If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure, swimming with killer whales in Norway is an experience that will leave you breathless.
I have just returned from a 6-day expedition boat trip from Tromso and in this post, I want to tell you all about it so that you know what to expect when you book such kind of liveaboard expeditions.
Killer whales, or Orcas, are known for their striking black-and-white appearance and are one of the apex- predators in the ocean. There’s no better place to see them up close than in Norway’s crystal clear fjords, also because Norway is the only country where it’s legal to swim with them.
Image Credit: Dave Hutchison Photography/Istockphoto.
Why Norway is the best place to swim with the Orcas?
The reason why if you want to swim with the killer whales you must go to Norway, is because it’s the only place in the world where it is legal to swim with them and you can do it on a tour (more about it later) or on a multi-day liveaboard expedition (like I did).
Of course, it can happen to find them while diving or swimming elsewhere in the world, like Alaska, Vancouver Island in Canada, or Puerto Madryn in Argentina, but it’s not allowed to intentionally swim with them.
You just may be lucky to find a killer whale while swimming but it’s not so certain. Only in Norway, do you have the opportunity to get in the water with them when you see them.
Of course, there are rules in place to protect these amazing marine mammals and this is why you cannot do it on your own.
You need to go with an authorized company, such as the one I am going to talk about in this post.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
Is Swimming with Killer-Whales (Orcas) dangerous?
No, swimming with killer whales is not dangerous and no accident has been recorded during this activity. Also having done it myself, I can assure you that the orcas completely ignore you, they just go their way and for you to swim close to them there have to be some specific conditions.
Before starting the activity the safety instructor will brief you on how this activity is done in full respect of the killer whale (a name that doesn’t give them justice I believe they should be called beautiful dolphins to be more accurate)
Fun fact: did you know that killer whales belong to the dolphin family and it’s actually the largest member of the oceanic dolphin family? It’s also an apex predator with a diverse diet, which doesn’t include humans. So you can rest assured that you are not in danger when swimming with orcas.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
Isn’t it cold to swim in Norway in winter?
Not at all. You will be provided with a dry suit which you can wear over your warm wool clothes (more about it later on in this post). You will feel the icy water on the face, especially on your lips but it’s not that painful. And you will be so excited about swimming with the killer whales that you won’t pay attention to the cold.
It may get cold outside the water, especially if it’s windy, but you will be in and out of the water quite often, so I wouldn’t worry too much. A couple of people were swimming in their wetsuit and they were fine. I wouldn’t, but, just to give you a perspective.
The best time to swim with the Orcas in Norway is from mid-October through Early December and from mid-January until the beginning of February, when the orcas migrate to the fjords to feed on herring.
You’ll have the chance to snorkel or free dive alongside these incredible creatures, watching as they glide effortlessly through the water. And if you’re lucky, you might even hear their hauntingly beautiful songs echoing through the fjords.
But swimming with orcas isn’t just a thrilling adventure – it’s also an opportunity to learn more about these fascinating animals. Orcas are highly intelligent and social animals with complex family structures and communication systems. By swimming with them, you’ll gain a new appreciation for their intelligence and grace and come away with a deeper understanding of the importance of protecting our oceans.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
Why go on a Liveaboard to swim with the killer whales in Norway
The best way to go swimming with killer whales and whales is to go on a 6-day trip on a liveaboard. That’s simply because not all days are good days for the activity, be it because of the weather or because the orcas decided to hide.
So if you are on a liveaboard you have 6 days to get a chance to swim with these amazing marine mammals.
During my trip, the staff told us we were super lucky because every day we had amazing conditions to swim with the orcas and we even found 3 bait balls which was the best condition you can have to see orcas and whales feasting over a pod of herrings.
I have captured some of it on my GoPro and you can check out my video to see it.
Only on the last day, the weather was not very good and the temperature dropped significantly so we decided to do some top site from the dingy and it turned out to be amazing.
Many times we were surrounded by orcas swimming around. It felt like a way of saying goodbye. Or so we liked to believe. Even if we were not in the water it was a memorable last day.
