The White Sea is located in the northwest of Russia, within the administrative boundaries of the Republic of Karelia, the Murmansk Region, and the Arkhangelsk Region. The total area of the sea is approximately 95,000 square kilometers, and the coastline stretches about 3,000 km. The average depth is 67 meters; the maximum depth reaches 340 meters. Salinity ranges from 24 to 31 parts per thousand (ppt).
In summer, the temperature of the upper water layer along the coast can rise above 20°C. In winter, most of the sea is covered with ice. However, the sea does not freeze completely due to strong currents and tides.
Cultural heritage and rich wildlife make the White Sea one of the most exciting travel destinations in northern Russia.
White Sea Cultural Attractions
The Solovetsky Archipelago is the primary tourist destination of the White Sea. The famous Solovetsky Monastery is located on one of the islands.
The Kandalaksha Bay, in the northwestern part of the White Sea, is notable for archaeological sites—ancient labyrinths often referred to by locals as "Babylons." The Kandalaksha Nature Reserve covers a significant portion of the bay’s territory.
The Kuzova Islands, near the town of Kem, certainly deserve more popularity. The islands—namely the Russian Kuzov and the German Kuzov—feature fascinating rocky and tundra landscapes. Archaeological sites include ancient encampments and sacred Saami stones, also known as Seids. Tourists land on the German Kuzov and hike to the island’s summit, which is 117.8 meters above sea level.
White Sea Wildlife Experiences
Opportunities for wildlife viewing include beluga whale watching, seal watching, and bird watching. We at Nordic Travel offer a range of tailor-made wildlife tours. Please contact us for more details.
Beluga Whale Watching
Beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas) are common summer residents of the White Sea. The best locations to spot them are on the Big Solovetsky Island, particularly at Belugas Cape. White whales can be observed from mid-June to early August. Access to Belugas Cape is possible on foot via an ecological trail (which, as of 2021, is in poor condition) or by motorboat.
Seal Watching
The White Sea provides a vital habitat to the bearded seal (Erignathus barbatus), the harp seal (Pagophilus groenlandicus), and the Arctic ringed seal (Phoca hispida).
Ringed and Bearded Seals
These species are easiest to see when they are resting on ice floats, especially in early May. A wildlife holiday might include Zodiac excursions to observe the seals, along with all meals and accommodation at a wilderness center in Nilmoguba, a small village in Karelia.
Harp Seal or Greenland Seal
In March, seal pups are born and have a beautiful white fur (which darkens later). This wildlife adventure includes helicopter flights to the harp seal colonies, with accommodation at an eco-hotel in Letnaya Zolotitsa village.
Bird Watching
On the islands and along the coast of the White Sea, you can see numerous bird species, including the white-tailed eagle, eiders, oystercatchers, Arctic terns, great skuas, silver gulls and other gull species, various geese and ducks, and more. May and September are the best months for bird watching in the White Sea region.
