All-Inclusive Whale and Orca Safari to Skjervoy with Meals Tromso

Tromso Harbour, the Starting Point of the Whale Safari

Tromso lies on the island of Tromsoya at almost 70 degrees north, and its harbour has sent hunters, traders and polar expeditions into the Arctic for more than a century, which is why the city is called the gateway to the Arctic. The whale safari leaves from the front pier in the city centre, a short walk from most hotels, with the white Arctic Cathedral and the curved Tromso Bridge visible across the strait.

Please arrive twenty minutes before the 08:00 departure so the crew can hand out thermal suits and explain the safety rules. In the polar night season the boat leaves in deep blue twilight, and the first hour on deck is a quiet chance to watch the city lights fade behind you. If you are wondering how to get to the pier, it is in walking distance of the main shopping street; no transport is needed from central hotels.

The Sea Route North and the Lyngen Alps

From Tromso the boat heads north through the sounds that separate the large islands of Ringvassoya and Reinoya from the mainland. This is a sightseeing journey in itself: steep white mountains drop straight into the sea, small fishing settlements cling to the shore and white-tailed sea eagles often circle above the water. The outward leg takes about two and a half hours, and the heated lounge lets you warm up between spells on the open deck.

As the boat passes the mouth of the Lyngen fjord, the jagged Lyngen Alps rise on the eastern horizon, their highest peaks topping 1,800 metres and glaciers hanging on their flanks. In the low winter light the summits glow pink and gold around midday. Keep your camera ready, because the guides point out landmarks and wildlife along the way and the light changes quickly.

Skjervoy, the Whale Village of Northern Norway

Skjervoy is a fishing village on a small island at the northern edge of Troms, linked to the mainland by bridge and tunnel. For centuries it lived from cod and herring, and its painted wooden houses and an eighteenth-century wooden church still give it the feel of an old trading post. Over the last decade it has become known worldwide because the herring shoals now spend the winter in the fjords around it, bringing the whales with them.

This is why a whale watching day trip from Tromso now goes to Skjervoy rather than staying near the city. The boat does not dock for a village visit; instead it works the open water and fjord mouths nearby, where the guides follow reports from other boats and fishermen. The best time to visit Skjervoy for whales is the herring season, usually from late October or November to around February.

Orcas and Humpback Whales in the Herring Grounds

Orcas around Skjervoy hunt in family groups using a technique called carousel feeding: they circle a shoal of herring, push it into a tight ball near the surface and stun the fish with slaps of their tails. Humpback whales arrive from their southern breeding waters to feed on the same shoals, sometimes lunging up through the surface with open mouths. Seeing both species, along with diving seabirds, is one of the great wildlife scenes of the Arctic.

The crew aims to spend around two to two and a half hours in the whale area when weather and light allow, which gives time to watch without rushing. Whales are wild animals, so sightings can never be promised, but the winter feeding grounds give a very good chance. The open decks are the best place for photos, and the guides explain what each behaviour means.

Life on Board in the Arctic Winter

The boat is built for a long day at sea in cold weather. Inside there is a heated lounge with seating and windows, toilets and USB charging points, while the open-air decks give clear views for whale watching. Everyone receives a warm thermal suit and safety gear, so you can stay outside for long periods even in strong wind and sub-zero temperatures.

Food and drinks are part of the day: fresh baguettes, snacks and cookies, with coffee, tea, hot chocolate and water available whenever you like. Vegetarian choices are available, but gluten-free options are not offered, so bring your own if needed. In the darkest weeks of winter the sun does not rise above the horizon, and the few hours of soft blue and pink light make the return journey to Tromso a highlight of its own.