Every year from the end of October to medio January, the largest gathering of killer whales in the world takes place in Troms/Finnmark region, far north of Norway, due to enormous amounts of herring.
Sometimes as many as 50-60 orcas and humpback whales can be observed at the same time. We follow the orcas closely to watch them play and feed. When possible, we enter the water and swim with them. To be with these magnificent animals in their own habitat is an experience for life.
This expedition can also be booked in combination with an extension in Alta (Northern Lights Safari, Ice Fishing, Husky Tour, Snowmobile Tour, etc.).
Join this exciting Orca Expedition in Norway!
Welcome to Alta, a city above the Arctic Circle. Here you can experience the Arctic lifestyle and take part in a winter adventure between powder snow and the open sea under the Northern Lights.
The Northern Lights city of Alta is blessed with a dry climate, as it is located deep in the beautiful Altafjord. In winter the temperature can drop dramatically, but the dry climate makes the cold part of the experience. The light and darkness of the north are fascinating with the Arctic winter light combined with the Northern Lights.
What to do in Alta?
Day 1 – Flight To Alta Norway
Your Arctic adventure begins with a flight to Tromsø, a well-connected hub with daily flights from many European cities. From Tromsø, it’s just a short 30-minute flight to the charming town of Alta, located above the Arctic Circle.
Upon arrival in Alta, take a taxi to your accommodation and settle in. If you’d like to make the most of your journey, consider arriving a few days early to explore the stunning natural surroundings. From snowy forests and frozen rivers to Northern Lights viewpoints, Alta offers a magical introduction to the far north. (In November there is not always snow, and snow activities might be cancelled)
Day 2 – Start Orca Expedition
The journey truly begins today. We meet at the entrance of the Thon Hotel Alta, where our transfer awaits to take us from Alta to the harbor.
In the evening, we board the expedition vessel and are warmly welcomed by the crew. After settling in, we enjoy a delicious dinner on board, followed by a comprehensive briefing about the days ahead; covering safety, the itinerary, and what to expect during our time with the orcas.
Tonight, we sleep on board, ready to set sail into the heart of the fjords at dawn.
Day 3 & 4 or 3 & 6 – Orca Expedition
Day 3 & 4 or 3 & 6 – Orca Expedition
07:30 – Wake up surrounded by the dramatic beauty of the Norwegian fjords.
08:00 – 08:30 – Enjoy a hearty breakfast on board as the day begins to unfold.
09:00 – Departure from the harbor for an exciting day at sea in search of orcas.
Once we reach the fjord, the search begins. On some days, the orcas appear quickly and we can begin our operations right away. Other days require more time and patience before we find them. When we do spot orcas, we transfer to a smaller boat (a dinghy), equipped with dry suits and cameras ready for close-up action.
We usually spend two to three hours in the dinghy, observing and photographing the orcas from a respectful distance. Afterwards, we return to the main vessel to warm up with hot soup, enjoy a coffee break, and have lunch.
As daylight fades, we head to the nearest sheltered bay or harbor where we’ll spend the night.
18:00 – Dinner is served on board – a perfect way to end a day of adventure, nature, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Day 5 or 8: End of the Orca Expedition
We start the morning with one final orca expedition — a last chance to soak in the magic of these incredible creatures and the Arctic seascape.
After lunch on board, we make our way back to the harbor, where we disembark between 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. A comfortable bus will be waiting to take us back to Alta.
Once in Alta, there’s time to stretch your legs, explore the town, and enjoy a well-deserved dinner at one of its cozy local restaurants. An overnight stay in Alta is recommended, both for comfort and flexibility.
Please note: The schedule allows for delays, so there’s no need to worry about missing your return flight. Most departures from Alta are scheduled for 7:30 a.m. the following morning, providing a smooth and stress-free end to your Arctic adventure.
Orca Norway operates in Northern Norway—specifically in fjords around Alta, where hundreds of orcas and humpbacks gather during winter (Oct–Jan) to feed on herring. This is one of the best places on Earth to see orcas in the wild.
