Ferry Routes in Lofoten: Information and Schedules (2024) | Guide to Lofoten

FERRY AND EXPRESS BOAT ROUTES IN LOFOTEN

The Lofoten archipelago comprises seven main islands extending off mainland Norway. The five largest islands are interconnected by tunnels and bridges, forming part of the scenic 130-kilometer route known as King Olav V’s Road. The remaining two islands, Værøy and Røst, along with some other places like Skrova island off the coast of Svolvær or the villages of Vindstad and Kjerkfjorden in Reinefjorden, can only be reached by local ferry routes/speedboats/sightseeing boats. 

Finding schedules for these local ferry routes and express boats in Lofoten can be challenging. 

Moreover, traveling by ferry comes with its set of challenges. In the years following the pandemic, the influx of tourists to northern Norway has been on a steady rise, presenting a considerable challenge for ferry operators. The summer season, in particular, sees them grappling with inadequate ferry capacities and an insufficient number of daily departures. 

In this article, we aim to provide comprehensive information about the ferry routes in Lofoten and surrounding regions, including their schedules, prices, and capacities, so you can better plan your road trip through Lofoten and northern Norway. 

Table of Contents

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BODØ - MOSKENES FERRY ROUTE

(Mainland - Lofoten)

The ferry connection between Bodø and Moskenes, operated by Torghatten Nord, is the main transport link between western Lofoten and the mainland. Some of the ferries (Route A) go directly between Bodø and Moskenes, while others (Route B) travel via the islands of Værøy and Røst.

The ferry operates on two schedules. 

During the winter season, which runs from the beginning of September until the end of May, there are only 1-2 departures per day. 

During the summer, there are up to 9 departures per day, but the ferry is very popular, so there are often queues and cars that have not secured their spots via online booking are sometimes left behind.

  • This particular ferry has a very confusing schedule, so we dedicated an entire article and a separate YouTube video to this specific ferry connection, where we share all you need to know about the schedule, booking process, traveling with dogs, etc.

FAQ about the Bodø-Moskenes Ferry

❓Is the Bodø-Moskenes Ferry a car ferry?

Yes. Depending on the type of ferry, the ferries between Bodø and Moskenes can accommodate 80-120 cars.

 

❓Does the Bodø-Moskenes ferry operate all year round?

Yes, the ferry operates year-round. However, you should be aware that there are significantly fewer departures during the winter schedule than during the summer schedule.

 

❓Is it possible to reserve the Bodø-Moskenes ferry in advance?

Yes, the Bodø-Moskenes ferry stands out as one of the few in Norway that offers the convenience of advance bookings. Online reservations fill up to 50% of the ferry’s total capacity. Should these online tickets sell out, the rest are available for purchase directly at the ferry, offered on a “first come, first served” basis. You can book online until 8:00 pm the evening before your intended travel date, provided space is available.

 

❓How long is the crossing between Bodø and Moskenes?

The ferry journey from Moskenes to Bodø typically takes around 3.5 hours when traveling directly across the Vestfjorden.

 

❓How much does the Bodø-Moskenes ferry cost?

The price of the Bodø-Moskenes ferry depends on the size of your vehicle. If you do not have any discount cards and own a conventional car (non-electric), be prepared to pay (as of 2024):

💰 383 NOK per motorcycle (including the reservation fee)

💰 764 NOK for a car up to 6 meters (including the reservation fee)

💰 1710 NOK for vehicles between 6 and 8 meters (including the reservation fee)

All you need to know about the Bodø - Moskenes ferry.

Have a look here!

BOGNES - LØDINGEN FERRY ROUTE

(Mainland - Ofoten)

While the Bognes-Lødingen ferry does not technically operate in Lofoten, it sails in the neighboring area of Ofoten. After crossing Ofotfjorden, you can continue on the E10 road west towards Lofoten. Just like the Bodø-Moskenes ferry, this route is also operated by Torghatten Nord.

The crossing from Bognes to Lødingen takes only 60 minutes. Since Ofotfjorden has much calmer waters than Vestfjorden, this ferry tends to get canceled less often than the Bodø-Moskenes ferry during challenging weather.

Just like the ferry between Bodø and Moskenes, the Bognes-Lødingen ferry also experiences long queues in the summer, and it can happen that you will be left behind, having to wait for the next ferry. There used to be an option to prebook this stretch, but Torghatten Nord has decided to drop it, and reserving a spot on the ferry is no longer possible. 

