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Lofoten and Vesteralen Islands

Bodø, Lofoten Islands & Andenes
Svinoya Rorbuer, Norway © Svinoya Rorbuer

The Lofoten Islands in Norway are known for their excellent fishing, natural attractions, charming small villages and for the wildlife, especially whales. Whilst in Svolvær, the Lofotens main town, you will stay two nights in a Rorbuer, fomer fishing cottages right by the water's edge, which have been turned into lovely modern accommodation. This tour starts in Bodø, where you take the ferry to Svolvær in the Lofoten Islands, then continues via Sortland to Andenes (by bus and ferry) where you will enjoy a fabulous whale safari. 

Itinerary

Day 1 Bodø Arrival

On arrival in Bodø make your own way to your hotel. Overnight at Thon Hotel Nordlys or similar.

Day 2 Bodø - Svolvær

After breakfast make your own way to the pier where the Coastal Ferry is waiting to depart for Svolvær. Enjoy the scenery as you cruise along the wild Norwegian coast, before arriving in Svolvaer at about 21.00hrs. There is a bar and café on board. Early evening arrival in Svolvaer, then make your own way to your accommodation. Svolvær is the centre of the exotic Lofoten Islands and is an excellent base for exploring. Svolvær has a rich cultural life with an art centre and a variety of lovely art galleries, and it is also a great place to see the natural environment and wildlife. Spend 2 nights at the Svinøya Fisherman Cabins - these cabins or Rorbuers are former fishermans cottages right next to the water which have been converted into charming modern accommodation.

Day 3 Svolvær (Lofoten)

Day at leisure to explore the Lofotens. Enjoy the many scenic sights, take an optional fishing trip, kayaking, surfing, horse-back riding or rib boat. Or wander through the delightful shops and galleries including The Borg Vikingland, Vikten Glass Centre, Gallery Harr & Lofoten Museum. 2nd overnight in the Svinøya Fisherman Cabins.

Day 4 Svolvær - Sortland - Andenes

Morning at leisure before taking the bus from Svolvær town centre to Fiskebøl, then the ferry to Melbu. Continue by bus to Sortland then to Andenes, arriving early evening. Andenes is a remote village at the northern tip of the island of Andøya off the coast of northern Norway and one of the busiest fishing villages in Norway. Since 1988 Andenes has been a renowned centre for whale watching, as well as a field station and meeting point for whale researchers from many different countries. Spend 2 nights at Thon Hotel Andrikken or similar.

Day 5 Andenes & Whale Safari

This morning make your own way to the Andenes Whale Centre for check-in and start with a guided tour in the Andenes Whale Centre. The guided tour in the museum aims to teach new and provide updated knowledge of marine mammal biology and ecology. It includes information on whale research, the different whale species, food chain in the ocean and more. You will also understand exactly why the area outside Andenes is so perfect for whale watching. The museum also has one of the very few sperm whale skeletons in the world that you can observe and really get an understanding of the size of whales. Then join a Whale Safari which includes a 3-5 hour boat trip (duration dependent upon weather conditions, distance from shore etc) with coffee and tea, biscuits, soup & bread served on board. Please note: the whale safari trips are weather dependent and may, for safety reasons, be cancelled or altered on short notice. Return to the village for 2nd overnight at Thon Hotel Andrikken or similar. 

Day 6 Andenes Departure

Breakfast at your hotel and end of arrangements.


2024 departures: daily all year 

Notes:

Extra nights can be added at any destination along the way - please enquire.

A self-drive option can also be offered on the above tour for the Day 3 to Day 6 portion of the itinerary only. Parking fees at hotels are not included. Please enquire regarding car type and pricing. 

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