MS SULA
MS BERGSUND
MS SJÖVEIEN
MS SULA
15.11 – 18.11.25 / 3-day expedition / Fully Booked
18.11 – 21.11.25 / 3-day expedition / Fully Booked
22.11 – 28.11.25 / 6-day expedition / 2 spots left
29.11 – 02.12.25 / 3-day expedition / Fully Booked
02.12 – 05.12.25 / 3-day expedition / Fully Booked
06.12 – 09.12.25 / 3-day expedition / Fully Booked
09.12 – 12.12.25 / 3-day expedition / Fully Booked
13.12 – 16.12.25 / 3-day expedition / Fully Booked
16.12 – 19.12.25 / 3-day expedition / Fully Booked
20.12 – 23.12.25 / 3-day expedition / Fully Booked
23.12 – 26.12.25 / 3-day expedition / Fully Booked
27.12 – 30.12.25 / 3-day expedition / Fully Booked
30.12 – 02.01.26 / 3-day expedition / Fully Booked
03.01 – 06.01.26 / 3-day expedition / Fully Booked
06.01 – 09.01.26 / 3-day expedition / Fully Booked
10.01 – 13.01.26 / 3-day expedition / Fully Booked!
13.01 – 16.01.26 / 3-day expedition / Fully Booked!
17.01 – 20.01.26 / 3-day expedition / 4 spots left
07.11 – 13.11.26 / 6-day expedition / Fully Booked
14.11 – 20.11.26 / 6-day expedition / Fully Booked
21.11 – 24.11.26 / 3-day expedition / Fully Booked
24.11 – 27.11.26 / 3-day expedition / 9 spots left
28.11 – 01.12.26 / 3-day expedition / 9 spots left
01.12 – 04.12.26 / 3-day expedition / 12 places available
05.12 – 08.12.26 / 3-day expedition / 2 spots left
08.12 – 11.12.26 / 3-day expedition / 10 spots left
12.12 – 15.12.26 / 3-day expedition / 12 places available
15.12 – 18.12.26 / 3-day expedition / 11 spots left
19.12 – 22.12.26 / 3-day expedition / 10 spots left
22.12 – 25.12.26 / 3-day expedition / 12 places available
26.12 – 29.12.26 / 3-day expedition / 12 places available
29.12 – 01.01.27 / 3-day expedition / 10 spots left
MS BERGSUND
15.11 – 18.11.25 / 3-day expedition / Fully Booked
18.11 – 21.11.25 / 3-day expedition / Fully Booked
22.11 – 28.11.25 / 6-day expedition / Fully Booked
29.11 – 05.12.25 / 6-day expedition / 5 spots left
06.12 – 09.12.25 / 3-day expedition / Fully Booked
31.10 – 06.11.26 / 6-day expedition / 7 spots left
07.11 – 13.11.26 / 6-day expedition / Fully Booked
14.11 – 20.11.26 / 6-day expedition / Fully Booked
21.11 – 27.11.26 / 6-day expedition / Fully Booked
28.11 – 04.12.26 / 6-day expedition / 5 spots left
05.12 – 11.12.26 / 6-day expedition / Fully Booked
MS SJÖVEIEN
15.11 – 21.11.25 / 6-day expedition / Fully Booked
22.11 – 28.11.25 / 6-day expedition / Fully Booked
29.11 – 05.12.25 / 6-day expedition / Fully Booked
06.12 – 09.12.25 / 3-day expedition / Fully Booked
09.12 – 12.12.25 / 3-day expedition / Fully Booked
31.10.-06.11.26 / 6-day expedition / Fully Booked
07.11. – 13.11.26 / 6-day expedition / 12 places available
14.11 – 20.11.26 / 6-day expedition / Fully Booked
21.11 – 27.11.26 / 6-day expedition / Fully Booked
28.11 – 04.12.26 / 6-day expedition / 4 spots left
05.12. – 08.12.26 / 3-day expedition / 12 places available
No chasing orcas
Human-led, non-intrusive behavior
Strict group size limits
This minimizes stress on the animals and ensures a more natural interaction.
MS Sula is a boat that cannot be called luxurious, but this is definitely a strong feeling of why you are there; the whole experience has a sense of real adventure.
Built in 1967 in Høylandsbygd, Norway, MS Sula was operated as a workboat for the Norwegian state of Kystverket and used for repairs and checks of all navigational aids along the Norwegian coast.
This 30 metre/90 foot boot gives a strong sense of why you are there, where the experience is completely adventurous. The ship is run by six crew members and can accommodate 12 guests in 9 cabins.
The boat has a cozy salon with various seating areas. Passengers have access to a washing machine and dryer. There are also storage and drying rooms on board for all diving and snorkeling equipment.