If you decide to do day trips, you will need to stay in Skjervoy and purchase day trips from the two companies that do that. I have planned to do it next year so I will tell you all about it.
Or you can stay in Tromso and get to Skjervoy on the 5.30 morning bus which gets to Skjervoy at 9.30 right on time to join the tour (which you must have booked in advance, of course) but I will tell you more about it in a different post. Now I want to tell you more about my experience on a liveaboard in Norway.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
The best Orca Norway liveaboard experience
I booked my Orca Norway liveaboard experience on the MS Bergsund and I cannot recommend it enough. The boat has only one fault which I am going to tell you about later But the staff is incredible, the food is great, and the equipment really good.
Our skipper, Robin, always knew where to go and spot orcas, and the safety instructor, Katy, was very knowledgeable and helpful. She made us feel comfortable and safe in the water.
The only negative aspect of this trip was that the cabins were quite small, and sharing them with a stranger can be uncomfortable, especially if they are of a different gender.
It depends on your personality of course. I was lucky that my assigned roommate was very respectful (and I hope he thinks the same of me), but still, you can be not so lucky.
Also, there is no single room option unless you pay for two people, which wouldn’t make much sense.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
Orcan Norway Bergsund liveaboard arrival and departure
Orca Norway arrival
Your adventure starts in Tromso where I would suggest you arrive one or two days before, in case of any flight delays. You really don’t want to miss your boat trip.
You will be picked up by bus in front of the Scandic Ishavshotel where I would suggest you stay the nights before and after the Norway cruise. (An alternative is the Raddison Blue which is right in front).
The departure is at 12 pm, which is also the check-out time, so it turned out perfectly.
You will be taken to the cute fishing village of Skjervoy, which is about a 4-hour drive from Tromso.
There you will board the boat and you will be assigned the cabins and the equipment and have a meeting with the crew where they share important safety information and other housekeeping details.
On the boat, you will be welcomed by the smiling faces of the crew and some delicious snacks to munch on before dinner.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
Last day disembark and departure.
On your last day, you will still have normal activity which will end around 1 pm when you will be back on the boat and have lunch. You will have time to pack and around 3 pm you will board the bus in Skjervoy to get to Tromso.
You will get to Tromso around 7 pm weather permitting, where you should have already booked your hotel in advance, to avoid surprises. Remember it’s high season in November in Tromsø. The bus will make a stop along the way for bathroom or snacks.
Image Credit: Wirestock/Istockphoto.
Orcan Norway Bergsund liveaboard daily routine
Every day on the liveaboard looked pretty much the same. The only variable would have been the weather, but we were quite lucky. Here I will share the general schedule:
7.30-8.30 am Breakfast
From 7.30 breakfast is served in the common area but some people wake up earlier others later. We could get some coffee from 7.00, to my delight.
Then we had time to get ready and wait for further instructions.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
Around 10 am – Orca spotting
Around 10.00 am As soon as the light came up we would go out or on the cabin to see if we spot some orcas or whales and we did many times.
It’s very exciting to see them coming close to the boat. But even if we spotted some it didn’t mean that there was the right condition to go out on the dingy. When the right time presented itself, Katy and Robin would tell us to get ready.
I felt like I was in the military sometimes (in a good way). As soon as they shouted “get ready” we were running around trying to be as fast as possible in order not to waste a single minute and the chance to swim close to the orcas.
While the staff got the dingy ready for boarding, some of them kindly helped us with the dry suits. Trust me, putting on the suit, gloves, hood, and everything else is a job. By the time I was dressed up, I was already tired.
But I have to give credit to the beautiful staff, Nik and Teodora, and even the chef Ivo, who were always there to help us even if it was not their specific duty. Such kindness needs to be acknowledged.
Image Credit: Cavan Images/istockphoto.
10.00 – 13.00 am on the dingy
Please note that this time is approximate and it’s not always the same, it depends on the weather conditions and the orca’s behavior.
