An Arctic experience like no other
Snorkeling with orcas in Norway is one of the most special experiences in nature: a combination of snow-covered fjords, orcas hunting herring, humpback whales, the northern lights and crystal-clear water. It feels like a live nature documentary.
The best season to snorkel with orcas in Norway
November to January
This is when the herring schools enter the fjords of northern Norway, and the orcas follow them in large numbers. At the same time you can often see both orcas and humpback whales around Skjervøy, Tromsø and the Lyngen Fjord.
Why winter?
- It is the peak of the herring migration, the orcas’ main food.
- Clear water and relatively calm conditions make the sightings sharper.
- The northern lights at night add to the experience.
Why it is so unique, even if you do not dive
Rare closeness to one of the most intelligent mammals in the world. The orcas in Norway sometimes arrive in their hundreds and dive around boats and snorkelers while hunting herring. Nature at BBC-documentary level.
No diving license needed. Unlike diving with big fish in other destinations, this is snorkeling only, in a drysuit with natural buoyancy, suitable even without any diving experience.
More wildlife. Besides the orcas you may see humpback whales, sperm whales, fin whales and Arctic birds.
Landscapes that stop your heart. Snowy peaks, narrow fjords and complete silence. It looks like a postcard.
Hotel stay + daily snorkeling trips
Most trips are based on:
Hotels in the Tromsø or Skjervøy area
- Easy access to the departure marinas
- Full heating and comfort after a day in freezing water
- Excellent spots to watch the northern lights at night
Daily boat trips (RIB / Zodiac)
- Morning meeting at the marina
- Safety briefing and drysuit fitting
- Sailing to the feeding areas
- Entering the water when the guide decides, according to the orcas’ behavior
- Back at the hotel in the afternoon
In rough weather the trip is limited to watching from the boat, without entering the water. Safety comes first.
What you see underwater
Carousel feeding: the orcas circle the herring school and push it into a tight bait ball, then strike with their tails with perfect precision. Photographers and guides call it spine-tingling.
Multi-species action: orcas and humpback whales sometimes feed side by side, a spectacular sight.
Clear water: the Arctic water is very cold but as clear as an aquarium, which makes for excellent viewing.
A typical day
- 07:00 – leave the hotel for the marina (usually a short walk or transfer)
- 08:00 – put on the drysuits, including boots, neoprene hood and thick gloves
- 09:00–14:00 – orca safari: following the herring schools and several entries into the water when the guide approves
- 16:00 – back at the hotel: hot shower, rest, and a chance to look for the northern lights
Why it is worth it
A once-in-a-lifetime experience. There are very few places in the world where you can snorkel with orcas legally, safely and in a natural environment. It suits people who do not dive, too: all you need is a love of nature.
Marine and Arctic nature together. Orcas, whales, snowy mountains and the northern lights: a combination you cannot find anywhere else.
Comfortable hotels after a day full of adrenaline. A powerful experience without a liveaboard, with comfort and easy logistics.
Contact us for dates and prices.
