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Summer Whale Safari from Andenes, Norway

Witness Sperm Whales in One of Europe’s Richest Whale Grounds
Season: May – September | Location: Andenes Harbour, Andøy in Vesterålen

Discover the Giants of the Arctic 

Every summer, the deep ocean trenches just outside Andenes become one of the most reliable places in the world to see sperm whales — the largest toothed predators on Earth.

Fed by nutrient-rich currents rising from the continental shelf, these waters attract:

  • Sperm whales (primary species)
  • Humpback whales (occasional)
  • Orcas (occasional)
  • Pilot whales
  • Dolphins and porpoises
  • A variety of seabirds, including puffins and white-tailed eagles

Join us aboard MS Alba, our classic Norwegian catamaran, and set out into the open sea where the giants of the deep roam. Stand on wide outdoor decks, learn from our guides, listen to whale stories, and witness one of nature’s most extraordinary spectacles in the bright Arctic summer.

This is whale watching in Andenes — authentic, wild, and unforgettable.

Key Details 

  • Season: May – September (daily departures) 
  • Duration: 3–5 hours, depending on whale location and sea conditions
  • Departure Times: Check our booking system for real time information
  • Vessel: MS Alba – 26m Norwegian catamaran with heated indoor lounge, wide outdoor decks & hydrophone
  • Capacity: Max. 90 guests
  • Location: Near Hamnegata 75, 8480 Andenes — at the black container reception with the Arctic Whale Tours sign, behind the red buildings (Rørbua), close to the Andenes–Gryllefjord (Senja) ferry. 

View location in Google Maps here.

What’s Included 

✅ 3–5 hour summer whale safari aboard MS Alba

✅ Professional guides & experienced crew

✅ Hot soup, hot drinks (coffee/tea) & biscuits

✅ Heated indoor lounge & outdoor viewing decks

✅ Toilet onboard

✅ All necessary safety equipment

✅ Whale Pass – free rebooking if no whales are sighted

✅ Dogs allowed on outer deck

❌ Extra snacks or meals

❌ Seasickness medication (please bring your own if you know you get seasick)

❌ Warm clothing (please dress in layers suitable for Arctic conditions)

❌ Personal expenses (souvenirs, etc.)

❌ Gratuity (optional)

The Safari Experience 

Your adventure begins at Andenes Harbour, where our team welcomes you aboard MS Alba. As we leave Andenes, the coastline opens into the Norwegian Sea — a vast, deep-water habitat perfect for spotting whales.

As we reach the feeding grounds, the ocean becomes alive:

  • A towering blow breaks the surface
  • A sperm whale rises, exhales, and rests between deep dives
  • Orcas or pilot whales may appear traveling in pods
  • Dolphins play in the bow waves
  • Seabirds circle overhead, searching the waters

Our guides share stories about whale behaviour, biology, and the unique deep-sea environment that makes Andenes one of the best sperm whale destinations in the world.

Every safari is unique — but each offers a true glimpse into the life of the Arctic’s great whales.

Nature on the Return 

On our way back toward Andenes, you’ll experience:

  • Scenic views of Bleik Island, mountain ridges, and coastal birdlife
  • Occasional sightings of humpbacks, dolphins, or porpoises
  • A chance to warm up inside with a hot drink and enjoy the Arctic summer light

The voyage is calm and peaceful — a perfect way to unwind after encountering the deep-sea giants.

Whale Pass — See Whales or Come Back Free

While Andenes is one of the world’s most reliable locations for sperm whales, nature can still surprise us.

If no whales or dolphins are seen on your tour, you will receive:
A free rebooking on any available safari within the same or next season
(non-transferable, same participants, subject to availability, non-cash).

View our rebooking & refund policy here.

What to Bring

Even in summer, the Arctic coast can be cool and windy. We recommend:

  • Windproof jacket, warm layers
  • Hat & gloves
  • Comfortable shoes with good grip
  • Sunglasses & sunscreen
  • Camera or phone (+ extra battery/power bank)
  • Seasickness tablets (if you know you get seasick)

Pricing – 2026

  • NOK 1750 – Adults (16+)
  • NOK 1550 – Seniors / Students (with ID)
  • NOK 1,150 – Youth (11–15)
  • NOK 850 – Children (3–10)
  • Free of Charge – Infants (0–2)

Prices include VAT.
A booking fee applies at checkout.

For B2B partners or groups of 10+, please contact us directly.

View cancellation terms here.

Our Boat – Alba

Built in 1975 by the Westamarin shipyard in Mandal, MS Alba has carried passengers along the Norwegian coast for nearly five decades. Now refitted with low-noise engines and a hydrophone, she is perfectly suited for summer whale safaris from Andenes.

MS Alba – a Norwegian-built catamaran from 1975, upgraded with modern engines and hydrophone system for whale safaris from Andenes.

Onboard Facilities

  • Heated indoor lounge with panoramic windows
  • Wide outdoor decks for 360° whale viewing
  • Hydrophone for listening to whale activity
  • Toilets
  • Space for up to 90 guests
  • Stable twin-hull catamaran design

Alba combines traditional Norwegian maritime craftsmanship with comfort, safety, and excellent viewing opportunities.

Responsible Whale Watching 

We follow guidelines from Norwegian marine authorities and international whale-watching standards to ensure our presence does not disturb the animals.

Our commitments include:

  • Slow, predictable vessel approach
  • No chasing or encircling whales
  • Reduced engine noise
  • Safe distances respected at all times
  • Educating guests about whale biology and conservation

We aim to give you a world-class experience while protecting the welfare of the whales and their environment.

Learn about our whale watching ethics here.

Plan Your Visit 

How to Get Here

Andenes Harbour is easily accessible by car, bike, or on foot. The meeting point is:

  • Near Hamnegata 75, at the black container reception with the Arctic Whale Tours sign, behind the red buildings (Rørbua), close to the Andenes–Gryllefjord ferry.
    Coordinates and exact boarding instructions will be included in your booking email.
    How to Get Here

Where to Stay

Andenes and nearby Bleik offer a variety of accommodations ranging from hotels and guesthouses to seaside cabins. Booking early is recommended during peak summer months.

Where to Stay

FAQs

Book Your Adventure 

Don’t miss your chance to meet the Arctic’s most magnificent creatures. 

Book your Summer Whale Safari now!

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Whale Pass

See Whales or Come Back For Free!

We proudly offer one of Norway’s most guest-friendly guarantees. If no whales are sighted during your trip, you’ll receive a complimentary rebooking for the next available tour — because every Arctic adventure deserves whales.

Join Us on the Water

Whether you're traveling as a couple, family, or solo adventurer— We’re ready to welcome you aboard.