FAQS for Norway Orca Tour

WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING WITH ME?

We suggest you bring your own mask, snorkel and fins as it is always more comfortable and less problematic having gear you know. Below is a list of basic items to bring:

  • Wind/waterproof outer layer (jacket & trousers).
  • Thermal under-layers for drysuit.
  • Mask snorkel & fins (we recommend having your own).
  • Warm hat, gloves, buff.
  • Thick woolen socks.
  • Camera (We can recommend cameras if you wish to buy one before you travel).
  • Supply of any medications you need for duration of the trip.

We will send out a detailed packing list prior to the tour.

HOW LONG DO WE SPEND SNORKELING EACH DAY?

We go snorkeling whenever the weather conditions, and the wildlife allow.

WHAT DO WE WEAR TO GO SNORKELING?

We will provide Waterproof D9 drysuits, hoods, mittens & boots. Please check the drysuit size guide on our tour page, if your size is outside this chart you will need to bring your own drysuit & undergarments. We recommend you bring your own mask, snorkel & fins, but we can also provide these onboard. Thermal undergarments can be hired for EURO80 per person per trip.

CAN WE SEE WHALES FROM ABOVE WATER TOO?

Yes, snorkeling is optional & depends on weather conditions. The Zodiac excursions provide a great opportunity for topside whale-watching and photography.

ARE MEALS INCLUDED?

Yes, all meals onboard the vessel are included.

CAN YOU MEET CERTAIN DIETARY REQUIREMENTS?

We will be travelling to remote islands, therefore it is important to let us know in advance of any food allergies or dietary requirements, via the booking form.

WHAT IS THE LOCAL CURRENCY?

Norwegian Kroner

WHAT ARE THE FITNESS REQUIREMENTS?

Good fitness is required for snorkeling in cold water in a bulky drysuit.

WHAT WILL THE WEATHER BE LIKE?

It will be winter, so it will be cold, dark and snowy!

HOW MANY PEOPLE WILL BE IN MY GROUP?

Our vessel carries a maximum of 12 passengers.

HOW DO I GET TO TROMSØ?

You can fly to Tromsø directly from many European countries. Otherwise there are daily flights from Norway’s capital city Oslo direct to Tromsø, which take approx 1hr 50 mins.

WHAT SORT OF WILDLIFE WILL WE SEE?

Of course we hope to see Orca, but we may also encounter humpback whales, occasional fin whales, and various species of seabird.

DO YOU HAVE LARGE SIZE FINS / WETSUITS?

The largest fin size we have available is 15. Generally we recommend everyone bring their own fins / mask / snorkel as it is always more comfortable and less problematic in your own gear.

WILL I BE ABLE TO TAKE PHOTOS OF THE WHALES?

Of course! You are more than welcome to take your photography gear into the water with you (we can recommend cameras if you plan to purchase one before you arrive).

IS THERE INTERNET ACCESS?

There will be no internet access onboard the vessel.

WHAT CURRENCY ARE THE TOUR COSTS IN?

Snorkeling with Orcas tours are quoted in Euros and there are multiple payment methods you can use for each tour. Note that credit card payments have a 2.8% fee and PayPal payments have a 3.5% fee. You can use a currency converter to get an idea of the currency conversion or exchange rate. Check out www.Oanda.com for latest rates.

WHO WILL HOST/LEAD THE TOUR?

Scott Portelli will be your host.

WHAT PAYMENT METHODS DO YOU HAVE AVAILABLE?

I can take deposit and payment via credit card, PayPal, or direct bank transfer. Note there is a 2.8% fee on credit card transactions and a 3.5% fee on PayPal transactions

WILL I NEED A PASSPORT/ VISA TO TRAVEL TO THE TROMSØ?

You will need a passport that will be valid for at least 6 months after travel. Depending on your nationality, you may require a visa to enter Norway.

DO I NEED TRAVEL INSURANCE?

Yes, this is essential! It must include medical insurance, and aero-medical evacuation