At a Glance
Quick OverviewEvery winter, one of nature’s most spectacular gatherings occurs in the fjords of Northern Norway. Massive schools of herring draw orcas and humpback whales into the Arctic waters, creating one of the world’s most accessible and dramatic whale watching experiences. From silent encounters with hunting orca pods to watching humpbacks breach against snow-covered mountain backdrops, Norwegian whale watching offers unforgettable wildlife encounters.
According to Visit Norway, “when winter arrives in Norway, so do the humpback whales, fin whales, and orcas. They’re following schools of herring—a little fish that provides a big meal.”
Why Norway for Whale Watching?
Unparalleled Access
Norway offers remarkably close encounters with whales. The fjords create natural viewing areas where whales feed in relatively sheltered waters, allowing boats to approach respectfully whilst maintaining safe distances.
Winter Wildlife Spectacle
The combination of Arctic winter scenery and active whale behaviour creates extraordinary experiences:
- Orcas hunting cooperatively
- Humpbacks breaching and tail-slapping
- Snow-covered mountains as backdrop
- Potential Northern Lights after dark
- Low winter light for dramatic photography
Well-Regulated Tourism
Norwegian whale watching follows strict guidelines:
- Respectful approach distances
- Quiet boat engines near whales
- Limited numbers of boats per area
- Sustainable tourism certification in key regions
Best Locations for Whale Watching
Tromsø and Skjervøy (Winter)
What you’ll see: Orcas and humpback whales
Season: Mid-November to mid-January
Tromsø serves as the main hub for winter whale watching, though the whales themselves are often found near Skjervøy, approximately 250 km north. According to whale watching experts, “Skjervøy has become a popular destination for whale watching safaris. People travel there each winter to get a close-up look at humpback whales and orcas whilst they feed on herring.”
Tour logistics:
- Most tours depart from Tromsø
- 2-3 hour drive or boat transfer to whale areas
- Full-day experiences (8-12 hours)
- Some tours operate directly from Skjervøy
Why whales come here: Atlantic herring fill the fjords of Northern Norway each winter, creating gigantic feeding grounds. The whales follow this food source, and their exact location varies annually based on herring movements.
Andenes and Vesterålen (Year-Round)
What you’ll see: Sperm whales (primary), plus pilot whales, minke whales, dolphins
Season: Year-round, best May-September for sperm whales
According to Visit Norway, Vesterålen “is one place in Norway where you’re virtually guaranteed to see whales all year round.” The archipelago lies just 6 miles from the continental shelf, where deep water provides ideal whale habitat.
Why Andenes:
- Underwater canyon (Bleiksdjupet) attracts sperm whales
- Nutrient-rich waters with giant squid
- Shorter boat trips (whales closer to shore)
- Sustainable Destination certified
Sperm whale facts: Sperm whales can reach 20 metres in length and dive deep to hunt giant squid. They’re present along the Vesterålen coast throughout the year.
Browse Whale Watching ToursWhat Whales You Can See
Winter Species (November-January)
Orcas (Killer Whales)
- Pod sizes of 5-30 individuals
- Dramatic cooperative hunting behaviour
- Highly active at surface
- Black and white colouring unmistakable
- Groups sometimes include calves
Humpback Whales
- Up to 15 metres long
- Known for breaching and tail-slapping
- Groups of 30+ sometimes seen together
- Distinctive long pectoral fins
- Spectacular feeding displays
Fin Whales
- Second-largest animal on Earth
- Less common but occasionally sighted
- Fast swimmers, more difficult to observe
Summer Species (May-September)
Sperm Whales
- Up to 20 metres long
- Deep divers (feed on squid)
- Distinctive block-shaped head
- Year-round presence in Vesterålen
- Surface between dives for breathing
Other species:
- Pilot whales
- Minke whales
- White-beaked dolphins
- Porpoises
Best Time to Visit
Winter Whale Watching Calendar
| Month | Orca/Humpback Activity | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| November | Season begins | Polar night starts, cold |
| December | Peak activity | Maximum darkness, coldest |
| January (early) | Good activity | Light returning |
| January (late) | Season ending | Whales departing |
| February+ | Very unlikely | Herring dispersed |
Planning Recommendations
According to whale watching operators, “for the best chance of seeing them, a late November or December trip is suggested. The whales tend to have departed by the end of January.”
