Written by John Arnell, Ada Vanderbilt, Clare Hinnenkamp, and Kyle Johnston
During our Trollfjord boat tour, passengers could view the scenery from either the indoor cabin or three deck levels. The tour company emphasizes sustainability, minimizing both engine and noise pollution by switching to electric power and requesting silence while navigating the fjord. This historic waterway was the site of the brief Battle of Trollfjord between fishermen in 1890.
John: Before this tour, I had only ever been on a boat in different lakes around the Midwest. Being on the ocean was an entirely different experience and was one of my favorite parts of the experience. While most of my classmates were unfortunately not enjoying the rough waters, this was one of my favorite parts of the ride. It was astonishing to me that the waves we were hitting were only about one-eighth of their record height considering how much the boat moved. I enjoyed sitting and letting the boat ride the waves just as much as I enjoyed being outside looking at the fjord and I’m now incredibly curious to find out what it would be like to walk around on a boat in even rougher waters.
Ada: I would like to weave some humor into this wonderful experience. What made my personal experience particularly unique was the seasickness. Before boarding, I took Dramamine and was on my way. While on deck I felt joyous as can be! I took photos of the Arctic eagles to show my mom and a few selfies with friends. Just as we were about to head back, however, I found myself seated back under the boat with a lump in my stomach. So my own personal trials and tribulations began. I was in the back of the boat in the bathroom for the last 30 minutes of the trip sick. Although this is unfortunate, I know that looking back I will remember the amazing experience over the tragic last 30 minutes.
Clare: I had an amazing time on the Trollfjord boat tour! The rocky shores and snow-covered mountains were breathtaking, and the silence once we reached the fjord made the experience even more special. Before arriving at the fjord, we chatted and learned fun facts about the local wildlife and history from the guides. Once we entered, the engine switched to electric power, and the silence allowed us to fully appreciate the natural sounds of wind, waves, and birds. It was entertaining to see everyone silently ask for pictures or get everyone together for a group photo through faces and hand gestures.
Kyle: Like many other excursions, this experience revolved around the environment. The towering mountains, pristine waters, dramatic fjords, and snowy views are the true stars of Lofoten. People didn’t choose this trip for the boat itself – it was challenging for some, as the rough waters of the Norwegian Sea took a toll. What truly stood out was the destination: moving through the fjord, surrounded by towering walls of snowy rock, barely able to glimpse the cliffs’ peaks. The quiet nature of the journey compelled us to pause, absorb the scene, and marvel at its unparalleled wonder.
As we wrap up our trip to Norway, we would like to extend a huge thank you to Kari, Tanya, and Michelle who made this trip possible! Ha det og tusen takk Norge!