How to travel between Tromsø and Skjervøy

Travelling from Tromsø to Skjervøy takes you through beautiful Arctic landscapes, both by land and sea. Skjervøy is an idyllic island municipality in Nord-Troms, known for its rich maritime traditions and, notably, as one of the best places in the country for whale watching from November to January.

Here is an overview of the most common ways to reach Skjervøy.

By car

Skjervøy is located about 250 kilometres north of Tromsø, and the drive takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. Follow the E8 north out of Tromsø, take the Fv 91 towards Olderdalen, then the E6 towards Alta, before turning onto the Fv 866 towards Skjervøy. The drive is a scenic experience in itself, taking you past fjords, mountains, and small coastal villages. Along the way, you’ll also need to take a ferry between Lyngseidet and Olderdalen, which is part of the regular route to Skjervøy. Be aware that extra caution is needed on winter roads, as conditions can be slippery and challenging. Adjust your driving for a safer journey, and consider using public transport and guided tours.

By bus

It is also possible to take a bus from Tromsø to Skjervøy. The bus journey takes a bit longer than by car, around 5 hours, and also includes a ferry crossing over the Lyngen Fjord. The bus route offers a comfortable and affordable way to travel, but be prepared to switch buses along the way. Check the bus schedules on the Svipper app.

By express boat

A somewhat more relaxing way to get to Skjervøy is by express boat. The boat departs from Tromsø’s harbour terminal several times a week, and the route takes you through stunning coastal areas en route to Skjervøy. The boat journey takes around 2 hours. You can find schedules and tickets on the Svipper app.