Andenes sits at the northern tip of Andøya in Vesterålen and is Norway's main centre for whale watching. The continental shelf drops off steeply just offshore, creating a canyon called Bleiksdjupet that brings nutrient-rich deep water close to the coast. Sperm whales feed here year-round, which is unusual. Several companies offer whale safari tours from the harbour.
The Andenes lighthouse dates from 1859 and stands 40 metres tall, making it one of Norway's tallest. It is visible from far out to sea and remains a prominent landmark.
The town is also the location of Andøya Space Centre, a few kilometres south. The newer Andøya Spaceport for orbital rockets is on the other side of the island. Andenes has a small airport with connections to Bodø and Tromsø, and basic services including shops and accommodation.
The Andenes lighthouse dates from 1859 and stands 40 metres tall, making it one of Norway's tallest. It is visible from far out to sea and remains a prominent landmark.
The town is also the location of Andøya Space Centre, a few kilometres south. The newer Andøya Spaceport for orbital rockets is on the other side of the island. Andenes has a small airport with connections to Bodø and Tromsø, and basic services including shops and accommodation.