Swim with orcas

Dive into the Adventure

Get ready to feel your heart race as you slip into the waters and come face-to-face with an orca! The awe and wonder of seeing these intelligent and social creatures glide gracefully around you are indescribable. Surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Norway’s fjords, the environment sets the stage for unforgettable encounters, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

The Magic of Norway's Fjords

Each year, the fjords of Northern Norway offer an unparalleled opportunity to witness orcas in their natural habitat during their annual feeding season. For about three months, these majestic creatures congregate to feast on herring, making this the most reliable place in the world to observe their hunting behaviors and interact with them in the water. Prefer to stay dry? You can still enjoy an incredible experience from the boat, observing the whales just a few meters away.

Meet the Experts

We are proud to be pioneers in offering this extraordinary adventure. Our crew, known as "The Legend of Orcas," is the most experienced team you’ll find anywhere in the world. We are committed to making your adventure both thrilling and educational, even if you’ve never been in the water with large animals before. We’ve got you covered.

Each evening, we offer captivating lectures led by Pierre Robert de Latour, a renowned orca expert. You will learn fascinating facts about orcas and the best techniques for safely interacting with them. Respect for the orcas is our top priority. Our sessions will equip you with the skills to approach these magnificent creatures respectfully and safely. We teach you how to maintain a safe distance to avoid disturbing their natural behavior, and why it’s important to stay calm and let the orcas approach you on their terms.

Your Underwater Adventure

Once we spot a family of orcas, we gently approach, and your underwater adventure begins. When the boat driver gives the command "GO!", you'll dive into the water and experience the thrill of being up close with these magnificent creatures. Expect to enter the water multiple times a day, with each encounter lasting anywhere from 10 seconds to 20 minutes, depending on the orcas’ activities.

If you're lucky, you’ll have the opportunity to witness firsthand how these apex predators create bait balls, herding herring with incredible precision. Orcas are known for their complex social structures and sophisticated hunting techniques. Whether they're on the move or working together to corral their prey, each moment is truly magical. Don't be surprised if you also encounter a humpback whale, as they often join in to take advantage of the orcas’ hunting efforts.

Safety First

Your safety is paramount. If you ever feel uncomfortable, signal for assistance, and our team will be there to help you. Our dinghies are equipped with ladders for easy access in and out of the water, and they are never far from our liveaboard boats. If you need a break, want to use the restroom, or feel cold, you can always hop back on the mothership.

Our friendly water guides are always by your side, offering the best tips on where to look. While it might be tempting to swim quickly towards the orcas, it's important to stay calm and use the techniques you've learned for the best experience. While we've had a 100% encounter rate with orcas over the past three seasons, please note that sightings and swimming with these animals are not guaranteed. Additionally, weather conditions can sometimes prevent us from heading out, so we ask for your understanding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a certificate to join?

No certificates or special skills are required to join our expeditions. While some experience with surface snorkeling and dry suits is helpful, the only real requirement is knowing how to swim.

Will I get cold?

Let’s be honest—it can get chilly! We recommend bringing a wool base layer to wear under the dry suit and some thick wool socks. If you're prone to feeling cold, doubling up on layers is a smart move. Not sure what to pack? Ask us for brand recommendations when you're preparing for your trip to Alta.

Is it dangerous to swim with orcas?

We get this question a lot, and the answer is no. In over 30 years of running these expeditions, we've never had any accidents involving orcas. Plus, there's no record of orcas attacking humans in the wild. That said, remember that these are wild animals, and entering the water is at your own risk.