Bleik: Whale Watching by Speedboat with Puffins and Muffins

Bleik Canyon is a serious whale-watching ground, and the small RIB puts you close to the action when conditions and animal behavior allow. Orcas, sperm whales, pilot whales, and puffins may all appear on the same outing, with the midnight sun adding an unforgettable Arctic glow.

I like the 12-person limit, which keeps the boat nimble and gives you a better view than a large sightseeing vessel. I also like the practical care: warm flotation suits, boots, gloves, photos, and hot drinks with muffins after the ride. The catch is that wildlife is never guaranteed, and spending time stopped in open water can bring on seasickness.

Key points to know before you go

• Bleik Canyon is the main stage: The RIB heads from Bleik Marina toward a deep-water canyon where sperm whales and other marine life feed.
• The boat carries no more than 12 people: A small group makes it easier to see the animals and hear the guide, though the back seats can be harder for commentary.
• Puffins are part of the plan: Birdwatching may include puffins, sea eagles, gannets, seals, and other coastal birds.
• Late tours use the midnight sun: The 9 PM departure can offer bright Arctic light and a striking way to spend a summer evening.
• The sea can be rough: Warm flotation gear is supplied, but you should still bring layers, outdoor clothing, and a change of clothes.
• The $199 price covers more than the boat ride: Suits, life jackets, a guide, photos, tea, coffee, and muffins are included.

Why Bleik is a strong place for whale watching

Bleik sits on Andøya in Vesterålen, a 10-minute drive from Andenes. Its location beside Bleik Canyon gives the outing a useful advantage: the boat is not simply touring along the shoreline and hoping for a lucky sighting.

The canyon reaches into deeper water close to shore, creating feeding grounds for sperm whales and other marine animals. Fish draw the whales, and the whales draw seabirds. That is why this trip can shift from whale watching to birdwatching without feeling like two unrelated activities.

You may be hoping for one particular species, but the day can change quickly. Orcas have been seen close to the boat, while pilot whales, minke whales, dolphins, and sperm whales have also appeared. Fin whales and Risso’s dolphins are less common possibilities.

That variety is one of the best reasons to choose Bleik. You are not paying only for a chance to spot a single famous animal. You are paying for time in an active marine area, with several possible encounters and a guide who can explain what you are seeing.

From Bleik Marina to the open sea

The meeting point is at Bleik Marina, reached by following the beach road past Midnattsol Camping toward Smia Pub, then turning down toward the marina and following the Puffin Safari sign. Look for the Green Gold of Norway sign, also known as the Green Dragon.

Plan enough time to find the marina without rushing. The tour departs at 10:00 and 21:00, and the evening departure is especially appealing in summer when the sun remains above the horizon.

Before boarding, you put on warm flotation suits and life jackets. The supplied equipment is designed to protect you from cold air and spray during the fast RIB ride. Some outings also provide boots, gloves, and goggles, but you should still wear warm clothing and outdoor layers rather than relying on the suit alone.

The RIB is part of the fun. It is quick, open, and responsive, giving you a stronger sense of the sea than a large covered boat. That also means more exposure to wind and waves. If you have back problems, vertigo, heart or respiratory issues, recent surgery, or another medical condition, this is not the right activity without suitable medical advice. It is also not suitable for pregnant people, wheelchair users, people with mobility impairments, or anyone shorter than 135 centimeters.

Bleik Canyon and the search for whales

Once the boat reaches the canyon area, the pace changes. The skipper may travel between likely spots, then slow or stop while everyone scans the water.

This is the part that requires patience. Sperm whales can remain at a distance, and you may spend a long period watching the surface for a blow or a back. On one outing, four sperm whales were seen, but the boat remained in open water for about an hour and a half, and several people became seasick.

That is an important detail. Whale watching is not a theme-park show. The best encounters happen on the animals’ schedule, not yours. You might see only a brief surfacing, or you might spend a long stretch with a pod. The guide’s job is to help you read the water and make good decisions about where to look.

Orcas and pilot whales can create a different kind of experience. Several trips recorded close encounters with orca groups, and one outing spent about an hour with orcas. Pilot whales have also approached the RIB, including groups with young animals.

