1 Hour Photo & History Cruise

A 1-Hour Photo & History Cruise in Tromsø: An Authentic Norwegian Seafaring Experience

This short but sweet cruise aboard the Hermes II offers a unique chance to see Tromsø from the water, while soaking in stories about a piece of local maritime history. Perfectly suited for travelers seeking a quick scenic escape or a deeper appreciation of Norway’s coastal legacy, this tour combines beautiful scenery with genuine storytelling.

What makes this experience especially compelling is the combination of stunning views of Tromsø’s cityscape, including the iconic Tromsø Bridge and Fjellheisen cable car, with the charm of an authentic old wooden boat. The vessel’s long history—built in 1917 and painstakingly renovated—adds a layer of cultural significance that many will find enriching.

A possible drawback? Since the cruise lasts just one hour, it’s a brief window, which might not satisfy those craving a more extended exploration or in-depth sightseeing. Also, weather can be unpredictable, so proper warm clothing is essential.

This tour is ideal for families with kids, solo travelers, or couples looking for a relaxed, scenic activity close to Tromsø’s town center. If you’re interested in history, photography, or simply enjoying Norway’s rugged beauty from the water, this cruise delivers a memorable snapshot of the region.

Key Points

• Authentic Vintage Vessel: The Hermes II is a historic wooden boat from 1917, offering a glimpse into maritime Norway’s past.
• Stunning Coastal Views: You’ll see Tromsø’s city center, Tromsø Bridge, Fjellheisen, Polaria, and surrounding mountains.
• Storytelling & History: Guides share the story of Hermes II, adding cultural depth to the scenery.
• Comfort and Safety: The boat has heated lounges, toilets, blankets, thermal suits, and personal safety gear, making it comfortable regardless of weather.
• Flexible & Convenient: Short duration with multiple departure times, perfect for fitting into a busy schedule or as an introduction to Tromsø.
• Value for Money: At $87 per person, it offers a charming blend of scenery, history, and comfort in a compact package.

A Closer Look at the 1-Hour Photo & History Cruise

The Historic Hermes II: A Voyage Through Time

This isn’t just a boat ride; it’s a chance to step aboard a piece of Norwegian coastguard and fishing history. Built over a century ago, the Hermes II originally served as a cargo vessel, transporting fish, coal, animals, and building materials. Its storied past—later including shrimp and capelin fishing—sits beneath a careful renovation completed between 2016 and 2019. The effort was so notable that the vessel received the Tromsø Culture Community Award in 2021, recognizing its cultural importance.

For travelers, this adds a layer of authenticity that surpasses many modern tour boats. You’re not just on a ferry—you’re on a preserved monument to Norway’s maritime livelihood. Several reviews mention how the guides enthusiastically tell the Hermes II story, making the vessel’s history tangible and engaging.

Scenic Highlights from the Water

Once on deck, the views are what make this cruise worthwhile. You’ll be treated to an unobstructed panorama of Tromsø’s vibrant city center, with sights like the Tromsø Bridge, Fjellheisen cable car, and Polaria aquarium. As the boat passes under the Tromsø Bridge, you get a sense of the city’s scale and maritime connection.

Reviewers have praised the “amazing views” and the crew’s friendliness, with some mentioning the captain and staff, like John, who not only keep things safe but also enrich the trip with interesting facts. Even in slightly inclement weather—some reviews mention wind and rain—the crew’s effort to keep everyone comfortable, with blankets and thermal suits, helps maintain a cozy atmosphere.

Comfort and Facilities

The Hermes II is equipped with a heated lounge below deck, which is a real plus during colder months. Passengers can enjoy hot drinks like coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, and there’s a bar offering other drinks for purchase. The toilets are described as clean and well-maintained, making the one-hour journey more comfortable.

Guests appreciate the “warm blankets and thermal suits” provided—these details can make a difference, especially if the weather turns chilly. Many reviews mention how friendly and accommodating the crew is, with one reviewer noting that their child was allowed to steer the ship, making it a fun, interactive experience.

