A RIB safari to the eagles of the Trollfjord

About this experience

Go2Lofoten is a family business working out of Sjømannsgata 5, a short walk from the square in Svolvær. You arrive 30 minutes early to register and pull on an insulated suit, gloves, hat, balaclava and a helmet or wind goggles, then walk down to the RIB. The route runs north through Raftsundet, where eagles are common, and into the Trollfjord, which technically belongs to Hadsel in Vesterålen. The guide stops at Viking sites on the way and tells their stories in English and Norwegian.

The eagles are the point. Go2Lofoten's own page says the guides feed them, which is why the birds come down to the water so close to the boat. That makes for photos, and it's a different approach from the electric cruise, which says it doesn't feed wildlife. One correction to the listing: it gives the white-tailed eagle a wingspan of 2.65 m. SNL says 200 to 240 cm, which is still Norway's largest bird of prey.

It's cold and bumpy. Even in July the wind at speed bites, and in winter it's serious. The operator doesn't recommend the trip for pregnant guests or anyone with back problems, and the minimum age is 8. From Reine, Svolvær is two hours' drive, so this is a trip for people sleeping at the northern end.

• Sea eagles diving for fish close to the boat
• Raftsundet and the Trollfjord in two hours
• Insulated suit, gloves, balaclava and goggles provided
• Stops and stories at Viking sites
• Runs all year, per the operator

How the day runs

1. 30 min beforeRegister and suit up

   At the Go2Lofoten office, Sjømannsgata 5. Suits, gloves, hat, balaclava, helmet or goggles and a life jacket.

2. About 30 minNorth through Raftsundet

   Fast running up the strait. The guide slows for eagles and for the Viking sites.

3. About 30 minEagles and the Trollfjord

   Eagles come down for fish near the boat, then the RIB idles into the narrow fjord.

4. About 30 minBack to Svolvær

   A quick run home and time to peel off the suits. Your camera hands will thank you.

What's included

Who it suits

What guests say

Tips before you book

• Wear warm layers under the suit, as the operator asks. Wool beats cotton.
• Use a wrist strap for your phone. The eagles come fast and the boat moves.
• The operator lists a 09:30 departure with a 09:00 meeting time. Check the time on your own booking.
• High wind can postpone the trip. The operator offers a new date or a refund if it does.

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