Close does not mean guaranteed, and it should never mean chasing. The strongest part of this experience is the chance to watch animals in their own environment while the skipper keeps a respectful distance. The guides have been praised for explaining behavior and approaching carefully, which matters more than forcing a photograph.

Puffins, eagles, and the coastal bird life

The wildlife search usually includes more than whales. Puffins are a major attraction here, and the boat may visit areas where large numbers gather near the coast.

The puffin stop can be the highlight of the day, especially if whales remain distant. You may see puffins flying, sitting on the water, or moving around the cliffs. Some outings have found thousands of them, along with sea eagles and other birdlife.

The guide can also point out gannets, seals, and other birds that gather around the same food source. Harbor seals are among the possible sightings. The exact mix depends on the day, but the bird portion gives the trip a second focus instead of making it all about one lucky whale encounter.

Bring a camera, but do not let it take over. The RIB can move quickly, and wildlife may appear on either side. The operator supplies photos afterward, which is useful because you can watch the water instead of trying to hold a phone steady in cold wind.

What the 3.5-hour schedule really means

The advertised duration is 210 minutes, or about three and a half hours. That includes getting ready on shore and having tea, coffee, and muffins while changing after the trip.

The actual time on the water is therefore less than the full 210 minutes. This is normal for a small-boat outing, but it is worth knowing when comparing prices and durations.

The 10:00 departure is the simpler choice if you prefer daylight and a conventional morning start. The 21:00 departure is more unusual. In summer, Bleik’s midnight sun can keep the sea bright late into the evening, and the low light may give the coast and wildlife a special appearance.

The late departure can also fit well into a day spent around Andenes and Andøya. It is not a dark-night cruise in summer. You should still prepare for cold conditions, since bright skies do not make the Arctic air warm.

A 3.5-hour trip gives the crew enough time to search several areas, but it also means you need to stay comfortable for a long period. The boat may be moving at speed, idling, or sitting still while the group watches for whales. Dress for all three conditions.

The small RIB advantage, with one practical drawback

The boat carries a maximum of 12 people. I see this as one of the experience’s strongest features. A smaller group makes boarding more personal, keeps the boat agile, and gives you a fair chance of looking over the side without a crowd blocking the view.

It also allows the skipper to react quickly when wildlife appears. The RIB can cover ground efficiently and then reposition for a better view when conditions permit.

The tradeoff is comfort. An open speedboat does not offer the same protection as a large whale-watching vessel. You may feel the swell, spray, and engine movement. The ride can be exciting, but people prone to seasickness should take that seriously.

Where you sit can also affect the experience. The person at the back may have more trouble hearing the guide over the engine, so listen carefully when the boat slows and ask questions when there is a quiet moment. The guide’s commentary is a key part of the outing, especially when identifying whales and birds at a distance.

Guides, photos, and the human side of the trip

The guide stays aboard and explains the wildlife you encounter. Christina and Norbert have been associated with the tour, while Bekka and Katie have also led or skippered outings. The information provided is in English.

The best guides do more than name a species. They explain why the animals are in the canyon, how to recognize a sperm whale’s surface behavior, and what to watch for when a pod is nearby. That turns a fast glimpse into something you can understand.

The crew also takes photos for you to take home. This is a welcome inclusion because photography from a moving RIB is difficult. You will still want to bring your own camera if you enjoy taking pictures, but you do not have to choose between watching the animals and recording the moment.

At the end, hot tea and coffee with muffins provide a simple but welcome finish. After cold wind and spray, a warm drink is not a decorative extra. It helps you settle down while changing out of the flotation suit.

Is $199 a fair price?

At $199 per person, this is not a cheap boat ride. The value depends on what you want from a wildlife trip.

You receive a 3.5-hour guided outing, a small-group RIB, warm flotation gear, life jackets, photos, and refreshments. The small capacity is important: you are paying for a more personal boat rather than a high-volume cruise.

The price also reflects the travel involved in reaching a remote wildlife area and the time required to search for animals that may be spread across the canyon. If you see orcas close to the boat, the cost may feel easy to justify. If you see only distant sperm whales and puffins, the value becomes more personal and depends on how much you enjoy the sea, birds, and the excitement of searching.

