Svolvaer stands out as a hub of activity and natural beauty in the Lofoten Islands. Its compact harbor, lively atmosphere, and proximity to stunning fjords make it an ideal base for exploring Norway’s rugged coast. What makes Svolvaer special for tours? It’s the perfect blend of accessibility and untouched wilderness, offering a variety of experiences that appeal to nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike. For example, the Silent Trollfjord Cruise (see more) provides a peaceful, electric-powered journey into some of Norway’s most dramatic scenery, while the Sea Eagle Safaris give you up-close encounters with bald eagles in their natural habitat.
Many of the top tours in Svolvaer revolve around wildlife, scenic boat trips, and cultural experiences. You can choose from exhilarating RIB boat safaris (see more), peaceful electric cruises (see more), or deep-sea fishing (see more). Each offers a different way to experience the stunning landscape, wildlife, and local culture. Below, we’ve rounded up the 15 best tours to help you plan your perfect trip.
1. From Svolvær: Lofoten Islands Silent Trollfjord Cruise
On this silent electric cruise, you’ll glide through the fjords aboard an eco-friendly vessel, taking in the scenery without engine noise. The electric ship allows for a peaceful experience, perfect for wildlife viewing and photography. Expect to see majestic white-tailed eagles soaring overhead, and with the onboard underwater drone, you can get a peek beneath the surface of Trollfjord. The tour includes stops at Storøya and Øyhellsundet, with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxing on decks with snacks and drinks available. Reviewers love the tranquil atmosphere and the crew’s engaging commentary, calling it “the best way to experience Norway’s fjords in silence.” This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a sustainable yet immersive adventure.
Bottom Line: A quiet, scenic voyage that combines wildlife, stunning views, and eco-conscious travel.
2. From Svolvær: Lofoten RIB Sea Eagle Safari Trollfjord Cruise
For those craving speed and close wildlife encounters, this RIB sea eagle safari is a must. Departing from Svolvær’s main square, it whisks you through the sparkling waters of Raftsundet and toward Trollfjord on a high-octane, open-top boat. The highlight? The chance to see sea eagles up close, often feeding on fish right next to the boat, thanks to the guide’s fish-feeding techniques. With a two-hour duration, the tour balances adrenaline with ample wildlife spotting, including the possibility of glimpsing dolphins or whales. Guides share fascinating stories about the area’s Viking past and the eagles’ majestic wingspan. Reviewers praise its “exciting ride and fantastic wildlife viewing,” making it perfect for adventure lovers who don’t want to compromise on scenery or wildlife.
Bottom Line: An energetic, wildlife-focused boat ride with spectacular eagle sightings.
3. From Svolvær: Sea Eagle Safari to Trollfjord
This sea eagle safari offers a straightforward, two-hour boat trip from Svolvær to Trollfjord, emphasizing close encounters with Norway’s iconic bird of prey. The boat is open, giving unobstructed views and opportunities to photograph soaring eagles. The guide feeds fish to encourage the eagles to come close, which guests find awe-inspiring. The scenic route passes through Raftsundet strait, offering stunning vistas of craggy mountains and narrow fjords. Many reviews note how intimate and exciting it is to see the largest wingspan in the bird kingdom so close. This tour is best suited for wildlife enthusiasts and those wanting a quick, memorable experience.
Bottom Line: Close-up wildlife viewing in a compact, scenic boat trip.
4. Lofoten Island: Silent Trollfjord Cruise from Svolvær
This electric-powered silent cruise stands out for its eco-friendliness and comfort. Over about three hours, you’ll explore Trollfjord from multiple decks, with panoramic views and wildlife spotting from a quiet vessel. The onboard crew provides cultural insights and explains the landscape’s geology, making it more than just a scenic trip. Once in Trollfjord, the underwater drone offers a unique perspective of marine life beneath the fjord’s surface. Reviewers rave about the “peaceful journey” and the chance to see orcas, which makes it especially appealing if you’re interested in both wildlife and responsible travel. The tour also offers beverages and Norwegian foods for purchase, enhancing the experience.
