How to get to Skjervøy
Our whale watching tours take place in Skjervøy, a small fishing village in Northern Norway that is one of the best places to experience orca and humpback whale safaris during the winter season.
Whether you’re travelling from Tromsø for the day or planning a longer stay in the region, getting to Skjervøy can be straightforward. Choose the travel option that best suits your itinerary.
Travelling from Tromsø?
The easiest and most convenient way to reach Skjervøy is with the Arctic Route bus.
When you book our whale watching tour from Tromsø with us, we arrange your return bus transfer on your behalf, so you don’t need to organise separate transport. During the winter whale watching season, the Arctic Route bus operates daily.
Departs Tromsø: 05:30
Arrives in Skjervøy: In time for your boat departure
Returns from Skjervøy: 13:30 after the tour
The modern large coach offers:
- Comfortable seating
- Free onboard Wi-Fi
- Toilet facilities
- A direct connection timed to match our whale watching departures
For the latest route information and timetables, visit the Best Arctic website.
Ready to book? Choose a Whale Watching Tour from Tromsø when making your reservation, and we’ll arrange your Arctic Route bus transfer for you.
Already staying in Skjervøy or travelling independently?
Book our Whale Watching Tour from Skjervøy and meet us directly at the harbour before departure.
This option is ideal if you:
Are driving from elsewhere in Northern Norway
Are staying in Skjervøy or nearby
Have your own transport
Want maximum flexibility during your trip
Self Drive from Tromsø to Skjervøy
Driving gives you the freedom to explore the spectacular scenery of Northern Norway at your own pace.
Distance from Tromsø: Approximately 250 km
Driving time: Allow at least 4 hours for the drive (depending on weather and road conditions)
There are two main routes:
Option 1: Via the Lyngen Ferries
This scenic route includes two ferry crossings:
Breivikeidet – Svensby (approximately 20 minutes)
Lyngseidet – Olderdalen (approximately 35 minutes)
Please check ferry timetables before travelling, as schedules vary throughout the year.
Option 2: Via the E6
The E6 provides a ferry-free alternative. While this route is generally longer, it may be the better option as ferry connections are limited.
Winter Driving Advice
Road conditions can change quickly during the Arctic winter. We recommend:
Allowing extra travel time
Checking weather forecasts before departure
Monitoring road conditions
Confirming ferry departures if using the Lyngen route
You can check out the schedule for the ferries here.
Fast Ferry
There is a fast ferry connecting Tromso and Skjervoy, it is passenger only. This service operates once daily, mostly in the afternoon and evenings. You can check out the schedule here.
Port to Port Cruiseliner
Hurtigruten and Havila offer port to port services aboard their ships. You can check out their schedule on their website, it is evenings only.