Whale Tour Skjervøy – Watch Arctic Whales in Their Natural Habitat

Every winter, the icy fjords of Skjervøy come alive with the return of herring – and where there is herring, there are whales. Orcas and humpback whales gather in large numbers, offering visitors one of the most spectacular wildlife experiences in Northern Norway. With Arctic Whale Tours, you can join a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable whale tour in Skjervøy, perfectly designed for travelers who want to see these magnificent animals up close.

Why Choose a Whale Tour in Skjervøy?

Skjervøy has become one of the best places in Northern Norway for whale watching. From November to January, huge shoals of herring fill the fjords, attracting orcas, humpback whales, and other marine life.

A whale watching tour in Skjervøy offers:

• Close encounters with orcas hunting in groups
  
  
• Humpback whales breaching and diving with their powerful tails
  
  
• Arctic wildlife such as dolphins, sea eagles, puffins, and seabirds
  
  
• Breathtaking scenery with snow-covered mountains and crisp Arctic air

Few places in the world combine such abundant marine life with dramatic Arctic landscapes.

Whale Watching Tours in Skjervøy with Arctic Whale Tours

When you join Arctic Whale Tours, you board the historic vessel MS Hagbart Waage, a former Norwegian rescue ship. Between 1968 and 1988, she saved 11 lives and assisted nearly 400 vessels in distress. Today, she has been fully upgraded with stabilizers, heated indoor seating, and spacious viewing decks – bringing guests safely into whale-rich Arctic waters.

Comfort, free snacks and hot drinks

Onboard, you’ll find heated lounges, outdoor decks with unobstructed views, and complimentary coffee, tea, and biscuits. 

Whale Pass – See Whales or Come Back Free

With Arctic Whale Tours, your experience is protected by the Whale Pass. If no whales are seen during your trip, you can rebook another tour free of charge within 12 months – because every Arctic adventure deserves whales.

What to Expect on Your Whale Tour

A typical whale tour from Skjervøy lasts 2–3 hours, making it a perfect option even if you are short on time.

• 10:15 – Boarding begins at Skjervøy Harbour
  
  
• 10:30 – Departure aboard MS Hagbart Waage
  
  
• 10:45–12:30 – Whale watching in the fjords (orcas, humpbacks, dolphins, seabirds)
  
  
• 12:30–13:00 – Return to Skjervøy Harbour

Expert, multilingual guides make the experience even richer. Our team speaks English, Norwegian, German, French, and more – ensuring you feel welcome and informed throughout the journey. They share fascinating insights into whale behavior, the Arctic ecosystem, and local traditions.

Practical Information

• Departure point: Skjervøy Harbour, Havnegata 18
  
  
• Check-in: 09:30 directly at the boat
  
  
• Departure: 10:30
  
  
• Duration: 2–3 hours
  
  
• Season: November – January
  
  
• Capacity: 20–64 passengers
  
  
• Minimum age: 1 year (children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult)
  
  
• Included: Safety equipment, hot drinks, biscuits, and guiding

Dogs are welcome on board, but must remain outside on deck due to allergies.

You can learn more about our whale tour in Skjervøy here. 

Easy Access from Tromsø

Thanks to our partnership with Best Arctic, you can travel easily from Tromsø to Skjervøy and back in one day.

• Tromsø → Skjervøy: Departure 05:30, arrival ~09:20
  
  
• Skjervøy → Tromsø: Departure 13:25, arrival ~16:20

This makes it possible to enjoy a whale watching tour in Skjervøy even if you are based in Tromsø.

Responsible Whale Watching

Arctic Whale Tours follows strict whale watching guidelines to ensure safe and respectful encounters with wildlife. Our captains approach slowly, maintain safe distances, and minimize noise – protecting both the animals and the environment.

By joining us, you are supporting sustainable tourism and helping preserve the fragile Arctic ecosystem.

Tips – What to Bring on Your Whale Tour

• Warm, windproof, and waterproof outerwear
  
  
• Thermal layers (wool or fleece)
  
  
• Hat, gloves, and scarf
  
  
• Winter boots with good grip
  
  
• Camera or smartphone (with extra batteries)
  
  
• Seasickness tablets if needed

Safety and Flexibility

Your safety is always the top priority. Tours only operate in safe conditions, and weather is continuously monitored. If a tour must be canceled due to weather or operational reasons, you’ll receive a full refund or be offered an alternative date.

Guests can also cancel their booking free of charge up to 24 hours before departure – giving you peace of mind when planning your trip.

Book Your Whale Watching Tour in Skjervøy now

The whale season in Skjervøy is short – from November to January – and places are limited. Don’t miss your chance to experience orcas, humpback whales, and Arctic wildlife in one of the world’s most spectacular natural settings.

Join Arctic Whale Tours for a whale watching tour in Skjervøy and take home memories that will last a lifetime. Book now!