Norway Magic
Orcas, Humpbacks, and Fin Whales in the Arctic
November 2026 | $5,600 per person for single rooms ($5,300 for couples sharing a room)
Week 1: October 31st - November 8th, 2026 (Sold Out)
Week 2: November 7th - 15th, 2026 (Sold Out)
Week 3: November 14th - 22nd, 2026 (2 spots left)
Week 4: November 21st - 29th, 2026 (Sold Out)
4 day Lofoten Islands extension: November 29th - December 2nd, 2026 | $1,450 per person
January & November 2027
5 days searching for Orcas and whales
“I’ve had the pleasure of joining Alex on three of the trips that he has led—two in Dominica, and one in Norway. If there’s a common thread that runs between each, it’s his genuine passion for each destination paired with a polished travel experience.”
— Norway Guest
2 extra flex days to use for land excursions or in case of bad weather
Best-in-class heated boat + captain who worked on Blue Planet
Evening whale talks and treks to see the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights)
Optional extension to see the spectacular Lofoten Islands
Why you will love this trip
Wildlife encounters you only see in nature documentaries — Getting the chance to see Orcas, Humpbacks, and Fin Whales feeding in Norway’s fjords high above the Arctic Circle is a lifetime memory.
Orcas by day and Aurora by night — Few places on Earth let you experience both in a single trip.
Comfortable accommodation that feels like home — After a day out on the water, you get to come back to a cozy Norwegian home, have a warm home cooked meal, and good conversation with like-minded people. This is truly Norway magic.
Extra excursions included — On our off days, we will explore the beauty of the surrounding area and even venture into Finnish Lapland (time and weather allowing).
FAQs
What is the chance of seeing Orcas?
Very good. In winter, Norway has some of the densest concentrations of whales in the world. The quality of our in-water encounters will always depend on conditions and what the whales are doing, but Norway is the best place in the world to see Orcas.
How cold is it?
Cold but manageable. Most people feel completely fine in the water with the right equipment.
What is included?
Activities, accommodation, and homecooked meals are included.
Gear is not included. You can choose to rent the complete package for $530, or we can help you get a custom made wetsuit from leading manufacturer Elios for $510 that you can keep.
What makes this trip unique?
Best-in-class heated boat that makes winter in Norway much more comfortable. Extra flex days that we can use in case of bad weather or to do fun excursions such as a roadtrip to Lapland in Finland. Home cooked meals in a beautiful house overlooking the fjords.
Is it safe?
Yes. Wild Orcas have never harmed anyone in the water. We have two guides, an additional safety member on the boat, and an experienced captain to keep you safe.
Who can do this?
Anyone who can swim. You don’t need freediving experience, just curiosity and a sense of adventure. We’ve had guests of all ages and backgrounds on this trip.
What would you like to experience in Norway?
Let’s make it happen.
Itinerary
Day 1 — Arrival into Tromsø & Transfer to Skjervøy
Book your flights into Tromsø (TOS). We recommend arriving a day early in case of travel delays. You will then transfer to our base in Skjervoy by ferry. We will pick you up in Skjervoy and help you settle in. We will then brief you on what to expect, how we manage in-water interactions, and how to put on your gear.
Days 2 to 6 — On the Water searching for Orcas & Whales
Our first day starts with a safety dive to make sure everyone is comfortable in the water with their equipment. We will then have five days searching for Orcas, Humpbacks, and Fin Whales. If lucky, we may see unique behaviors like Orcas spy-hopping above the surface or whales lunge-feeding through bait balls.
In the evenings we will have whale talks, hikes to see the Aurora, time in the jacuzzi, visits to the floating sauna in town, and have home cooked meals.
Days 7–8 — Flex Days & Arctic Activities
We also have an additional 2 “flex” days available in case of bad weather, which helps maximize your chance of getting great encounters. This is a unique benefit of our itinerary that most other operators do not offer. If not needed, we use these days to do additional excursions such as visiting Finnish Lapland or sightseeing in the surrounding area.
Day 9 — Return to Tromsø & Departure
We will help arrange transport back to Tromsø for your departure flights. We hope that these Arctic memories stay with you forever!
Lofoten Islands Extension
This optional extension allows you to see some of the most spectacular scenery you will find in Norway, with traditional fishing villages nestled in incredible mountains and fjords.
Included
Activities, accommodation in Lofoten, breakfasts, transportation.
Day 1 — From Skjervøy to Lofoten
From Tromsø we will fly to Leknes, gateway to Lofoten. We will stay at a beautiful traditional waterfront lodge in one of the small fishing towns along the Lofoten coast.
Day 2 — Henningsvær & Northern Lofoten
We will visit the northern side of Lofoten as we visit towns such as Henningsvær, with its spectacular location nestled within the fjords. A highlight is Henningsvær’s famous soccer pitch perched in a natural amphitheater by the sea. We also have the chance to step into history at the Lofotr Viking Museum before driving to the southern Lofoten islands.
Day 3 — Hamnøy, Reine, Flakstad, and Southern Lofoten
We will drive through the picture postcard perfect southern Lofoten islands, with some of the most spectacular views and traditional fishing villages in Norway. Stops may include the famed Arctic beaches of Flakstad and Ramberg, as well as the beautiful traditional fishing villages of Sakrisøy, Hamnøy, and Reine. Expect sweeping mountain backdrops, iconic red rorbuer cabins, and the raw beauty of Arctic beaches.
Day 4 — Arctic Beaches & Afternoon Departure
On our final morning we will visit some of the most beautiful beaches and viewpoints in Lofoten, such as Haukland and Uttakleiv beaches, the Arctic surf town of Unstad, and the peaceful ruggedness of Eggum. We will then drop you off at the Leknes Airport in the afternoon, where guests can fly to Oslo or home.
Our best-in-class heated boat keeps you warm
Our boat is large, covered and heated — Our custom-built boat was made specifically for Arctic filming missions and protects you from the cold wind, making it much more comfortable than being in an open zodiac.
Experienced, safety-focused captain — Our captain and boat crew have worked with blue-chip film crews like Blue Planet
Cozy house built for comfort
Modern and comfortable amenities — We have a charming, modern Norwegian house that has beautiful views over the surrounding fjords, high-speed Wi-Fi, washer/dryer, heated floors, and more.
Space to bond, unwind, and relax — There is room in the house for us to have whale talks, bond in the jacuzzi, unwind looking at the fjords, or have some private time.
Home cooked meals included — We prepare fresh, home cooked meals and can accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences.
Single rooms included — A single room is already included in our price, with discounts available for couples that can share a room.
Two Guides to Support You
There will be two co-guides on this expedition to help support you and look after your safety. We have years of experience leading whale trips around the world and will work together to make sure you have the attention and guidance you need.
We are backed up by a world-class boat crew of established underwater cinematographers that have worked on some of the largest documentary and film productions in Norway, including Blue Planet and Blue Planet III.
How can we help?
Plan Your Norway Expedition
Ready to Join?
Booking Deposit
Secure your spot with a $1,500 deposit via the Book Now button on this page or by contacting us at alex@thoughtfulexpeditions.com.
Payment Terms
$1,500 deposit to confirm your place.
Remaining balance due 120 days before the trip.
Payments managed through WeTravel, where you can pay by credit card or bank transfer in your preferred currency.
Cancellation Policy
120+ days before trip: Full refund minus $500 admin fee (waived if transferring deposit to another trip).
90–120 days: 50% refund.
Less than 90 days: No refunds possible.