norway ORCAS & WHALES EXPEDITION
Trip Overview
Step into one of the most intense wildlife encounters on the planet as you join Discover Sharks, Oceans Nation and Grégoire Meignen for an orca and whale expedition in Northern Norway.
Each winter, massive schools of herring attract hundreds of orcas and humpback whales into these fjords, creating one of the most dynamic marine events in the world.
From the boat, you’ll witness coordinated hunting behavior, powerful feeding displays, and constant movement through these cold, rich waters.
Throughout the week, we’ll be actively searching for opportunities to enter the water in snorkeling gear and experience these encounters up close, always depending on conditions and animal behavior.
With just 7 guests in the group, the trip stays highly focused, giving you more time, flexibility, and access to the action.
We are running three back-to-back expeditions:
- December 29 - January 5: 4 spots left
- January 5-12: 4 spots left
- January 14-21: 3 spots left
The Highlights
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Encounters with orcas and humpback whales
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Arctic fjords and winter landscapes
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Intimate group size with a maximum of 7guests
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Chance to witness the Northern Lights
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Professional photo and video coverage included
Trip Program
From your arrival in the Arctic to your final day on the water, here’s how the expedition flows.
Please note that the itinerary may vary depending on weather, sea conditions, and wildlife activity.
Arrival & Transfer
Welcome to the Arctic
Arrive in Tromsø and take a short taxi to the ferry terminal.
Board the ferry to Skjervøy, where the expedition is based.
Upon arrival, transfer to the house, settle in, and prepare for the days ahead.
First Day on the Water
Finding the whales
Start the day with breakfast followed by a full briefing covering safety, equipment, and how we approach wildlife.
You’ll be fitted with all necessary gear, including thermal suits and snorkeling equipment.
Once on the water, the focus is on locating whales. We actively search for signs like blows, fins, and bird activity, then approach carefully based on behavior and conditions.
When the opportunity is right, we enter the water.
Return mid-afternoon, warm up, rinse gear, and relax before dinner. Evenings are also a chance to watch for Northern Lights.
Whale Searching & Encounters
Daily rhythm
Each day follows a similar structure.
Morning departure to search for orcas and humpbacks, with encounters shaped by wildlife movement and conditions.
We aim for multiple in-water opportunities throughout the week whenever possible.
Afternoons back at base to warm up, review the day, and reset for the next.
Departure
Return to Tromsø
Final morning to pack and wrap up the trip.
Afternoon ferry back to Tromsø, arriving in the evening.
The Experience
Orcas Feeding & Carousel Behavior
Orcas are the largest members of the dolphin family and one of the most efficient predators in the ocean. Adults can reach close to 10 meters in length, with males carrying a tall, straight dorsal fin that can rise up to 2 meters above the surface.
In Northern Norway, their behavior becomes even more intense.
Each winter, orcas work together to hunt dense schools of herring, herding them into tight bait balls. What follows is known as carousel feeding. The group circles the fish, compressing them further, then individual whales strike with their tails to stun the school before feeding.
When it happens around you, it’s not just something you watch. You feel the energy of it in the water.
FAQ
Questions?
- 8 days / 7 days at sea / 7 nights
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
- Accommodation in Norwegian house
- Snorkel equipment (9mm wet suits,
diving boots & gloves, fins, mask &
snorkel) - Closed boat on the water for
maximum warmth during the day
Professional photos & videos
- Airplane tickets
- Ferry tickets from Tromso to Skjervoy and return
- Hotel nights in Tromso before
and after the trip - Alcohol
- Tips for the crew if service is
appreciated
You should be comfortable in the water and able to handle cold conditions.
All in-water sessions are done under guide supervision and depend on conditions.
Valid travel insurance is required.
A $600 deposit is required to secure your spot. The remaining balance is due 120 days prior to departure.
Spots are limited, so we recommend booking early to confirm availability. Please review the full booking terms and conditions before completing your reservation.
The expedition is based in Skjervøy.
Guests fly into Tromsø and take a ferry to reach the base.
Shared accommodation in double or single rooms depending on availability.
Orcas and humpback whales are the main focus throughout the week.
No. Wildlife and weather conditions vary, but the entire expedition is focused on maximizing in-water opportunities.
REVIEWS