Things to do in Vesterålen

Summer whale watching in magic Bleik (Andøy, Vesterålen), a 10-minute drive from Andenes. Vesterålen is Norway's hidden spot for fantastic wildlife, both on sea and land. Join our summer whale and wildlife RIB-boat excursion to explore the surface of the deep-water canyon of Bleik and its surroundings. The canyon is home to abundant marine wildlife, including the magnificent sperm whales. You will also have a chance to encounter other marine mammals, such as pilot whales, orcas, minke, and occasionally Risso's dolphins and fin whales. All these animals frequent the area in search of food (different fish species), which also attracts extraordinary birds and other wildlife. In searching for whales, we will most likely encounter different birds (puffins, eagles, gannets, etc.) while we keep our eyes open for Harbor seals. Join our 3,5 hours RIB boat excursion with a maximum of 12 guests to explore the wonders of Bleik Canyon. During the tour, a guide will be onboard to give you information about all the wildlife we encounter and take photos (as memories) to take them home with you after the trip. Trip duration: 3.5 hours (including getting ready (wearing warm flotation suits) onshore and Complementary tea and coffee while changing after the trip). Departures: 10:00 and 21:00 from Bleik Marina (https://goo.gl/maps/j5SDCVsjxyJmzN4B6). Look for the Green Gold of Norway sign (The legendary Green Dragon), where your skipper and guide will meet you.

This tour starts at 07:35 in Svolvær, making our way to Andenes - the whale watching starts at 13:00. You hop on a Hop-on/Hop-off bus, which makes stops along the way to pick up guests and keeps a schedule. During your holiday in Lofoten, Norway, grab the unique offer to spot orcas, sperm whales, and dolphins in their Arctic home. A reliable and safe bus ride, with easy pick-up from the center in Svolvær, makes this an easy-to-book day activity. The Arctic Route bus brings you along one of Norway's 18 National Scenic Routes, including ferries, bridges, and stunning coastal routes. Photo stops are included so you don't miss out on experiencing the real Arctic scenery. The village of Andenes is the only location close to Lofoten, where these sea mammals can be spotted when hopping on a boat. You will join an open Rigid Inflatable Boat to bring you out on the ocean. All needed gear to keep you warm and safe is included. Food: a light lunch bag is included, a traditional 'matpakke' including bread with spread - bring extra food if needed for the whole day, as possibility to buy food is limited on this day. Pastries and hot drinks can be purchased during the ferry crossing in the morning from Svovær. Bring your food for your return trip back to Svolvær . Notice: This activity is weather-dependent. If the tour is canceled, you will be informed as soon as possible and we will try to reschedule you for another day. Notice: Please mind that the minimum age is 8 years and the minimum height is 120 cm. Notice: Transport is done with the Arctic Route hop-on/hop-off bus, which makes stops along the way to pick up other travelers. Notice: This tour includes a long transport from Svolvær to Andenes - the closest location from Lofoten to see whales.

Make your way between the town of Tromsø, the Arctic Capital and the village of Svolvær, the gateway to Lofoten. Our bus and ferries bring you, via a scenic coastal route, in 13 hours, to your preferred holiday destination. Traveling by road in the summertime is a truly unique experience in the Arctic, as the sun doesn't set. The Arctic Route brings you along 2 of Norway's National Scenic Routes, marked as the most beautiful rides to do. Keep your camera close and your eyes on the ever-changing nature and landscapes. This bus ride is spiced up with 3 scenic ferries, 2 photo stops, and 2 National Scenic Routes. Photo stops: - Unique Bleik Beach in Vesterålen (15 min stop) - Stop at Marmelkroken Lodge in Vesterålen Ferries: - Brensholmen-Botnhamn (40min) - Gryllefjord-Andenes (1h40min) - Melbu-Fiskebøl (25min) National Scenic Routes: - Senja - Ocean, fjords and mountains (90km) - Andøya - Where the ocean comes ashore (58km) Included in your ticket is free access to the Digital Storytelling App of Arctic Route. Get to know the area you visit in an easy and relaxed way, by listening to handpicked stories and facts in the app. Tromsø to Svolvær journey: - Hop on the Arctic Route at 08:45 (am) in the centre of Tromsø at Bus Terminal Prostneset and arrive in Svolvær Centre at 21:30 (9.30pm) Svolvær to Tromsø journey: - Hop on the Arctic Route at 07:35 (am) in the centre of Svolvær and arrive in Tromsø Centre at 20:25 (8.25pm)

