Stavanger Private Safari and Fishings

Exploring Stavanger from the Water: A Deep Dive into the Private Safari & Fishings Experience

If you’re thinking about adding a maritime twist to your Stavanger visit, a private fishing and sightseeing tour aboard the historic RS56 Olav Ringdal Jr might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t tried it ourselves, this experience consistently earns top marks for its personalized approach, stunning views, and the chance to connect with Norway’s seafaring heritage in a relaxed, authentic way.

What we love about this tour is how it combines scenic beauty with hands-on fishing, all on a vessel with real character—built for rescue missions in the North Sea and now serving as a comfortable platform for visitors. Plus, it’s limited to just your group, ensuring a more intimate and tailored experience. The only caveat? The tour is weather-dependent, so some days could see cancellations or adjustments, which is worth keeping in mind if you’re planning around a specific date.

This experience is especially suited for travelers who enjoy a quieter, more personalized adventure on the water, away from crowded tourist spots. It’s also ideal if you want to combine sightseeing with the thrill of fishing, all while soaking up stunning views and maritime stories. If you love boats, history, or just want a peaceful escape in Stavanger’s sheltered waters, this might be perfect.

Key Points

• Private and personalized: Limited to your group, ensuring a tailored experience.
• Historic vessel: The RS56 Olav Ringdal Jr offers a sturdy and comfortable ride with royal rescue roots.
• Combination of sightseeing and fishing: See Stavanger from its waters and try your hand at catching big fish.
• Guided by experts: The boatswain and captain are knowledgeable, making the trip educational and fun.
• Flexible and weather-dependent: Cancellations are possible if weather conditions aren’t suitable.
• Good value for a premium experience: The cost includes gear, drinks, and personalized service, making it a worthwhile splurge for those seeking something special.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Duration

The tour begins in Stavanger harbor Vågen, right in the city center—an easy spot to access whether you’re staying locally or arriving by cruise ship. Lasting about four hours and fifteen minutes, it’s a manageable chunk of time that balances sightseeing, fishing, and relaxing on the water.

Knowing the exact duration helps plan your day, especially if you’re combining this with other activities. The tour’s length means you’ll get enough time to unwind, enjoy the scenery, and have a good chance at fishing, without feeling rushed.

The Vessel: Olav Ringdal Jr

The highlight here is the vessel itself. This isn’t just any boat; it’s a sturdy, historic rescue vessel with a storied past—built for North Sea rescues and used in far northern waters. Now, it’s a comfortable, well-maintained platform for visitors, with enough space for a small group (up to 12 people).

Guests often comment on how beautiful and spacious the boat is, with some mentioning they even celebrated birthdays or special events onboard. The vessel’s design and history add a layer of authenticity and charm that sets this tour apart from generic boat trips.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour kicks off in Vågen, where you’ll board the vessel and set out into the sheltered waters between Stavanger’s surrounding islands. The route is a combination of sightseeing and fishing—a perfect balance if you want both scenic views and a chance to catch your own fish.

The captain and crew will navigate to spots where fish are likely to be found, using fish-finder technology. They’ll explain what they see on the screens, making it an educational experience, especially if you’re new to fishing. Your guide, the boatswain, is there to assist and provide instructions, simplifying the process so that even beginners can enjoy catching fish.

Fishing gear is provided, and you can fish down to an impressive 70 meters (about 230 feet). The reviews indicate that this depth often results in big catches, which makes the experience more exciting. Some guests have even mentioned that the crew cook fish on the spot, adding a delicious, spontaneous element to the day.

Scenic Highlights and Commentary

Throughout the trip, you’ll enjoy excellent water views of Stavanger and its surrounding islands. The knowledgeable guides will share insights about local maritime history, the vessel’s rescue missions, and the natural environment—all delivered in a friendly, engaging manner.

Many reviewers appreciated the commentary, noting that it added depth and context. One called it “so much more fun than a standard tourist or fjord cruise,” emphasizing the interactive nature of the experience.

Food and Drinks: What’s Included

Comfort is a priority here. The tour provides coffee, tea, water, and cookies—a simple but thoughtful touch that keeps you refreshed as you enjoy the day. If you’re hungry afterward or want to extend the experience, food can be purchased at extra cost, or you can bring your own drinks, including alcohol, which you’re encouraged to do.

One reviewer mentioned that during the trip, someone cooked a fish on the boat, which sounds like a memorable, tasty bonus after a successful fishing session.

The Review Highlights from Guests

Guests consistently praise the expertise of the crew, with comments like “Captain Kjell-Morten and Boatswain Kim know their stuff,” and highlight the vessel’s comfort and safety. Many mention they caught fish and enjoyed the scenery, often describing it as more authentic and enjoyable than larger, crowded tours.

One reviewer even had a wedding onboard, describing the vessel as “beautiful and well-maintained” and noting that the captain made the day extra special. Others have used it for celebrations and team-building, emphasizing its versatility.

The overall 5-star rating reflects these positive experiences, especially highlighting the personalized service and the vessel’s unique history.

Price and Value

At around $1,613 for a group of up to 12, this tour might seem pricey compared to standard boat trips, but the value lies in the personalized, private nature, and the inclusion of gear and drinks. For a special occasion or a unique day out, most guests agree it’s money well spent. The fact that it’s a private tour means you’re not competing for space or attention, and you can tailor the experience to your interests.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who value privacy, personalized service, and a connection to maritime history. If you love fishing or are curious about local waters, you’ll appreciate the guide’s expertise and the chance to catch your own fish. It’s also a good fit for those seeking a relaxed, scenic day without the crowds.

It’s less suited if you’re looking for a quick, budget-friendly sightseeing orbit or if weather conditions are poor. Because the trip is weather-dependent, having flexible plans around the weather forecast is smart.

Final Thoughts

This private Stavanger fishing and sightseeing tour offers a special way to experience Norway’s fjord waters—on a historic vessel with a knowledgeable crew. Combining scenic views with the thrill of fishing, it feels authentic, personalized, and well-organized. The vessel’s history and comfort make it more than just a boat ride; it’s a memorable journey into Stavanger’s maritime soul.

For travelers who want a tailored, intimate outing that mixes adventure with cultural connection, this tour delivers. It’s perfect for small groups, couples, or families eager to experience Norway’s coastal beauty in a relaxed, genuine way.

If you’re a fan of boats, history, or fishing, this could very well be a highlight of your Stavanger trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally open to most travelers, including families, especially since some reviews mention bringing small children. However, check with the provider if you have very young kids or specific needs.

What should I bring onboard?
The tour provides fishing gear and drinks, but bringing your own food or additional drinks is allowed. Comfortable clothing suitable for the weather is recommended, especially since weather can influence the experience.

Can I cancel if the weather looks bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If the weather is poor, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled, with options for a full refund or alternative date.

How many people can join?
Up to 12 people per group, ensuring a private, personalized experience.

Is the vessel accessible?
The vessel is well-maintained and spacious, but for specific accessibility needs, it’s best to contact the provider directly.

What is the duration of the tour?
About 4 hours and 15 minutes, giving ample time for sightseeing and fishing without feeling rushed.

Are drinks and snacks included?
Yes, coffee, tea, water, and cookies are provided. Additional food can be purchased or brought along.

What makes this experience stand out?
The combination of a historic rescue vessel, expert guides, and the personalized setting makes this a memorable, authentic adventure on Stavanger’s waters.

This private tour blends scenic beauty, history, and the thrill of fishing into one relaxed, well-curated experience. Whether you’re celebrating, seeking solitude, or eager to learn about Norway’s maritime traditions, it’s worth considering for your Stavanger trip.