Once we were on the dingy we were in the hands of our knowledgeable skipper, Robin. He was the one who knew where to go and got in touch with the other boat to exchange information. Also, he was telling us when it was the right time to get ready and then to jump.
In the water, we would follow the instructions of Katy, our awesome safety guide, and signal to her in case of any issue.
One time I had the wrong suit on (my fault, so embarrassing) and it was too tight, I couldn’t swim very well in the water and there was a strong current that drifted me away.
She understood I was in discomfort, and she quickly came and pulled me back to the dingy while Robin was driving closer to us.
Once you get to see the Orcas from a close distance, is an exciting experience that you will never forget.
We have been very lucky to be able to swim in a bait ball more than once and we could be around whales and orcas feasting over a pod of herrings.
It was incredible. Unfortunately, my mask was murky, and I didn’t realize that a whale was right beside me. I only saw that while I was editing the footage. If you saw my YouTube video I am sure you can spot it.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
13 – 14 Lunch
As soon as we got back from our killer whale encounters we had the time to shower and change while lunch was served.
Some people would eat immediately while others (me included) prefer to take a shower first. So we were very well organized and it seemed like nobody was in the way and all was flowing perfectly even in such a small space.
I have to say, I loved the food there, I enjoyed the dominance of fish and the variety of dishes all very rich in flavors.
Even those people with special diets always got their own dish and the chef looked like he was really enjoying making everyone happy.
Then after lunch, each one of us engaged in our own activities, getting some sleep, socializing, working on our laptops, checking on the footage that we had just taken, and sharing laughter.
The boat would always be anchored by a harbor town and we had the chance to get out and explore around or visit a local bar.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
6 pm – USEA lectures by Orca Expert Pierre Robert de Latour
At 6 pm guests from the MS Bergsund and MS Sula would gather on the Bergsund to listen to Orca Expert Pierre Robert de Latour’s lectures.
They were very interesting and engaging and filled with stories and interesting information about the Orca’s biology and behavior. He would also share some awesome videos he took about Orcas, really fascinating.
Image Credit: Alessandro De Maddalena/istockphoto.
7 pm – dinner and goodnight
After the lecture, we were served our delicious dinner, and then again everybody at their own activities or went to rest for the next adventurous day. One night we also saw the northern light from the boat. It was amazing.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
Alternative Norway Orca Liveaboard Expedition options
If you don’t find space on the Bergsund or you got put off by the size of the cabins, I hear you. This is why I am sharing other alternative options here below.
These are sister boats owned by different companies but managed by the same one. In fact, they share the same biology, and in the first week of November, they will give some interesting lectures on orcas (Dr. Alessandro de Maddalena).
What changes among the boats is the staff, of course, and the layout.
Image Credit: Alessandro De Maddalena/Istockphoto.
MS Sula Cruise Ship, Norway
I know MS Sula because it was cruising together with us although our skippers were independent and we would swim in different places. However, we took the same lectures and were anchored by the same harbor.
The program would be the same but the indoor space of boat is much smaller than ours, and they have only 2 shared bathrooms, while the Bergsund has 4.
The cabins looked even smaller to me, if even possible. In general, the indoor space on the Sula was much smaller.
Also, just like for the Bergsund, if you want to book a single use on this boat you will need to pay 100% extra, which doesn’t make much sense.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
MS Sjoveien Cruise Ship, NorwaySH
I haven’t personally seen this boat, but from the pictures, it looks like the cabins and the common areas are much more spacious and comfortable.
And, solo travelers, this is good news for you, if you want to have a cabin all for yourself, you can do that for only a 20% surcharge, which is very reasonable.
The boat organization would be the same as the other two boats as it’s the same management, so on this, I can guarantee they are amazing!
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
What to pack for an Orca Liveaboard to swim with the whales
Norway in winter is cold. However, if you dress properly you are less likely to be a victim of harsh weather conditions, especially if you are not used to them. Here are some golden rules, as shared by the locals and tried on myself.
