You’ll find various options to embark on your whale watching adventure from Tromsø. Whether you choose a boat tour departing from the city center or opt for a combination of bus travel and a Rigid Inflatable Boat experience, you’re in for an unforgettable journey.
This guide will walk you through the best times to see whales, which tour options Best Arctic offers, what to expect during your excursion, and further information about best practices and responsible whale watching to protect these incredible animals and their environment.
Best time for Whale Watching in Tromsø
November to January peak season
The prime time for whale watching in Tromsø during winter is from November to January. This period offers you the best chance to spot magnificent marine mammals in the fjords around Tromsø.
During these months, large numbers of orcas and humpback whales gather in the area, drawn by the abundance of Norwegian spring-spawning herring that overwinter in these waters.
However, it is possible that the whales migrate earlier than normally expected, and tours start earlier (by the end of October). If you are travelling to Tromsø in the second half of October, and wish to join a whale watching tour, keep yourself updated and check if these tours start earlier on this page.
Factors affecting whale migration
The presence of whales in Tromsø’s waters is closely tied to the migration patterns of herring. In recent years, there’s been a shift in herring concentrations, leading to changes in whale distribution.
The fjords around Skjervøy, north of Tromsø, have become a hotspot for whale sightings since 2017. This demonstrates how their prey’s location influences whale movements.
Types of whales you can see
During your whale watching tour in Tromsø, you’re likely to encounter orcas, also known as killer whales, and humpback whales. These species are frequently spotted in the area during the winter months. Orcas are drawn to the region by the large herring population, while humpbacks make their way to these northern waters after giving birth in warmer climates. If you’re lucky, you might also see fin whales, minke whales, or harbor porpoises.
Besides whales, keep an eye out for sea eagles and other marine life. Remember, wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.
Whale watching tours typically last several hours, with about 1-1.5 hours dedicated to observing whales at their prime feeding spots. By the end of January, you will see less whales each day, as they continue their migration.
Daytime light to whale watch
Whale watching in Tromsø during the polar night (lasting between end of November to mid-January) is indeed possible and can be a magical experience. Even though the sun doesn’t rise above the horizon during the polar night (approximately from November 27th to January 15th), there’s still a period of twilight each day. This twilight, lasting from about 9 AM to 2 PM, provides enough light to see the whales.
Whale watching tours are specifically designed to operate during these lighter hours. They typically start early in the morning to make the most of the available light.
The darkness doesn’t affect the whales’ presence. The whale watching season in Tromsø runs from late October to late January, matching perfectly with the polar night period. This is when herring comes to the coastal waters, attracting various whale species.