The toilet and shower room are communal.
MS Balto is a remarkable Arctic expedition ship that combines luxury, functionality, and adventure. Originally built in Rauma, Finland, for government service in the Baltic Sea, the vessel underwent a complete refurbishment between 2019 and 2022. Today, MS Balto offers a spacious and elegant experience for up to 12 passengers. The lower deck features three double bed cabins, one superior twin cabin, and two single cabins. On the main deck, there is a luxurious 30 m² queen bed suite. All cabins feature private bathrooms and lower beds.
Length: 40 meters (131 feet 3 inches)
Beam: (Width): 8.3 meters (27 feet 2 inches)
Main Deck:
Lower Deck:
Sanitary: Private bathroom in each cabin
Lounge: Saloon and dining messroom, card table, and library
Extras: Sauna with cold shower and changing room
The MS Bergsund was built in 1956 at Lindstøls ship & boats in Norway. Originally it was a ferry to Norwegian Lapland. As of 2018, the ship has been completely converted into an expedition ship to the Fjords of Norway. Snorkeling with orcas is possible on board the MS Bergsund. The expedition ship has a capacity of 6 cabins for a maximum of 12 passengers.
The toilet and shower room are communal.
The classic yacht M/S Sjøveien was built in Bergen in 1964 and completely renovated in 2017. The boat is 44 meters long and very spacious with 8 large and exclusive cabins that are fully equipped. A maximum of 12 guests can stay on the boat during the orca expedition.
The boat has a large lounge area on the upper deck for dining and chatting about the orca action you experienced during the day, as well as plenty of space on deck. The bridge is open to guests for a cup of coffee and a chat with the captain. To quickly take guests to shore, they have two fast-moving Zodiacs and a crane.
The MS Sjoveien is the most renovated boat and for expeditions with the MS Sjoveien there is a surcharge of €1200.00 (14000NOK) during a 6-day orca expedition
Experience the adventure of a lifetime in the Arctic wilderness. Located about 30 minutes outside Alta, surrounded by breathtaking nature, lies Gargia Lodge. Experience traditional accommodation in a mountain hut, the ideal base for your Finnmarksvidda adventure.
At Gargia Lodge they offer a variety of adventure excursions that start directly at the lodge. Snowmobiles, snowshoe hikes, husky tours and Northern Lights tours are just some of the possible activities.
In their charming restaurant, they offer both a traditional breakfast buffet (included in all prices) and dinner.
An Artic Dome overnight stay is also possible on the domain outside the chalets.
This accommodation is ideal for several days if you want to explore the region, love nature, peace and Artic life!
Canyon hotel is the suitable place to stay in Alta if you only want an overnight stay before and after the expedition. The hotel is located in the center of Alta, a 5-minute drive from the airport and a 5-minute walk from the Orka meeting point.
Their cozy rooms in typical Nordic style create a unique Scandinavian atmosphere. Comfortable beds, well-appointed rooms and a hearty and delicious breakfast buffet!
If you stay overnight at the hotel, you also get a 20% discount at Alattio and Stakeriet, 2 good restaurants next to the hotel.
Breakfast is always included.
Prices:
Budget room Single: starts from 1063 NOK
Budget room Double/Twin: starts from 1263 NOK
Upgrades to Standard, Superior, Junior Suite and Suite are possible
Husky Holmen is the perfect base for Husky enthusiasts!
Holmen Husky is a small family business that has been working with dogs since the 1980s. Some of them even grew up on the dog park and on the sled. The property is a 15-minute drive from Alta Centrum and the airport.
The concept started with offering high-quality husky tours in the Alta area and has evolved into a small resort offering unique accommodations, cozy dining and a relaxing spa to provide an inclusive package for guests. The emphasis here is always on the Huskies, who care for the many Alaskan Husky dogs and provide good dog sledding opportunities. The kennels are on site, so for dog lovers this is a dream experience.
This accommodation is ideal for several days if you want to explore the region, love nature, peace and Artic life! In their luxurious suites you look out over the beautiful nature and even from your bed you look out at the beautiful sky with a chance of seeing the Northern Lights!
Prices start from NOK 6000 for a suite for 2 nights for 2 people.
