Winter Whale Safari - Skjervøy

Experience Arctic Magic in Just a Few Hours

Each winter, the herring migration transforms the fjords around Skjervøy into one of the richest whale-watching grounds in Northern Norway. Orcas and humpback whales gather here to feed, often surfacing just minutes from the harbour.

This is whale watching at its most direct and intimate. Step aboard RS 78 Hagbart Waage, our historic Norwegian rescue vessel, and set out for a 2–3 hour whale safari. With less sailing and more time where the whales are, this tour is perfect if you want a shorter, focused adventure that still delivers unforgettable encounters.

Whether you’re staying in Skjervøy or joining us on the Bus + Boat package from Tromsø, you’ll experience Arctic whales up close — with snow-covered mountains and crisp polar air as your backdrop.

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Quick Facts – What to Know Before You Book

• Season: 1st November 2025 – 20th January 2026
• Departure Point: Skjervøy Harbour, Havnegata 18 (next to Hurtigruten pier)‍
• Check-in: 09:30–10:15 (directly at the boat)‍
• Departure: 10:30am‍
• Duration: 2–3 hours (whale and weather dependent)‍
• Vessel: RS 78 Hagbart Waage – historic Norwegian rescue ship
• Facilities: Heated indoor lounge, outdoor decks, toilets onboard‍
• Refreshments: coffee, tea & biscuits onboard‍
• Capacity: 60 passengers (minimum 20 required)
• Accessibility: Not wheelchair or stroller accessible — please contact us if you have mobility concerns

Tromsø to Skjervøy Bus & Whale Safari Adventure

Start your day in Tromsø while the city is still waking up. At 05:30, you’ll step aboard Best Arctic’s iconic red bus and begin a journey north through snowy valleys and fjords.

With Wi-Fi, USB charging, toilets, and panoramic windows, the ride is as comfortable as it is scenic. Watch the Arctic landscape unfold — mountains lit by the first glow of dawn, frozen coastlines, and quiet villages along the way.

By 09:25, you’ll roll into Skjervøy and walk just a minute to the harbour, where Hagbart Waage awaits. After your whale safari, the bus takes you smoothly back to Tromsø, arriving mid-afternoon. In one day, you’ll have crossed fjords, seen whales, and experienced both land and sea — the complete Arctic adventure.

About the Vessel – RS 78 Hagbart Waage

Step aboard RS 78 Hagbart Waage, a vessel with a story as rich as the Arctic waters she sails. Built in 1968 as a Norwegian rescue ship, she once patrolled the rough northern seas to save lives. Today, she carries that same spirit of safety and reliability into our whale safaris.

Onboard, you’ll find a heated lounge, toilets, and plenty of space on the outdoor decks for the best whale-viewing opportunities. Unlike crowded ferries or fast RIB boats, Hagbart Waage offers a stable, comfortable, and personal experience with a maximum of 60 guests. It’s the perfect mix of authentic history and modern comfort, designed to let you enjoy every moment of your Skjervøy whale safari.

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What’s Included

✅ 2–3 hour guided whale safari aboard Hagbart Waage

‍✅ Professional guides & experienced crew

✅ Hot drinks (coffee/tea) & biscuits

✅ Toilet & Safety equipment (life jackets)

✅ Heated indoor lounge & spacious outdoor decks

✅ Round-trip Tromsø–Skjervøy bus transfer (if Bus + Boat option booked)

✅ Whale Pass: If no whales or dolphins are sighted, rebook another tour within 12 months (same participants, subject to availability, non-cash)

❌ Meals (we recommend bringing a light lunch/snacks)

❌ Warm clothing (please dress for Arctic winter conditions)

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

❌ Personal expenses (souvenirs, etc.)

❌ Transport to Skjervøy (unless Bus + Boat option booked)

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The Safari Experience

A fast track to the whales.

Unlike Tromsø’s full-day whale safaris, Skjervøy offers a shorter, more focused adventure. Because the whales feed right outside the harbour, you’ll spend less time sailing and more time watching orcas and humpbacks up close.

During the trip, our guides share fascinating insights into whale behaviour, Arctic culture, and the fragile ecosystem of the fjords. Encounters may include:

• Orcas traveling in pods, surfacing in unison
• Humpbacks diving deep and raising their flukes high
• Seabirds like white-tailed eagles circling above

Every safari is different — but every encounter is unforgettable.

Itinerary

Boat Only (meet in Skjervøy):

1. 10:15 – Boarding begins at Skjervøy Harbour (Havnegata 18)
2. 10:30 – Departure aboard RS 78 Hagbart Waage
3. 10:30–12:30 – Whale watching in the fjords (orcas, humpbacks, Arctic wildlife)
4. 12:30–13:00 – Return to Skjervøy Harbour

Times may vary depending on whale location and sea conditions

Bus + Boat (from Tromsø with Best Arctic):

• 05:30 – Depart Tromsø Prostneset Bus Terminal (Platforms 1–2)
• 09:25 – Arrival Skjervøy, Maritim Hotel (1-min walk to harbor)
• 10:15 – Boarding at Skjervøy Harbour
• 10:30–13:00 – Whale Safari aboard Hagbart Waage
• 13:25 – Depart Skjervøy, Maritim Hotel
• 17:20 – Arrive Tromsø Prostneset

Bus stops en route: Nordkjosbotn, Oteren, Manndalen, Olderdalen, Spåkenes, Coop Skjervøy, Maritim Hotel.

