Skjervøy: Whale and Orca Watching Tour by RIB Boat

Traveling to Norway’s far north for a whale-watching tour is a dream for many wildlife enthusiasts, and the Skjervøy RIB whale tour offers a lively, up-close encounter with the giants of the ocean. This 3-hour journey takes you out into the Barents Sea on a speedy RIB boat, hunting for orcas, humpbacks, sperm whales, and fin whales in their natural habitat.

What makes this experience stand out? We love how lively and engaging the trip can be, especially thanks to the high-speed boat that zooms across the cold waters, giving you more time to see whales breaching and frolicking. Plus, the knowledgeable crew share insights about whale behavior and ecology, adding an educational layer to the adventure.

However, it’s worth noting that weather conditions can heavily influence the experience. On rough days, the ride can be bumpy, and sightings are never guaranteed. This means your patience and a passion for wildlife are key. This tour suits travelers who crave an active, authentic Arctic experience and are prepared for the cold and unpredictable weather.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Get a good chance to see orcas, humpbacks, sperm whales, and fin whales.
• High-Speed RIB Boat: Zipping across the water at speed means more time chasing whales and less waiting.
• Educational Insights: Your crew shares fascinating facts about whale behavior and ecology.
• Warm and Safe: Thermal suits, life vests, mittens, and goggles are provided to keep you comfortable.
• Short But Action-Packed: A 3-hour tour balances excitement with practicality for most travelers.
• Variable Sightings: While sightings are exciting, they’re not guaranteed due to natural factors.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off from Strandveien 70, conveniently located in the center of Skjervøy. The meeting spot is marked by a red door next to Elon, with a black flag bearing the Explore 70 Degrees logo. This central location makes it easy to find and access, especially after a night in town or a day exploring the Arctic landscapes.

The RIB Boat Adventure

Once onboard, you’ll feel the adrenaline rush as the high-speed RIB boat launches into the water. These vessels are designed for both safety and speed, allowing your guide to cover more ground in search of whales. The experience itself is exhilarating — the wind in your hair, the splash of the sea, and the anticipation of a whale sighting all come together for a memorable ride.

What to Expect on the Water

You’ll be supplied with thermal suits, mittens, goggles, and life vests, essential gear for staying warm in Arctic Norway’s chilly waters. As you zoom through the Barents Sea, keep a keen eye out for splashes, breaches, and the telltale fins of whales. The guidance crew, led by knowledgeable guides who share insights about whale ecology, makes the experience both fun and informative.

Whale Watching and Sightings

While whale sightings are never guaranteed, the guides are skilled at spotting signs of activity and positioning the boat for the best chances. Reviewers noted that if orcas are present, you may even get the opportunity to observe their feeding behavior and agility up close — a moment that many consider a highlight of Arctic wildlife trips.

Encountering Marine Giants

The size and grace of whales are truly breathtaking. Reviewers mention seeing multiple species, including orcas, fin whales, humpbacks, and sperm whales, sometimes all on a single trip. One guest recalled the captain’s care and attention, with explanations that helped them appreciate the whales’ behavior and environment even more.

The Human Element

Reviews frequently mention the friendly and professional crew, with one reviewer praising their care and explanations: “The captain really cares about the interests of your and explains a lot.” This personal touch can make or break the experience, especially when navigating challenging weather conditions.

Duration and Value

A three-hour tour is a perfect balance for travelers wanting an active day without spending too long at sea. The price of $235 per person offers a good value considering the inclusion of thermal suits, safety gear, and a guided experience. Keep in mind, food and drinks are not included, so packing a snack might be advisable if you get hungry.

The Realities: Weather and Sightings

Weather plays a significant role in the success of whale-watching trips in Arctic Norway. One reviewer shared that if conditions aren’t ideal, the ride gets bumpy and the chances of sighting whales drop. They suggested that perhaps the best approach, when weather is poor, would be to cancel and reschedule. That said, the guides are experienced in navigating the waters and will do their best to find whales when they are around.

The Bumpy Ride and Cold Temperatures

Expect a lively, sometimes choppy ride — this isn’t a smooth cruise, but that’s part of the adventure. The thermal suits do a good job of keeping you warm, even in the freezing Arctic air. Some reviewers appreciated how well-equipped they felt, with one mentioning that the ride was “peaceful” despite the cold, thanks to the gear provided.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure seekers who love wildlife and don’t mind a bit of cold and motion. It’s perfect for those who want to learn about whales from experts while enjoying a fast-paced, fun ride. Family travelers with children over 6 and those comfortable with the Arctic climate will find this a memorable outing.

However, it’s not suited for travelers with back problems, children under 6, or anyone under 3 ft 9 in (120 cm), due to safety and comfort reasons. Also, those who prefer a more relaxed, scenic cruise might prefer larger boat tours or land-based whale watching options.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This whale-watching tour from Skjervøy offers quite a unique experience. The combination of high-speed boat travel, expert guides, and the chance to see some of the most majestic creatures in the ocean makes it a memorable outing for wildlife lovers. The value for money stands out, especially when you consider the inclusion of thermal gear and the personalized attention from the crew.

While the possibility of weather-related cancellation or less-than-ideal sightings exists, that’s part of Arctic adventure living. The thrill of spotting an orca breach or a humpback tail slapping the surface makes the effort worthwhile. Plus, the guides’ passion and knowledge add richness to the experience, turning a simple boat trip into an educational journey.

This tour best suits those eager for an active, authentic Arctic wildlife encounter — travelers who are patient, prepared for cold, and genuinely interested in cetaceans. It’s a chance to see nature’s giants in their element and to create stories you’ll remember long after returning home.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
You’ll get thermal suits, mittens, goggles, life vests, transportation by RIB boat, and a guide to help you spot whales and explain their behavior.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with specific start times depending on availability.

Is food or drink included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so consider bringing a snack.

What should I wear during the trip?
Dress warmly in layers, as the Arctic waters can be very cold. The thermal suits provided will help, but additional warm clothing underneath is advisable.

Can I see all whale species listed?
While sightings depend on natural conditions, the tour has a good chance to see sperm whales, orcas, humpbacks, and fin whales.

Who is this trip not suitable for?
Children under 6 years old, people with back problems, or those shorter than 3 ft 9 in (120 cm).

What happens if I don’t see any whales?
Sightings are never guaranteed, but the guides will do their best to find whales. If weather or conditions prevent a good experience, you might consider rescheduling or accepting that wildlife sightings are unpredictable.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which is a smart move if the forecast looks unfavorable.

In sum, the Skjervøy whale and orca tour is a lively, educational, and exciting way to connect with Norway’s Arctic marine life. It rewards patience and a sense of adventure, offering a truly immersive glimpse into the lives of some of the ocean’s most fascinating creatures. Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure lovers alike, it’s a trip that promises more than just views — it’s about experiencing the raw, captivating power of nature.