Skjervoy is one of Norway’s top spots for Arctic wildlife and landscape experiences. Its rugged coastlines, deep fjords, and rich marine life make it a prime destination for adventurous travelers. Whether you’re eager to see orcas breach the surface, spot elusive seabirds, or chase the Northern Lights, Skjervoy offers a variety of tours crafted for different interests and comfort levels. One of our favorites is the From Tromsø: Skjervoy Whale Watching RIB Boat Tour, which combines the thrill of speed with close-up encounters with massive whales.
What makes Skjervoy stand out is its accessibility and the chance to see marine giants like orcas and humpbacks in their natural habitat. The tours are often led by passionate guides who share fascinating insights, making your experience not just a spectacle but also an educational one. Whether you prefer a full-day adventure or a shorter wildlife excursion, there’s a tour here that fits your schedule and interest level.
Quick Overview
Our list highlights seven of the best tours available in Skjervoy, ranging from thrilling whale safaris to serene Northern Lights excursions. You’ll find options like:
- Whale watching by RIB boat (Tour #2), which combines comfort and adventure
- Wildlife safaris focused on seabirds and marine mammals (Tour #5)
- Northern Lights stargazing tours (Tour #7)
- Intimate RIB whale tours without transfers from Tromsø (Tour #4) for the thrill-seekers
Below, we dig into each tour to help you decide which fits your trip best.
1. From Tromsø: Skjervoy Whale Watching RIB Boat Tour
For around $374, this 12-hour full-day tour offers a deep dive into Arctic whale watching. Starting from Tromsø, you’ll travel by bus for about four hours to Skjervoy, then hop aboard a RIB boat—famous for its speed and agility—to chase orcas, humpbacks, fin whales, and minke whales. The experience is truly immersive, placing you amidst the action as whales breach and sea eagles soar overhead.
What sets this tour apart is the long duration and intimate setting. The small group and passionate guides ensure plenty of photo opportunities, from the massive whales to the stunning fjord scenery. Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see orcas and humpbacks breaching—moments you’ll never forget. The tour includes several stops along the fjord, giving you time to soak in the wild Arctic landscape.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for travelers wanting an all-day adventure with a focus on whale activity, perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. The price reflects a comprehensive experience, and the long day means you’ll get plenty of time with these majestic creatures.
2. Skjervøy: Orca and Whale-Watching Comfort Heated Boat Trip
Costing about $301 for roughly 3.5 hours, this tour balances comfort with up-close whale encounters. Departing from a start point in Skjervoy, you’ll cruise through Arctic waters aboard a heated boat, which is a real luxury in Norway’s chilly climate. The focus here is on spotting orcas, humpbacks, and other whales in their natural environment, with the added benefit of educational commentary from your guide.
What makes this trip special is the combination of comfort and expertise. Multiple reviews mention how the guides are enthusiastic and knowledgeable, with some describing the experience as “incredible” and “well-organized.” The boat’s warmth allows you to relax and focus on capturing photos, while the crew’s respectful approach ensures the whales are not disturbed.
This tour is perfect if you prefer a shorter, more relaxed experience but still want to see the Arctic’s marine giants. It’s especially suited for travelers who might get cold easily or want to combine whale watching with photography tips.
Bottom line: Excellent for those seeking a comfortable, educational whale safari with a high likelihood of seeing orcas and humpbacks in a shorter timeframe.
3. Skjervøy: Whale and Orca Watching Tour by RIB Boat
This 3-hour high-speed tour costs around $235 and offers a more dynamic, fast-paced experience. Departing from Strandveien 70, you’ll ride a high-speed RIB boat through Arctic waters to spot sperm whales, orcas, humpbacks, and fin whales. The high-speed nature means you’ll cover more ground and get closer to the action, all while staying warm in thermal suits.
What makes this tour stand out is the speed and personal attention. Many reviews highlight how the crew is friendly and informative, with the guide sharing insights about whale behavior and ecology. Passengers also appreciate the unobstructed 360° views and the chance to see whales breach or frolic close to the boat.
This tour is best suited for adventure-minded travelers who want a shorter but intense whale-watching experience. The thermal suits and safety gear ensure comfort despite the cold.
Bottom line: Perfect if you want a thrilling, fast-paced encounter with a variety of whales, especially for those comfortable with a brisk ride.
4. Skjervøy: Whale-Watching RIB Tour (No transfer from Tromsø)
This private-style tour, priced at about $303 per person, skips the Tromsø transfer, focusing solely on whale watching from Skjervoy. The small group and personalized approach make it stand out, with the bonus of unobstructed 360° whale viewing. The boat is designed for safety and comfort, and you’ll be equipped with expedition-grade Arctic suits rated for -70°C, which is practically essential in winter.
