Haugesund: RIB Safari Tour with Island Stops & Local Stories

Summary

Speed across Haugesund’s straits past islands history and sea birds

You’ll suit up by Haugesund’s pier before speeding across historic straits in a RIB boat with your local captain. Hear stories of Vikings and wartime secrets while passing islands like Røvær and Feøy, watch for white-tailed eagles overhead, and feel that wild North Sea air on your face. Includes all equipment plus safety briefing — just bring your sense of adventure.

What’s the experience like?

We met right at the pier in Haugesund — I was still zipping up my jacket when our captain waved us over, grinning like he’d done this a thousand times. There’s something about Norwegian sea air that wakes you up fast, even before you’ve had coffee. After a quick walk (maybe five minutes, tops), we got kitted out in these thick life suits and gloves that made me feel like an astronaut. The safety talk was no-nonsense but not scary; just enough to make you trust the guy at the wheel.

The first few minutes on the RIB boat were honestly a blur of salt spray and laughter — I kept grabbing my hood as we zipped through the Haugesund straits. Our guide pointed out where Norway supposedly got its name, which I wouldn’t have known if he hadn’t said it. The wind whipped around us but it wasn’t too cold, just sharp and fresh. We slowed down near Røvær island, where red boathouses lined up against green hills and sheep watched us from the shore like they owned the place. Someone asked about the WWII bunker on Varden hill and our captain told this story about German soldiers hiding out there — his accent made it sound almost gentle, which was strange for a war story.

I tried to spot a white-tailed eagle after he mentioned they sometimes nest here, but all I saw was a flash of wings and then nothing. Still, just knowing they’re around makes you look up more than usual. On Feøy island we passed old wharves and what looked like a tiny restaurant — apparently locals still gather there for fish soup or something stronger. Li laughed when I tried to say “Feøy Brygge” in Norwegian — probably butchered it, but nobody seemed to mind.

The whole thing lasted about an hour on the water (plus time for gear), but honestly it felt both longer and shorter at once. My hands smelled faintly of salt even after we’d peeled off our gloves back at the dock. Sometimes I catch myself thinking about those open stretches of sea and how quiet it got between bursts of engine noise — you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — RIB tour exploring Haugesund islands

• Meet at the pier
• Walk 5 minutes to RIB location
• Receive equipment and safety briefing
• Embark on RIB boat tour
• Cruise Haugesund straits and open waters
• Pass by Røvær Island
• Pass by Feøy Island
• Watch for White-tailed eagle
• Return to shore and end tour

Top questions

How long is the Haugesund RIB safari tour?

The tour lasts about two hours total, with one hour spent on the RIB boat itself.

Is equipment provided for the RIB safari in Haugesund?

Yes, all necessary equipment including life suit, life jacket, goggles, and gloves is provided.

Are there any health restrictions for this tour?

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

Will we see wildlife like eagles during the tour?

You might spot white-tailed eagles nesting on one of the islands along the route.

Does the tour include stops at Røvær or Feøy islands?

You’ll pass by these islands during your RIB adventure but won’t disembark; stories are shared as you cruise past.

What should I wear for the Haugesund rib safari?

Wear comfortable clothes; all protective gear is provided before boarding.

Is pickup included in this Haugesund boat tour?

No hotel pickup; you meet at Haugesund’s pier for check-in before walking to the boat location.

What’s included

Your day includes meeting at Haugesund’s pier, getting fully suited up with life jacket, suit, goggles and gloves after a short walk to the RIB location, plus a full safety briefing from your experienced captain before heading out onto open water together.