Optimal timing:
- Best chances: Late November through mid-December
- Book early: Tours fill up quickly
- Be flexible: Whale locations shift with herring
- Multiple days: Weather can cancel tours
What to Expect on a Whale Safari
Tour Types
RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) Tours:
- Fast, agile boats
- Closer to water level
- More adventurous experience
- Colder (wear provided survival suits)
- Typically smaller groups
Larger Vessel Tours:
- More comfortable, stable
- Indoor heated areas
- Better for those prone to seasickness
- Often include meals
- Larger groups
Hybrid-Electric Tours:
- Eco-friendly approach
- Silent engines near whales
- Minimal disturbance
- Premium pricing
Tour Duration
From Tromsø:
- Full-day tours: 8-12 hours
- 2-3 hours travel each way
- 3-4 hours in whale areas
- Often includes lunch
From Skjervøy:
- Shorter tours: 4-6 hours
- Less travel time
- More time with whales
- Requires own transport to Skjervøy
What’s Included
Typical tour inclusions:
- Hotel pickup (Tromsø)
- Transport to whale area
- Professional guide
- Thermal suits (RIB tours)
- Hot drinks/snacks
- Some include lunch
Practical Considerations
What to Wear
Provided by operators:
- Thermal/survival suits (RIB tours)
- Life jackets
Bring yourself:
- Warm base layers
- Waterproof outer layer
- Warm hat and gloves
- Sturdy, warm footwear
- Sunglasses (glare off water)
Seasickness
Arctic waters can be rough. Prepare by:
- Taking seasickness medication before departure
- Eating a light meal
- Staying on deck with fresh air
- Focusing on the horizon
- Choosing larger vessels if concerned
Photography Tips
- Bring waterproof camera protection
- Use fast shutter speeds (1/1000+)
- Keep camera accessible
- Protect batteries from cold
- Be patient—whales surface unpredictably
Ethical Whale Watching
Responsible Operators
Look for operators that:
- Maintain respectful distances
- Use quiet engines near whales
- Limit approach time
- Follow industry guidelines
- Support research initiatives
- Hold sustainability certifications
According to industry sources, “tours set off aboard hybrid-electric boats. When you spot a whale, the captain will switch to a silent electric engine, keeping disturbance to a minimum.”
Whale Guarantees
Many operators offer second-trip guarantees if no whales are spotted. According to Visit Norway, “seeing a whale on a Norwegian whale-watching tour is all but guaranteed.”
However, understand that:
- Nature offers no true guarantees
- Whale locations vary unpredictably
- Weather can affect visibility
- Some tours may be better than others
Planning Your Trip
Booking Recommendations
- Book 4-8 weeks ahead for peak dates (December)
- Choose flexible dates when possible
- Consider multi-day stays for weather backup
- Check cancellation policies carefully
Sample Winter Itinerary
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive Tromsø, evening Northern Lights tour |
| 2 | Whale watching safari (full day) |
| 3 | Dog sledding or backup whale day |
| 4 | Explore Tromsø, departure |
Budget Considerations
Approximate costs:
- Whale watching tour: £115-270
- Accommodation (Tromsø): £115-190/night
- Meals: £45-75/day
- Other activities: £75-230/tour
Combining Whale Watching with Other Activities
Whale Watching + Northern Lights
The perfect winter combination:
- Whale safari during daylight hours
- Northern Lights tour in evening
- Some operators offer combined packages
Whale Watching + Dog Sledding
Both available November-January in Tromsø region:
- Whale watching morning/afternoon
- Dog sledding following day
- Ultimate Arctic wildlife experience
Coastal Voyage + Whales
Hurtigruten and Havila coastal voyages sometimes encounter whales during winter sailings, offering an alternative perspective on Norwegian whale watching.
Summer Alternative: Sperm Whales in Vesterålen
If winter doesn’t work, consider summer whale watching in Vesterålen:
Advantages:
- Year-round whale presence
- Shorter boat trips
- Better weather
- Midnight sun atmosphere
- Combine with Lofoten visit
What you’ll see:
- Sperm whales (primary)
- Pilot whales
- Minke whales
- Dolphins
Getting there:
- Fly to Andenes or drive from Tromsø (5+ hours)
- Accessible as day trip from Lofoten
Final Advice
Norwegian whale watching offers extraordinary wildlife encounters in one of the world’s most dramatic settings. The combination of orcas and humpbacks feeding against Arctic winter scenery creates an experience unlike anywhere else.
Book early, prepare for cold conditions, and maintain flexibility—the whales follow the herring, and their exact location shifts seasonally. But when you find them, watching orca pods hunting cooperatively or humpbacks breaching in the fjords will rank among your most memorable travel experiences.
Information in this guide is sourced from Visit Norway and reputable Norwegian whale watching operators. Last updated January 2026.