I would compare it with your wider Andøya plans, not only with other boat prices. If you are already driving near Andenes, Bleik is close enough to make this a practical addition. If you are making a long detour solely for the tour, poor weather or a quiet whale day may make the decision harder.

The operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure and lets you reserve now and pay later. Those terms help if your route around Vesterålen is still changing.

Who should book this Bleik wildlife trip?

I would choose this tour if you want a small boat, fast movement, and a real chance of seeing several kinds of wildlife in one outing. It suits people who enjoy being outside, can handle a rough ride, and accept that nature does not follow a fixed schedule.

It is particularly good for:

• People who want a chance at orcas, pilot whales, or sperm whales
• Bird lovers hoping to see puffins and sea eagles
• Visitors who like the midnight sun and unusual evening activities
• Couples and small groups who prefer a 12-person boat
• Anyone staying in or near Andenes who can make the 10-minute drive to Bleik

I would think twice if you need a smooth, sheltered boat, have a strong fear of open water, or are uncomfortable sitting still in rough seas. The tour is not suitable for several medical and mobility conditions, including back problems, heart problems, respiratory issues, vertigo, claustrophobia, recent surgery, and pregnancy.

What to bring and how to prepare

Bring warm clothes, outdoor clothing, and a change of clothes. Even with a flotation suit, you may feel cold after several hours on the water, and a spare layer is useful if spray reaches your clothing.

Wear practical footwear for the marina and follow the crew’s instructions while getting dressed. The operator supplies the main safety equipment, so you do not need to bring a life jacket or flotation suit.

Eat sensibly before departure and prepare for the possibility of seasickness. The information provided does not specify medication or onboard facilities, so ask the operator directly if you need particular support.

Give yourself extra time to reach the marina. Follow the signs from Midnattsol Camping and look for the Green Gold of Norway sign at the meeting area. Since the tour begins with equipment fitting, arriving at the stated meeting point ready to listen will make the start easier.

Should you book the Bleik RIB tour?

Yes, if you want an active wildlife outing and can accept uncertainty. The combination of Bleik Canyon, a 12-person RIB, possible orcas and sperm whales, large puffin colonies, and the midnight sun gives this trip a strong identity.

I would book the 21:00 departure for the most unusual setting, provided the timing works for you. Choose the 10:00 departure if you prefer a conventional start or want to keep your evening open.

Do not book this expecting a guaranteed close whale encounter. Book it because you want to spend several hours searching a productive Arctic sea, with a real chance of whales, puffins, eagles, seals, and dolphins. At $199, it is a worthwhile choice for wildlife lovers who value a small group and a lively boat ride, but a poor fit for anyone needing calm water and a predictable show.

FAQ

Where does the Bleik whale-watching tour depart?

The tour departs from Bleik Marina in Bleik, Nordland County. From Midnattsol Camping, follow the beach road toward Smia Pub, turn down toward Bleik Marina, and follow the Puffin Safari sign. Bleik is about a 10-minute drive from Andenes.

How long does the tour last?

The full activity lasts 210 minutes, or 3.5 hours. This includes getting ready in warm flotation suits on shore and having tea, coffee, and muffins while changing after the trip.

What wildlife might I see?

Possible sightings include sperm whales, pilot whales, orcas, minke whales, Risso’s dolphins, fin whales, puffins, eagles, gannets, and Harbor seals. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.

Are warm suits and life jackets provided?

Yes. Warm flotation suits and life jackets are included. Some trip information also specifies boots, gloves, and goggles. You should bring warm clothing, outdoor clothing, and a change of clothes.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?

No. It is not suitable for pregnant people, wheelchair users, people with mobility impairments, people under 135 centimeters, or people with back, heart, respiratory, or other pre-existing medical conditions. It is also not suitable for people with vertigo, claustrophobia, or recent surgery. Participants should be in reasonable physical shape.

What language is the tour in?

The guide and instruction are in English. Photos, tea, coffee, and muffins are included, and the maximum group size is 12 people.