- Wear multiple wool layers – I would recommend purchasing thermal layers in Tromso when you get there, as they have the best Norwegian brands that are very warm and practical
- Use the thermal wool layer on the skin and another one on top of it
- Avoid wearing cotton, as it doesn’t help transpiration, and if you sweat, it freezes on you, which is not a good feeling
- Depending on how cold you are, wear 2/3 layers at the bottom and 3 or 4 on the top, but consider possible mobility issues in the water if you are too dressed up. Overheating is also a thing.
- Don’t wear turtle neck under the dry vest because you need to leave the neck free for the rubber to adhere to your skin so that water doesn’t go in.
- If you have long hair, figure out a way to tighten it back so that it doesn’t interfere with the hoods and mask, reducing the chance for the water to get in.
- Bring a small dry back if you want to take your phone on the boat; you can ask the skipper to keep it dry for you, in case after swimming you want to take some pictures (ask him first, though)
- Warm wool socks
- Warm wool hat and scarf, and gloves to wear when you are doing top sites, either from the boat or the dingy.
- Toiletry
- Your favorite camera gear, of course. I had a GoPro 10, and it was ok, but of course, for more professional capture, you would need to look elsewhere. I am looking into upgrading my gear myself, and I will share what I have bought as soon as I can.
- I would recommend a lace for your phone if you use it for taking videos or photos, so if it falls, it doesn’t populate the ocean.
- A sweat suit to use as a pajama so you can wear it as well to hang out on the boat.
- Comfortable shoes to wear on the boat, I would recommend avoiding wearing slippers in case they spot anything worth watching and you want to run out immediately on the deck. Gym shoes would have a better grip for that.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
Swimming with Orcas in Norway must know!
Swimming with killer whales is an experience that many people dream of. Norway is one of the best places in the world to swim with these majestic creatures. However, it is important to take the necessary safety precautions and follow best practices to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Image Credit: EyeEm Mobile GmbH/Istockphoto.
Safety Guidelines
As I mentioned before, it is safe to swim with the Orcas in Norway or anywhere, but still, you need to follow certain rules to respect their environment and avoid unpleasant accidents, especially if you are in the middle of a bait ball with humpback whales around. Here are some safety guidelines to keep in mind:
- Always listen to your guide’s instructions and follow their lead.
- Keep a safe distance from the whales and avoid touching them.
- If you are near a bait ball don’t swim on top of it, that is because humpback whales can be around, and if they are coming from the bottom up they won’t see you and they can hurt you, although involuntarily.
- On the first day you will receive a brief on how to approach those amazing marine mammals, make sure you pay attention to the brief.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
Best Practices
In addition to safety guidelines, there are some best practices to follow when swimming with killer whales:
- Respect the whales’ space and behavior. Do not disturb them or interfere with their natural activities.
- Observe the whales from a distance and take photos or videos without using flash or other disruptive equipment.
- Stay calm and relaxed in the water to avoid scaring the whales, you don’t need to do anything and they will come to you. the noise and bubbles provoked by the fins may scare them away.
- Be aware of your surroundings and any other boats or wildlife in the area.
Remember: when in doubt, ask your safety instructor or skipper! They will tell you what to do or not do.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
Best Time to Swim with Killer Whales
If you’re planning to swim with killer whales in Norway, it’s important to choose the right time of year for your adventure. In this section, I will tell you all about it.
The only time to swim with killer whales in Norway is during the winter months, from November to January. This is when the orcas are most active in the fjords, chasing herring and other prey. During this time, several tour operators offer excursions to swim with the orcas or just to do whale watching. But I will talk about it in another post.
Also, as I mentioned before, as we enter the deep winter, the window of daylight becomes shorter and shorter, losing 15 minutes of light every day. And the swimming activity is only allowed during the daylight.
That means that the peak season to swim with the whales in Norway would be in the first two weeks of November, but this is also the most crowded time.
I booked my trip for the last week of November and I found very good weather, especially the first 2 days, after that, it was amazing how I could notice more and more how the days got shorter towards the end of the week.
