Located in a fjord, Båtsfjord is a sheltered fishing village on the northwestern coast of the Varanger peninsula in Finnmark. Båtsfjord boasts as being the capital of fishing, and that is probably true – it is one of Northern Norway’s most important fishing harbours. Båtsfjord is also one of Norway’s most diverse communities, with over 30 countries represented amongst its small population.
Fun Facts About Båtsfjord
Latitude: 70.2 degrees north
Population: 2,165
Hottest month: July
Coldest month: February
Wettest month: January
Windiest month: January
Annual precipitation: 20mm
Båtsfjord Municipality
In this Travel Guide...
Things to See & Do
Here’s an overview of some of the best things to see and do in Båtsfjord
Hikes, Day Trips & Experiences
Looking to go for a hike or take part in a unique experience? Here are our recommendations!
Road-Trips
Follow our road-trip guides for scenic trips around Båtsfjord
Varangerbotn to Berlevåg
Follow the incredible drive from Varangerbotn to Berlevåg along the Barents Sea.
Here are some things that you must do and try in Båtsfjord
History of Båtsfjord
The current Båtsfjord was likely populated around the beginning of the 19th century, as in 1852 there were 26 inhabitants. The population boom took place in the early 20th century, when Hamningberg began to experience stagnation due to poor harbour conditions, and Båtsfjord had a much more suitable harbour. Since boats with motors were now being used, it wasn’t as important to be close to the fisheries anymore. by 1909, as many as 300-400 boats with 3000-4000 men were moored at Båtsfjord.
Whaling stations have been in Båtsfjord since the late 19th century.
Båtsfjord was not too badly damaged during World War II. Around 27 buildings were burned down but most survived, so Båtsfjord was the supply base during the reconstruction period.
Båtsfjord Today
Fishing is the major industry in Båtsfjord and it is one of the biggest fishing stations in Norway in terms of quantity brought ashore. 7,000 fishing ships dock in Båtsfjord every year.
Travel Information
Getting Here
Fly: Båtsfjord has an airport with flights to Hammerfest, Honningsvåg, Tromsø, Vardø and Berlevåg.
Drive: Båtsfjord is located on the Fv891, approximately 90 minutes off the E6 highway.
Train: No train access
Ferry: Båtsfjord is a port of call for the coastal ferry. The southbound ferry stops in the evening, while the northbound ferry stops around midnight.
Getting Around
It’s very easy to walk around Båtsfjord, but you will need a car if you want to go out exploring.
Shops
Places to Eat
Cafes & Bakeries
Quick Bites
Reasonable Restaurants
High End & Unique Eats
The best place to try local food is at Båtsfjord Brygge.