Half-Day Whale Watching Safari – Andenes
Explore Europe’s richest whale grounds on a thrilling summer safari from Andenes. Board the historic RS 78 Hagbart Waage and witness orcas, sperm whales, and playful dolphins in their Arctic home.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–5 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness needed to manage a few hours on a moving vessel with some stability and endurance.
Wildlife
History
The RS 78 Hagbart Waage, built in 1968, served as a rescue vessel before being restored for tourism, representing Norway's maritime heritage.
Conservation
Arctic Whale Tours practices responsible tourism by minimizing wildlife disturbance and educating guests about marine conservation efforts.
Arctic Whale Tours AS
Half-Day Whale Watching Safari – Andenes
Arctic Whale Tours AS is a Norwegian tour operator based in Stø, Nordland, specializing in guided whale-watching safaris across northern Norway. The company operates seasonal trips from Tromsø, Andenes and Skjervøy, using vessels adapted for Arctic conditions, including the heated catamaran Alba and the historic RS 78 Hagbart Waage. Trips range from full-day whale safaris in Tromsø to winter excursions from Skjervøy and summer safaris from Andenes.
Guides on board are described as knowledgeable and passionate, providing natural history interpretation, safety briefings and local context during sightings. Services include complimentary hot drinks aboard the Alba, the Whale Pass guarantee on select Tromsø departures, and short two- to three-hour winter safaris from Skjervøy aboard RS 78 Hagbart Waage. The Andenes summer safari highlights Europe’s rich marine grounds and regular encounters with orcas, sperm whales and dolphins aboard RS 78 Hagbart Waage.
Arctic Whale Tours AS emphasizes safety and comfort with heated cabins and experienced crew relevant to cold-water operations. Group sizes vary by vessel and trip type to maintain an intimate viewing experience and effective wildlife observation. Booking information, seasonal schedules and availability are provided through the company's official channels. Reservations are recommended in advance during peak season, but sightings are never guaranteed.
Base Location
Stø, Nordland
Northern Norway launch point
Key Vessels
Alba; RS 78 Hagbart Waage
Heated catamaran and historic vessel
Seasons
Winter & Summer
Seasonal whale safaris available
Trip Lengths
2–3 hrs to Full-day
Short and full-day options offered
Choose a winter or summer trip, pick a departure from Tromsø, Andenes or Skjervøy, and secure a spot aboard Alba or RS 78 Hagbart Waage.
Dress in Warm Layers
Wear wool or fleece beneath windproof, waterproof outerwear to stay comfortable during the sea voyage.
Bring Seasickness Medication
Take seasickness tablets 1–2 hours before departure if you’re prone to motion sickness.
Use Binoculars for Wildlife Viewing
Bring binoculars to catch distant whale breaches and dolphin pods on the horizon.
Book Early for Peak Season
Reserve your spot well in advance during summer months, when whale sightings peak and tours fill quickly.
Warm Base Layers
To maintain body heat during cooler Arctic sea breezes.
summer
Windproof and Waterproof Jacket
Protects against sudden weather changes and sea spray during the safari.
summer
Comfortable Waterproof Footwear
Ensures grip and dryness on wet boat decks.
summer
Binoculars
Brace yourself for detailed wildlife viewing at a distance.
summer