Swimming with Orcas in Norway

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Welcome to Adventure Fix, the newsletter that helps you discover extraordinary journeys and experiences across the globe. 

Today, we’re heading to Tromsø, Norway to spend time in the water with this town’s most famous resident, the orca.

Contrary to their nickname, Killer Whales, wild orcas are quite friendly, inquisitive, and protective creatures.

When given the respect these apex marine predators deserve, sharing the water with them can be done safely and responsibly.

 

Swimming with Orcas in Norway

Imagine a pod of orcas swimming directly towards you.

Your heart rate is through the roof.

Their whistles and clicks reverberate through your entire body.

Thoughts like what did I get myself into race through your mind.

Then one orca breaks away from the group and rolls onto its side to check you out.

Your eyes lock and all the fear you had felt seconds ago transforms into pure joy.

Coming face to face with these legendary apex predators of the sea is often described as a life-changing experience.

Every year, starting around late October, the Troms region sees the largest gathering of orcas. They come to feast on herring in the fjords outside Skjervöy, Reisafjord, and Kvaenangsfjord.

Tour ships set out early in the morning to search for orcas through the frozen fjords.

Some days they show up early, but other times, it may take a couple of hours.

Once a pod is spotted, snorkelers race to put on dry suits and shuffle into dinghies.

When the captain says it’s time, the divers plunge into freezing water and see if they can come face-to-face with the orcas.

Explore More

If you would like to learn more, here are some links you can check out to get more information about snorkeling with orcas.

• A Complete Guide to Swimming with Orcas in Northern Norway (article)

• Swimming with Wild Orcas in Norway (video)

• Is it ethical to swim with orcas (article)

How to Swim with Orcas in Norway

From day trips to multi-day liveaboard expeditions, there are plenty of ways you can see these dolphins.

Day trips tend to be targeted to a more general crowd, while multi-day trips often cater to photographers and freedivers.

For multi-day liveaboard trips, the MS Sula is a great option. The cabins usually book up quickly, so it’s best to reserve them far in advance.

Always plan and book more than one day of swimming with orcas because the weather is unpredictable and a trip could be canceled on short notice.