On the bright side in the last week of November, there are fewer boats and fewer crowds. So you have more chances to have better encounters with these beautiful creatures.
December and January can be a perfect time because there are fewer boats but the window of daylight is smaller and it can be colder.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
Weather Conditions
The weather in Norway during the winter months can be quite harsh, with temperatures dropping to below freezing and snowfall common. It’s important to dress appropriately as I mentioned in the suggested packing list.
However, the weather can also impact the visibility in the fjords, which can make it more difficult to spot the orcas. Katy and Robin mentioned many times that we have been very lucky with the weather and we spotted orcas and whales every single day but it’s not always like that.
It’s important to keep an open mind and remember that you are in the wild at the mercy of nature, which is the only ethical way to swim with these beautiful marine mammals.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
Best time to book your liveaboard expedition to swim with the whales
As you may have guessed, there are not many liveaboard that offer this kind of activity, so if you want to secure your space on a specific date, you need to book at least 12 to 6 months in advance.
Otherwise, you run the risk of missing your chance, and you will need to wait for another year. That is a long waiting time when you really want to do something. Believe me, I know!
Image Credit: kertu_ee/Istockphoto.
Is Insurance necessary for a liveaboard in Norway?
The short answer is yes! Although we all hope that nothing bad will ever happen to you, you never know.
You should know that once you make the deposit and then the payment, there is no refund of whatever money you just paid, no matter whether the boat trip is canceled because of the weather or medical reasons, or any other catastrophic event.
Having travel insurance removes a great deal of anxiety, as you know that you are covered no matter what happens.
I bought my insurance with Dive Assure which is one of the top insurance companies for not only diving but also travel-only trips. It’s a bit expensive but it covers pretty much everything. I would recommend you read all the details and what is included and not.
Also, I have recently found TRAVEL INSURANCE MASTER which is a great site to compare different insurance companies. Also here, make sure you read carefully what’s included before making the purchase.
Image Credit: Alessandro De Maddalena/Istockphoto.
Preparing for the Adventure: what level of fitness is required?
Before embarking on your once-in-a-lifetime adventure of swimming with killer whales in Norway, it is important to prepare yourself physically and mentally for the experience.
Don’t be scared; you don’t have to be an athlete or a swimmer. The wetsuit pretty much keeps you afloat, and you don’t have to swim a lot or fast. In fact, the calmer you stay, the better.
However, keep in mind that it can be very exhausting, especially going in on and off the boat, the cold and the excitement, and for some people, fear plays its part too.
So a little bit of physical training a few months before the expedition would help you a great deal.
Image Credit: Alessandro De Maddalena/Istockphoto.
Physical Fitness
If you have the chance to do some light physical training, here are some recommended exercises to prepare for swimming with killer whales:
- Cardiovascular exercises such as running, cycling, or swimming to improve overall endurance
- Strength training exercises such as weightlifting or bodyweight exercises to improve overall strength and muscle endurance
- Cold water exposure training to prepare your body for cold water
Please keep in mind that these are general recommendations, it is important to consult with your doctor before beginning any new exercise regimen.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
Swimming Skills
As mentioned before, swimming with killer whales doesn’t require you to be a professional swimmer, but you need to have a certain level of confidence in the open water and be able to swim.
Additionally, you should have basic snorkeling skills, such as being able to clear your snorkel and mask.
Let’s say it’s not suitable for those who have never snorkeled before or swam in the open water.
Also, keep in mind that there can be quite a strong current or a sudden snowstorm that can reduce the visibility on the surface.
By preparing yourself physically and improving your swimming skills, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience swimming with killer whales in Norway.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
Equipment and Gear
The boat operator will provide your equipment but if you have your own feel free to bring it along. It’s much more comfortable to swim in your gear of course. Otherwise, worry not.
At the beginning of the trip, they will make you try the gear. Just make sure to try it with all the underwear you intend to wear underneath it feels comfortable.
