Norway Orca Snorkelling Expedition

7 days • Maximum 12 guests • Northern Norway

Join a seven-day expedition from Tromsø into the fjords of Northern Norway, where each November orcas and humpback whales gather to feed on migrating herring.

Travelling aboard a comfortable expedition vessel, we spend the daylight hours searching for whales, exploring remote winter fjords and, when conditions allow, snorkelling in clear Arctic waters alongside these remarkable animals.

Beyond the whales, the expedition brings snow-covered landscapes, deep winter light and the chance to witness the Northern Lights.

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  • Orca surfacing in the fjords of Northern Norway during winter.
  • Orcas hunting a bait ball of herring beneath the waters of Northern Norway.
  • Aurora Borealis illuminating the night sky over the fjords of Northern Norway.
  • Pod of orcas swimming beneath the Arctic waters of Northern Norway.
  • Orca surfacing in a fjord surrounded by snow-covered mountains in Northern Norway.

RARE ACCESS

Among the Arctic Giants

South Georgia is remote even by polar standards.

Reaching it by expedition yacht creates a very different experience from travelling aboard a conventional expedition ship. With a maximum of nine guests, the journey is deliberately small, flexible and immersive, shaped by wildlife, weather and conditions as they unfold.

The result is more time, more flexibility and a deeper experience of South Georgia.

Where Orcas gather

ARCTIC ENCOUNTERS

Northern Norway provides one of the world's most remarkable opportunities to experience wild orcas in their natural environment.

Across the expedition, we search the fjords for feeding orcas and humpback whales, with possible sightings of fin whales, white-tailed sea eagles and Arctic seabirds, as well as opportunities for both in-water encounters and surface photography.

Beyond the wildlife, the journey is shaped by snow-covered mountains, remote islands, winter light and the possibility of seeing the Aurora Borealis after dark.

Into the Arctic Fjords

THE JOURNEY

Tromsø → Arctic fjords → Tromsø

The expedition begins in Tromsø, gateway to the Arctic.

From there, we travel through the fjords of Northern Norway in search of the herring migration and the whales that follow it.

Days 2–6 are deliberately flexible. Wildlife activity, sea state and weather determine where we travel and when we enter the water.

Our goal is to maximise the opportunities to spend time with orcas and humpback whales in their natural environment.

Built for Arctic Exploration

EXPEDITION VESSEL

SMALL GROUP. MORE TIME IN THE FIELD.

Travelling with a maximum of 12 guests creates a more focused and flexible expedition.

There is no fixed sightseeing schedule. Each day is built around the whales.

FOLLOW THE WILDLIFE

We move with the conditions and whale activity rather than following a predetermined route.

IN-WATER OPPORTUNITIES

When conditions are right, guests can enter the water in specialised drysuits to experience the whales beneath the surface.

MORE TIME OUT THERE

The vessel becomes our base throughout the expedition, allowing us to stay close to the wildlife areas rather than returning to shore each day.

EXPEDITION VESSEL

Your base in the Artic

Our purpose-built expedition vessel is designed for small-group Arctic exploration, combining comfort, safety and practicality for just 12 guests.

With ensuite cabins, indoor and outdoor viewing areas, two Zodiac boats and snorkelling equipment onboard, it provides a comfortable base for exploring Northern Norway’s fjords, reviewing photographs, sharing meals and watching for the Northern Lights from deck.

View from the expedition vessel cruising through the Arctic fjords of Northern Norway at sunset.
 

  • 2027
    3 - 9 November

    • Day 1 – Arrive in Tromsø
      Meet the expedition team in Tromsø, the gateway to the Arctic, before boarding your expedition vessel. Settle into your cabin, meet your fellow travellers and enjoy an expedition briefing before setting sail.

    • Days 2–6 – In Search of Orcas & Humpback Whales
      Spend five unforgettable days exploring the spectacular fjords of Northern Norway in search of feeding orcas and humpback whales. Depending on weather, sea conditions and wildlife activity, you'll have opportunities to snorkel alongside these incredible animals, photograph them from the vessel or Zodiac, and experience the breathtaking Arctic landscapes. Along the way we'll pass snow-covered mountains, remote fishing villages and dramatic coastlines, with the chance to witness the Northern Lights on clear evenings.

    • Day 7 – Return to Tromsø
      After breakfast, disembark in Tromsø and farewell the crew before continuing your onward journey.

    Please note: This is an expedition itinerary and may change depending on weather, sea conditions and wildlife activity to maximise your opportunities for whale encounters and snorkelling experiences.

