Shared Speedboat Tour of Trollfjorden Norway from Sortland

If you’re planning a trip to Norway and want to see the Arctic’s wild beauty in a way that feels both exciting and manageable, a shared speedboat tour of Trollfjorden might just be perfect. While I haven’t done this particular trip myself, the reviews, details, and overall vibe suggest it’s a solid choice for travelers looking for a quick but impactful adventure.

What immediately catches your attention is the stunning scenery—think towering mountain walls and narrow fjord passages that look like they’re straight out of a fairy tale. Plus, the chance to see majestic sea eagles in their natural habitat, especially with guides actively calling and feeding fish to attract them, seems like a highlight. On the flip side, it’s a relatively short trip, so if you’re craving a deep dive into the region’s history or wildlife, you might want to supplement with other activities. Overall, it’s well-suited for those who enjoy nature, quick adventures, and engaging guides—and it’s accessible to families with kids 8 and up.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery in Trollfjorden with steep mountains and narrow passages
• Wildlife spotting, especially sea eagles, is a major plus
• Guides are knowledgeable, adding context and fun to the experience
• Short duration (about 2.5 hours) makes it easy to fit into a busy schedule
• Price point offers good value for a scenic, guided boat trip
• Not suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems due to the nature of the RIB boat

What Is the Shared Speedboat Tour of Trollfjorden?

This tour is a roughly 2.5-hour adventure that whisks you through the Arctic archipelago’s breathtaking landscape. It’s operated by Vesteralen Adventures and departs from Sortland, with options to start from Kvitnes Gård or Stokmarknes upon request. The experience uses a high-speed Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB)—that’s the kind of boat designed for speed and agility—making the journey both exciting and smooth when conditions are good.

What makes this trip stand out is the blend of adventure and education. You’ll cruise through the historic Raftsundet strait, an area rich in natural beauty and history, then stop at Trollfjorden itself. Here, your guides actively call for sea eagles and throw out fish, which is a charming way to see these impressive birds in action. The guides are described as knowledgeable, adding layers of storytelling about the region’s wildlife and past, which elevates the trip from just a boat ride to an engaging experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Trollfjorden

The main event is the Trollfjord itself, a narrow, steep-walled inlet that feels like stepping into a fantasy landscape. During the visit, you’ll enjoy the view and the thrill of being surrounded by towering mountains and shimmering water. The highlight? Watching for sea eagles soaring above as guides call out and toss fish to tempt the birds downward.

One reviewer notes, “It was a brilliant tour, with knowledgeable guides. We were able to see up to 8 eagles at once.” That’s a clear indication that wildlife sightings are a genuine possibility, not just a hopeful add-on. The guides’ active involvement makes a difference, as they seem to know exactly where and when to look for wildlife, enhancing your chances of a memorable sighting.

The Strait: Raftsundet

The trip also covers the Raftsundet strait, which is steeped in history and natural grandeur. While the main focus is Trollfjorden, cruising through this historic strait adds depth to the experience, giving you a sense of Norway’s maritime past.

Duration and Flow

The entire journey lasts between 2 to 3 hours, with most of that time spent cruising and focusing on wildlife and scenery. It’s a manageable length that allows you to enjoy the landscape without feeling rushed, though it’s enough time to get a good taste of the area’s natural beauty.

What to Expect on the Boat

The boat is a speedy RIB, which offers a thrilling ride but also requires guests to wear safety gear, provided by the tour. It’s important to note that due to the boat’s design, the experience isn’t suited for those with back problems or pregnant women. The ride is fairly exposed, meaning you’ll feel the wind and spray, adding to the adventure.

Comfort and safety are clearly priorities, with the guides ensuring everyone is properly equipped and briefed. The boats handle well in good weather, but since the tour is weather-dependent, poor weather can lead to cancellations or rescheduling.

Wildlife and Nature Encounters

The wildlife is a genuine draw. Sea eagles are the stars, and according to reviews, sighting multiple eagles at once is common. The guides’ practice of throwing fish to attract the eagles adds an interactive element that makes the wildlife viewing more engaging.

Beyond eagles, you might enjoy the scenery of steep mountains, narrow passages, and the possibility of spotting other seabirds or marine life, though specific sightings aren’t guaranteed. The experience’s emphasis on natural beauty and wildlife makes it a hit among nature lovers.

The Value and Price

At around $154 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest Norway activity, but considering what’s included—a guided RIB trip, safety gear, and the chance to see eagles and Trollfjorden’s breathtaking scenery—it feels like a fair deal. Guided tours often come at a premium, but the small group size (max 36 travelers) and expert guiding help justify the expense.

It’s worth noting that the tour is non-refundable, so if weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. This policy reflects the importance of good weather for safety and comfort.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits adventure-minded travelers who enjoy wildlife and scenic landscapes. It’s especially good for those with children 8 and up, provided they’re comfortable on a boat and can handle the outdoor elements. If you’re after a relaxing fjord cruise, this might be a bit too lively, but if fun, wildlife, and scenery are your priorities, you’ll likely find it worthwhile.

Final Thoughts

The shared speedboat trip to Trollfjorden offers a compact but memorable taste of Norway’s Arctic scenery. The guides’ expertise and active wildlife calling make the experience more than just a boat ride; it’s an interactive journey into the natural wonders of Vesterålen. While it’s not suited for everyone—particularly those with mobility issues or pregnant women—the adventure is well worth considering if you’re after a quick, scenic, wildlife-rich outing.

The scenery is stunning, the guides are knowledgeable, and the chance to see multiple eagles soaring above the fjord adds a special touch. It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting a taste of Norway’s wild side without committing to a longer or more complex tour.

If you’re visiting Sortland and crave a quick dose of Arctic adventure, this trip could be just the ticket. Just keep an eye on the weather and be prepared for an exhilarating ride that leaves you with incredible memories of Norway’s rugged beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for children aged 8 and older, especially if they’re comfortable on boats and enjoy outdoor adventures. Always supervise children during the trip.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts about 2 to 3 hours, making it a manageable outing that fits well into a day of sightseeing or other activities.

What should I wear or bring?
While the tour provides safety gear, dress warmly and in layers, especially if the weather is chilly or windy. Bringing a waterproof jacket and secure footwear is a good idea.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What wildlife might I see?
Sea eagles are the main attraction, with the chance to see up to 8 at once. Guides actively call for eagles and toss fish to attract them.

Is the tour environmentally friendly?
The description doesn’t specify, but groups like this typically follow responsible wildlife viewing guidelines. It’s best to respect the natural environment during your trip.

What is the price for this tour?
It’s approximately $153.98 per person, which reflects the guided experience, safety gear, and wildlife encounters.

If you’re after a quick, scenic, wildlife-filled adventure in Norway’s Arctic waters, this Trollfjorden tour offers plenty of memorable moments. Just remember to pack your sense of adventure and a camera!