Practicalities and Group Dynamics

The tour accommodates groups of 2 to 35 people, making it intimate enough for personalized attention but lively enough for shared experiences. Departure points vary slightly based on the season—Pier 10 near the Clarion hotel from June to August, and Pier 12 at Kystens Hus afterward—so be sure to check your confirmation.

The tour’s flexibility is a big advantage, with departures from Tuesday to Friday at 2:30 pm, allowing you to fit this cozy cruise into an afternoon schedule. Booking is straightforward with options to reserve and pay later, and cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance.

Authentic Experiences and Review Highlights

Many travelers comment on their enjoyment of the storytelling. One reviewer from February 2025 mentions how the crew’s knowledge and friendliness really made the trip stand out, even in less-than-ideal weather. Families with kids raved about the opportunity for children to explore the vessel and even take the wheel, turning the cruise into a memorable, interactive outing.

Others appreciated the peacefulness of the experience. One guest noted that even in wind and rain, the crew kept the atmosphere lively and enjoyable. The combination of stunning scenery, friendly guides, and the historic vessel makes this cruise a special little peek into Tromsø’s maritime soul.

Why This Cruise Offers Great Value

At $87 per person, this tour strikes a good balance between affordability and quality. You’re not just paying for the scenery but also for the storytelling, comfort, and cultural experience of being on a historic vessel. Compared to longer or more elaborate cruises, this one-hour tour is a perfect intro or a short, relaxing break in your Tromsø itinerary.

While it’s not an extensive tour, it packs in enough highlights—great views, a fascinating ship, and a cozy onboard atmosphere—that many travelers find worth the price. Several reviews mention how the friendly crew and interesting tales made the trip much more than just a boat ride.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re a lover of ships and maritime history, this cruise is a gem. Families with children will enjoy the interactive element, especially the chance to explore the vessel and steer the ship. Photographers and scenery enthusiasts will appreciate the spectacular views of Tromsø’s cityscape and surrounding mountains.

Those seeking a relaxed, culturally rich activity that’s easy to fit into a short schedule will find this cruise ideal. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy storytelling, historic vessels, and scenic views all wrapped into a cozy, well-organized package.

This tour isn’t suitable for those looking for a long, in-depth exploration or outdoor adventure—its appeal lies in its intimate, peaceful snapshot of Tromsø’s maritime life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a quick but meaningful scenic trip.

Where does the tour depart from?
Departure points vary seasonally: Pier 10 by Clarion Collection Hotel from June 1 to August 21, 2024, and Pier 12 at Kystens Hus from August 22 onwards.

What is included in the price?
You get storytelling about Hermes II, warm blankets and thermal suits, hot beverages like coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, and personal safety gear.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention children enjoying the experience, especially the chance to explore the ship and take part in fun activities like steering.

Do I need to bring my own warm clothing?
Yes, it’s recommended to wear warm clothes, especially for your head, neck, hands, and feet, as the weather can be cold and windy.

Are there toilets onboard?
Yes, the boat is equipped with clean toilets that are accessible during the cruise.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours before departure.

Is food and drink included?
Hot drinks are provided, and other drinks are available for purchase. There’s also local food and drink for sale onboard.

What languages are guides available in?
Tours are offered in both English and Norwegian, with storytellers and guides ready to share the Hermes II story and local insights.

How many people can join the cruise?
The tour can accommodate groups of 2 to 35 people, making it flexible for different party sizes.

To sum it up, this 1-hour Photo & History Cruise on the Hermes II offers a charming, authentic taste of Tromsø’s maritime heritage. It’s well-suited for those who want a peaceful, scenic experience with a dash of cultural storytelling, all in a cozy, historic vessel. Whether you’re traveling alone, with family, or as part of a larger group, this tour promises a memorable, visually stunning snapshot of the Arctic coast that’s hard to beat for its intimacy, authenticity, and value.