If you’re heading to Northern Norway during the winter months, a whale safari by RIB boat might just be one of the most memorable adventures you can have. We haven’t done this particular trip ourselves, but after examining visitor reviews and the details, it’s clear that it offers a truly immersive look into the Arctic’s incredible marine life—and an adrenaline rush to boot.
What immediately catches your eye is the promise of getting up close with whales like orcas, humpbacks, and fin whales—something that’s truly special, especially when viewing from a small, fast RIB boat. The second highlight? The chance to witness the spectacular Arctic fjords in a way that larger boats can’t quite match, with more agility and intimacy.
However, a key point to consider is that this is not your typical whale-watching cruise. It’s an adventure that involves speed, open-air excitement, and braving cold conditions. It’s not ideal for everyone—particularly those with mobility issues, very young children, or pregnant women—so it’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with cold weather and a bit of a thrill.
This tour appeals most to those who want a personal, respectful wildlife encounter and are eager to experience the Arctic environment in an active way. If you’re after a peaceful, stationary boat ride, or traveling with very young kids, it’s worth exploring other options. For anyone craving close-up wildlife moments, this trip is hard to beat.
Key Points
- Close encounters with whales like orcas, humpbacks, and fin whales
- Small group size (limited to 12 participants) for a more intimate experience
- Speedy RIB boat provides a more personal and dynamic wildlife viewing opportunity
- Flexible options: with or without transfer from Tromsø
- Weather and gear: prepared to dress very warmly and bring layers
- Respect for wildlife: guides prioritize animal welfare and natural behaviors
- Longer trips (up to 12 hours) available, making it suitable for those wanting a full Arctic day
- Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, excellent organization, and high likelihood of sightings
An In-depth Look at the Whale Safari Experience
Planning more time in Skjervoy? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Starting Point and Logistics
The journey begins either from Tromsø or Skjervøy. If you opt for the Tromsø transfer, you’re in for a scenic four-hour bus ride that takes you through Norway’s icy landscapes to the small island of Skjervøy. Once there, it’s all about gearing up, listening to a safety briefing, and heading out on the water.
Alternatively, if you’re staying in Skjervøy or have your own transport, you can skip the bus and meet directly at the harbor. This flexibility is nice, especially if you prefer a more relaxed morning or are exploring the area independently.
The Itinerary and What to Expect
The trip is structured around the whale sightings and the Arctic environment. Starting at either a bus terminal or harbor, you’ll settle into the safety briefing, which lasts around 30 minutes. Here, your experienced skipper will provide instructions and ensure you’re dressed appropriately—think multiple warm layers, hat, gloves, and scarf.
Once on the boat, the adventure begins. The RIB boat, with capacity for 12, offers something different from larger whale-watching vessels: speed and agility. You’ll be racing through the fjords, feeling the wind and spray, which amplifies the sense of adventure and closeness to nature.
The whale-watching segment lasts about three hours, giving ample time to scan the waters for signs of activity. This is when your guides’ expertise really shines—they’re skilled at locating the whales, but since these are wild animals, sightings are never guaranteed. Many reviews echo this reality, but most report seeing numerous whales, including orcas and humpbacks.
The Wildlife and Scenery
The Arctic seas are teeming with life during herring migration season (October to January). The sight of whales feeding, breaching, or simply cruising is breathtaking. Several reviews highlight how close and vivid the encounters can be, with some guides even allowing you to listen to whale sounds via underwater microphones, adding another layer of connection.
Beyond the whales, you’ll love the stunning scenery. The fjords are rugged, quiet, and imbued with a peaceful, icy beauty. It’s easy to get caught up in the moment, snapping photos of whales and mountains or just soaking in the wild, raw environment.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Return and Warm-up
Back onshore, after a chilly but exhilarating sea trip, you’ll be treated to hot drinks, snacks, and a moment to warm up before heading back to Tromsø. Many reviews mention the thoughtful touches—hot chocolate, sandwiches, and the friendly attitude of guides—that make the experience feel personal and caring.
The Real Value
While this tour isn’t cheap, many travelers consider it a strong value due to the small group size, expert guiding, and the rare opportunity to be so close to wild marine mammals. The emphasis on respecting the whales’ space and natural behavior is also notable, aligning with eco-conscious travel values.
The Reviews Speak
People consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, like Lad and Kat, who are described as passionate and dedicated. The small group size means you’ll never feel lost or rushed, and the ability to hear whale sounds and observe behaviors up close makes the experience uniquely immersive.
The adventurous ride does come with some caveats: it’s open to the elements, so dressing warmly is essential, and the boat travels quickly, which can be uncomfortable if you’re sensitive to motion or prone to seasickness. Still, many state that the thrill and proximity more than make up for it.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This whale safari suits travelers who are comfortable outdoors and in cold weather, seeking a personalized, wildlife-focused experience. It’s ideal for those who value respectful wildlife observation and are eager to feel the Arctic’s wild spirit firsthand. It’s less suited for very young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues due to the nature of the boat and exposure to weather.
Final Thoughts
This RIB whale safari from Tromsø or Skjervøy offers more than just whale watching; it’s an active, immersive encounter with Norway’s Arctic marine environment. With knowledgeable guides, small group intimacy, and the thrill of speed on a small boat, you’re likely to leave with unforgettable memories of whales breaching nearby and fjord landscapes stretching in every direction.
If your goal is to go beyond the typical tourist experience and witness nature in its raw, unfiltered form, this trip deserves a spot on your Norway bucket list. Just be sure to bundle up and embrace the adventure—this is one of those trips that totally redefines what whale watching can be.
From Tromsø or Skjervøy: Whale Safari by RIB Boat
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 12 years old, as the high speed and open boat environment can be challenging for younger kids and some adults. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with cold weather and outdoor activity.
What should I bring?
Dress very warmly, with multiple layers, hat, gloves, and scarf. Waterproof gear is provided, but bring a waterproof bag for your essentials to stay dry.
Can I book without transfer from Tromsø?
Yes, you can meet directly in Skjervøy if you have your own transportation or are staying nearby. Just check your booking details for the exact meeting point.
How long does the trip last?
Depending on the option, the full experience can be between 4 and 12 hours. The whale-watching segment itself is approximately three hours.
What if I don’t see any whales?
While guides will do their best to find whales, sightings are not guaranteed because these are wild animals. Reviews suggest that most trips do see whales, but patience is necessary.
Is the boat comfortable?
The boat is an open RIB designed for speed and agility. It’s not enclosed, so dress accordingly, and expect some spray and wind during the ride.
Are meals included?
Snacks and hot drinks are provided after the trip at shore, but it’s a good idea to bring your own snacks and water for the journey.
What about the group size?
Limited to 12 participants, which helps ensure personalized attention and a quieter, more focused wildlife experience.
Can I hear the whales?
Yes, guides sometimes use underwater microphones to let you listen to whale sounds, adding a special dimension to the experience.
Is this trip eco-friendly?
Guides prioritize the welfare of the whales, ensuring they’re not chased or disturbed, making it a responsible way to enjoy Arctic wildlife.
This whale safari by RIB boat balances adventure, wildlife observation, and respect for nature—making it a worthwhile choice for those seeking an authentic Arctic experience.
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