Saltstraumen Maelstrom
Wheelchair accessible
World's strongest whirlpool and tidal current.

📜 Saltstraumen is the world's strongest tidal current, located in a narrow channel 30 km east of Bodø, Norway.
🔍 Up to 400 million cubic meters of seawater force through the strait every six hours, creating powerful whirlpools up to 10 meters in diameter.

Why Go

🌊 Witness a spectacular natural phenomenon with immense forces
📸 Excellent photo opportunities of giant whirlpools
🦅 Spot the world's largest population of sea eagles
🐠 Explore rich marine life through diving or snorkeling (for certified divers)
🚶 Walk on Saltstraumen Bridge for overhead views

Why Avoid

⚠️ Diving is not for beginners due to strong currents and steep walls
🎣 Fishing directly in the current is not recommended to protect fragile marine life
🚫 Stay safe and do not get too close to the water due to extreme current strength

Tips

🗓️ Visit around new moon or full moon days for the strongest current, up to an hour before and after specified times.
🧭 For best bridge views, be on the east side when the tide comes in from the west, and vice versa when it recedes.
🤿 Snorkeling season is typically May to October.

🅿️ Parking

Available along highway Rv17, 33 km from Bodø city center.

🚌 Public Transport

Local bus service (lines 200, 300) from Bodø center (approx. 40 min).
Taxi sightseeing tours from Bodø available for NOK 1900 (for 4 passengers).
RIB boat tours from Bodø city center.

Last updated 10 days ago

We strive for accuracy, but errors may occur. Please verify key info.