Therefore, we recommend that you arrive well in advance during the summer season to secure a place for yourself.

Car ferry routes in Lofoten: Bognes Lødingen Summer Schedule
Bognes-Lødingen Summer Ferry Schedule valid from June 1 to August 31, 2024
Car ferry routes in Lofoten: Bognes Lødingen Winter Schedule
Bognes-Lødingen Winter Ferry Schedule valid from January 1 to May 31 and September 1, 2024 to January 1, 2025
Bognes - Lødingen Ferry Schedule 2024

FAQ about the Bognes-Lødingen Ferry

❓Is the Bognes-Lødingen ferry a car ferry?

Yes, the route is served by the ferries M/F Hamarøy, M/F Barøy, and M/F Lødingen, which can transport between 90 and 120 cars, depending on the ferry.

 

❓Does the Bognes-Lødingen ferry operate all year round?

Yes. The Bodø-Lødingen ferry operates on a summer and winter schedule. The winter schedule runs from September 1 to May 31 and features fewer departures compared to the summer schedule.

 

❓Is it possible to reserve the Bognes-Lødingen ferry in advance?

Unfortunately not. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

 

❓How long is the ferry crossing between Bognes and Lødingen?

The crossing from Bognes to Lødingen takes 60 minutes.

 

❓How much does the Bognes-Lødingen ferry cost?

The price of the Bognes-Lødingen ferry depends on the size of your vehicle. If you do not have any discount cards and own a conventional car (non-electric), be prepared to pay (as of 2024):

💰 78 NOK per motorcycle

💰 233 NOK for a car up to 6 meters

💰 510 NOK for vehicles between 6 and 8 meters

Are you Planning to Hike Ryten and/or Kvalvika Beach

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SVOLVÆR - SKROVA - SKUTVIK FERRY ROUTE

(Mainland - Lofoten, Summer Only)

The ferry between Svolvær and Skutvik operates only in the summer between June 1 and August 31. Due to changes in the law, it has been free of charge since July 1, 2022.

However, the ferry departs only twice a day, leading to situations where cars are often left behind. This is especially common since motorhome owners frequently park overnight at the ferry terminal to secure a spot.

Just like the Bodø-Moskenes and Bognes-Lødingen ferries, this route is also operated by Torghatten Nord.

Svolvær - Skutvik Ferry Schedule 2024

FAQ about the Svolvær-Skutvik Ferry

❓Is the Svolvær-Skutvik ferry a car ferry?

Yes, the route is served by the ferry M/F Hornstind, which has a capacity of approximately 50 cars. 

❓Does the Svolvær-Skutvik ferry operate all year round?

No, the Svolvær-Skutvik ferry operates only in the summer, from June 1 to August 31.

 

❓Is it possible to reserve the Svolvær-Skutvik ferry in advance?

Unfortunately not. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

 

❓How long is the crossing between Svolvær and Skutvik?

The crossing from Svolvær to Skutvik takes 2 hours 

 

❓How much does the Svolvær-Skutvik ferry cost?

The ferry is free of charge for both passengers and motorists.

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MELBU - FISKEBØL FERRY ROUTE

(Vesterålen - Lofoten)

The ferry between Melbu and Fiskebøl is a small local ferry that connects Lofoten with the neighboring archipelago of Vesterålen. This ferry is especially convenient for those looking to explore the western part of Vesterålen.

The ferry operates year-round, with departures approximately every 90 minutes. The sailing time between Melbu and Fiskebøl is approximately 30 minutes.

Melbu - Fiskebøl Ferry Schedule 2024

FAQ about the Melbu-Fiskebøl Ferry

❓Is the Melbu-Fiskebøl ferry a car ferry?

Yes, since January 2024, a new ferry, the MF Malangen, with a capacity for 62 cars, has been operating on this stretch.

❓Does the Melbu-Fiskebøl ferry operate all year round?

Yes. Melbu-Fiskebøl is a whole year-round ferry.

 

❓Is it possible to reserve the Melbu-Fiskebøl ferry in advance?

Unfortunately not. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

 

❓How long is the crossing between Melbu and Fiskebøl?

The crossing of Hadselfjorden between Melbu and Fiskebøl takes approximately 30 minutes.

 

❓How much does the Melbu-Fiskebøl ferry cost?

