Planning a trip to the Arctic city of Tromsø? If you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic way to enjoy the area’s natural beauty and learn a bit about its history, this 2-hour island cruise with Polar Adventures might just fit the bill. It’s not a traditional sightseeing tour—no packed buses or crowded viewpoints—but rather a gentle boat ride around Tromsø’s picturesque island with plenty of comfort and charm.
What we really like about this tour is its laid-back vibe: you can sit back on deck benches or cozy up inside with hot chocolate, all while soaking in views of mountains, wildlife, and historic sites. Plus, the all-you-can-eat snacks and drinks are a thoughtful touch—warm cookies, coffee, and water make the experience feel both indulgent and practical. On the flip side, the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to get to the meeting point on your own.
This cruise appeals most to travelers who enjoy scenic views, wildlife spotting, and a relaxed pace. Families, casual travelers, and those who want a comfortable, informative experience without the crowds will find it an excellent choice.
Key Points
- Relaxed, scenic cruise around Tromsø’s island with comfortable seating options
- All-you-can-eat snacks and drinks, including hot chocolate, coffee, and water
- Informative commentary from friendly crew about local history, wildlife, and landmarks
- Opportunity for wildlife viewing and stunning photo moments
- Kids may get a chance to steer the boat under supervision, adding a fun, interactive element
- Two cozy saloons and deck benches for comfortable viewing and relaxation
- Weather-appropriate dress recommended—layers, hat, waterproof camera
- Tour designed for those comfortable with small boats and normal mobility (not suitable for mobility impairments or seasickness prone travelers)
An In-Depth Look at the Tromsø Island Cruise
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Tromso.
The Itinerary and Setting
This 2-hour round-trip cruise sets out from Tromsø’s front pier, located at Killengreensgate 7-11. The boat itself is not described as a traditional sightseeing vessel but rather as a comfortable, authentic boat that prioritizes passenger comfort. The route is a gentle circumnavigation of Tromsø’s main island, offering equally impressive views from all angles.
As we understand it, the tour provides a mix of scenic vistas—mountains, possibly reindeer in the wild, and landmarks such as Tromsø’s highest point and local ski areas. The boat’s slow pace ensures you can take in the sights and listen to engaging commentary from the crew. From the reviews, it’s clear that the experience isn’t just about scenery; the guide shares interesting tidbits about WWII wrecks and local wildlife, adding depth to the visual feast.
Views and Photo Opportunities
Expect breathtaking scenery that captures the rugged beauty of Norway’s Arctic coast. The views are described as stunning, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way. Whether it’s snow-capped mountains, distant reindeer, or the subtle play of light on the water, this cruise excels in delivering picture-perfect moments.
Travelers have noted that even in less-than-ideal weather—like rain—the boat’s design allows easy movement in and out, keeping everyone dry and comfortable. As one reviewer put it: “Although it rained, we were able to easily transition in and out which was convenient, keeping us dry.” This flexibility enhances the overall experience, especially in a climate known for unpredictable weather.
Comfort and Amenities Onboard
Comfort is a priority, with two cozy saloons and deck benches for seating. During the cruise, guests can enjoy all-you-can-eat cookies and snacks, with a steady supply of coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and water. The availability of multiple toilets on board is a thoughtful touch, especially for families or travelers with small children.
The friendly crew doesn’t just navigate the boat; they enrich the journey with stories and insights. Kids, in particular, seem to enjoy the chance to take the wheel under supervision, adding a unique interactive element to a relaxed tour.
More Great Tours NearbyWildlife and Cultural Highlights
While primarily scenic, this cruise offers opportunities to see local wildlife and learn about Tromsø’s history. Past guests have spotted reindeer in the wild, and some have observed historical wrecks, like a German boat sunk during WWII. These details transform a simple boat ride into a mini educational adventure.
The guide’s commentary, available in English and Norwegian, helps contextualize what you’re seeing. The tour’s small group size fosters a friendly, intimate atmosphere, ideal for families or couples.
Practical Considerations and Pricing
The tour lasts exactly two hours, which strikes a balance between enough time to enjoy the scenery and not feeling overly long or tiring. Pricing is reasonable for what’s included—a scenic cruise with snacks, drinks, and onboard comfort—making it excellent value for a memorable few hours in Tromsø.
Note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan your transportation to the pier accordingly. The tour is also not suitable for those with mobility challenges or seasickness, so keep that in mind if either applies.