Bottom Line: A serene, eco-conscious cruise with wildlife and underwater exploration.
5. From Svolvær: RIB Boat Trollfjord Sea Eagle Safari
This RIB Sea Eagle Safari combines speed with wildlife encounters. It’s a two-hour adrenaline-filled journey through Raftsundet and Trollfjord, with gear including wetsuits and gloves provided to handle the cold. The guide feeds the eagles fish, often allowing close-up views of these regal birds with impressive wingspans. Along the way, you’ll also learn about Viking history and local legends, making it a diverse experience. Many reviewers note the “fun, fast-paced ride” and the opportunity to spot dolphins and whales. Suitable for those who want a dynamic, wildlife-rich trip with a personal touch.
Bottom Line: A lively, wildlife-spotting adventure on a fast boat with cultural commentary.
6. Trollfjorden Wildlife RIB Cruise
On this wildlife RIB cruise, you’ll explore Trollfjord’s dramatic scenery while actively searching for seals, eagles, and orcas. The two-hour trip includes thermal suits and gloves, so comfort isn’t sacrificed for adventure. The guide’s charisma and local knowledge make wildlife sightings more meaningful. Many reviews highlight the “amazing views” and the chance to see white-tailed eagles at close range. It’s a flexible option for nature lovers who want to balance scenic beauty with the thrill of spotting marine life.
Bottom Line: A balanced wildlife and scenery trip with a friendly guide.
7. From Svolvær: Lofoten Fishing Boat Cruise
For a more hands-on experience, this fishing boat cruise is perfect. Over four hours, you’ll fish for cod, pollock, and haddock with local crew assistance. It’s ideal if you’re curious about traditional Lofoten fishing life and want to try your hand at catching your dinner. Many reviews mention catching multiple fish, including “the cod of our lives,” and the crew’s helpful guidance. It’s a relaxed, authentic experience that appeals to families and anglers alike. The tour even includes helping you clean your catch, making it a rewarding, tasty adventure.
Bottom Line: An authentic, hands-on fishing trip that yields fresh seafood and stories.
8. Sea Eagle Safari from Svolvær to Trollfjorden
This Sea Eagle Safari uses a RIB boat to zip through Trollfjorden, offering high-speed thrills and eagle sightings. The thermal suits and mittens keep you warm as you photograph the soaring sea eagles against a backdrop of steep mountains and white beaches. The two-hour tour is praised for its “spectacular scenery and close eagle encounters,” making it a hit with photography buffs and wildlife lovers alike. The boat’s speed offers a different perspective compared to calmer cruises—more adrenaline, more action.
Bottom Line: A fast-paced, wildlife-rich adventure for those who love to photograph nature in motion.
9. Svolvær: Reine, Hamnøy, Sakrisøy Photographer’s Dream Tour
For photography enthusiasts, this full-day tour offers prime spots like Reine and Sakrisøy. Led by a professional photographer, you’ll visit several iconic locations, with stops for panoramic shots and cultural insights. The itinerary includes scenic drives through rugged landscapes and photo stops at villages that look straight out of a postcard. Many travelers note the guide’s ability to help capture stunning images, making this ideal for serious shutterbugs. The 7-hour duration means you’ll need a full day, but it’s worth it for the unforgettable views.
Bottom Line: A photo-focused tour perfect for capturing Lofoten’s breathtaking scenery.
10. Svolvær: Snowshoe Nature Explorer
This winter-focused tour (see more) takes you into the snowy wilderness with snowshoes, offering a quiet, immersive experience. You’ll trek through pristine snow, listen to stories about the region, and enjoy panoramic views of Norwegian mountains. Reviewers mention how the guides, like Lawrence, make the trip informative and fun, often sharing local tales and pointing out wildlife tracks. It’s perfect for active travelers who want to combine light hiking with cultural learning. The hot chocolate break is a cozy reward after your trek.