The price of the Melbu-Fiskebøl ferry depends on the size of your vehicle. If you do not have any discount cards and own a conventional car (non-electric), be prepared to pay (as of 2024):

💰 54 NOK per motorcycle

💰 135 NOK for a car up to 6 meters

💰 320 NOK for vehicles between 6 and 8 meters

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ANDENES - GRYLLEFJORD FERRY ROUTE

(Vesterålen - Senja)

The ferry between Andenes and Gryllefjord isn’t located on the Lofoten Islands. Still, it is an important link for people traveling between Tromsø and Lofoten during the summer, passing through the stunning landscapes of Senja and Vesterålen. That’s why we decided to include it in the article.

Currently, the ferry service is limited to summer months. Although there’s interest in making it available year-round, it’s a slow process that needs more funding.


For the 2024 season, the ferry company is extending the service from May 16 to September 25, with an added departure each day from June 7 to August 18.

However, with just 2-3 sailings per day, expect it to be busy, with long waits and some cars not making it on board. We suggest getting there early, ideally right after the previous ferry departs, to secure a spot.

Andenes - Gryllefjord Ferry Schedule 2024

FAQ about the Andenes - Gryllefjord Ferry

❓Is the Andenes-Gryllefjord ferry a car ferry?

Yes, however, the ferry has space on board for about 30 cars and operates only two to three daily departures. Every time the ferry sails, it leaves cars behind, so be prepared for a long waiting time.

❓Does the ferry operate all year round?

Sadly, no. The Andenes-Gryllefjord is a seasonal ferry that operates from mid-May to the end of September. For the 2024 season, the dates are May 16 to September 25.

 

❓Is it possible to reserve the Andenes-Gryllefjord ferry in advance?

Unfortunately not. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

 

❓How long is the crossing?

The crossing between Andenes and Gryllefjord takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.

 

❓How much does the Andenes-Gryllefjord ferry cost?

The price of the Andenes-Gryllefjord ferry depends on the size of your vehicle. If you do not have any discount cards and own a conventional car (non-electric), be prepared to pay (as of 2024):

💰 168 NOK per motorcycle

💰 580 NOK for a car up to 6 meters

💰 1238 NOK for vehicles between 6 and 8 meters

15 Best Summer Activities in the Lofoten Islands

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BOTNHAMN - BRENSHOLMEN FERRY ROUTE

(Senja Island - Kvaløya, Tromsø)

Like the ferry between Andenes and Gryllefjord, the Brensholmen-Botnhamn ferry isn’t located on the Lofoten Islands. It connects the island of Kvaløya, near Tromsø, with the island of Senja. However, this ferry is also a crucial link for the summer route between Tromsø and Lofoten, so we included it in the article.

Since 2021, the Brensholmen-Botnhamn ferry has been operating year-round. However, Google Maps and some tourist businesses still need to update their information and mistakenly think it’s a summer-only ferry.

Even though the ferry’s capacity increased when it started operating year-round, it’s still a small ferry with space for about 30 cars. The demand on this route skyrockets in the summer, with many tourists and motorhomes trying to travel between Tromsø and Lofoten via Senja and Vesterålen. During every summer ferry departure, some cars are inevitably left behind at the terminal. Motorhome owners often park overnight at the terminal to secure a spot.

So, our advice for the Brensholmen-Botnhamn ferry is the same as for the Gryllefjord-Andenes ferry: arrive as early as possible and be prepared for a potentially long wait. 

We hope the county finds the funds to increase capacity on these two ferry connections, making it easier for everyone to get on board. A reservation system would also help manage the summer traffic better.

Brensholmen - Botnhamn Ferry Schedule 2024

FAQ about the Botnhamn-Brensholmen Ferry

❓Is the Brensholmen-Botnhamn ferry a car ferry?

Yes, however, the ferry has space on board for about 40 cars, and in the summer, when there are many motorhomes on the road, it fills up quickly. Fortunately, compared to the Andenes-Gryllefjord ferry, the Brensholmen-Botnhamn ferry offers up to 7 departures daily during the summer season, so you don’t have to wait as long for the next ferry.

 

❓Does the Brensholmen-Botnhamn ferry operate year-round?

Yes, the ferry operates year-round.

 

❓Can I reserve the Botnhamn-Brensholmen ferry in advance?

Unfortunately not. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

 

❓How long is the crossing?

