Whale Safari in the Kingdom of the Giants – Arctic Whale Tours

Two harbours. One deep sea. Infinite awe.

In the Arctic waters off the coast of Northern Norway, where the ocean plunges into deep canyons and the midnight sun kisses the waves, whales reign. Arctic Whale Tours invites you to step aboard and meet these magnificent creatures face to face - from two unforgettable locations: Andenes and Stø.

Two Destinations, One Unforgettable Adventure

Andenes and Stø are both perched on the outer edge of the Vesterålen archipelago - where the continental shelf drops and the sea teems with life. Yet, each harbour offers its own unique experience.

From Andenes, you sail into Bleik Canyon on a half-day journey to seek out sperm whales, orcas, and humpbacks. The tour is ideal if you’re short on time, but still crave a world-class whale encounter.

From Stø, the adventure becomes a full-day marine safari. You’ll travel farther, explore longer, and take in the rich birdlife, dramatic cliffs, and occasional seals along the shore - all while watching for the deep dive of the mighty sperm whale.

Where Whales Dive and Wonder Rises

The heart of both tours is Bleik Canyon, a deep marine trench just offshore, known for its extraordinary biodiversity. With the help of our guides - and your own eyes - you may encounter:

• Sperm whales rising for air before their dramatic dives
• Playful white-beaked dolphins surfing the wake
• Orcas and pilot whales cutting through Arctic swells
• Minke and humpback whales surfacing beside the boat
• Harbour porpoises darting past the hull

Every trip is unique - no two whale sightings are the same - and that’s what makes it unforgettable.

Beyond Whales: Arctic Wildlife Encounters

At Anda Nature Reserve, thousands of seabirds nest on sheer cliffs and rugged rocks. Depending on the time of summer, you may witness:

• Puffins soaring back to their burrows
• White-tailed eagles scanning the sea
• Razorbills, guillemots, kittiwakes, and gannets circling above
• Harbour seals sunbathing on the shoreline

It’s not just a tour — it’s a living, breathing documentary where you’re the witness.

Our Boats

• From Andenes: You’ll board RS 78 Hagbart Waage, a historic rescue vessel adapted for whale watching, offering both charm and comfort.

• From Stø: You’ll sail on Blasius II, a 22-meter catamaran designed for marine observation with 360° deck space and warm indoor seating.

Both vessels are equipped with experienced crews, safety systems, and serve complimentary drinks - and of course, hot soup prepared with local ingredients.

Your Guides

Our guides are more than storytellers - they’re marine biologists, naturalists, and locals deeply rooted in the coastal culture of Vesterålen. Their insight makes every encounter richer, more meaningful - and deeply human.

Whale Pass

Nature has no script - but we offer peace of mind.
If no whales (any cetacean species) are sighted on your tour, you’ll receive a WHALE PASS: a free rebooking on another day, subject to availability.

We see whales on over 98% of our tours - but this is nature, after all.

What's Included:

• Whale safari with expert guides
• Bird and seal watching (especially from Stø)
• Fish or vegetarian soup + hot drinks
• Warm indoor lounges and spacious outdoor decks
• Whale Pass - free rebooking if no whales are seen

Which Departure is Right for You?

• Choose Andenes if: You want a shorter, high-probability whale safari with easy access and strong sperm whale sightings.

• Choose Stø if: You’re ready for a full-day marine experience - combining whales, seabirds, seals, and the quiet charm of a traditional fishing village.

Either way, the ocean awaits.

Departure points:
Andenes: Hamnegata 75, 8480 Andenes
Stø: Stø Harbour, 8438 Stø

Season:
Andenes: May 15 - September 30
Stø: June 1 - August 31

Contact us:
+47 48 15 10 97 (Andenes)
+47 915 90 675 (Stø)