Whale safari from Stø - Arctic Whale Tours

From this authentic Arctic harbour, Arctic Whale Tours invites you on a full-day whale safari into the open ocean.

Whale safari
Booking
28/02/2017
02:06
Kenn Løkkegaard

Welcome to the Realm of Whales

On the northern tip of Langøya in Vesterålen lies the small fishing village of Stø - a living piece of coastal history with an active longline fleet and deep ties to the sea. From this authentic Arctic harbour, Arctic Whale Tours invites you on a full-day whale safari into the open ocean.

A Safari Unlike Any Other

Departing from Stø Harbour, our tour takes you to the rich waters surrounding Anda Nature Reserve and Bleik Canyon - among the best whale watching areas in Europe.

This 6-8-hour safari is more than a whale trip - it’s a complete Arctic nature experience, combining spectacular whale encounters with world-class seabird watching.

The Star of the Show: The Sperm Whale

Our main goal is to find the sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) - the world’s largest toothed whale. You’ll watch as it surfaces to breathe and blows, before lifting its powerful tail and diving deep.

Other marine life we may encounter includes:

  • Minke whales 
  • Orcas (killer whales) 
  • Harbour porpoises 
  • White-beaked dolphins 
  • Occasionally: harbour seals along the shoreline

Birds and Coastal Wildlife

Our journey begins near Anda Nature Reserve, home to thousands of nesting seabirds. During the trip you may see:

  • Puffins
  • White-tailed eagles
  • Fulmars
  • Shags and cormorants 
  • Gannets
  • Skuas

These birds often follow the boat, offering incredible photo opportunities and a rare connection with the Arctic ecosystem.

Your Vessel: Blasius II

We sail aboard Blasius II, a comfortable and stable catamaran with a maximum capacity of 65 guests. The vessel features wide, walkable decks and cozy indoor lounges - perfect for observing wildlife in all conditions.

We always approach whales with care, slowing down long in advance and keeping a respectful distance. The wellbeing of the animals is always our top priority.

Local Guides, Deep Knowledge

Our professional nature guides are highly trained in marine biology and coastal culture, many of them locals with firsthand knowledge of the sea around Stø. They make you feel safe, informed, and part of the crew.

Onboard Comfort

A light lunch is included, prepared with local and organic ingredients, along with coffee and tea. We recommend wearing warm, layered clothing and being prepared for changing weather - it is the open ocean, after all.

Whale Pass

Although sightings are frequent, nature can be unpredictable.
If we don’t see whales, you’ll be invited to join another tour free of charge.

Practical info

Duration: 6-8 hours
Departure location: Stø Harbour, 8438 Stø
Season: June to August
Wheelchair accessible: Yes (weather and boat conditions permitting)

Contact us

Stø Havn
8438 Stø

Phone: +47 915 90 675
E-mail: info@arcticwhaletours.com
Website: arcticwhaletours.com

© Kirsti Aijanen
The guests onboard are looking at an orca during a whale watching tour with Arctic Whale Tours.
© Arctic Whale Tours
White-taled eagle
© Arctic Whale Tours
The boat Blasius II
© Arctic Whale Tours
Watching the bird life at Anda
© Arctic Whale Tours
Seals relaxing on stones at Anda
© Arctic Whale Tours
The guests onboard are looking at an orca during a whale watching tour with Arctic Whale Tours.
© Kirsti Aijanen
The fishing village Stø

Related articles