Whale watching is one of the top reasons people travel north in winter – but did you know the best place to see humpbacks and orcas is not directly in Tromsø, but in Skjervøy?

This small fishing village in Nord Troms, with just under 3,000 inhabitants, has become the hub for whale watching tours. If you’re planning to see whales during your Arctic trip, here’s everything you need to know: how to get there, where to stay, and what else to do while you’re in Skjervøy.

📍 What is Skjervøy?

Skjervøy is a historic fishing village and church town in Nord Troms. It’s famous today for its whale watching safaris, but the island also offers a mix of Arctic nature, local history, and traditional coastal culture.

We recommend spending one or two nights in Skjervøy to make the most of your visit.

Skjervøy is a fishing village with many vessels stationed in its harbor.

🚍 How to Get from Tromsø to Skjervøy

It takes some planning to reach Skjervøy, but the journey is part of the adventure.

Bus from Tromsø Prostneset → Skjervøy
Express boat (hurtigbåt) from Tromsø Prostneset → Skjervøy
Hurtigruten or Havila coastal voyage – a spectacular way to arrive, complete with onboard dinner and even an outdoor hot tub while cruising under the Arctic sky.

👉 Note: Public transport options mostly depart in the afternoon, so plan ahead.

🏡 Where to Stay in Skjervøy

Accommodation options are limited, but you’ll find several Airbnb rentals and a few hotels. Since whale season brings high demand, it’s smart to book early.

🌟 Things to Do in Skjervøy (Beyond Whale Watching)

Skjervøy has plenty to offer besides whale safaris. Here are some local highlights worth exploring:

🔭 Stussnes Viewpoint

A fantastic viewpoint overlooking the open sea and surrounding mountains. A perfect spot for northern lights watching. There’s a marked road up and a public day cabin that is open to all.

✨ Walk Around Eidevannet

A magical place to see the northern lights, surrounded by forest and starlight.

It´s worth the walk.

🐕 Midt i Værret – Leonhard Seppala Exhibit

Seppalatunet - A shop that sells local handcrafted items. You can also get an insight into local history as well as local treats.

Learn about the legendary Norwegian-American musher Leonhard Seppala, who became world-famous during the 1925 serum run to Nome, Alaska.

Skjervøy was his childhood home, and at Midt i Værret you’ll find an exhibition and local products for sale.

🎬 Tip: Watch Togo (2019, Disney+) before you come.

Link to IMDB: https://m.imdb.com/title/tt5116302/

🛍 Sport’n – The Local Outdoor Store

A locally owned sports shop with great gear for Arctic winters – and excellent personal service.

⛪ Skjervøy Church

The oldest preserved wooden church in Nord-Hålogaland, built in 1728. Commissioned by missionary Thomas von Westen, the church was built to serve not only Norwegians but also Sami and Kven communities in the wider region.

🚶 Promenade Walk

Stroll along the waterfront promenade from Værret toward Vågen. You’ll pass the local fishing fleet and some of Skjervøy’s older wooden houses – a taste of true coastal life.

🍴 Where to Eat in Skjervøy

Skjervøy is small, but you won’t go hungry. Some local tips:

Reindeer pizza at the hotel 🍕
“Today’s special” at På Hjørnet 🍲
The hot food counter at Bunnpris supermarket 🛒

🐋 Whale Watching in Skjervøy

This is the highlight! Several professional operators run whale watching safaris from Skjervøy, mostly during winter months (Nov–Jan).

🔗 Check Visit Lyngenfjord Whale Tours for trusted providers.

Humpback Whales in the fjord outside Skjervøy

An Orca Swimming in the fjords with the snowy mountains in the background.

🗓 Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Travel from Tromsø → Skjervøy, evening stroll, local dinner.
Day 2: Morning whale safari. Afternoon exploring Skjervøy (Stussnes, promenade walk, church). Overnight in Skjervøy.
Day 3: Optional second activity (northern lights, Seppala exhibit) before heading back to Tromsø.

🌌 Final Thoughts: Why Skjervøy Is Worth the Journey

Whale watching in Skjervøy is more than a day trip – it’s a chance to immerse yourself in a small Arctic community where nature and culture go hand in hand.

Take the time to slow down, stay a night or two, and let Skjervøy surprise you. Between the whales, northern lights, and warm local encounters, it might just become the highlight of your Arctic adventure.

👉 Ready for More Arctic Adventures?

After your whale watching trip to Skjervøy, why not explore Tromsø with a private walking or running tour? At HeiTromso.no you’ll find small-group, personal experiences like the Arctic Promenade Walk and Run & Relax. Perfect to combine with your whale safari for a full Arctic experience.

✨ Want more inspiration and behind-the-scenes stories? Follow us on Instagram @heitromso_

Whale Watching in Skjervøy from Tromsø – How to Get There, Where to Stay & Local Tips 🐋

📍 What is Skjervøy?

🚍 How to Get from Tromsø to Skjervøy

🏡 Where to Stay in Skjervøy