It doesn’t have to be too tight but also not too loose. However, the crew will help you choose the right pieces of gear.
Image Credit: Claudia Ayuso Ramirez/Istockphoto.
Underwater Cameras
Swimming with killer whales is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and you’ll want to capture every moment of it. Investing in a good underwater camera is a must if you want to take home some amazing photos and videos.
When choosing an underwater camera, look for one that is waterproof and can handle the depths you’ll be diving to in case you will be also diving in the future.
You’ll also want to consider the resolution and image quality, as well as the camera’s durability and ease of use.
If you are not a pro photographer, you may want to consider these underwater camera options:
- GoPro Hero Black 12
- Akaso (more budget-friendly but still offering good quality images and videos)
- Universal phone case for underwater photography – a great cheap solution if you have a smartphone with a good camera.
Image Credit: SummerParadive/istockphoto.
Environmental Impact
Swimming with killer whales can be an incredible experience, but it’s important to be aware of the potential environmental impact.
When choosing a tour operator, look for one that follows responsible whale-watching guidelines and supports marine conservation efforts.
Avoid touching or feeding the whales, as this can disrupt their natural behavior and cause stress. It’s also important to avoid using sunscreen or other products that can harm the marine environment.
Choose eco-friendly products and follow the tour operator’s guidelines for protecting the environment.
Overall, by respecting the local customs and the environment, you can ensure that your experience swimming with killer whales in Norway is both enjoyable and sustainable.
Image Credit: Cavan Images/Istockphoto.
Brief Tromso Travel Guide for before and after the cruise
Since the trip starts and ends in Tromsø, I am going to share a few tips on where to stay and where to eat in Tromso before and after the Orca expedition.
It’s worth spending some time in the city while you are there and doing some of the amazing tours available, including the northern lights.
Image Credit: Jackson Roberts/istockphoto.
Accommodations
Scandic IshaviHotel
Scandic IshaviHotel is perfect because that’s where the bus will leave and return to so you don’t have to ask for a taxi when you leave or when you go back from the trip. Very convenient. The rooms are very elegant and comfortable and the breakfast buffet is delicious and abundant.
Radisson Blue Hotel Tromsø
Also, the Radisson Blue Hotel Tromso is quite convenient because is right in front of the Scandic. Also, the staff at the front desk is much nicer and more professional in my opinion.
However the Radisoon is more expensive and the entry-level room, which is still pricy, is very tiny.
Smart Hotel Tromso
I stayed in this hotel for many days after the boat cruise and I loved it. The single rooms are tiny, but the price is moderate and they have a lovely abundant breakfast that you can choose to pay for or not. It’s cheaper if you book it one day in advance.
The breakfast room is very cozy with nice wall painting and can be used as a coworking place after breakfast hours, which was very convenient for me.
Coffe and tea are free and available for grabs day and night. The staff is very nice and helpful.
The only negative note is that this hotel is about 800 mt from the bus stop, so you will need to get a taxi to get there unless you can carry all your bags.
Image Credit: Scandic Ishavshotel.
Best restaurants and Cafe
While I stayed in Tromso, I tried a few restaurants and cafes, and there are my top favorites.
Bardus Bistro
Delicious food in a cozy and tranquil setting. Space is limited and reservation is recommended, especially if you go after 5.
Egon
The food is ok, I especially loved the lava cake dessert. I want to this restaurant twice because I loved the environment and setting.
Skirri
They have one menu until 5 for lunch and one after 5 for dinner but they are quite similar. After 6 reservation is recommended. The ambiance is quite laid back and the food is great. I had a delicious fish soup!
Helmersen
I loved this place and returned multiple times. Although I was hoping to try their quiche, I didn’t make it but the other dishes I tried were just delicious.
It’s always quite crowded as I believe many locals love it too. You can also buy cheeses and cold cuts or other delicious food to bring home if you are staying in an apartment and can cook.
Smørtorget Cafe
This was my absolute favorite cafe to go to every afternoon after a tour, to get a piece of cake and a cafe while working from my laptop. They have a lot of space and a vintage decore which creates a cozy environment. The staff is very kind and welcoming. They also sell vintage objects.