  • Tromsø, Norway

  • 7 Day

  • Maximum 12 Guests

  • Cabin Types

    Spacious climate controlled cabins with private bathroom facilities

    • Twin cabin €8,280 per person

    • Superior cabin €8,650 per person

    • Single cabin €8,940 per person

  • €1000 per person (non refundable)

What’s Included

  • Accommodation aboard the expedition vessel in your selected cabin

  • All meals onboard, plus tea and coffee

  • Snorkelling using a specialised Waterproof drysuit and Warmtec thermal undergarments

  • Expert expedition guides and crew

  • Personalised photography guidance

  • Zodiac excursions and whale watching activities

  • All port fees, service charges and government taxes

  • Comprehensive pre-departure information

What’s Not Included

  • International and domestic flights

  • Airport transfers

  • Excess baggage charges

  • Comprehensive travel insurance

  • Personal expenses, including bar purchases, beverages, laundry and telecommunications

  • Meals ashore unless specified

  • Gratuities

  • Pre- and post-expedition accommodation or travel packages

Life Onboard

Your expedition vessel is a warm, comfortable base throughout the journey, with space to relax, review images and take in the Arctic landscape between wildlife encounters.

With a maximum of 12 guests, life onboard is relaxed and personal. Ensuite cabins, panoramic lounges, dedicated camera charging, freshly prepared meals and two Zodiac boats make it easy to move between time on the water and time onboard.

Premium drysuits and snorkelling equipment are provided, while indoor and outdoor spaces give you room to unwind, edit photographs, join presentations or watch for the Northern Lights after dark.

The focus is simple: comfort, access and more time experiencing the Arctic.

Four images of a small, minimalist single-room cabin interior. The top two images show a bedroom with a single bed, wooden furniture, and a picture of an Arctic animal on the wall. The bottom left image shows a seating area with a table, blue chairs, and a sofa. The bottom right image shows a sleeping area with two beds, small side tables, and a window with blue curtains.

CURATED BY SCOTT PORTELLI

Designed by Experience

Scott Portelli cold-water diving in an expedition drysuit during a Northern Norway wildlife photography expedition.

Every expedition reflects more than three decades of experience exploring and photographing some of the world's most remote environments.

Internationally recognised wildlife photographer, filmmaker and expedition specialist Scott Portelli has spent more than a decade working throughout Antarctica and the Sub-Antarctic, developing an intimate understanding of the region's wildlife, landscapes and seasonal conditions.

His experience has shaped every aspect of this journey, from the itinerary and timing to the wildlife encounters and photographic opportunities, creating an experience that goes beyond simply visiting these extraordinary places.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Cancellation Period

    Cancellation of a booking or part thereof will incur the following fees based on the notice period prior to any tour. Once travel has commenced, no refunds will be made for any unused services and clients will be responsible for their travel arrangements and insurance.

    A deposit for any tour is made upon booking to secure your place on the tour, this is non-refundable. By paying the invoice for deposit you accept these terms and conditions.

    If a cancellation is made less than 1 month (30 Days) prior to the tour date, we will not reimburse the cost of the tour.

    If a cancellation is made within 1-2 months (60 Days) prior to the tour date, we will reimburse the cost of the tour up to 10% minus the deposit which is non refundable upon booking the tour and any admin fees incurred.

    If a cancellation is made within 3 months (90 Days) prior to the tour date we will reimburse the cost of the tour up to 15% minus the deposit which is non refundable upon booking the tour and any admin fees incurred.

    If a cancellation is made within 3 – 6 months (180 Days) prior to the tour date we will reimburse the cost of the tour up to 20% minus the deposit which is non refundable upon booking the tour and any admin fees incurred.

    Cancellations made by the organiser to a tour will be reimbursed in full (Not including the deposit which is Non-refundable).

    Note: If the booking has been rescheduled and the cancellation is requested, this will be considered a new booking and subject to our standard terms and conditions.If for any reason weather or operational cancellation of a single day occurs during the tour, there is no refund provided if the circumstances are out of the control of the organiser.

    Itinerary Disclaimer

    The itineraries on our websites are correct at time of publishing and may differ slightly depending on changes to local operations, foreign policy and laws, availability of resources, flight schedules, and supplier cost. In the case of any changes, the organiser will endeavour to provide an alternative option to continue your itinerary.

    Insurance Policy

    Travel insurance is NOT included in the cost of your tour. We strongly recommend that passengers arrange their own travel insurance. Insurance is required before arriving at your destination to ensure you are covered for unforeseen situations that may arise to cause loss of luggage, cancellation of flights and tours or medical emergencies.