Bottom Line: A peaceful, scenic winter trek suitable for all fitness levels, with a cultural twist.
11. RIB Sea Eagle Safari Trollfjord Cruise
This speedy RIB safari offers a quick two-hour ride that emphasizes eagle watching and fjord scenery. The guided trip includes all necessary gear and promises close encounters with sea eagles and lots of scenic views. Many reviewers highlight the “fun ride” and the thrill of seeing nature’s grandeur at high speed. It’s perfect for families or travelers wanting a quick yet action-packed experience.
Bottom Line: Short but intense wildlife and scenery adventure on a fast boat.
12. Svolvær: 2-Hour Winter Kayaking Adventure
This winter kayaking trip offers a tranquil, up-close view of Svolvær’s shoreline. With provided gear and a friendly guide, you’ll paddle past icy cliffs, snowy beaches, and perhaps spot white-tailed sea eagles overhead. Many reviews praise the peacefulness and the opportunity to learn about local traditions while enjoying the stunning winter landscape. It’s ideal for those comfortable with water sports and looking for a serene connection with Norway’s coast.
Bottom Line: An immersive, peaceful kayaking experience in winter’s silence.
13. Svolvær: Ultimate Aurora Hunt
This Northern Lights tour is perfect for aurora chasers, guided by a professional photographer. It offers an intimate experience with expert insights into the sky’s patterns, plus hot beverages and snacks to keep you warm. Many reviewers mention that their guide, like Dave, was dedicated and knowledgeable, often finding the best spots to see the aurora—sometimes even spotting a moose! The tour lasts four hours, making it a flexible choice if weather conditions are tricky.
Bottom Line: An expert-led, comfortable outing for witnessing Norway’s famous auroras.
14. Lofoten: Traditional Fishing Trip
Experience authentic Lofoten fishing with this traditional fishing trip. Over four hours, you’ll learn how to fish using a line wheel from a classic vessel, with plenty of chances to catch cod, pollock, or haddock. Many reviews commend the crew’s friendliness and the exciting catch, including big fish like the “cod of our lives.” It’s a relaxed, genuine look at local fishing culture, perfect for families and curious travelers. Plus, you get to take your catch home for a real taste of Norway.
Bottom Line: A hands-on, cultural fishing experience with fresh seafood as the reward.
15. Svolvær: Evening Kayaking Adventure
This evening kayaking trip is ideal for those wanting a romantic or peaceful end to their day. Paddle along Svolvær’s coast as the sun sets, capturing stunning photos in the golden light. The tour emphasizes cultural stories and local legends, making it a relaxing yet enriching experience. Many reviewers appreciate the beautiful scenery and the opportunity to see the region from a different perspective, especially at sunset.
Bottom Line: A serene, scenic paddle perfect for a quiet, reflective moment.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour
When selecting a tour in Svolvaer, consider your budget, interests, and physical condition. Wildlife lovers should prioritize safaris like the Sea Eagle Safari to Trollfjord, while photography fans might prefer the Photographer’s Dream Tour. Active travelers may enjoy snowshoeing (see more), kayaking (see more), or fishing (see more).
Timing is also key—wildlife tours and safaris are best during certain seasons, while cruises work year-round. Book early, especially for tours with limited slots or special experiences like the Northern Lights Hunt, as Svolvaer’s popularity can fill up fast.
Final Thoughts
Svolvaer offers a diverse array of tours that cater to every interest—whether you’re after wildlife, stunning photography, cultural insights, or pure adventure. For a peaceful, eco-friendly escape, the Silent Trollfjord Cruise stands out, while thrill-seekers will love the RIB boat safaris and wildlife cruises. If your goal is to capture the beauty of Lofoten through your camera lens, the Photographer’s Dream Tour is unmatched.
No matter your choice, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these unforgettable experiences. Svolvaer’s stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife guarantee your adventures will be memorable. Now, all that’s left is to pick your preferred tour and start planning your Norwegian escape.
