Tromsø Whale Watching: Silent Hybrid-Electric Fjord Cruise

Summary

Arctic fjord whale watching with quiet electric boats from Tromsø

You’ll board a hybrid-electric boat in Tromsø for a full day trip into Arctic fjords searching for whales with a local guide. Expect quiet moments as you approach feeding grounds near Skjervøy, panoramic views from warm lounges, and maybe even that wild rush when humpbacks surface close by. It’s not guaranteed — but it’s real.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the hush — not silence exactly, but this soft hum as we glided out from Tromsø before sunrise. The boat was warmer than I expected (big relief), and someone handed me coffee while we watched the sky shift from black to that weirdly blue Arctic morning. Our guide, Eirik, pointed out the way the ice crusted along the shore. He said sometimes you can smell the herring before you see any whales, which made me laugh — but he wasn’t wrong. There’s this sharp, salty tang in the air up there.

It took a few hours to get close to Skjervøy. I spent most of it pressed against the big glass windows, trying to spot anything moving besides seabirds. People wandered between decks with their cameras and kids bundled up like little astronauts. When Eirik switched us over to the electric engine, everything got even quieter — no diesel rumble, just water tapping at the hull and everyone holding their breath a bit. Then someone whispered “there,” and suddenly there were humpbacks surfacing right next to us. I swear you could hear them breathe — this deep whoosh that felt too big for one animal.

I didn’t realize how much seeing whales like that would stick with me. There’s something about being out there for hours (sometimes 3 or more each way — bring snacks) that makes those moments feel earned. The crew kept checking in on everyone and telling stories about past trips when orcas showed up or when no whales came at all (they’re honest about that). On our day trip from Tromsø to see whales in the fjords, we got lucky — but even if we hadn’t, just floating through those frozen landscapes felt strange and kind of peaceful.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale watching from Tromsø fjords

• Depart Tromsø in the morning
• Enjoy panoramic views onboard
• Travel to Skjervøy whale feeding area
• Switch to silent electric engine near whales
• Observe whales feeding in fjords
• Return to Tromsø

Top questions

How long does the whale watching tour from Tromsø take?

The duration depends on where the whales are; it can range from 8 to 9 hours total, with up to 3.5 hours each way to reach feeding grounds.

Is whale watching near Tromsø wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options and facilities onboard are wheelchair accessible.

Are whale sightings guaranteed on this tour?

No, sightings are not guaranteed as whales are wild animals and their locations vary.

What types of whales might I see near Skjervøy?

You may see humpback whales, fin whales, sperm whales, or orcas feeding in the fjords.

Is there a restroom on board during the whale watching cruise?

Yes, there is a restroom available onboard for passenger use.

Can infants or small children join this whale watching tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; specialized infant seats are also available.

Does the tour include WiFi on board?

Yes, WiFi is available onboard during your cruise.

Is public transportation available near the departure point?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby in Tromsø.

What’s included

Your day includes cruising from Tromsø aboard a purpose-built hybrid-electric boat with panoramic lounges and two decks; you’ll have WiFi access and restrooms onboard throughout your journey into the Arctic fjords with an experienced local guide before returning after several hours at sea.