    Scott Portelli and affiliates are not responsible for loss or damage of any equipment whilst participating in these activities. Appropriate travel insurance should be arranged prior to visiting your destination.

    Release Forms/Waivers

    While the organiser makes every effort to safeguard our clients, we cannot be held responsible for personal injury or loss due to events beyond our control.  Wildlife tourism carries inherent risk as you are interacting with wild animals and a signed release form is required from all participants before tour departure. This is signed on the first day of departure or prior to arriving at your destination on each separate tour. Guests are encourage to download this liability waiver and return back to us prior to your tour.

    Foreign Currency

    As of October 2023, all general tour costs are quoted in $USD as suppliers and operations in the region move to a more stable currency for services rendered. Current exemptions are Norway (quoted in Euros), Falkland Islands (quoted in GBP Pounds), and Australia (Australian Dollars).

    For local currency, please notice that Tongan Pa’anga is still the currency used while visiting the Tongan islands and will be the only accepted form of currency for tourist in Tonga.  For other destinations, please check which local currency will be required. NOTE: Tour prices are subject to change year on year and will be reflected in the tour itinerary prior to each season.

    Visas for Tonga

    Please review the visa requirements for your country here

    Visas for Norway

    Norway’s visa requirements vary according to the traveller’s country of origin, the purpose of traveling and the period of stay. Please review the visa requirements for your country here

    Visas for Australia

    Please review the visa requirements for your country here

  • We recommend bringing:

    • Waterproof jacket and trousers

    • Thermal base layers for your drysuit

    • Your own mask, snorkel and fins (recommended for the best fit and comfort)

    • Warm hat, gloves and neck buff

    • Thick woollen socks

    • Camera equipment and accessories

    • Personal medications for the duration of the expedition

    A detailed packing list will be provided before departure.

  • There are no fixed snorkelling times. We enter the water whenever weather conditions, sea conditions and wildlife activity allow to maximise the experience.

  • We provide premium Waterproof D9 drysuits, hoods, boots and mittens for all guests.

    Please refer to the drysuit sizing chart on the expedition page and advise us of your size before departure. If your size falls outside the available range, you'll need to bring your own drysuit and thermal undergarments.

    We recommend bringing your own mask, snorkel and fins, although these can also be provided onboard if required. Thermal undergarments are available to hire for €80 per person.

  • No. Snorkelling is completely optional.

    Guests who prefer to stay dry can enjoy exceptional whale watching and photography from the expedition vessel or aboard the Zodiac boats.

  • Absolutely. You're welcome to bring your underwater camera equipment, and Scott will be available to provide guidance throughout the expedition. If you're purchasing equipment before the trip, we're happy to recommend suitable camera systems.

  • Yes. All meals onboard the expedition vessel, along with tea and coffee, are included.

  • Yes. Please advise us of any allergies or dietary requirements when completing your booking, and we'll do our best to accommodate them.

  • A good level of fitness is required. Snorkelling in Arctic conditions while wearing a drysuit requires confidence in the water and the ability to move comfortably in cold conditions.

  • To ensure a personalised experience, the expedition is limited to 12 guests.

  • Tromsø is well connected with direct flights from many European cities. There are also frequent domestic flights from Oslo, with a flight time of approximately 1 hour 50 minutes.

  • Our primary focus is on orcas and humpback whales, which gather in the fjords to feed on herring during winter. We may also encounter fin whales, white-tailed sea eagles and a variety of Arctic seabirds.

  • Yes. November offers excellent opportunities to witness the Aurora Borealis. While sightings can never be guaranteed, clear skies and favourable conditions provide an excellent chance to experience this incredible natural phenomenon.

  • No. Internet access onboard is extremely limited or unavailable, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the expedition.

  • The local currency is the Norwegian Krone (NOK).

    Expedition prices are quoted in Euros (€).

  • Deposits and final payments can be made by bank transfer, credit card or PayPal.

    Please note that credit card payments incur a 2.8% processing fee, while PayPal payments incur a 3.5% processing fee.

  • The expedition is hosted by internationally award-winning wildlife photographer Scott Portelli, together with experienced local expedition guides and crew.

  • You'll require a passport valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality, so please check the latest entry requirements before travelling.

  • Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory and must include medical expenses, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation and personal belongings.

Drysuit & Undergarment Size Chart

Please refer to the sizing chart below and let us know your required size when booking. If your size is not available, you'll need to bring your own drysuit and thermal undergarments for the expedition.

Size chart for men's and women's drysuits and thermal overalls, showing European size, height, hips, neck to crotch, European boot size, and US boot size.
Expedition drysuits prepared for cold-water wildlife photography in Northern Norway.

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