Whale watching in Tromsø, Norway

11 December 2021

What kind of whales can you see on a whale watching tour in Tromsø?

You can spot mainly humpback whales and orcas (killer whales), together with many seagulls around, all waiting for their opportunity to get their catch of the day. Other maritime animals such as harbour porpoises or fin whales, white-tailed eagles, seals or even reindeers on the fjord margins can also be seen sometimes!

When can you see whales, in Tromsø?

The whales can be seen from early November until late January, around the Skjervøy area, a small fishing village three hours away by car from Tromsø.

Can I see whales, with the darkness of the polar night?

Yes, you can! Although the polar night begins at the end of November, you still have some daylight hours, enough to whale watch. However, you will not see the sun. Tromsø gets this attractive blue light and still allows you to see enough during the day 😊

How do I get to Skjervøy, to whale watch?

There are several ways to reach the whale area: either you go directly by boat from Tromsø, by bus, or rent a car and drive to Skjervøy and go on board a ship, once there!

What kind of tours are there to whale watch, in Tromsø?

The choice is big, and there is a variety of tours for all tastes! If you wish to board a boat in Tromsø, we recommend you try our Silent Whale Watching (you will leave Tromsø on a modern hybrid catamaran for a scenic boat trip and whale watch once the whale area is reached). If you are looking for adventure, adrenaline, and an encounter with whales closer to the water level, we recommend you try a Rigid Inflatable Boat tour (RIB) – you will go by bus to Skjervøy and then get warmly dressed and board a RIB boat! You can read all about this adventure here!

What can you tell me about the whale’s welfare?

We deeply care about the animal life in the Arctic and wish to make our guests sensitive towards its importance. Our partners follow the official whale-watching guidelines and respect their environment and space.

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