King Crab Safari Adventure with Visit Bugoynes in Norway
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in reasonable physical shape to board boats and stand during the crab hauling process.
Overview
Head to Bugøynes for a King Crab Safari like no other. Ride RIB boats through Varangerfjord, catch colossal Norwegian red king crabs, and feast fresh at Bugøynes Bistroen.
King Crab Safari in Bugøynes with RIB boats incl. lunch
Ages 10+ • 2-3 hours duration • Are you ready to face the king of Varangerfjord?
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About This Adventure
Embark on a thrilling King Crab Safari in Bugøynes, the birthplace of crab fishing in Norway! Experience the excitement of catching the mighty Norwegian Red King Crab while learning about local history and wildlife. After your adventure, savor a delicious meal of freshly steamed crab at Bugøynes Bistroen.
Duration: 2 hours at sea + king crab lunch 2-3 hours total duration
About
Join our Bugøynes King crab safari by RIB boats and learn about these creatures of the Barents Sea! The Norwegian red king crab is one of the most important export products of Northern Norway and our local guide will tell you all about them and their invasion of the North-Norwegian coastline. On the way to our crab pots we learn also about the war history of Bugøynes. If we are lucky, we might also see some seals, sea birds and porpoises. Each trip to the sea is different and that’s what makes it exciting.
King crabs generally grow up to 3-5kg and their meat is considered very tasty and healthy! The biggest king crab caught in Varangerfjord has weighed 11kg!
After the safari, you will have a meal steamed from your own caught king crab at our “Bugøynes Bistroen” restaurant. The king crab is served in the traditional Norwegian way with bread and mayonnaise. As fresh as it gets!
What to wear
Our tour includes floatation suits and life vests. The floatation suit is warm, but in Winter you should wear appropriate layers underneath. Also bring along mittens, warm hat and wear weather-proof shoes.
Please note
The tour is weather dependent. If we are not able to go out to sea due to bad weather we have an alternative to visit the King crab factory in Bugøynes followed by a plentiful king crab lunch in Bistroen.
Adventure Tips
Dress in Layers
Wear warm, moisture-wicking clothing beneath the provided flotation suits, especially in colder months.
Bring Weatherproof Footwear
Non-slip, waterproof shoes are important for boarding the boat and walking on slippery docks.
Watch for Wildlife
Keep your camera ready to spot seals, sea birds, and porpoises often seen along the fjord.
Be Prepared for Rough Seas
This is an open-water tour, so seas can be choppy; motion sickness remedies may be advisable for sensitive travelers.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Harbor seals
- Arctic sea birds including puffins and guillemots
History
Bugøynes is known as the origin of King Crab fishing in Norway, tracing its crab trade back decades, influencing local culture and economy.
Conservation
Guides emphasize sustainable fishing practices and educate visitors about the king crab’s ecological impact on native species and habitats.
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Adventure Hotspots in Kirkenes
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Warm Base Layers
Retain body heat beneath the floatation suit during cold-weather tours.
fall|winter|spring specific
Waterproof Jacket
Protects against spray and unpredictable Arctic weather.
all specific
Waterproof Non-slip Shoes
Ensures grip and dryness while boarding and moving on wet surfaces.
all specific
Camera with Waterproof Case
Capture unexpected wildlife and dramatic fjord scenery.
all specific