Frequently Asked Questions

The primary distinction lies in the trips duration, with the daily program remaining consistent across both options. Opting for a 6-day trip increases the likelihood of encountering and swimming with orcas due to more opportunities.

It is challenging to predict the optimal week or period in the season as it depends on factors like weather conditions, the herring track, and the behavior of the orcas.

In October/November, there is more daylight compared to December/January. The polar night season begins in the end of November and ends in the middle of January.

However. It does not mean complete darkness all day. There is sufficient light throughout the season to clearly see orcas from the boat and underwater. In October/November, we have approximately 5-6 hours of day light a day, and in December/January, about 3-4 hours. We strive for optimal light conditions, with boats active in the field as long as there is sufficient light for activities. In good weather conditions, there is enough time for water activities each day throughout the season. The prime time for photography/filming is at the beginning of the season, from late October to mid-November.

While there is no absolute guarantee, the chances are exceptionally high. In the three previous seasons, we have encountered orcas on every trip, both from underwater and from the boat deck.

No, refunds are not provided for rough weather or if orcas are not spotted. This rarely happens, especially not over many days. Sightings cannot be guaranteed as orcas are wild animals.

Our expeditions have a minimum age limit of 7 years. The age limit for water activities and snorkeling with animals is 14 years. We recommend children to be old enough to enter the water since we do not have staff available to care for them while parents are in the water. If you are two adults, you can take turns looking after the child. Children must not be left unattended on the boat, and please note that they pay the full expedition price.

No, animals are not allowed on board.

Yes, all our boats have twin cabins, and you will be paired with another solo traveler of the same sex. Many of our guests travel alone, and in our experience, everyone is open-minded and easygoing, making sharing cabin a seamless experience. Chances are, you both share a passion for orcas, as it is a common interest among our guests.

On our boat MS Sjöveien you can reserve a private cabin for an additional surcharge. For availability, please reach out to us directly.

Yes, we have WiFi, and it works when the boat is docked in the evenings or nights. However, the connection may be lost when we are out in the field seeking orcas during the day.

Please be aware that while we cannot guarantee an optimal connection in all cabins, it is consistently good in the wheelhouse when we are docked in the evenings. Occasionally, we

Absolutely. Our experienced and professional chefs are good at preparing meals tailored to accommodate any allergies or specific diets you may have.

You must inquire during the booking process. Alcohol is allowed on some of the boats. However, it is not permitted to bring alcohol on boats that sell alcohol on board, in accordance with Norwegian laws.

Usually, we heat the hot tub on one evening during each expedition. However, if the weather is rough and windy, we may skip it for safety reasons. The hot tub uses wood for heating, and windy conditions can carry smoke and sparks into the boats, posing a potential safety hazard.

While searching for Orcas, we usually navigate within the fjords, avoiding open sea. The fjords, surrounded by islands and the mainland, offer protection from significant waves and rough weather. If conditions are too rough, the boat remains in the harbor.

If you are unlucky and feel seasick, we offer seasickness tablets (Postafen) on board. While some guests may initially feel seasick, they usually adapt to the boats movement.

While seeking orcas in the field, our priority is to find our exclusive pod to follow. If a location becomes crowded, we relocate to another area, if possible. During the high season for orca watching in Norway, we cannot ensure daily exclusivity with the orcas. Nevertheless, given the vastness of the ocean, you are unlikely to feel overcrowded.

No, only valid currency is Norwegian Kroner (NOK). Nevertheless, VISA/credit cards are widely accepted across the country

You do not need a certificate, but swimming skills are necessary. Experience in surface snorkeling and free diving is an advantage. If you are new to snorkeling, we offer on-board lessons. Our professional guides will assist you in the water and teach USEA techniques for interacting with orcas and whales.

To ensure warmth in the dry suit, it is advisable to wear a base layer of wool. For those more sensitive to the cold, an option is to wear two layers of wool underneath the dry suit.

With the rental equipment we provide thick neoprene hoods and gloves, and boots are integrated into the dry suits. It is sufficient to wear a thick pair of wool socks underneath for added warmth.

We only offer dry suits for rental. Alternatively, you can bring your own wet suit. Some experienced divers prefer costume-made wetsuits with a recommended thickness of 9-10 mm. We have dry suits for rental only.

While our main focus is snorkeling with orcas/whales, scuba diving is permitted in the evenings when the boat is back in the harbor. However, using tanks with the animals during the main activities is not allowed. To scuba dive in the evening, guests must be well-experienced with a minimum of 30 logged dry suit dives and have a buddy with a similar level of experience.

Please be aware that we do not provide diving instructors in the water. Strict rules are in place for winter scuba diving in the High Arctic to ensure the safety of our guests. There is no additional fee for evening scuba diving, and all necessary equipment, including bottles, weight belt, BCD, and dry suits, is available on the boat.

Our boat drivers approach the whales gently, ensuring they never chase or harass the animals. Often, the orcas will swim up to the boats or people in the water. Guests are dropped into the water when the boats are near the orcas, allowing them to swim and snorkel with the animals until the orcas change location. Once the orcas leave the site, guests return to the boats, and we follow the animals to a new location. While we always strive to find a pod for exclusive encounters, it is not always possible. Please note that whales are wild animals, and we cannot guarantee specific encounters.

The trip does not include a dedicated photo package by crew or a professional photographer since we do not have photographers on board. Nevertheless, our skilled crew, many of whom are dedicated photographers, assist guests in capturing memorable moments and recommend prime photo spots. Guests usually share photos during the trip.

Yes, drones are allowed. Generally, there is no issue with using drones in Norway, but there are some exceptions and rules. Please refer to this site to familiarize with Norwegian drone regulations: https://luftfartstilsynet.no/en/drones/
Additionally, remember to ask the captain for permission before using the drone on board the boat.

Northern Norway is one of the best places in the world to experience the Northern Lights. Note that to see the Northern Lights, the sky must be clear, not cloudy. If the weather is good, the chances of seeing the Northern Lights are very high throughout the season.

We have prepared a packing list to help you get ready for the winter in the High Arctic. You will find the list here.

Find information on meet-up location here.

Read more here.