FLOATING
PHOTO 
HIDES
IN THE
HEART OF
VARANGER

FLOATING

PHOTO HIDES

DESIGNED FOR

ARCTIC WILDLIFE

PHOTOGRAPHY

Steller's Eider
Floating Photo Hide

This hide is intended for a maximum of 6 photographers. This limit ensures both stability and safety, as well as providing an optimal experience for photography. Each session, whether morning or evening, is priced at 150 euros per person, per session, including 12% VAT. For professional travel organizers, special conditions may apply; please contact us via email for further details.

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Who are 3BIRDS?

All migratory birds are always looking for beautiful stops during their journeys—places where they can enjoy delicious meals, as well as appreciate the beautiful landscapes and good company. The stop that brought these three species of birds together is Vardø, in the Varanger Peninsula in Norway. Let's meet Nicolas, Tormod and Baptiste. On our way to Varanger, we also met Bernhard, another migratory bird that will join 3 birds in the next few months.

About us

Frequently asked questions

The following is important information to read before booking a session at one of our photo hides:

What is a floating photo hide?
Our floating photo hides are specially designed platforms that allow you to capture stunning images of Arctic Bird Species up close, without disturbing their natural habitat.
How many people is this experience designed for, and what is the cost?
This hide is intended for a maximum of 6 photographers. This limit ensures both stability and safety, as well as providing an optimal experience for photography. Each session, whether morning or evening, is priced at 150 euros per person, per session, including 12% VAT. For professional travel organizers, special conditions may apply; please contact us via email for further details.
When do the morning and afternoon sessions begin?
Sessions start at the time of your choice in the morning. We recommend collecting the key the day prior from the reception at Hotel VARDO (located at Kaigata 8, 9950 Vardø), allowing you to access the hide at your preferred time. However, the key must be returned to the hotel by 12 p.m. (noon). Afternoon groups can collect their key starting from 1 p.m. at Hotel VARDO and must return it by evening, in consideration of the next day's group.
Where is the hide located, and how do I get there?
The hide is situated at the port of Svartnes, across from Vardø. This port, owned by the municipality of Vardø, is uniquely positioned with shallow waters that make it an excellent location for observing wintering ducks. The presence of the local fishing industry also attracts a variety of bird species. A parking area is located near the two floating pontoons, and our hide is visible from the road thanks to exterior lamps that are always illuminated. Please note that access to the hide is at your own risk.
Where should I return the keys to the hide?
The keys should be returned to our local partner, Hotel VARDO, located at Kaigata 8, 9950 Vardø.Is the hide heated? What equipment should I bring?The hide is not heated, although it is insulated from the ground and wind. Given the cold conditions, we recommend dressing warmly as if you were outdoors—without the adverse weather. The hide is equipped with a urinal (we are working on a more inclusive solution for ladies) and features pendulum heads with a low-angle support for photography.
What bird species can I expect to see?
The two primary species you are likely to encounter are the Common Eider and the Miquelon Duck. The hide is frequently visited by the Steller’s Eider and the King Eider. In addition to ducks, you may observe various gull species (such as the Glaucous Gull), and occasionally, curious Gray Seals make an appearance around the hide.
What rules should be followed in the hide?
The rules are simple and ensure both safety and respectful observation of wildlife. Please refer to the attached PDF for a full list of guidelines.
What happens if the weather is too bad or if I don’t see anything?
In the event of unfavorable weather conditions or if you have no luck with sightings, please contact our manager, Mr. Baptiste Bataille, promptly at baptiste@baptiste-bataille.com for assistance.
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We look forward to seeing you here on your next trip to the north!

If you have further questions,
here is how you can reach us!

Phone (3BIRDS): +32484952460
Phone (Vardø Hotel): +47 78 98 77 61