If you’re planning to visit Tromsø, Norway, there’s no better way to discover its stunning landscape than on a scenic city cruise. With the magnificent Arctic fjords, picturesque mountains, and abundant wildlife, a city cruise experience is a must during your stay in Tromsø. In this post, we’ll explore the top three city cruises you can take in Tromsø to experience the very best of this stunning location. Get ready to embrace the beauty of Tromsø from a unique perspective as we highlight three of the best city cruises that the town has to offer.
The 3 Best City Cruises in Tromsø
- From Tromsø: All-Inclusive Whale and Sea Bird Boat Cruise
- Tromsø: Northern Lights Photo Cruise
- From Tromsø: Northern Lights Chase by Boat
The 3 Best City Cruises in Tromsø
1. From Tromsø: All-Inclusive Whale and Sea Bird Boat Cruise
Embark on an all-inclusive whale and sea bird boat cruise in Tromsø, Norway. Watch orcas and humpback whales feeding on shoals of herring while competing for the greatest share. Keep your eyes peeled for sea eagles soaring along the coastline and enjoy the warm hospitality of expert local guides. The tour includes a roundtrip boat cruise with crew, local guides, snacks, beverages, thermal insulated suits, safety equipment, and hotel pickup and drop-off. Please note that babies under 1 year are not able to join. Meet at Scandic Ishavshotel and bring warm clothing and a camera. Baby strollers, intoxication, bikes, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed. Please be aware that the activity may be canceled if the minimum number of participants is not achieved or due to bad weather/sea conditions.
2. Tromsø: Northern Lights Photo Cruise
Witness the spectacular Northern Lights in Tromsø through an evening cruise. Experience a clear night above the fjords of Tromsø Island away from the city lights for the best viewing. Spend your time outside on one of the decks or relax inside the lounge. Along with scenic transport by boat, enjoy the guide’s short presentations and explanations about the natural phenomenon of the Northern Lights. You’ll be provided with a thermal winter suit and life jacket, as well as hot coffee, water, tea, and biscuits. Towels and swimwear are also available. Photos and portraits will be taken by the guides and sent within 72 hours only if the Northern Lights are visible. Note that people with mobility impairments cannot join. Meet at the harbourside of Kystens Hus for an early season tour from September 15th to October 24th at 9 PM – 11 PM, a high season tour from October 25th to February 28th from 7 PM – 11 PM or a late season tour from March 1 – March 25 from 9 PM – 1 AM. Warm clothing, hat, swimwear, and towel are recommended to bring. Keep in mind that the amount of daylight changes throughout the winter season, so the tour time varies. Lastly, the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed to appear on the evening of your tour.
3. From Tromsø: Northern Lights Chase by Boat
Experience the awe-inspiring Northern Lights on a boat tour from Tromsø. Join a local family-based company and depart from the city center on board MS Polar Adventure at 20:00. On the boat, you will find warm and cold drinks, snacks, and thermal suits to keep you cozy. The crew will also assist you in setting up your camera to capture the Northern Lights. While on the tour, you are allowed to bring your own food and drink, although alcohol is not permitted. The boat will chase the Northern Lights until the end of the tour and will return to the same dock next to Scandic Ishavshotel at 23:30. Although seeing the Northern Lights is not guaranteed, the company offers a new tour for free if you do not see them on the first try. The boat tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and participants are required to wear warm clothing and shoes. Please be outside the entrance of Scandic Ishavshotel 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time. For any questions or changes, please contact the tour company directly. The tour will take place if there is a chance of seeing the Northern Lights.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tromsø
Tromsø is a picturesque coastal city in northern Norway known for its spectacular natural beauty and remarkable cultural scene. If you are planning to visit Tromsø or just curious about this charming city, here are some of the most common questions and answers about Tromsø.
What is the best time to visit Tromsø?
The best time to visit Tromsø depends on what you want to see and experience. The peak tourist season is between November and March, when the Northern Lights are most visible. However, if you would like to enjoy the Midnight Sun, the best time to visit is between May and July.
How to reach Tromsø?
Tromsø is well-connected to the rest of Norway and major cities in Europe. You can travel to Tromsø by air or by sea. Tromsø Airport has direct flights from Oslo and other Norwegian cities, as well as Copenhagen, London, and Amsterdam. Alternatively, you can take a Hurtigruten cruise, which stops at Tromsø.
What are the top attractions in Tromsø?
Tromsø has a lot to offer, from nature and wildlife to cultural and historical landmarks. Some of the top attractions in Tromsø include:
- Arctic Cathedral
- Polaria
- Tromsø Bridge
- Tromsø Museum
- Tromsø Botanical Garden
- Fjellheisen Cable Car
- Kvaløya Island
- Lyngen Alps
- Northern Lights
What is the weather like in Tromsø?
Tromsø has a cool oceanic climate, meaning mild summers and relatively mild winters. The average temperature in January is -4°C (25°F), and the average temperature in July is 11°C (52°F). However, the weather can be unpredictable, so it’s always best to check the forecast before heading out.
What is the local cuisine in Tromsø?
