NORWAY Kvaløya – Expedition Paddler

ARCTIC ISLAND SEA KAYAKING

Norway // 6.5. - 11.5.2025

A carpet of glittering sunlight blurs into the water like a mosaic of mirrors, but then the sky freezes, and light and dark blend. Wrapped in snowflakes the elements almost disappear. It lasts only a moment. Then the sea spreads out before us again, molten metal with a fluid mountain range reflected within.

This five-day sea kayaking expedition takes you through the stunning islands of Senja, Sommarøy, Kvaløya, Rebbenesøya, and several smaller groups of islands. Wild camping in this remote Arctic region allows you to explore the rugged coastal seascape and take walks through the untouched landscape. Paddling through this archipelago, with its mountains rising directly out of the sea as islands, is an unparalleled experience. The dramatic landscape creates a sense of awe as the towering peaks seem to emerge from the water, offering a unique blend of rugged beauty and serenity. Each turn reveals new vistas, from hidden coves to expansive fjords, making every moment on the water truly unforgettable. This region is considered one of the most stunning locations for sea kayaking and has earned its status as a premier paddling destination for good reason. The pristine waters, wildlife, and sense of remoteness make it a truly exceptional spot for adventurers seeking an immersive and awe-inspiring experience on the water.

The sea kayaking expedition will be a self-contained, five-day journey, requiring participants to bring their own freeze-dried or fresh food. A supply run to Tromsø will be organized, providing the opportunity to restock provisions along the route if necessary. This approach ensures that the expedition remains self-sufficient while allowing flexibility for resupply, enhancing the overall experience without compromising on essentials.

Expedition Paddler has been guiding and running courses in this region since 2008 and has a depth of knowledge that few other operators can boast of. Join us for an adventure of a life time.

DETAILS

SKILL LEVEL

Expedition team members need to be at a ‘Sea Kayak Proficient’ level of paddling ability equal to BCU 3*/ BC Sea Kayak Award, EPP 3, ISKGA Fundamental Skills 3, or ACA 3.
You need to be comfortable paddling in force 3-4 winds, 3-4 foot / 0,9-1,2 m waves and happy in an exposed open water environment under a skilled and qualified guide/leader. Team members have to be reasonably fit and capable of paddling between 11-16 NM / 20 -30 km per day over a five day period.

REMITS

We work within National Governing Body recommended guidelines in terms of student/client ratio, weather conditions and sea state.

For most of our expeditions we try to work on a 1 guide to 6 group member ratio, this ensures that you, the client - experience the most from the adventure and that we create a minimal impact on the environment.

EQUIPMENT

Supplied Paddling Equipment: Kayak, PFD/buoyancy aid, pogies/paddling gloves, spray skirt, two paddles, pump.

Additionally, we recommend that paddlers bring the following equipment. This is not an exhaustive list, as individual needs may vary, but it can serve as a guideline for you.

Paddling Equipment: Dry suit or cag & salopettes, two sets of base layers (preferably wool), fleece top (if you tend to get cold), helmet (optional), throw-tow or contact tow (if you have one), sunglasses, woolly/sun hat, buff, lip balm/sun protection, storm cag (if you have one).

Camp Clothes: Walking shoes/boots, trousers, puffer jacket, base layers (including one additional wool shirt), gloves, woolly hat, socks, underwear, rain jacket and trousers (depending on paddling clothes).

Camping Kit: Tent, sleeping mat, sleeping bag, tarp (optional), camp stove & cooking/eating kit, fuel (can be purchased in Tromsø), water bags (2 x 6 liters), water bottle/thermos, torch/headlamp.

Personal First Aid Kit: An "ouch pouch," including any personal medications and allergy considerations.

Wash Kit & Towel: You may wish to include scissors or nail clippers, as well as face and hand creams.

Our outfitter has various equipment available for hire if required, such as tents, sleeping pads, camp stoves, and dry suits.

FOOD

Food is required for five days of sea kayaking, and meals can be a combination of rehydrated food packs and fresh ingredients. Be sure to bring enough snacks (such as energy bars, fruit, and nuts) for refuelling on the go.

You can bring your own food from home or purchase it in Tromsø on our rest and preparation day (May 6). We will take you into town to a shopping center with a supermarket and an outdoor shop, where you can buy fresh and rehydrated food.

ACCOMMODATION

This Sea Kayaking expeditions involves wild camping. Please bring your own camping equipment or contact us if you need rental gear.

Accommodation before and after the expeditions is your responsibility. You will find hotels in Tromsø or can arrange a shared Airbnb if preferred.

TRAVEL LOGISTICS

Flights to Tromsø are usually routed through Oslo, and you should allow ample time for your layover to clear customs and immigration, as delays are common at Oslo Airport.

Upon arrival in Tromsø, you can reach your accommodation by courtesy bus, taxi, or public transport. There are many hotels in and around the city, as well as numerous bed and breakfasts and Airbnb options.

You will be picked up in Tromsø by minibus and driven to Kvaløya, where we will issue equipment before starting our expedition. After the expedition, you will also be brought back to Tromsø.

INSURANCES

We recommend that you insure your travel arrangements, as flight delays and cancellations can often occur. If possible, you should also obtain coverage for your experience, including unforeseen events beyond your or our control (such as Force Majeure Events), for which Expedition Paddler Ltd cannot be held responsible.

Additionally, accident insurance, travel health insurance, and rescue and recovery insurance are the responsibility of participants. We strongly advise securing coverage for personal accident and liability, as well as for loss or damage to personal belongings. Please note that we cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage to personal items while on one of our trips.

Expedition Paddler Ltd holds public liability insurance, activity insurance and professional indemnity insurance, details of which can be provided upon request.

WHAT IS INCLUDED

Expedition Paddler's service is limited to the organization and implementation of the advertised program, including our role as highly trained guides and coaches.

For the Sea Kayaking Expedition, hiring a kayak, paddle, spare paddle, pump, spray deck, and buoyancy aid is included.

Transfers from Tromsø to the island of Kvaløya and back are included, except if delays occur in your travel arrangements.

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED

Expedition Paddler's service is limited to the organization and implementation of the advertised program, including our role as highly trained guides and coaches. No additional services—such as assistance with arrival and departure, accommodation, meals, or local transport—are provided unless explicitly stated in the "Included Services" section. Where required, we will supply and maintain the ordered equipment in proper condition. Any extra services or modifications requested by participants fall outside our standard scope and must be arranged separately. Furthermore, Expedition Paddler is not liable for any expenses or disruptions resulting from services not covered under the program.

Please note that the price does not include the journey to and from Tromsø, accommodation in Tromsø, any equipment other than that specified in the "Included Services" section, or food for the Sea Kayaking Expedition.

In the event that remote pickup is required on the Sea Kayaking Expedition, any associated costs incurred will be divided among the group members.

EXTRAS

If you require additional equipment, such as tents, camp stoves, dry suits, or neoprene boots, these can be hired from our local outfitter.

During this course, you can obtain the British Canoeing Sea Kayak Award. Please let us know in advance if you are interested. Registration and administrative costs for the certification have to be payed to Paddle UK.

During the expedition we shall cover the ISKGA Expedition Skills module including the following subjects: Camp selection, tarpology and shelter building, rescues & evacuation, water sourcing, treatment and toiletry requirements, fire skills, for cooking, signalling and warmth, foraging and equipment.

PRICE £ 1190