Norway · WHALE & WILDLIFE WATCHING

The 15 Best Whale Watching Tours in Norway

23 tours  ·  from $86 a head

Orca and humpback follow the herring into the northern fjords from November, and the boats follow them. These 15 compare hybrid-electric hulls, RIBs and the bigger cruisers on price, sailing time and how warm you stay.

Tromsø: Whale Watching Tour by Hybrid-Electric Boat - The hybrid-electric difference near wildlife
Fjord Cruises, Fjord Cruises in Tromso, Tour Reviews, Tours, Tours in Tromso, Whale & Wildlife Watching, Whale Watching Tours in Tromso

Tromsø: Whale Watching Tour by Hybrid-Electric Boat

1.Whale Watching Tour by Hybrid-Electric Boat

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 4,217 reviews · from $195Our pick

Spend up to nine hours sailing from Tromsø toward Skjervøy, where herring attract orcas, humpbacks, fin whales, and sperm whales. Brim Explorer’s hybrid-electric catamaran offers heated lounges, panoramic windows, Wi-Fi, and outdoor decks. Guides such as Connor, Bee, Adrian, and Ivan add lively whale facts while you search the fjords.

“Honestly everything was wonderful. I was on the bus up part of the journey, don't worry about which side you sit on - its all incredible. Look out for porpoises in the fjords as you go up. The bus is comfy and has USB/USBC chargers & WiFi and some water and a cereal bar for you. once you get to the boat they get you on quickly and within 15 minutes we were watching Orcas and Fin whales..I honestly couldn't believe it. They were incredible. The boat are really respectful of their habitat and slowdown/stop within certain distances to allow the Whales to make their own minds on how close…”

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Tromsø Whale Safari with MS Gabriele - Inside MS Gabriele: comfort matters on a six-hour sea trip
Tour Reviews, Tours in Tromso, Whale & Wildlife Watching, Whale Watching Tours in Tromso

Tromsø Whale Safari with MS Gabriele

2.Tromsø Whale Safari with MS Gabriele

★★★★★★★★★★4.3 · 1,937 reviews · 6 hours · from $207

Cruise from Tromsø to the Skjervøy area aboard the warm, fast MS Gabriele, looking for orcas and humpback whales with guides such as Lorenzo and Raul. You can watch through large windows or from three outdoor decks. The 6 to 8 hour trip includes Arctic scenery, whale talks, a bar, and a second-chance whale ticket.

“Amazing trip , very comfy , worth every penny , we had an 11 month old with us and staff were so helpful , would highly Recomend.”

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From Tromsø: All-Inclusive Whale & Orca Safari - Leaving Tromsø at 8 AM
Tour Reviews, Tours in Tromso, Whale & Wildlife Watching, Whale Watching Tours in Tromso

From Tromsø: All-Inclusive Whale & Orca Safari

3.All-Inclusive Whale & Orca Safari

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,221 reviews · from $186

Set out from Tromsø at 8 AM with Polar Adventures for an 8-hour whale safari to Skjervøy. You’ll ride in a heated boat, watch for orcas and humpbacks, and hear lively commentary from guides such as Juan, Holly, Raul, and Pedro, depending on the departure. Thermal suits, lunch, snacks, hot drinks, toilets, and USB charging are included.

“Amazing! Tips: if you have sea sick before, please take medicine in advance!”

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Silent Whale Watching by Hybrid-Electric Boat from Tromsø - Skjervøy and the herring-feeding grounds
Fjord Cruises, Fjord Cruises in Tromso, Tour Reviews, Tours in Tromso, Whale & Wildlife Watching, Whale Watching Tours in Tromso

Silent Whale Watching by Hybrid-Electric Boat from Tromsø

4.Silent Whale Watching by Hybrid-Electric Boat from Tromsø

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,017 reviews · 7 to 9 hours (approx.) · from $214

Cruise from Tromsø toward Skjervøy aboard Brim Explorer’s hybrid-electric boat, watching for humpback whales and orcas near the herring grounds. Expect 7 to 9 hours on the water, warm indoor seating, outdoor decks, onboard talks, paid snacks and drinks, and a genuine chance of seeing no whales. The season runs from late October through January.

“Several different boats leave, suggest earlier one as it takes 1.5 hours of travel to get out which gives time for it to get lighter out. Also get on the boat early, we got there 15 minutes before and the boat was already mostly full and we had to hunt for spots. Most people brought snacks/water and some brought cards and games for the trip. Going they explained the route, why we were going there, and how to look for the whales and what to expect for their behavior, among other things. Coming back they also talked about more of the history, the definition of the arctic circle, and some…”

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From Svolvær: Lofoten RIB Sea Eagle Safari Trollfjord Cruise - Leaving Torget in Svolvær
Fjord Cruises, Fjord Cruises in Svolvaer, RIB & Speedboat Safaris, Tour Reviews, Tours in Svolvaer, Whale & Wildlife Watching, Whale Watching Tours in Svolvaer

From Svolvær: Lofoten RIB Sea Eagle Safari Trollfjord Cruise

5.Lofoten RIB Sea Eagle Safari Trollfjord Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 591 reviews · from $107

From Svolvær’s main square, you’ll gear up in a warm flotation suit, goggles, gloves, and life vest before racing by RIB toward Trollfjord. Your English- or Norwegian-speaking guide shares stories about Lofoten, fishermen, and sea eagles. Expect dramatic views, stops for photos, and a real chance to see eagles close to the boat.

