Tromso is a fantastic place for boat tours and cruises, thanks to its stunning Arctic scenery, abundant wildlife, and access to fjords, whales, and the Northern Lights. What makes Tromso stand out is its ability to combine nature, culture, and adventure all in one trip, often with a local touch that adds authenticity. For example, the Luxury Northern Lights Yacht Cruise offers a cozy way to see the Aurora with a hot tub and dinner onboard, blending comfort with the chance to witness one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena. Alternatively, the Whale Watching trips allow you to see orcas and humpbacks in their natural environment, which is hard to beat for wildlife lovers.
If you prefer a more comprehensive experience, many tours include wildlife insights, local food tastings, and photo opportunities. Tromso’s sailing cruises often feature sustainable vessels, giving eco-conscious travelers a chance to enjoy the environment without leaving a heavy footprint. Whether you want a quick fjord cruise, a fishing adventure, or a chance to chase the Northern Lights, Tromso’s boat tours offer something for every interest.
Quick Overview
Our list includes fjords, whale watching, Northern Lights safaris, and historic boat cruises. Many tours combine wildlife watching, local cuisine, and scenic sailing. Whether you’re after a luxury experience like the Luxury Northern Lights Yacht Cruise or a more active outing like fishing or boat photography tours, there’s plenty to choose from. Read on for detailed descriptions of each option.
1. Tromsø’s Top-Rated Fjord & Fishing Cruise – Lunch included
At number 1, this 5-hour cruise offers a perfect mix of scenic fjords, wildlife spotting, and fishing. It’s a cozy, comfortable boat cruise where you can relax while taking in the mountains meeting the sea. Guides provide insights into the region’s ecology, geography, and history, which makes it more than just a pretty ride. The intimate whale safari component is a real highlight, with personalized attention. Reviewers praise the breathtaking Arctic scenery and the warm onboard environment. The price of $147 per person seems fair considering the 5-hour duration and all the included insights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a relaxing, informative cruise with a chance to fish or see wildlife up close.
2. Tromsø: Arctic Fjord Cruise With Stop On Land At Fish Racks
On our list’s second spot, this 4-hour catamaran cruise offers panoramic views, wildlife sightings, and a stop at a local fish farm. The hybrid-electric vessel ensures a quieter, more eco-friendly experience, perfect for those interested in sustainable travel. You’ll enjoy underwater drone sightings, which add a modern twist to the traditional fjord voyage. Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, with several reviews mentioning dolphins, puffins, and white-tailed eagles. The $124 ticket offers a great value for a half-day with wildlife, scenery, and food tastings.
Bottom Line: An eco-friendly option that combines panoramic fjord views with local wildlife and interactive tech.
3. Tromsø: Polar Fjord & Fishing Cruise with Lunch included
This 5-hour cruise is a real wildlife enthusiast’s dream. Sail aboard a classic wooden boat to seek seabirds, dolphins, pilot whales, and more. The hot fish soup served onboard makes it a cozy, satisfying experience. The tour’s focus on wildlife behavior makes it stand out, and the chance to fish (between February and October) adds an active element. Reviews highlight friendly crews and delicious food. The $147.21 price point is solid for the length, wildlife, and included meal.
Bottom Line: Best for those interested in wildlife, photography, and Arctic food in a traditional boat setting.
4. Tromsø: Arctic Fjord Cruise in Polar Landscapes
For around $113, this 3.5-hour cruise on a sustainable catamaran takes you past snow-covered mountains and into narrow fjords with wildlife like sea eagles. Guides share cultural and natural insights, making it educational as well as scenic. The free photography lesson is a nice touch, especially for photo buffs wanting to capture the Arctic beauty. Reviewers mention friendly guides and stunning fjord views that are accessible even in less-than-ideal weather.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a short, eco-friendly cruise with plenty of photo opportunities and wildlife viewing.
5. Tromsø: Fjord Fishing Cruise
At $185, this 4.5-hour fishing-focused cruise offers a genuine coastal experience. You’ll sail in a traditional wooden boat with fishing rods provided, trying your luck at catching cod. If successful, you’ll enjoy your catch prepared onboard. Several reviews mention delicious fish, friendly crew, and stunning scenery. The value here is high for a fishing trip with fresh seafood. It’s especially suited for outdoor enthusiasts wanting a hands-on experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for fishing fans or those wanting a rare chance to eat their catch in a traditional setting.
6. Tromsø: Fjord History Cruise with Snack and Drinks
This 2.5-hour cruise on a restored 1917 boat combines coastal history with wildlife viewing. It’s a soft, cultural experience with eagles, seals, and reindeer in view. Reviewers appreciate the friendly crew and stories about the boat’s past. The fact that it’s relatively short and includes hot drinks makes it suitable for those with limited time but interested in local heritage.
Bottom Line: A good choice for history buffs or travelers seeking a short but meaningful maritime experience.
7. Tromsø: Evening Cruise with Northern Lights Opportunity
Costing $117 for 3.5 hours, this evening cruise offers a chance to see the Aurora Borealis while cruising on Barents Sea waters. It’s operated by a local family company, adding an authentic touch. Many reviews highlight successful sightings, with some travelers describing it as “incredible” despite cloudy weather. The tour includes warm drinks and thermal suits, which are essential for comfort while waiting outside.
