Arctic Rappell Route
Arctic Rappell Route
Join us for a spectacular rappelling experience where we combine dramatic Arctic nature, excitement, and a true sense of achievement. We take you to a vertical cliff rising straight from the sea – a unique arena for an activity that challenges both body and mind.
About the excursion
A 75 m controlled rappel from a sea cliff directly into a waiting RIB boat. Small-group experience with full safety briefing, including harness, helmet, and fall-arrest system. Includes a 30-minute RIB transfer from Vadsø with close-up views of Varanger’s rugged coastline.
Direction: Northbound
Disembarkation port: Vadsø
Embarkation port: *Kirkenes
Time: 06:30-12:15, guiding and safety instructions are given in English.
Meal: Meal box from the ship
Level: 4 (Read more)
Season: From May 26 to mid-September.
Min/max persons: 5–8
Booking reference: VDSN1
Price: Price list
Here, in the hidden gem of Brashamn in Varanger, you will experience untouched Nordic nature before rappelling from over 75 meters (246 feet) directly down to the RIB boat moored below the cliff in the Arctic lagoon – an adrenaline-filled experience you will never forget.
The adventure begins early at 06:30, before we reach the port of Vadsø, when we meet to receive a packed lunch and ensure that everyone has brought an extra change of clothes and suitable footwear for the day. From the Havila ship, we put on thermal suits before boarding the RIB.We then have a brief safety briefing before departure and head out, close to the water, surrounded by fresh air, waves, and spectacular views of the Arctic coastline. The journey from Vadsø to Brashamn takes about 30 minutes, and along the way we enjoy the pristine Nordic landscape before reaching the site where the rappelling takes place.
At the cliff, we equip everyone with a climbing harness and helmet and provide a thorough review of rappelling techniques, safety procedures, and communication signals. This is also a good opportunity for a final restroom break before the activity begins – there is a simple outdoor toilet on site, a small but typical part of Norwegian outdoor life. When you are ready, we attach you to the lowering rope and an automatic fall arrest, guiding you carefully backward to the edge before you start your descent. You control your speed with the rope brake while we maintain continuous contact to ensure safe navigation all the way down. When you land safely in the boat, we detach the equipment and continue with the next participant. The return to the ship is by RIB, giving one last chance to enjoy the scenery and the feeling of mastering a spectacular challenge.
This is an experience that combines sea, mountains, excitement, and raw Arctic nature – a day filled with adrenaline and memories for life.
*Important information for guests ending their journey in Kirkenes: We return to the ship shortly before departure from Kirkenes. Guests disembarking here must therefore have checked out of their cabins before 06:30. Luggage will be taken ashore by the ship’s crew and can be collected on the quay in Kirkenes.
The abseil is adapted to different skill levels, offering both beginners and experienced adventurers a safe, challenging, and memorable experience. All participants should bring an extra change of clothes and footwear, as well as a packed lunch from the ship, which we will enjoy during the excursion. A small backpack may be brought along. In the event of extreme weather conditions or other safety risks, the program may be adjusted, including pauses or temporary interruptions.No prior experience is required, but a normal level of physical and mental fitness is necessary. This excursion is not suitable for participants with a fear of heights. We recommend sturdy outdoor clothing and footwear for optimal comfort and safety. Despite all safety measures, the activity involves a certain level of risk, and all participants must sign a risk acknowledgment form and provide their weight, height, and clothing sizes to the expedition leader on board the day before the excursion, so that the correct equipment can be prepared. We also recommend valid insurance that covers this type of activity. At temperatures below +6°C and in rough sea conditions, survival suits with integrated boots will be used instead of thermal/flotation suits.
Our voyages
North- and southboundRound Voyage
Bergen → Kirkenes → Bergen
SouthboundVoyage South
Kirkenes → Bergen
NorthboundVoyage North
Bergen → Kirkenes