Fjord Cruises from Tromsø: Which Boat Tour Should You Choose?

Tromsø is best understood from the water. The city grew from the sea — fishing, hunting and Arctic expeditions — and today a fleet of very different boats will show you the fjords. But which cruise fits your trip? Here's an honest comparison of the options departing from the city centre.

Short on time: the 1-hour taster

The 1 Hour Photo & History Cruise aboard the beautifully restored 1917 wooden boat Hermes II gives you Tromsø's skyline and mountains from the sea side, great photo stops and a fully licensed bar. Perfect for families — the kids may even get to steer.

Half a day on the fjord

• Arctic Fjord Cruise (4 h): into Ramfjord with its famous 90-degree bend, Cold War history at Olavsvern, and a landing at an old fishing facility on Kvaløya.
• Fishing & Fjord Cruise (4.5 h): rods and equipment provided, alternating fishing groups, and fresh catch served with flatbread when the fish bite.
• Fjord Tour to Sommarøy (4–5 h): by road to the white beaches of the Summer Island, with a warm meal and likely reindeer sightings on the way.

Evening cruises: dinner under the aurora

• Northern Lights Dinner Cruise (3 h): coastal tasting menu from local fishmonger Dragøy aboard Hermes II — fish cakes, creamy fish soup and lefse, with the aurora as possible dessert.
• Aurora Dinner Cruise (4.5 h): a silent electric catamaran with panoramic saloons, a three-course set menu of local ingredients and Graff craft beer at the bar.

The seasonal spectacle: whale watching

From late October to the end of January, humpbacks and orcas feed in the herring-rich fjords. The Silent Whale Watching tour uses a purpose-built hybrid-electric vessel that approaches the whales quietly — a full-day expedition of 6–9 hours, and one of the greatest wildlife encounters Norway offers.

Private options

For small groups of 2–6, a private fjord tour or the scenic fjord transfer between Tromsø and Malangen Resort can be arranged on request.

Good to know

• Departures are all central: Stortorget (Hermes II), Kaigata 6 (electric catamaran) and the quay behind Alti shopping centre (Arctic Fjord Cruise).
• Dress warmly year round — the sea breeze is always Arctic. Warm lounges and blankets are available on board.
• Boat tours may be rescheduled in harsh weather — you'll always be offered an alternative or refund.

Whichever deck you choose, the fjords will do the rest. Welcome aboard!