Tucked into the rugged coastlines of Norway’s Lofoten Islands, the small fishing village of Ballstad offers more than just postcard views and arctic charm.
It’s home to an underwater world few people have the chance to witness. At the heart of this experience is where you can dive or snorkel in one of the most ethereal marine ecosystems in the north: the kelp forests.
Why Kelp Forests?
Kelp isn’t just seaweed—it’s the backbone of one of the most productive marine ecosystems on Earth. Stretching up from the seafloor like underwater trees, the giant kelp sways with the current, creating a surreal, forest-like environment teeming with life. Schools of fish dart between the fronds, crabs scuttle across the rocky bottom, and seals sometimes glide silently through the shadows.
In Ballstad, the kelp forests are wild, pristine, and thriving thanks to cold, nutrient-rich waters and minimal human interference.
Diving or Snorkeling—Which to Choose?
At Lofoten Diving, both experiences are designed to be immersive and safe, guided by experienced, local dive professionals.
Snorkeling in the Kelp (No Certification Needed)
If you’re not a certified diver, don’t worry, snorkeling in drysuitsis a popular and accessible way to explore the kelp forests. Floating on the surface, you’ll peer into a shifting underwater jungle that looks like something out of a fantasy film. The visibility in Lofoten is often exceptional, especially in the colder months when plankton levels drop.
Diving in the Kelp (For Certified Divers)
Certified divers can go deeper, descending into the greenish-gold columns of kelp, where the light filters in with an almost cathedral-like quality. The sensation of “flying” through the kelp forest is unlike any other dive environment, it’s meditative, otherworldly, and full of surprises.
Marine life commonly spotted includes:
- Atlantic cod, wolffish, and pollock
- Colorful sea anemones and nudibranchs
- Curious harbor seals (if you’re lucky)
- Starfish and sea urchins clinging to every surface
What to expect with Lofoten Diving
Located right in Ballstad harbor, Lofoten Diving Centeroffers top-tier equipment and personalized instruction. The team is knowledgeable about the local marine environment and places a strong emphasis on safety, sustainability, and comfort, especially important when exploring the cold Arctic waters
All dives and snorkeling tours include:
- Full drysuit gear rental
- Briefings on marine life and underwater behavior
- Small group sizes
- Hot drinks afterward (which you’ll really appreciate!)
When to Go
You can dive or snorkel year-round, but the best visibility is from October to April. That said, summer brings slightly warmer waters, midnight sun, and calmer conditions—ideal for a more laid-back experience.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re floating above or weaving through the swaying fronds, exploring the kelp forests in Ballstad with Lofoten Diving is a soul-stirring experience. It’s nature at its rawest, quietest, and most captivating. You may come for the mountains and fjords—but it’s the forests beneath the waves that will stay with you long after you leave.