Autumn Trips

Whale & Orcas
Watching – Day Trip

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Trip description

Norway whale watching day trip and Arctic sailing adventure

Rise and shine, early bird! Your Arctic adventure begins at 5.30 AM in Tromsø, where a bus will take you to Skjervøy, a picturesque town wedged between the Norwegian fjords. There you will find Norøy, our wooden sailboat, ready to welcome you aboard and carry you into the heart of Norway’s winter landscapes, where nature is queen.

Keep your eyes wide open as we glide through the most breathtaking Norwegian fjords, as you may spot majestic orcas swimming gracefully beneath snowy peaks; an incredible encounter you won’t forget anytime soon.

On board, our goal is to make you feel at home: hot chocolate, soft cinnamon buns, freshly brewed coffee and a warm and comforting meal, so you can savor every moment, sheltered from the Arctic cold.  
The trip ends around 1.30 PM, giving you time to breathe in the beauty of Norway’s best landscapes, to slow down and really connect with nature.

We respect nature every step of the way, and we are committed to following a strict whale watching code of conduct (if you’re interested, you can read it here). We cannot 100% promise sightings of these beautiful mammals, but we can guarantee an experience you’ll cherish for the rest of your life.

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You need to know

Details

What's included

  • Warm lunch on board & water
  • Coffee, hot chocolate & cinnamon buns
  • Experienced & local Arctic Skipper
  • Polaroid pictures of the trip
  • Safety equipment
  • Sailing lessons

Not included

  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Professional photos of the trips (You want HD memories? Ask for it during you booking stage)
  • Travel to & from Skjervoy (we can arrange it for you, let us know in advance!)
  • Personal travel insurance & cancellation insurance
Respect wildlife

Code of Conduct

Read the Code of Conduct
Can we help?

FAQ

When is the best time to see orcas and whales in Skjervøy?

When is the best time to see orcas and humpback whales in Skjervøy, Norway?

The peak season for orca and humpback whale sightings in Skjervøy is from mid-October to late January, when herring migrate to the fjords and attract these incredible marine mammals.

What kind of whales can we see?

What types of whales can we see during a Skjervøy whale watching tour?

The most commonly seen species are orcas (killer whales) and humpback whales, but occasionally fin whales, minke whales, and even porpoises can be spotted in the area.

How long does the whale watching trip last?

How long does a Skjervøy whale watching boat trip last?

Our day trips typically last 4 to 6 hours, depending on weather conditions, daylight hours, and how quickly we spot the whales. The journey includes navigation through fjords and time observing wildlife.

Is it guaranteed that we will see whales or orcas?

Is it guaranteed to see orcas or whales during whale watching in Skjervøy?

Because we visit a truly natural and wild Arctic environment, wildlife sightings in Northern Norway can never be guaranteed with absolute certainty. However, Skjervøy is considered one of the best whale watching destinations in the world, especially for orca and whale encounters in winter, and we have a very high success rate. Our crew does everything possible to locate and observe them respectfully.

How do I get to Skjervøy for the tour?

How do I get to Skjervøy for a whale watching safari?

Skjervøy is accessible by car (via ferry), express boat, or bus from Tromsø and other towns in Northern Norway. Upon booking, we’ll send you detailed travel info and clear meeting instructions.
If needed, we can also help arrange transportation to Skjervøy. Just let us know in advance and we’ll assist you with the best option available.

Can I snorkel or dive with orcas during the trip?

Can I snorkel or dive with orcas in Skjervøy, Norway?

Yes, but only under specific conditions. Swimming with orcas is a highly specialized experience and must be requested in advance.
We need to coordinate with a certified diving guide and ensure all safety protocols are followed. If you're interested, please let us know when booking, so we can arrange a custom orca snorkeling experience for your group. Note: This is only possible under certain weather and whale behavior conditions, and is not included in the standard day trip.

Can we get close to the orcas with the boat if we see them?

Can the boat get close to orcas during a whale watching tour in Skjervøy?

Yes. If we spot orcas in the distance, we can carefully approach them, always following the official whale watching code of conduct. We prioritize respectful and non-intrusive observation, keeping a safe distance and never chasing or surrounding the animals.You can read more about the rules we follow in our page Code Of Conduct.

Our goal is to give you an unforgettable encounter, while protecting the natural behavior and wellbeing of these magnificent creatures.

Welcome on board
Welcome on board
Welcome on board
Welcome on board
Welcome on board
Welcome on board
Welcome on board
Our sailboat

Meet Norøy: your wooden home at sea

Norøy means “Northern Island” – Her name, Norøy, means “Northern Island” in Norwegian, a tribute to the rugged resilience of the Arctic landscapes she was made to navigate.

The Boat