War History Beneath the Surface

Step aboard MS Ofotr for a journey through Narvik’s dramatic World War II history, on the waters where some of the fiercest naval battles of the Norwegian Campaign took place in 1940.

Departing from Narvik harbour, the three-hour experience combines storytelling, fjord scenery and modern underwater technology. Your captain, a former museum director, brings the events of 1940 to life while Narvik, the Ofotfjord and the surrounding mountains form the backdrop to the stories. At the wreck site, an advanced underwater drone descends to one of the historic shipwrecks from the Battles of Narvik. Live footage from beneath the surface is shown on a large screen inside the boat, allowing you to follow the exploration in real time.

The wreck site is an official war grave, and the experience is conducted with respect for the people who lost their lives here. The journey also explores another side of Narvik’s maritime history, with stories from the harbour, the iron ore ships and the smuggling that once took place around them. With a warm indoor lounge and open decks, MS Ofotr offers a comfortable and intimate way to discover Narvik from the fjord while getting remarkably close to the history that shaped the city.

Good to know

Season: Year-round
Duration: Approximately 3 hours
Departure: Narvik Harbour
Group size: Maximum 12 guests
Vessel: MS Ofotr, with heated indoor lounge and outdoor decks
Included: Guided boat experience, live underwater drone exploration, coffee and tea
Private groups: Private experiences are available on request
Weather: Underwater drone operations depend on current conditions

FAQ

What makes this experience unique?

You experience Narvik’s wartime history on the waters where the events took place. Historical storytelling is combined with the surrounding landscape and live underwater footage from one of the shipwrecks connected to the Battles of Narvik.

What will we see with the underwater drone?

At the wreck site, an underwater drone is lowered into the fjord and live video is transmitted to a large screen on board. The wreck site is an official war grave, and the exploration is conducted with respect for its historical significance. Visibility and exactly what can be seen depend on conditions in the fjord.

Why was Narvik important during World War II?

Narvik’s ice-free harbour was an important export route for Swedish iron ore, making the town strategically significant during World War II. Your captain, a former museum director, shares the story of the German invasion, the Battles of Narvik and the events that shaped the city in 1940.

Is the experience available year-round, and what should I wear?

Yes. The experience is available throughout the year. MS Ofotr has a heated indoor lounge, so you can enjoy the experience comfortably in every season. We recommend dressing according to the weather if you would like to spend time outside on deck.

Can the experience be booked for private groups?

Yes. With a maximum capacity of 12 guests, the experience is well suited for private groups, corporate groups and tailor-made itineraries. Private departures can be arranged on request.

‍

‍