Winter Whales of Norway
Photography Voyage: Whale Watching & Northern Lights & Snorkeling with Whales
This voyage is a unique opportunity for everybody interested in whales, orcas, white-tailed eagles, arctic winter, Northern Lights and breathtaking landscapes. Starting in Tromsø, we take you on an expedition cruise through the fjords of Northern Norway. Towards the end of the year, the sun doesn't rise above the horizon. The Polar Night sets in and lasts for almost 7 weeks. Although the sun doesn't rise, Northern Norway is not dark completely. During twilight hours the sky turns into the most amazing colors. From a deep midnight blue to soft pink, turning the snow-capped mountains into a magical scenery. On deck of our comfortable expedition ship, the views are ideal for photographing this colorful spectacle. Season: Oct-Jan
Highlights of this Expedition Cruise:
• Only 12-16 guests depending on vessel
• Primetime for whales & orcas - Chances to snorkel with them!
• Great photography for beginners & professionals
• View & photograph the Northern Lights
• Sail through the breathtaking fjords
• 2 expert guides
* 2 zodiacs
Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Tromsø and boarding your 'home away from home'
We start our expedition cruise from Tromsø, just above the Arctic Circle in Northern Norway. This town is known to be the 'Gateway to the Arctic' and has been the starting point for many polar expeditions in the past. Tromsø is surrounded by mountains and fjords and is the world's capital for Northern Light observations! It's definitely worth spending a day or two here. Visit the Polar Museum for a fascinating tour through polar history. Or start your arctic adventure with an optional dog sled excursion or snowmobile safari. In the afternoon of the first day you will board the ship and make yourself at home. After dinner we say goodbye to Tromsø and start our Expedition Cruise!
Days 2-6: At Sea
For four full days we will sail through the beautiful fjords of Northern Norway. Our floating hotel takes us to a new location each day. Expect to spend a lot of time on deck as the views are often too beautiful to stay inside. High mountains and remote tiny villages pass by on the horizon. We spend most of the daylight hours looking for whales, orcas and other wildlife. When it get's dark and the skies are clear, we have a good chance of viewing the Northern Lights. Our expert guides accompany you on your adventures and share their knowledge about the region, the Northern Lights and wildlife.
Day 7: Return to Port
Things to Do!
Whale watching Skjervøy & Kvænangen
We are likely to sail North to Kvænangen fjord and the area around Skjervøy. This village is a base for many whale safaris. In previous seasons we have often encountered whales and orcas in Kvænangen fjord, so we have good chances to spot them here again. You can enjoy the beautiful views of the fjord on deck or from the bridge while the ship searches for whales. We might also go ashore in the area at night, for viewing and photographing the northern lights.
Snorkeling with the orcas and whales
Our main goal during our Winter Whales of Norway expeditions is to go snorkeling with whales and orcas as often as possible. On board we provide special Waterproof snorkel dry suits and snorkeling equipment. When whales have been spotted nearby, our guides will get the zodiacs in the water. Make sure you have your camera charged and your dry suit ready in your room so you can head out quickly. Approaching whales will always be done cautiously, at a low speed towards the side of the pod. When the guide decides it's safe to go snorkeling, you will be allowed to go into the water. You will be able to take a look into the world of the whales, an absolute unique opportunity to swim with these enormous animals. Enjoy the moment!
Northern Lights in Norway
During the long polar nights there is a good chance we will see the Northern Lights. The crew on board will keep an eye out and will alert the guests when the Northern Lights are visible. If we are in port you can go ashore and walk up a hill to get away from any artificial lights and have a clear view on the sky. On land you have the best opportunities to take pictures of the Northern Lights as you can put your camera of phone on a steady surface.
But also from the ship you can have the most spectacular views of the Northern Lights dancing above the water and the mountains. When we are at anchor in a calm bay you can have a 360-view on the sky and the lights seem to surround the ship. Slip into your bathing suit for a relaxing bath in the hot tub, or warm up in the sauna while watching this spectacle of nature unravel in front of your eyes.
Photography
Your photography guide takes you on a discovery of the Norwegian fjords, while teaching you how to capture the magic of the northern lights and the great cetaceans. The guides will answer all your questions, help you with your gear and anything that you might need. We use the zodiacs to see whales up close and be able to photograph them close to the water surface. This photography trip is suited for photographers of all levels, from beginners to the most experienced.
Polar Plunge
For our bravest guests we organize a 'polar plunge'. Those who dare get a chance to dive into the ice-cold water! Probably the most refreshing dive you will ever take. Afterwards, you can tell your family and friends that you took a plunge north of the arctic circle!
* Check with us for more Norway Expeditions, dates & rates. Watch the trip HERE
(wp exp)