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Highlights

Fast & Focused Adventure‍

This tour brings you to the whales quickly and returns before the afternoon.

Up-Close Encounters‍

Spot killer whales, humpback whales, and other marine life in their natural environment — with plenty of photo opportunities.

Expert Guides

Learn from experienced, multilingual guides who share knowledge about whales and Arctic wildlife.

Historic & Comfortable Vessel‍

Hagbart Waage a former rescue ship built for safety and comfort, offering heated indoor seating and spacious outdoor decks.

Responsible Whale Watching‍

We follow best-practice guidelines to ensure safe, respectful encounters with wildlife. Check our Whale Watching Guidelines page.

Whale Pass — See Whales or Come Back Free.

We can’t control nature — but we can make you a promise. If no whales or dolphins are spotted during your trip, you’ll receive a free rebooking for another available safari within the same or following season (same participants, subject to availability, non-cash).

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What to Bring (Friendly Tips)

• Dress like a local: Layers are your best friend! Start with thermal underwear, add a warm sweater or fleece, and finish with a windproof and waterproof jacket and trousers.
• Keep cozy: A warm hat, gloves, and a scarf (or buff) will make all the difference out on deck.
• Happy feet: Insulated winter boots with good grip are essential — the decks can get cold and sometimes slippery.
• Snacks for the journey: We’ll have coffee, tea, and biscuits onboard, but if you’d like something more, pack a light lunch or a few snacks.
• Capture the magic: Bring your camera or phone (and don’t forget extra batteries — the cold drains them faster than you think).
• For smoother sailing: If you know you get seasick, it’s a good idea to take motion sickness tablets before we set off.

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Important Information

• Minimum age: 1 year old. Children under 16 must be with an adult at all times
• Not wheelchair or stroller accessible – please contact us if you have mobility concerns
• Pets: Dogs welcome on the outside deck (Boat Only). Pets not permitted on the bus, except certified service animals with prior notice.‍
• Minimum 20 passengers required for the tour to run
• Weather & Sea Conditions: Tours may be rescheduled or cancelled for safety. In such cases, full refund or rebooking is offered. Bus schedules may be affected by Arctic road conditions.
• Whale sightings are not guaranteed; however, the Whale Pass ensures guests can rebook within 12 months if no whales/dolphins are seen (valid for summer whale safari within the 12 month purchase, subject to availability)
• Bus Option Deadline: Bus + Boat must be booked at least 5 days in advance to guarantee seats (later bookings subject to availability)

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Pricing

(per person, incl. VAT — booking fee applies for online reservations)

Boat only – From Skjervøy Harbour

• NOK 1,600 – Adults (16–64)
• NOK 1,400 – Seniors (65+)
• NOK 1,400 – Students (16–25 with valid ID)
• NOK 1,100 – Youths (11–15, must be with adult)
• NOK 800 – Children (3–10, must be with adult)
• Free – Infants (1–2, must be with adult)

Bus + Boat – From Tromsø (includes bus transfer)

• NOK 2,350 – Adults (16–64)
• NOK 2,150 – Seniors (65+)
• NOK 2,150 – Students (16–25 with valid ID)
• NOK 1,850 – Youths (11–15, must be with adult)
• NOK 1,550 – Children (3–10, must be with adult)
• Free – Infants (1–2, must be with adult)

📌 For Travel Professionals:‍

We collaborate with tour operators, travel agencies, and DMCs under special B2B rates and commission models. If you are a partner, please contact our B2B team for confidential net rates and terms.

Plan Your Visit – Skjervøy

Skjervøy is a traditional Arctic fishing town north of Tromsø. It’s smaller and quieter than the city, offering a glimpse of authentic coastal life. You might see fishermen unloading their catch or the Hurtigruten docking nearby.

• Already in Skjervøy? The harbour is centrally located, within walking distance of hotels, guesthouses, and shops.
• Traveling from Tromsø? Our Bus + Boat package makes it easy — leave Tromsø at dawn, see whales by late morning, and return the same afternoon.
• Stay Overnight? Skjervøy has limited accommodation, so book early if you plan to stay. Options include small hotels, guesthouses, and cabins.

Cancellation Policy

• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure.
• No refunds for cancellations made less than 24 hours before departure or for no-shows
• If Arctic Whale Tours cancels due to weather, sea conditions, or insufficient numbers, you’ll receive a full refund or rebooking.

For full details, please see our Cancellation Policy page.

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Ready to Join the Adventure?

Join us aboard RS 78 Hagbart Waage for a short but unforgettable winter safari where orcas and humpbacks take centre stage.

👉 Book Your Skjervøy Whale Safari Now