The crossing between Brensholmen and Botnhamn takes approximately 35 minutes.

 

❓How much does the Botnhamn-Brensholmen ferry cost?

The price of the Brensholmen-Botnhamn ferry depends on the size of your vehicle. If you do not have any discount cards and own a conventional car (non-electric), be prepared to pay (as of 2024):

💰 64 NOK per motorcycle

💰 197 NOK for a car up to 6 meters

💰 428 NOK for vehicles between 6 and 8 meters

How to travel between Tromsø and the Lofoten Islands?

Have a look here!

SVOLVÆR - BODØ PASSENGER ONLY EXPRESS BOAT

(Lofoten - mainland)

There is an all-year-round express boat between Bodø and Svolvær called Nordlandsekspressen (NEX II 23-755). It offers a scenic voyage along the coast with several ports of call in Hamarøy and Steigen. The speed boat is for pedestrians and cyclists only.

Please note that the express boat runs only once a day. It departs in the morning from Svolvær (Mon-Fri at 6 am, Sat at 7:55 am, and Sun at 12:45 pm) and in the evening from Bodø (Mon-Sat at 6 pm, Sun at 7 pm). 

Therefore, we highly recommend buying your ticket in advance, especially in summer.

Ferry Routes and Express Boats in Lofoten: Nordlandsexpress Route Bodø-Svolvaer
Svolvær - Bodø Express Boat Schedule 2024

FAQ about the Svolvær-Bodø Express Boat

❓Is the Svolvær-Bodø Express Boat a car ferry?

No, the express boat is passenger-only. You can also bring a bicycle or kayak aboard, but there is no car deck.

 

❓Does the Svolvær-Bodø express boat operate year-round?

Yes, the speed boat operates year-round.

 

❓Can I reserve the Svolvær-Bodø express boat in advance?

Yes, you can and should reserve a spot via the Reis Nordland webpage or app.

 

❓How long is the crossing?

The crossing between Svolvær and Bodø takes 3 hours and 20 minutes.

 

❓How much does the express boat between Bodø and Svolvær cost?

The express boat between Svolvær and Bodø costs 435 NOK for adults and 218 NOK for students and children between 6 and 15 years old.

Top 9 Places to visit around Bodø

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REINEFJORDEN SIGHTSEEING BOAT

(Reine, Lofoten)

The Reinefjorden ferry trip is an experience that should be on everyone’s to-do list. It’s breathtaking and, interestingly enough, very affordable. Moreover, it’s your only chance to get to Bunes Beach, a remote beach located in the heart of the Lofotodden National Park.

The Reinefjorden ferry departs from the parking area in Reine Ytre Havn. Some older sources might mention the old location next to the gas station! 

During the winter season (weeks 1-11), you must prebook your trip by phone a day in advance. You can book it online in the summer via the Reis Nordland webpage or app. 

The ferry is small and quite popular, with two to four daily departures.

Reinefjorden Ferry New Departure
Pay attention to the departure place for the Reinefjorden Ferry. Some old sources will send you to the pier close to the gas station (red arrow). The ferry departs from the Ytre Havn parking (green arrow).

Reinefjorden Ferry Timetable 2024

Ferry Routes in Lofoten: Reinefjorden Ferry Timetable
Reinefjorden Ferry Schedule 2024

FAQ about the Reinefjorden Ferry

❓Is the Reinefjorden ferry a car ferry?

No, it is a passenger-only boat.

 

❓Does the Reinefjorden ferry operate year-round?

Yes, but in the weeks 1-11, you need to book it in advance. 

 

❓Can I reserve the Reinefjorden ferry in advance?

Yes, you can book a ticket on the Reis Nordland webpage or via the app. 

 

❓How long is the crossing?

The return trip from Reine to Reine takes about an hour. The one-way trip from Reine to Vindstad, from where you can start hiking to Bunes Beach, takes 25 minutes.

 

❓How much does the Reinefjorden ferry cost?

If you book online, the return ticket from Reine to Vindstad and back costs 94 NOK for adults and 48 NOK for students and children between 6 and 15 years old.

Ivar & Radka

Ivar & Radka

Hi! We are Ivar & Radka, an international couple who runs the Guide to Lofoten. We met in Trondheim and lived together in western Norway, Narvik and Tromsø. At the moment we call western Lofoten our home. We hope our page will make it easier for you to explore the beautiful places that made us chose Norway for our home.

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