Andenes Whale Safari: Arctic Whale Watching Tour in Vesterålen
Description
Experience authentic whale watching from Andenes; one of Europe’s top locations where deep waters lie just offshore. Our spacious, stable vessels offer a comfortable journey with heated indoor lounges, large viewing decks, and onboard refreshments. Unlike smaller high-speed boats, you can enjoy the experience at a relaxed pace. Our expert guides provide engaging insights into whale behaviour and the Arctic ecosystem. On selected departures, we use a hydrophone to help locate whales beneath the surface. We follow responsible whale watching practices at all times. And if no whales are seen, your Whale Pass allows you to join another tour free of charge.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Check-in at Andenes Harbour (30–45 minutes) Guests arrive at the meeting point near Andenes Harbour for check-in and safety briefing. Meet our team and guides Receive important safety instructions Get equipped for the tour (if needed) Opportunity to ask questions before departure Check-in opens approximately 45 minutes before departure
Departure & Coastal Sailing (45–75 minutes) We depart from Andenes and sail into the rich feeding grounds just offshore. Scenic views of Andøya’s dramatic coastline Introduction to local wildlife and marine ecosystem Guides share insights about whales, seabirds, and ocean conditions
Whale Watching Experience (1.5–2.5 hours) Once in the whale zone, the search begins. Primary species: Sperm whales Possible sightings: orcas, pilot whales, minke whales, dolphins Use of hydrophone (on selected vessels) to detect whales underwater Respectful and responsible wildlife viewing Time spent depends on whale activity and location
Onboard Relaxation & Refreshments (Throughout the Tour) During the tour, guests can enjoy comfort onboard. Warm soup served onboard Coffee, tea, and hot drinks available Heated indoor lounge with large viewing windows Outdoor decks for unobstructed viewing and photography
Return to Andenes Harbour (45–75 minutes) We return to Andenes after the whale safari. Relax and enjoy the scenery on the way back Final opportunity for wildlife sightings Guides available for questions and discussion
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Service animals allowed
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(8)
Nice trip and we were lucky there were killer whales to see. Unfortunately, that was about it. The guides were very enthusiastic and helped everyone where necessary. The sea was relatively calm but still at least 1/3 seasick. Halfway through soup was served with a slice of bread, it was very tasty and some “sick” people also recovered.
100% yes A big thank you for this sea trip. We have been waiting for it for 1 week. We were losing hope. We almost left with the other company and fortunately it is on your boat that we boarded. In addition to the kindness of John at the reception and the captain, we had plenty of explanations from the staff, in particular from the French guide who is a marine biologist. We have an entire group of orcas. Males, females, and 2 little ones, all of them. We were able to observe them for long, incredible moments. Our boat was very respectful of these animals and the least we can say is that this is not the case for the other company, Whale2sea, with its 5 boats surrounding the animals. It is shameful; such a company should be banned. We spotted a minke whale from very far away, but belonging to a very timid and hunted species, the captain decided not to approach it. We are disappointed, of course, but we can only applaud this wise decision. Thanks again for this incredible experience.
Pay attention. Don't assure whales but dolphins. TODAY only dolphins but any pass to make a new tour.
Very nice service and knowledgeable on board. Comfortable boat. Saw lots of killer whales. A really good experience, recommend everyone to go.
Beautiful whale-watching tour, with a very dedicated crew. They did everything to show us the whales. Thank you very much!
The best day of my life. Seeing sperm whales up close. One in the bucket list. Been to the other operator and they have big open boat but Arctic Whale Tours have heated saloon and wide open deck. Plenty of space to go around. Guides are very informative as well.
We had a wonderful afternoon 😍😍 The departure was shifted from 11am to 1pm due to the weather conditions (big swell in the morning). The afternoon was magical, superb sunshine and guides and a team on top 👍 (special thanks to Alex and Ruud who were great and cared for) 3 sperm whales observed very closely, as well as two others who dived before we arrived on them. Our guides persevered to be able to even one last sperm whale and surprise two groups of Orcas were at the rendezvous 🎉🎉 An incredible and unforgettable day for us and our children 👨👩👦👦 The Alba boat having an inner heated cabin this was ideal for our 20 month old baby. Thanks Alex, Ruud and the whole Artic Whale Tour Andenes team 🙏🤟 Frédéric/Sabrina/Arthur and baby Noah @LaGuibsFamily
The day probably started badly... the 11 am tour was canceled and postponed to 2 pm... announcement given with an email arrived 3 minutes after we were notified at check-in... fortunately the weather was magnificent and it was a nice walk at sea with two whales spotted from a distance and both approached from the bow... too bad that so more than half of the participants did not see anything... Bad luck...
