guides make it especially suitable for travelers wanting an immersive, wildlife-focused experience in winter.
Bottom Line: This tour offers an elegant mix of beginner-friendly paddling, wildlife watching, and winter scenery, all wrapped in a cozy post-paddle experience.
2. From Tromsø: Sea Kayaking Tour at Sommarøy
Discover Norway’s stunning coast on this 6-hour sea kayaking tour around the Sommarøy archipelago. For around $150 (price varies), you’ll explore crystal-clear waters, sheltered sounds, and white sandy beaches that look like they belong in a postcard. The tour is guided by a certified local guide, ensuring safety and local insights throughout.
The highlight here is paddling amidst some of Norway’s most scenic islands, where the calm waters and pristine beaches invite explorers to relax and soak in the scenery. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to see marine seabirds and other coastal species close-up, making this tour particularly attractive for nature lovers. The tour’s relaxed pace and intimate group size make it ideal for those wanting a peaceful day on the water, without the crowds.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those looking to combine wildlife spotting with tranquil paddling in a stunning coastal setting, with the added bonus of a knowledgeable guide.
3. Tromsø: Easy Winter Kayaking Tour with Seal Watching
This 5-hour tour offers a gentle introduction to Arctic kayaking, focusing on seal watching and winter scenery. Starting from Tromsø, the tour includes transport, with a sequence of stops that make the experience accessible and flexible. The guide, Jenni, with her 25 years of birding experience, is known for her engaging stories and careful instructions, making you feel safe and comfortable.
During the trip, you’ll paddle through crystal-clear waters with snowy mountains as your backdrop, following seals, sea eagles, and long-tailed ducks. The guide teaches you how to kayak safely and stay warm during the cold months, making this a great choice for beginners or those cautious about winter conditions. Reviewers praise Jenni’s friendliness and her ability to make everyone feel included, with some calling it their favorite moment in Tromso.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of relaxation, wildlife watching, and education in a winter setting. The tour ends at Myrset, where you can reflect on your Arctic encounter.
Bottom Line: Ideal for newcomers and wildlife lovers wanting a guided, cozy experience in Tromsø’s winter landscape.
4. From Tromsø: Sommarøy Midnight Sun Sea Kayaking Tour
For those visiting during the summer months, this 7-hour tour brings the magic of the midnight sun into focus. Paddling through the archipelagos of Sommarøy, you’ll enjoy extended daylight hours—up to 24 hours of sunshine—while exploring small islands and white sandy beaches. The tour includes transportation from Tromsø, making logistics straightforward.
What makes this trip special is the chance to see seabirds, sea eagles, seals, otters, and even porpoises, all bathed in the surreal glow of the midnight sun. Kayaking here isn’t just about paddling; it’s about experiencing the unique atmosphere of the Arctic summer. You can go ashore on uninhabited islands to explore and take photos of this peaceful, sunlit world.
Perfect for adventurous summer travelers, the tour’s laid-back pace and stunning scenery create a memorable contrast to the Arctic winter experiences. Plus, the long daylight hours mean you can pack a full day of exploration into one trip.
Bottom Line: A fantastic summer option for those wanting to experience the midnight sun and Arctic marine life in a relaxed, scenic setting.
How to Choose the Best Canoe & Kayak Experience in Tromso
When selecting the right tour, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Winter Sea Kayaking Tour with Wildlife Sightings offers the best chance to see seals and eagles in winter. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic paddle and love quiet beaches, the Sea Kayaking Tour at Sommarøy is ideal.
For beginners or those cautious about cold weather, the Easy Winter Kayaking Tour with Seal Watching provides a safe, guided introduction with excellent wildlife opportunities. Summer travelers should not miss the Midnight Sun Sea Kayaking Tour, which combines extended daylight with breathtaking island scenery.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season (winter wildlife viewing and summer midnight sun). Think about your activity level, whether you prefer a tranquil day or an active wildlife encounter, and choose accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Tromso offers a rich variety of canoe and kayak experiences—from winter wildlife safaris to summer midnight sun paddling. For those seeking a wildlife-focused adventure, the Winter Sea Kayaking Tour tops the list. If you prefer peaceful coastal paddling, the Sommarøy tour provides scenic beauty and wildlife in a relaxed setting. And for summer travelers, the Midnight Sun trip delivers unique Arctic daylight magic.
No matter which you pick, these tours provide a front-row seat to the extraordinary natural beauty of Tromso. Book early, prepare for the conditions, and enjoy paddling in one of the world’s most spectacular Arctic landscapes.