Orcas in Norway Program
We’re currently working on the re-launch of our Orcas in Norway program, which at this stage will begin operating again in November 2023.
We invite you to join our mailing list if you would like to be notified of details when they are available.
The Whales Underwater Team
WINTER SEASON / November
When operations re-commence, our ship-based tours will be similar in make-up to our 2019 tours, which you can find detailed below.
Our usual Tour Scheduling looks like this
WUWNxxA Early-November Enquire now
WUWNxxB Mid-November Enquire now
WUWNxxC Late- November Enquire now
Any Enquiries should be directed to [email protected]
Swim with orcas and feeding humpbacks in the majestic fjords of Norway
Join us for an amazing winter expedition high above the Arctic Circle where you will swim with pods of orca (and feeding humpbacks) that follow the massive herring schools into the Norwegian fjords.
Without a doubt, swimming with (and photographing) orcas underwater above the Arctic Circle in the winter is challenging. It’s a physical activity; you’re in cumbersome equipment; the days are short and cold; the weather can be extreme and; the light levels are very low.
But the mountains, land and seascapes are spectacular, the light is truly mesmerising and the orcas are magical – the rewards for effort are immeasurable.
Swim with Orcas
Every year, millions of herring over-winter in the fjords of Norway, making the most of the seas warmed by the Gulf Stream. Families of orca feast on these massive schools and they’re joined by pods of non-breeding humpbacks that have stayed north rather then travelling to winter in the tropics. This spectacular seasonal concentration of marine life is just waiting to be experienced by you and your camera.
Your Days on the Water
We’re offering options for snorkelers who want in-water encounters as well as for those wanting to stay on the boat and topside watch only. Our Zodiacs will be out for around 3-4 hours per day, during Winter’s short daylight hours. Our floating basecamp the small ship Ostsee Star will also be a great platform from which to shoot topside images of the whale activity.
Your Arctic Days
Each day you’ll have time on the water with the whales, time to explore the area, process your images, maybe shoot some landscape if logistics permit, and shoot (or just relax) under the Northern Lights when conditions are right.
Northern Lights
The orca season matches the Northern Lights season too, so when conditions are right we’ll be able to capture this incredible spectacle. One of the planet’s must-see phenomenon, not to be missed.
Our Location
The herring find their way into the spectacular Norwegian fjords, with thousand-metre-high, snow-covered mountains rising all around. When you’re not on the water we plan to explore the surrounds and capture the evening arctic scenery ’til your memory cards are full!
Our Vessel
Your expedition vessel will be your home away from home in the fjords, taking you right into the heart of orca territory and providing a flexible and comfortable floating base-camp from which to launch our zodiacs and explore the wonders of the Arctic.
Gear
We have included quality dry-suit and fin use in your tour price, so you’ll only need to bring mask, snorkel, undergarments, wetsuit hood & gloves. You’ll also be provided with an exposure suit for use on the boat.. For general living, if you’ve travelled to the ski fields or to the Arctic or Antarctica before, you will have all you need. A full gear list will be forwarded to you as the tour approaches.
The Experience
Sit back an enjoy this 10minute film filmed during Phil Thurston’s one-week trip with us at the end of November 2018.
Tour Inclusions:
- Transfers to and from our ship from downtown Tromso, Norway
- Ship-board accommodation
- Meals as per itinerary
- On-water RIB operations
- You will be one of only 4 guests per RIB
- 3-4 hours of boat time per day (depending on conditions)
- Services of Skipper, Guides and Hosts
- Dry Suit, Heated Vest and Fins loan
- Photography Tuition & Post-processing sessions
- Informative and educational presentations
Typical Itinerary (subject to change)
Day 1 Group pick-up at from Tromsø Visitor Centre at 6:00am. Transfer to ship. Settle-in and welcome briefing with ships crew and expedition staff. (Dinner)
Day 2 Orca swim/RIB operation briefing. Drysuit fitting. Equipment preparation. First RIB operation day (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 3- 8 After breakfast and as daylight begins, you’ll board the RIBs in search of whales. As darkness descends you’ll be back on board the ship for lunch and time to download and process your photos and videos. Each day we’ll have a short presentation on orca behaviour and biology from our expedition’s naturalist. If conditions and our location allow, after dinner we may hunt for Northern Lights. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 9 Today we’ll say our farewells and you’ll be transferred to the Tromsø Visitor Centre by 6:00pm, exact time determined by logistics on the day. Tour concludes. (Breakfast)
Why not extend your stay in Norway? Talk to Jackie in reservations about the many options!