Tromsø has a rich culinary scene, with plenty of fresh seafood and local specialties. Some of the must-try dishes in Tromsø include:
- Reindeer meat
- Kjøttkaker (meatballs)
- Fiskesuppe (fish soup)
- Rømmegrøt (sour cream porridge)
- Smoked salmon
Where to see the Northern Lights in Tromsø?
Tromsø is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. Some of the top places to view the Northern Lights in Tromsø include:
- Mount Storsteinen
- Kvaløya Island
- Straumsbukta
- Kattfjordeidet
- Lauklines Kystferie
What are the best outdoor activities in Tromsø?
Tromsø has plenty of outdoor activities, from hiking and skiing to dogsledding and reindeer sledding. Some of the best outdoor activities in Tromsø include:
- Hiking in Fjellheisen
- Dogsledding in Kvaløya Island
- Reindeer sledding in Karasjok
- Skiing in Lyngen Alps
- Fishing in the fjords
- Kayaking in the Arctic sea
What is the currency in Tromsø?
The currency in Tromsø is Norwegian Krone (NOK). You can exchange your currency at the airport or at any bank in the city. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases.
Is it safe to travel to Tromsø?
Tromsø is a safe destination for tourists, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, it’s always important to take precautions while traveling, such as keeping your valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings.
Is English spoken in Tromsø?
Yes, English is widely spoken in Tromsø, along with Norwegian and Sami.
Conclusion
Tromsø is a unique and fascinating destination that offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure. By answering some of the most common questions about Tromsø, we hope to have provided you with some useful insights and tips for your trip to this enchanting city.
The 3 Best City Cruises in Tromsø
Are you planning your next trip to Tromsø, Norway? One of the must-do activities in this picturesque city is a city cruise. Tromsø is known as the ‘Gateway to the Arctic’ and is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including snow-capped mountains and serene fjords. In this blog post, we’ll answer the most frequently asked questions about the three best city cruises in Tromsø.
1. What is a City Cruise?
A city cruise is a guided boat tour that takes you through the city’s waterways, past significant landmarks, and into the surrounding fjords. City cruises are a popular way to explore Tromsø’s natural surroundings and learn about the city’s history and culture. The duration of the cruise can vary from a couple of hours to a full day, depending on the tour you choose.
2. Which are the Three Best City Cruises in Tromsø?
The three best city cruises in Tromsø are:
2.1. Arctic Princess
The Arctic Princess is a luxury yacht that takes passengers on a private tour of the Tromsø fjords. This tour is perfect for a romantic getaway or a small group of friends or family. The yacht has a heated indoor salon and an outdoor deck, where you can view the magnificent landscapes comfortably. The tour includes a light lunch or dinner, depending on the time of day you choose. The Arctic Princess tour costs approximately $1,000 for 6 hours.
2.2. Midnight Sun Cruise with Pukka Travels
The Midnight Sun Cruise with Pukka Travels is a 3-hours tour where you can enjoy the stunning views of Arctic nature in the Tromsø fjords. During the cruise, you will see the beautiful scenery of steep mountains, islands, and the Arctic wildlife, including eagles, seals, and porpoises. The tour’s highlight is the midnight sun, which can only be seen during mid-May to mid-July. The Midnight Sun Cruise tour costs approximately $160 per person.
2.3. Tromsø Wildlife and Scenery Cruise
The Tromsø Wildlife and Scenery Cruise by Green Gold of Norway is a 5-hours tour where you can experience Tromsø’s breathtaking wildlife and gorgeous landscapes. During the tour, you will get to see the sea eagle and Puffin colonies, which are among the largest in Norway. Additionally, the tour includes a visit to the Hella fishing village, where you can learn about the history of fishing in Tromsø. A delicious lunch is also included in this tour. The Tromsø Wildlife and Scenery Cruise costs approximately $200 per person.
3. When is the Best Time to go on a City Cruise in Tromsø?
The best time to go on a city cruise in Tromsø is from June to August when the weather is mild, and the midnight sun is visible. During this time, the city is bustling with life as tourists from all over the world flock to Tromsø to experience the city’s natural beauty. However, if you prefer a quieter experience, September and October offer a beautiful autumn landscape and fewer crowds.
4. What Should I Wear on a City Cruise in Tromsø?
It is essential to dress appropriately for a city cruise in Tromsø, as the temperature can be quite cold, even during the summer months. It is recommended to wear warm layers, including a waterproof jacket, a hat, gloves, and boots. Additionally, sunglasses can come in handy as the sun’s reflection off the water can be quite strong.
5. Do I Need to Book a City Cruise in Advance?
To ensure availability, it is recommended to book a city cruise in Tromsø in advance, especially during the high season (June to August). Most tour companies offer online bookings so you can secure your spot before arriving in Tromsø. Additionally, you may be able to find last-minute availability by contacting the tour company directly or waiting on standby, but this is not recommended during the busy summer months.
Conclusion
Exploring Tromsø from the water is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed. A city cruise is the perfect way to see the city’s natural beauty and learn about Tromsø’s history and culture. The three best city cruises in Tromsø discussed in this blog post are the Arctic Princess, Midnight Sun Cruise with Pukka Travels, and Tromsø Wildlife and Scenery Cruise. Remember to dress appropriately, book in advance, and enjoy your journey through the picturesque waterways and fjords of Tromsø.
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