Highlights include the warm campfire experience with hot chocolate and a hearty meal, making this tour perfect for those who want a cozy, wilderness adventure. The focus here is on wildlife observation in a more secluded setting, giving you the chance to get closer to whales without the crowds.
Reviews are excellent, citing the personal service and the thrill of seeing whales up close. The only potential drawback is the lack of a fixed itinerary — weather conditions can affect the trip.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a personalized, comfortable, and intimate whale-watching experience in a smaller group.
5. Skjervøy: Birds and Wildlife of Arctic Norway
At $165 for 3 hours, this tour offers a bird and wildlife safari focused on marine mammals, seabirds, and eagles. It’s ideal for nature lovers wanting to see white-beaked dolphins, sea eagles, and learn about Sami and Norwegian culture. Led by a local team, the tour emphasizes eco-responsibility and personalized hosting.
While less about whales and more about the broader ecosystem, this experience is rich in wildlife sightings and offers a different perspective on the Arctic environment. The tour is suitable for families or travelers looking for a shorter, cultural, and wildlife-focused outing.
Reviews note the dedicated staff and the quality of wildlife sightings. It’s a great choice if you prefer birdwatching and marine mammal spotting over sea giants.
Bottom line: An excellent pick for wildlife enthusiasts wanting a more varied, culturally infused Arctic experience.
6. From Tromsø: Whale Sea Safari by RIB Boat
This 12-hour tour combines wildlife encounters with scenic fjord cruising. Starting from Tromsø, you’ll venture on a speedy RIB into the Arctic to find orcas, humpbacks, and fin whales. The itinerary includes transport, a safety briefing, and plenty of time to spot whales in a small-group setting.
Reviewers highlight the up-close encounters with whales, noting the fast-paced nature as a highlight. The tour offers a full day of Arctic scenery, wildlife, and adventure, making it ideal for travelers who want an immersive experience without sacrificing comfort.
Best suited for those who don’t mind a long day on the water and want to maximize whale sightings. The small RIB boat allows for quick maneuvering and closer views.
Bottom line: A top choice for wildlife lovers who enjoy adventure and scenery, and are comfortable with a full-day commitment.
$324 per person
7. Skjervøy, North of Tromsø: Northern Lights Stargazing (Minivan)
Costing varies but the 3-hour tour offers a relaxed way to experience Aurora Borealis and the Arctic night sky. Traveling in a small minivan, you’ll visit serene spots away from artificial light, increasing your chances of catching the Northern Lights.
The tour is praised for its personalized approach and flexibility, with guides adjusting the route based on weather. Many reviews mention the peaceful environment and the opportunity to enjoy the stars or Aurora in comfort, with hot drinks served to enhance the experience.
This is a good choice if your main goal is witnessing the Northern Lights or enjoying the starry sky in a cozy setting. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer small groups and flexibility over big bus tours.
Bottom line: Ideal for night sky lovers and those seeking a peaceful, flexible Aurora experience in a comfortable setting.
How to Choose Your Arctic Tour
Selecting the right tour depends on your budget, interests, and schedule. For wildlife enthusiasts eager for close-up whale encounters, the From Tromsø: Skjervoy Whale Watching RIB Boat Tour offers a full-day adventure, while the Skjervøy: Orca and Whale-Watching Comfort Heated Boat Trip provides a shorter, more comfortable outing. If your focus is on birdwatching and broader wildlife, the Birds and Wildlife of Arctic Norway is appealing.
For those wanting to maximize whale sightings in a fast-paced style, the Whale and Orca Watching Tour by RIB Boat is a solid pick. And if you’re chasing the Northern Lights, the Northern Lights Stargazing in Skjervøy offers a peaceful, flexible experience.
When booking, consider seasonality—winter offers the best chance for whales and Aurora— and book early to secure your preferred date, especially during peak months.
Final Thoughts
Skjervoy presents a range of compelling tours tailored to different interests and preferences. Whether you want the adrenaline rush of high-speed whale safaris, the tranquility of Northern Lights viewing, or the chance to see seabirds and marine mammals, there’s an experience waiting for you. The full-day whale adventures are perfect for wildlife lovers, while the shorter, comfort-focused trips suit travelers who prefer a relaxed pace.
For families or travelers on a budget, a shorter wildlife or bird tour offers excellent value. If you’re a serious photographer or marine enthusiast, the smaller, more personal tours will give you the best chances to capture breathtaking moments.
Remember, the Arctic is unpredictable—weather can change quickly. Booking in advance and staying flexible increases your chances of a successful trip. Skjervoy is a truly unique destination, and choosing the right tour will ensure you leave with unforgettable memories of Norway’s wild side.