Whirlpools
Up to 10 metres.
Thomas Heins — CC BY 4.0 · Robert Anders from Hamburg, Germany — CC BY 2.0 · Gerd Eichmann — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Ryan Hodnett — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Gerd Eichmann — CC BY-SA 4.0
Saltstraumen is a small strait with one of the strongest tidal currents in the world, in Bodø Municipality, Nordland county, northern Norway, about 10 km southeast of the town of Bodø in a straight line. The narrow channel links the outer Saltfjorden with the large Skjerstad Fjord. Up to 400 million cubic metres of seawater force their way through the strait, 3 km long and 150 metres wide, every six hours. When the current is at its strongest, whirlpools up to 10 metres across and 5 metres deep form. The current is created as the tide tries to fill the Skjerstad Fjord, and the difference in level between the sea and the fjord can reach a metre. The strait in its present form has existed for about two to three thousand years. Dark blue water races between green, rocky banks, with white swirls of foam spinning on its surface. The high arch of the Saltstraumen Bridge spans the strait, with snow-capped mountains on the horizon. Visitors stand on the rocks on either bank or on the bridge to watch the whirlpools. The best time is when the current peaks, so check the tide tables before you go. When the current turns there is a calm period when the strait can be navigated. Keep back from the water's edge.
Up to 10 metres.
A high arch.
To watch the current.
Saltstraumen, Bodø, Nordland, Norway
At peak current; check the tide tables.
Yes.