Image Credit: TT/Istockphoto.
How to get from Tromso Airport to the city
Getting from Tromso Airport to your hotel in the city is very easy. You basically have four options:
Taxi
It’s the most obvious and easy. Once you get out of the airport, you will find a taxi stand on the right of the second platform with a glass door to the indoor waiting room. Taxi can come and go fast but there can also be a long line. I had to wait about 20 minutes. Cost around 251.00 NOK ( 24 Euro )
Private Transfer
The private transfer is basically a taxi, but you book it in advance, and the driver will be there waiting for you on your arrival.
Airport Express shuttle bus
It’s a very convenient bus that runs every 30 minutes approximately. You can find timetables and purchase a ticket on their official site.
Uber
Yes, there is an Uber in Tromso, but when I tried to call them, the app couldn’t find anyone close, so I decided to get a taxi.
Image Credit: Isabella Biava.
Daily tours to swim with Orcas
There are daily tours to swim with Orcas, but you will need to stay in Skjervoy or take a 5.30 am bus from Tromso, which is a 4-hour ride to go and then another 4 hours to go back. So my advice is to stay in Skjervoy for a few nights and take tours from there.
Two companies that do these kinds of tours which are, Whale2sea and Lofoten Opplvelser, make sure you book your tours in advance.
Otherwise, there are whale-watching tours from Tromso where you don’t get in the water but you do top sites, but I will talk about it in another post.
Image Credit: slowmotiongli/istockphoto.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the safety precautions for swimming with orcas in Norway?
Swimming with orcas in Norway is generally considered safe, but it is important to follow the safety guidelines provided by the tour operator. You will be required to wear a wetsuit, hood, and gloves to protect you from the cold water.
You should also avoid touching or disturbing the orcas and keep a safe distance from them at all times.
The tour operators are experienced and knowledgeable about the behavior of orcas and will ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience. Make sure you listen to their instructions and you will all be safe.
When is the peak season for encountering killer whales in Norway?
The best time to swim with killer whales in Norway is from November to January when the orcas migrate to the fjords in search of herring. However, you can also encounter orcas in the summer months, from May to August, although sightings are less frequent and there are no boat trips in that time of the year.
Which regions in Norway are known for the best orca swimming experiences?
The best regions for swimming with orcas in Norway are north of Tromsø, precisely a town called Skjervoy in the northern part of the country. These regions are known for their clear waters and abundant marine life, making them ideal for orca encounters.
Image Credit: Musat/Istockphoto.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do orcas swim in fjords?
Yes, they usually swim in fiords but they follow the food, so wherever there ar e herrings there are Orcas That is why November through January you can find them there.
What is the average cost of an orca swimming expedition in Norway?
The cost of an orca swimming expedition in Norway can vary depending on the tour operator and the length of the trip. On average, you can expect to pay between $3,000 and $6,000 per person for a 3-6 day trip.
How do the experiences of swimming with captive orcas differ from those in the wild?
We are absolutely against keeping animals in captivity. Animals should be where they belong, wild and free. And any activity organized with those animals must always be in respect of their behavior. You can read more about it in my post on all the reasons why you should not swim with dolphins in captivity.
Image Credit: Emmanuel Gaifami/istockphoto.
Swimming with Killer Whales in Norway: Final thoughts
I hope this post was comprehensive enough to learn what an amazing experience is to swim with killer whales in Norway.
Before booking it’s very important to learn what to expect or what do not expect so that you won’t get disappointed.
Nobody can control nature and guarantee you that you will swim with orcas every day if you go on a cruise, but the crew will do all in their power to find them and you will increase your chance to have the best experience of a lifetime.
- Related: 29 Most Popular Animals in Norway
- Related: 25 Things you should know before You Travel to Svalbard
This article originally appeared on Boundlessroads.com and was syndicated by MediaFeed.org
Image Credit: Musat/istockphoto.
