Orcas with Andenes in the background.

Safety and guidelines

Practical information
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We are in the Arctic. Winter may not be as cold as you imagine, and summer may not be as warm as you hope. The wind on the day of your trip is the biggest factor affecting the actual temperature, especially at sea. This means it’s best to be prepared for a little bit of everything—no matter the season! On this page, you’ll find all the information you need to get ready for your adventure.

Floatation suits & life vests: On our RIB boat trips, we provide water-repellent, warm flotation suits and life vests. What you wear underneath depends on the weather. In winter, an extra layer of outdoor clothing is recommended, while on a perfect summer day, a t-shirt may be enough. Gloves, mittens, and a hat are recommended all year round. During winter, we also provide warm suits for passengers on the large boat. Dressing in layers and using wool is always advised.

We follow established guidelines for whale and bird watching. Further down this page, you can read more about these guidelines, as well as information on NorWhale and the official handbook  on whale and dolphin watching.

Dos:

  • warm clothes, several layers (best: wool) 
  • Warm, waterproof shoes
  • Warm waterproof gloves/mittens
  • Clothes to change
  • thermos with warm water & small waterproof bag

Tips :
worldadventuredivers.com/

Don'ts:

  • Sneakers
  • No gloves / thin gloves
  • Only swimwear
  • Unprotected camera/gear

Frequently asked questions

Can I bring my camera?
Yes! Just make sure to cover it while driving to protect it from splashes. Pictures can also be purchased, ask at the Whale Shop.
What clothes should I wear?
Always bring warm base layers and a windproof jacket. Wear good shoes. Gloves, mittens, and a hat are recommended year-round. Dress in layers.
Can I bring my dog?
No, animals are not allowed on our boats.
What if we don't see whales?
You will receive a free trip on the next available tour or on your next visit. Please book via email and specify which trip you have been on. You can get a voucher in your name—ask at the reception
What if I have a medical condition?
Please inform us or ask us directly before booking your trip.
What is the minimum age?
• In Andenes: 8 years for RIB boats. No age limit on the large boat. • In Skjervøy: 8 years. 15 years for snorkeling, accompanied by an adult.
Sperm whale dive at Andøy, Vesterålen. ©Marten Bril.
Marten Bril
Sea sickness and other medical concerns

Seasickness depends on sea conditions and on how you are feeling on the day of the trip. The larger boat moves more than the RIB boats and may therefore cause seasickness for more passengers. We recommend not skipping meals before going to sea, as an empty stomach can increase the likelihood of feeling unwell. It is very rare to feel seasick while the boat is moving; discomfort usually occurs when staying still. Try not to let this concern affect your experience—most guests do not feel sick at all. If you do start to feel unwell, focus on a fixed point on the horizon and keep your eyes open, as closing them can further disturb your balance.

If you have any medical condition that you think we should be aware of, please inform us beforehand. This includes heart conditions, diabetes, or back and hip problems. If you are pregnant, we also ask that you let us know in advance. This information helps us decide where to seat you on the boat. On RIB boats, the front seats are most affected by the boat’s movements, while on the large boat the lower deck feels more stable.

Our commitment to responsible whale watching includes:

EXPERIENCED CREW
Our captains have many years of experience in assessing whale behaviour and manoeuvring the boats in a way that minimizes disturbance to the animals.
REDUCING SOUND POLLUTION
We reduce underwater noise and disturbance by using hydrophones (underwater microphones) to locate whales, allowing us to minimize travel distance before they surface. In addition, our vessels are equipped with quieter, improved propellers to further reduce noise pollution.
RESPONSIBLE OPERATIONS
Acting responsibly towards whales and the marine environment is a core value for us. This is an ongoing process, and we continuously evaluate and improve our practices to make our operations even more environmentally friendly.
REDUCING AIR AND SEA POLLUTION
By using hydrophones, we are able to track whale movements and position our boats in advance, reducing the need for excessive engine use. This leads to lower fuel consumption and reduced exhaust emissions. We also have a strict policy against operating our boats at full speed.
FOLLOWING WHALE WATCHING GUIDELINES
Animal welfare is a top priority for us. We strictly follow national and international whale-watching regulations and guidelines. In addition, we have internal company procedures and staff training that go beyond these standards to ensure responsible behaviour around whales.