Bottom Line: Perfect for Aurora chasers who want a comfortable, intimate experience with a high likelihood of seeing the Northern Lights.
8. Luxury Northern Lights Yacht Cruise with Hot Tub & Dinner
This luxury cruise for just 12 guests offers a 4-hour evening adventure with a hot tub, dinner, and Northern Lights viewing. The reindeer soup and hot drinks onboard add a gourmet touch. Realistically, it’s for travelers seeking a premium experience with a personalized touch. Reviewers say the yacht is comfortable and cozy, and the hot tub is a standout feature. Priced at $354.81, it’s an investment but offers intimate luxury.
Bottom Line: Best suited for luxury travelers wanting a premium, private Aurora experience.
9. Tromsø: Aurora Dinner Cruise by Hybrid-Electric Catamaran
For around $175, this 3.5-hour cruise combines a Nordic dinner with a silent cruise that maximizes the chance to view the Aurora. Passengers enjoy hot drinks, dessert, and a cozy atmosphere. Several reviews mention good food and helpful crew. The silent electric vessel reduces noise pollution and enhances the experience of watching the Northern Lights in comfort.
Bottom Line: Great for food lovers and Aurora seekers who appreciate quiet, eco-friendly cruising.
10. Tromso Luxury Sailing Yacht Polar Fjord Cruise with Lunch
At about $328, this half-day private-style cruise offers spectacular views of Balsfjorden, with a delicious reindeer soup onboard. It’s perfect for nature lovers who want to enjoy wildlife, scenic landscapes, and small-group intimacy. The tour’s flexibility to upgrade with a hot tub makes it even more appealing. Reviewers love the personalized service and beautiful scenery.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for small groups or romantic trips focused on luxury and wildlife.
11. Half-Day Fishing & Fjord Cruise Adventure from Tromsø in Norway
This 4.5-hour fishing tour costs $192.10 and offers rod fishing for cod from a traditional boat. It’s great for fishing enthusiasts wanting hands-on experience and the chance to prepare their own catch. Reviews highlight friendly crew, hot drinks, and successful fishing. It’s perfect if you’re after a combination of fishing, scenery, and local seafood.
Bottom Line: Ideal for fishing fans who want to combine wildlife and culinary experiences.
12. Half Day Arctic Fjord Cruise from Tromso
For $136, this 4-hour cruise features hidden sights in the Arctic fjords. It includes guide commentary and an underwater drone, making it a tech-savvy choice. Reviewers enjoy wildlife sightings and beautiful landscapes, even in cloudy weather.
Bottom Line: A mid-length, educational cruise ideal for tech enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.
13. Tromsø: Orca and Whale Watching comfort heated boat Trip
At $373, this 12-hour tour is a serious whale-watching expedition. It takes you to Skjervøy, where orcas and humpbacks are often seen in their natural habitat. The heated boat and expert guides make it a comfortable and educational experience. Reviewers describe it as “unsurpassed” for wildlife photography and “beautiful”.
Bottom Line: For wildlife enthusiasts willing to invest, this trip offers the best chance to see whales in the wild.
14. Tromsø: Evening Sightseeing Cruise All-inclusive
This evening cruise, priced at $151, offers views of fjords, mountains, and wildlife while socializing with locals. Its all-inclusive nature makes it a great relaxed outing, though it’s less focused on wildlife than others.
Bottom Line: For travelers seeking a casual, scenic evening with local color.
15. Tromsø: Arctic Fjord Sightseeing Cruise in Luxury Catamaran
This 3-hour tour is praised for its luxurious feel and intimate size. Guides provide local insights while you enjoy spectacular views and breath-taking wildlife. The small group and relaxing atmosphere appeal to refined travelers.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a high-end, educational cruise in a luxurious setting.
16. Fjord & History Cruise
Finally, this 2.5-hour trip costs $141.11 and offers a historical perspective onboard the beautifully restored Hermes II. With island views, storytelling, and photography opportunities, it’s perfect for history buffs or those looking for a short, scenic cruise.
Bottom Line: An informative, cultural cruise suited for those interested in local history and small-scale experiences.
How to Choose Your Tromso Boat Tour
Selecting the right boat tour depends on what you want out of your trip. If your priority is wildlife, then the Whale Watching or Fjord & Whale Cruises (see here) are top choices. Looking for a luxury experience? The Northern Lights Yacht (see here) and Small-Group Yacht (see here) offer comfort and exclusivity. Budget travelers might prefer the 3.5-hour Arctic Landscapes Cruise (see here), which balances scenery and affordability.
Think about time of day too. For Aurora hunting, the evening cruises are ideal, but book early or reserve for multiple nights since weather can be unpredictable. For wildlife and scenic views, midday or afternoon trips tend to be more reliable.
To sum it up, Tromso offers a range of boat tours that suit every travel style — whether you’re after wildlife, Northern Lights, history, or luxury. Popular choices like the Luxury Northern Lights Yacht and Whale Watching tours are particularly recommended for their quality and memorable experiences. To maximize your chances of seeing the Aurora or whales, book early especially in peak seasons, and always check the weather forecast. With so many options, your perfect Arctic boat adventure awaits.