The Sorrisniva Arctic Wilderness Lodge has created a unique experience for discerning guests who want to experience Alta’s traditional seasonal offerings, including the Igloo Hotel, Northern Lights, Midnight Sun, snowmobile safaris and riverboat excursions.
Staying at the lodge is of top quality! Be sure to enjoy their world-famous cuisine with a view over the river.
The Arctic Wilderness Lodge offers first-class accommodation combined with a large lounge, restaurant and bar. The central area combines the lounge, restaurant and bar with tall glass facades providing stunning views over the river and surrounding wilderness.
The accommodation consists of 17 river rooms, 5 river suites and 2 premium double rooms. All rooms have floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows, maximizing views of the adjacent river and Arctic wilderness and viewing the Northern Lights from the comfort of your room.
Breakfast is always included.
Crystal-clear Arctic waters and low-angle winter light make for magical underwater and topside photography—some of the best you’ll get anywhere with orcas.
Norwegian Krone
In October/November, there is more daylight compared to December/January. The polar night season begins in the end of November and ends in the middle of January.
However. It does not mean complete darkness all day. There is sufficient light throughout the season to clearly see orcas from the boat and underwater. In October/November, we have approximately 5-6 hours of day light a day, and in December/January, about 3-4 hours. We strive for optimal light conditions, with boats active in the field as long as there is sufficient light for activities. In good weather conditions, there is enough time for water activities each day throughout the season. The prime time for photography/filming is at the beginning of the season, from late October to mid-November.
While there is no absolute guarantee, the chances are exceptionally high. In the three previous seasons, we have encountered orcas on every trip, both from underwater and from the boat deck.
Our expeditions have a minimum age limit of 7 years. The age limit for water activities and snorkeling with animals is 14 years. We recommend children to be old enough to enter the water since we do not have staff available to care for them while parents are in the water. If you are two adults, you can take turns looking after the child. Children must not be left unattended on the boat, and please note that they pay the full expedition price.
No, refunds are not provided for rough weather or if orcas are not spotted. This rarely happens, especially not over many days. Sightings cannot be guaranteed as orcas are wild animals.
Yes, all our boats have twin cabins, and you will be paired with another solo traveler of the same sex. Many of our guests travel alone, and in our experience, everyone is open-minded and easygoing, making sharing cabin a seamless experience. Chances are, you both share a passion for orcas, as it is a common interest among our guests.
Yes, drones are allowed. Generally, there is no issue with using drones in Norway, but there are some exceptions and rules. Please refer to this site to familiarize with Norwegian drone regulations: https://luftfartstilsynet.no/en/drones/
Additionally, remember to ask the captain for permission before using the drone on board the boat.
Yes, we have WiFi, and it works when the boat is docked in the evenings or nights. However, the connection may be lost when we are out in the field seeking orcas during the day.
Please be aware that while we cannot guarantee an optimal connection in all cabins, it is consistently good in the wheelhouse when we are docked in the evenings.
If you are unlucky and feel seasick, we offer seasickness tablets (Postafen) on board. While some guests may initially feel seasick, they usually adapt to the boats movement.
While seeking orcas in the field, our priority is to find our exclusive pod to follow. If a location becomes crowded, we relocate to another area, if possible. During the high season for orca watching in Norway, we cannot ensure daily exclusivity with the orcas. Nevertheless, given the vastness of the ocean, you are unlikely to feel overcrowded.
You do not need a certificate, but swimming skills are necessary. Experience in surface snorkeling and free diving is an advantage. If you are new to snorkeling, we offer on-board lessons. Our professional guides will assist you in the water and teach USEA techniques for interacting with orcas and whales.
Our main focus is snorkeling with orcas and whales; scuba diving is not offered on our trips.
Northern Norway is one of the best places in the world to experience the Northern Lights. Note that to see the Northern Lights, the sky must be clear, not cloudy. If the weather is good, the chances of seeing the Northern Lights are very high throughout the season.
When reserving one of our expeditions, you have the choice to include the equipment package. This package includes a dry suit, hood, mask, snorkel, fins, gloves, weight belt, and aquafloat.
The aquafloat is a highly insulated one-piece suit available to you throughout the entire trip. If you do not have down pants, the aquafloat serves as an excellent option to stay warm. Feel free to use the aquafloat while observing orcas from the boat deck or exploring the surrounding areas when the boat is docked in the harbor. However, we recommend bringing a winter jacket, especially for your time in Alta city before and after the expedition.