Our adventure begins as we depart from Svinøya, weaving through breathtaking fjords and rugged mountain passes en route to a traditional Sami Siida, or reindeer camp. Our knowledgeable guide will explain the changing landscape and stop for photo opportunities along the way. Upon arrival at the Sami Siida, you'll be warmly welcomed by our gracious hosts, who will introduce you to the time-honoured rituals and customs of Sami life. Gather around the roaring fire of a lavvu, a traditional Sami tent, as our esteemed reindeer herder shares captivating stories passed down through generations, offering insight into the sacred bond between the Sami people and their reindeer companions. Prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to enter the reindeer paddock and interact with these gentle creatures up close. Under the expert guidance of our guide, you'll have the chance to feed and pet the reindeer, forging a deep and meaningful connection with these majestic animals that have played a central role in Sami culture for millennia. As the aroma of hearty reindeer stew fills the air, you'll indulge in a sumptuous lunch crafted from the finest local ingredients, including tender cuts of reindeer meat slow-cooked to perfection. Savour the flavours of the Arctic wilderness as you dine amidst the tranquil beauty of the Sami Siida, surrounded by stunning mountains and pristine tundra. As you bid farewell to the Sami Siida and the enchanting reindeer that call it home, you'll carry memories of an unforgettable journey into the heart of Sami culture. Join us on this extraordinary adventure and experience the timeless traditions and boundless hospitality of the indigenous people of the North, where every moment celebrates the enduring spirit of the Arctic wilderness.

This is a self-guided trip. Visit the hometown of Hurtigruten, the brand-new museum, and explore the village of Stormarknes by foot. On your way back to Svolvær, you will join the famous Hurtigruten/Havila Voyages ship, while visiting Norway’s most iconic northern fjord: Trollfjord. Your journey: - Museum Visit: Make your way up to the hometown of Hurtigruten, the coastal ships, and visit the newly-opened museum in Stokmarknes. - Explore: Explore Stokmarknes, the hometown of Hurtigruten: After the museum, you can explore the area on foot - Digital Story App is available for free for a practical self-guided tour. Bring your hiking shoes, or a book to settle in one of the bars. - Sail into Trollfjord: It is time to embark on the iconic Cruise Ship of Hurtigruten (or Havila Voyages on certain days due to alternating route operations), which leaves the docks in Stokmarknes. On your way back to Svolvær, you will join the impressive Hurtigruten/Havila boat, while visiting Norway’s most iconic northern fjord: Trollfjord. Feel, breathe and relax while passing along one of Norway's most beautiful spots. Time schedule: - 07:35 - Departure from Svinvøya (07:40) or Svolvær centre (07:35) by bus (Arctic Route) - be 15 minutes before departure - 08:30 - Scenic ferry between Lofoten Islands and Vesterålen (35 minutes) - 09:30 - Enjoy a free coffee/tea at the Quality Museum in Stokmarknes, overlooking the ocean - 10:00 - Visit the new Hurtigruten Museum - lunch available for purchase in the museum - 12:00 - Explore Stokmarknes by foot (self-guided via Voice of Norway app) - 14:45 - Check-in at Hurtigruten Ship at Hurtigruten Terminal in Stokmarknes - 15:15 - Departure with Hurtigruten/Havila Voyages Ship to Svolvær, with visit to Trollfjord along the way - 18:15 - Arrival at Svolvær centre at Hurtigruten Terminal - 18:30 - Optional dinner can be purchased on the ship - 20:15 - Hop off the ship the latest Download the app Voice of Norway for the guiding app here: https://experio.page.link/RC1hBzWwxVfsLMi56

Embark on an adventure to explore the untouched nature of Vesterålen, starting from Sortland. See breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife. The scenery is constantly changing with the weather, so it’s never boring. Join an exhilarating adventure by car to explore the vibrant animal life of Vesterålen Island by car. The journey will take you from Sortland to a series of breathtaking destinations, where you’ll pause to capture unforgettable moments and stunning landscapes. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and create lasting memories.

Discover the thrill of the Arctic wilderness on a RIB boat tour to one of Norway's most spectacular bird cliffs. Witness thousands of puffins up close, spot majestic white-tailed sea eagles in their natural habitat, and capture incredible photos of wildlife and dramatic landscapes. Meet your guide and board a RIB boat or sailingship for a puffin safari. Head to Bleiksøya, a small island in the Norwegian Sea, and home to one of the largest puffin colonies in Norway. Witness the puffins with their white breasts and colorful beaks, one of the most beautiful seabirds in the world. For eight months, they live far out on the open sea, far from the coast. In the middle of April, the pairs return to Bleiksøya for breeding. See the nests dug out into the ground and learn about the puffins' monogamous nature. They lay only one egg per season. The oldest ring-marked puffin found in Norway was 43 years old, with an average age of 25–30 years. Watch as the puffins dive as far as nearly 100 meters to catch fish and carry many fish in their beaks at the same time. Spot majestic white-tailed sea eagles in their natural habitat. Savor a freshly baked muffin and a warm drink after the safari.