Summer King Crab RIB Safari & Feast, Kirkenes

Discover Kirkenes' fishing traditions on a king crab safari that takes you from the Arctic fjords to the dining table. Join a local fisherman-guide for a scenic rigid inflatable boat (RIB) ride, passing World War II landmarks as you learn about the region's maritime history and the enormous red king crabs that inhabit the Barents Sea. Watch your guide haul crab pots from the water before heading to a rustic boathouse to see the catch prepared and cooked. Then, sit down to a traditional Northern Norwegian seafood feast featuring freshly steamed king crab, served alongside simple accompaniments.

Your seafood adventure begins with an optional pickup from your Kirkenes hotel and a transfer to the king crab pier. Here, you'll meet your guide, bundle up in provided warm clothing, and receive a safety briefing before boarding your RIB. As you cruise through the Bøkfjord, take in the rugged Arctic scenery and pass remnants of the region's World War II history, including a former torpedo battery, and listen as your guide shares insights into local fishing traditions and the red king crab, a Pacific species that has spread into the Barents Sea and can reach an impressive leg span of 6 feet (1.8 m).

Next comes the main event as your guide hauls crab pots from the depths of the fjord, revealing the day's catch. You'll get an up-close look at these enormous crustaceans before crossing to a weathered wooden boathouse on the opposite shore. Here, you'll have time to snap photos and enjoy a warming cup of coffee or tea while your guide demonstrates how to dispatch, clean, and prepare the crabs for cooking.

Once the crab is steamed, you'll sit down to a traditional Northern Norwegian meal of freshly cooked legs served with bread, butter, mayonnaise, and lemon. Additional drinks are available for purchase, and vegetarian or vegan alternatives can be arranged.