What to Bring and Wear
Given Tromsø’s often chilly and unpredictable weather, dressing in warm layers, a hat, and waterproof gear is wise. Bring a waterproof camera to capture those amazing vistas. The tour’s emphasis on comfort and safety means you’ll be well taken care of, but proper clothing ensures you stay warm and dry.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour?
This cruise is perfect for travelers who want a peaceful, scenic experience without the complexity of longer expeditions. Families with children will appreciate the relaxed pace and interactive elements. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy the chance to see reindeer or learn about local history through engaging commentary. And anyone looking for a comfortable way to appreciate Tromsø’s natural beauty will find this cruise well worth their time.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
Absolutely. This 2-hour island cruise from Tromsø offers a lovely blend of stunning scenery, engaging stories, and comfort. It’s a quiet, relaxed way to see the area without the hassle of large tour groups or rigid schedules. The included snacks and drinks add a touch of warmth and hospitality, making it feel more like a friendly outing than a formal tour.
For those who value scenic beauty, wildlife viewing, and a bit of local history, this cruise hits all those notes. It’s especially suitable if you’re traveling with family or simply want a low-stress, high-enjoyment experience near Tromsø. While it’s not a comprehensive fjord expedition, it’s a charming introduction to the island’s natural and cultural landscape.
FAQ
What is included in the tour?
You’ll enjoy all-you-can-eat snacks and cookies, along with unlimited coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and water. The tour also provides two toilets, comfortable seating on deck benches, and cozy saloons.
How long does the cruise last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, offering a leisurely circumnavigation of Tromsø’s island with plenty of time to take photos and listen to stories.
Do I need to bring my own food or drinks?
No, all snacks and drinks are included, so you can relax and focus on enjoying the scenery and company.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children generally enjoy the experience, especially with the chance to steer the boat under supervision. It’s a family-friendly activity designed for a relaxed environment.
What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, including a hat, and bring waterproof gear and a waterproof camera. Tromsø’s weather can be changeable, so being prepared is key.
Are there any accessibility considerations?
The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or those prone to seasickness. The boat has multiple seating options, but access may be limited for some.
Where do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is at Killengreensgate 7-11, at the front pier. Look for the tour provider’s logo on the building side.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. It’s a flexible booking option, helping you adapt if your plans change.
Final Verdict
This Tromsø island cruise offers a calm, scenic escape with a friendly crew, tasty snacks, and views guaranteed to leave an impression. It’s a wonderful choice for those wanting a gentle introduction to the area’s natural beauty—perfect for families, wildlife fans, or anyone craving a peaceful moment in the Arctic environment. While it’s not a wild adventure or a full fjord exploration, it’s a practical and enjoyable way to experience Tromsø’s stunning landscape in comfort.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Boat Tours & Cruises in Tromso
- Tromsø: Morning Cruise Through Tromsø`s Fjords
- Tromsø: 2-Hour Island Tour Cruise with Snacks and Drinks
- Full day boat trip by Hermes II to old trading post
- From Tromsø: Sailing Kayak at Sommarøy, incl. lunch & sauna
- Tromsø: Midnight Sun Or Northern Lights Cruise
- Tromsø: Whale Watching Tour by Hybrid-Electric Boat
More Tours in Tromso
- Tromsø: Sommarøy Islands Midnight Sun Tour
- Tromsø: 2-Hour Island Tour Cruise with Snacks and Drinks
- From Tromsø: Arctic Roadtrip: fjords tour with scenic picnic
- Tromsø: Island Tour with Tromsø Accessible Tours
- Tromsø: Skjervøy RIB Whale Watching Tour
- Tromsø: Tour in French of the Historic Center and Museum
More Tour Reviews in Tromso
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Tromso we have reviewed
- Tromsø: Morning Cruise Through Tromsø`s Fjords
- Tromsø: Sommarøy Islands Midnight Sun Tour
- Tromsø: Northern Lights Hunt with Professional Photographer in Spanish
- From Tromsø: All-Inclusive Whale & Orca Safari
- Tromsø: Midnight Sun Hike in the wilderness
- Tromsø: Guided Polar Bear Walk incl. Polaria & Polar Museum
- Northern Lights Chase Small Group 8 pax
- From Tromsø: Snowshoeing Hike with Picnic Lunch and Photos
- Tromsø: Adult Only Aurora hunt with Citizen Science
- Tromsø: 2-Hour Island Tour Cruise with Snacks and Drinks
- Full day boat trip by Hermes II to old trading post
- From Tromsø: Arctic Roadtrip: fjords tour with scenic picnic