From Kirkenes and Vadsø there are boat services to Vardø (pop. 3,000), the most easterly town in Norway, which received its municipal charter in 1788. The North Harbor, sheltered by two breakwaters, is the base of a considerable fishing fleet which brings in most of the town's income. Note the large racks for drying stockfish.
Fridtjof Nansen
sailed from Vardø in the "Fram" on July 21 1893 on a voyage which took him to latitude 86°4' north, returning to Norwegian soil here in 1896.
Vardø is connected with the mainland by a road tunnel running under the sea.
Vardø is noted in birding circles for the abundant variety of bird species that are found, particularly at the Hornoya Nature Reserve, an island just outside the harbor.