Whale Watching Tour by Hybrid-Electric Boat Tromso

Whale watching in the fjords around Skjervøy

In winter, herring gather in the fjords of northern Norway, and the whales follow. Humpback whales, orcas and sometimes fin whales and sperm whales feed in the waters near Skjervøy, which is why a whale watching tour from Tromsø heads north-east to this area. It is one of the best places in Europe to see whales in the wild, and the winter light makes the scenery dramatic.

Sightings depend on the whales, the weather and the day, so there are no guarantees. The crew tracks the animals and adjusts the route, and the guides tell you what you are seeing and how to recognise each species. If you are asking whether whale watching in Tromsø is worth it, the answer is yes for anyone who accepts that nature sets the schedule.

The hybrid-electric boat and why it matters

The boat is built for sightseeing, with heated saloons, big panoramic windows and multi-level decks, so you can see the landscape from many places on board. Its hybrid-electric system lets the crew shut down the diesel engines and continue on a quiet electric engine when whales are close. Engine noise and vibration disturb marine life, so this approach helps to give the animals more peace.

For guests, the practical benefit is a calmer, quieter encounter and a warm place to rest between outdoor viewing. Wi-Fi and tap water are included. Food and drinks, such as soup, sandwiches and hot drinks, are available to buy on board, and lunch is not included, so decide whether to bring your own snacks.

Fjord scenery along the way

The route passes some of the finest scenery in Troms: the peaks of the Lyngen Alps, the Lyngstuva lighthouse at the tip of the Lyngen peninsula and the narrow Kagsundet strait. Low winter sun paints the mountains in pink and blue. The captain and guides stop for photos and point out landmarks, and the trip often returns past the Arctic Cathedral in Tromsø.

Itineraries are for reference and can change with the weather, sea conditions and whale positions. The crossing to the feeding grounds takes about three to three and a half hours, and you spend around an hour to an hour and a half near the whales. Total time can range from seven to nine hours, so plan the rest of your day around a long outing.

Planning your whale watching day

Departures are in the morning, at 07:30, 07:45, 08:00 or 09:00, from a boarding place in Tromsø. Check the departure time on your ticket and board the vessel marked with that time, because check-in is mandatory before departure and you may receive an SMS with more instructions before the tour. Hotel pickup is not included.

Dress warmly in layers, including wool, hat, gloves and windproof outer layers, because it is much colder at sea. The sea can be rough, and some guests feel seasick, so ask the crew for tips or take a remedy beforehand. Bring a camera with a zoom, sunglasses for the low sun and a small backpack.