Whale Watching in Tromsø

The mineral-rich waters around Tromsø, Norway, provide a bounty for migrating whales and porpoises during the winter. Book a whale watching tour from Tromsø, and you may witness the planet’s largest animals as they pass through the region.

Tromsø is an area of unparalleled beauty, the perfect arctic destination for nature lovers. Search for humpbacks, fin whales, seals and sea eagles as you pass through Norway’s snowy fjords.

Here's all you need to know about whale watching tours, one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities from Tromso.

What are the best whale watching tours from Tromsø?

Group whale watching tours from Tromso

Let guides find sites with the best opportunity of seeing wildlife on a group whale watching tour from Tromsø. The expert skippers and guides will choose the day’s best route and how much time you will spend in each area.

Travel for several hours by boat until you reach prime feeding spots, depending on the day’s weather and ocean conditions. Your guides will entertain you with facts about the area’s history and ecology during your travel.

Once you arrive, the crew will scan the waters for action. Look out for spouts and flukes, and if you’re lucky, you may see a breaching whale. The crew will approach the animals from a safe distance and point sightings out to you.

Silent whale watching tours from Tromso

Board a hybrid electric catamaran for an eco-friendly silent whale watching tour, where you may have a better chance of seeing wildlife. Not only does a hybrid boat reduce carbon emissions, but the quiet electric motor also doesn’t disturb the whales as much as other boats.

RIB boat tours

To access remote areas quickly, a rigid inflatable boat (RIB) is an exciting way to travel. Hold on tight, as the guide speeds you to ideal sighting areas, locates whales and shares a wealth of information about your surroundings.

Private whale watching tours

Plan a private whale watching tour with your friends or family for an unforgettable day. You will have personalized attention from your guide and views unimpeded by crowds. Private tours can accommodate up to 11 people.

5-day whale watching excursions

Embark on an ultimate arctic adventure with a five-day, four-night whale watching excursion. With extra time on the water, your chances of seeing whales are increased significantly.

Sample local delights at all of your meals, and listen to Sami legends. When night falls, scan the sky for aurora borealis before retiring to your cabin.

What are the highlights?

Tromsø sits among a group of islands just off mainland Norway. From the docks on the straits here, you will board your boat for an unforgettable whale watching excursion, with scenic views of fjords and mountainous terrain.

Take in Tromsø’s landmarks from the water, as your guide leads you to the best spots for whale watching. See the triangular Arctic Cathedral, the striking Polaria Museum and the cable car route to the top of Storsteinen, as you leave Tromsø in search of whales.

As you approach your destination, look out for seals, harbor porpoises, eider ducks and sea eagles. Snap photos of colorful fishing buildings along the shore and of the dramatic walls of the fjords.

Once your guide finds the best spot, you may see humpback and fin whales, orcas and harbor porpoises. Experience the views in the low winter light, adding to the thrill of your search for whales.

How much does it cost?

• Group whale watching tours from Tromsø cost from US$140 per person to US$190 per person, depending on the size of the boat, the duration of the tour and whether food and drink are included in the price. Some tour providers offer lower prices for children.
  
• Silent whale watching tours cost around US$155 per person.
  
• RIB whale watching tours cost around US$280 per person.
  
• Private whale watching tours cost around US$2,900 per group of up to 11 people.
  
• 5-day whale watching excursions start at US$5,400 per person.

What is included?

All whale watching tours from Tromsø include an expert guide and pilot who will identify optimal areas for whale sightings. Your guide will provide a safety briefing, and you will have access to a flotation device and a thermal suit if necessary.

Some tours include hot drinks and a meal, and larger boats have snacks and drinks for purchase. Many boats feature underwater drones and audio equipment for the chance to hear the whales’ songs.

Private tours include a meal and hot drinks along with commentary from a guide. Five-day tours include all meals, accommodation and the use of fishing rods, and expert guidance from your crew.

Where does it start?

All whale watching boat tours from Tromsø start near the cruise port, and some tours meet in front of nearby hotels or restaurants.

How long does it last?

Whale watching boat tours from Tromsø last from 7 to 12 hours, depending on the day’s conditions. Five-day expeditions include four nights on board with departure from Tromsø in the evening of the first day.

When is the best time for a whale watching tour from Tromsø?

Whale migration season lasts from October until January, and the best chances of spotting them are during December and January. Since wildlife is unpredictable, book your whale watching excursion early in your trip. If you don’t see any whales on your first trip, you have a chance to try again later in your visit.

Are children allowed?

Children are allowed on group and silent whale watching tours. Some tours offer lower-priced tickets for children and youth, and many tours allow infants aged under 3 to travel for free.

Group and silent whale watching boats are stroller-accessible, and some provide infant seats.

RIB tours are not safe for small children, and the minimum age to participate in a 5-day tour is 13.

What happens in case of bad weather?

In the case of inclement weather or dangerous sea conditions, tour companies offer a chance to reschedule your tour or a full refund.

Which other outdoor experiences can be done in Tromsø?

• Dog sledding
• Snowmobile adventures
• Boat tours
• Hiking tours
• Reindeer sledding
• Jeep adventures

Travel tips

• Wear a heavy jacket, hat and mittens.
• Bring binoculars for easier sightings.
• For tours on a RIB, bring a waterproof case for your camera or smartphone to protect it from spray.
• take medication before boarding the boat If you suffer from motion sickness.