“Brilliant trip: stunning scenery, great warm gear to keep you cosy. Got really close to the sea eagles.”

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Musk ox Safari in Dovrefjell National Park, Oppdal Safari - Starting at Grønbakken with Oppdal Safari
National Parks, Tour Reviews, Whale & Wildlife Watching

Musk ox Safari in Dovrefjell National Park, Oppdal Safari

6.Musk ox Safari in Dovrefjell National Park, Oppdal Safari

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 524 reviews · 7 hours (approx.) · from $85Best value

Meet Oppdal Safari at 9:30 a.m. for a guided, roughly six-hour hike in Dovrefjell National Park. Guides such as Kaspar, Stina, Ida, and Hannes share facts about musk ox, plants, and local life while you search for wild herds. Bring lunch, water, sturdy clothing, and patience. Coffee, tea, and sometimes cinnamon buns are provided.

“Views were amazing! The team of professionals that managed the trip and took care of the guest were extremely knowledgeable; kind; had great senses of humor; and had great enthusiasm for what they do. It was refreshing to be in their presence! Thank you to the guide who allowed me to wear his jacket and shared his love of flora as well as for the Ox. We appreciated learning how plant, animal, and land, correlated with each other. This was such an enriching experience! My adult son and I will cherish this moment for life!”

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Tromso Snowshoeing - Valley, Fjord Views, Wildlife, Meal & Pickup - Snowshoes, poles, and the first stretch of walking
Fjord Cruises, Fjord Cruises in Tromso, Skiing & Snowshoeing, Tour Reviews, Tours in Tromso, Whale & Wildlife Watching, Whale Watching Tours in Tromso

Tromso Snowshoeing – Valley, Fjord Views, Wildlife, Meal & Pickup

7.Tromso Snowshoeing – Valley, Fjord Views, Wildlife, Meal & Pickup

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 398 reviews · 4 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $129

Leave central Tromsø for a four-and-a-half-hour Arctic outing with Wandering Owl. Walk or snowshoe a weather-chosen route, looking for reindeer and moose before lunch with fjord and mountain views. Guides such as Max, Isaac, Gerard, Anna, and Ellie also take photos. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals are available.

“We had a great and memorable hiking experience with our tour guide Ganni. He is very considerate, helpful and quite knowledgeable, making the trip enjoyable and educational. We definitely give two thumbs up for him and our experience.”

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From Svolvaer: Trollfjorden Wildlife RIB Cruise - Entering the steep walls of Trollfjorden
Fjord Cruises, Fjord Cruises in Svolvaer, RIB & Speedboat Safaris, Tour Reviews, Tours in Svolvaer, Whale & Wildlife Watching, Whale Watching Tours in Svolvaer

From Svolvaer: Trollfjorden Wildlife RIB Cruise

8.Trollfjorden Wildlife RIB Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 355 reviews · 2 hours · from $125

From Svolvaer, you’ll board a RIB with a Norwegian or English-speaking guide and race through Øyhellsundet toward steep-sided Trollfjorden. Expect white beaches, Skrova’s harbor, sea eagles, and perhaps seals or orcas. Warm flotation suits are provided, but bring extra layers and weatherproof gloves.

“Amazing trip, with stunning nature, mighty eagles, perfect weather and a guide with a lot of knowledge about both the sea, the Eagles and the area in general. Thanks a lot!!!”

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Tromsø: Winter Sea Kayaking Tour with Wildlife Sightings - From Tromsø city center to the fjord
Canoes & Kayaks, Tour Reviews, Tours, Tours in Tromso, Whale & Wildlife Watching, Whale Watching Tours in Tromso

Tromsø: Winter Sea Kayaking Tour with Wildlife Sightings

9.Winter Sea Kayaking Tour with Wildlife Sightings

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 333 reviews · from $191

Join Sommarøy Adventure Tromsø AS for a five-hour winter kayaking trip from Tromsø. Guides such as Rune and Eamonn lead small groups of up to 12 through snowy fjords, islands, and calm coastal waters. Drysuits, boots, gloves, city transfers, hot drinks, and snacks are included. Wildlife sightings may include seals, otters, eiders, and sea eagles.

“It was really an enjoyable and unforgettable excursion. Our guide made us feel safe and provided great tips to improve our kayaking. We covered a lot of distance, saw beautiful scenery, made pleasant conversation, and even a seal. :) I would definitely do it again and recommend it!”

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Bleik: Whale Watching by Speedboat with Puffins and Muffins - From Bleik Marina to the open sea
RIB & Speedboat Safaris, Tour Reviews, Whale & Wildlife Watching

Bleik: Whale Watching by Speedboat with Puffins and Muffins

10.Bleik: Whale Watching by Speedboat with Puffins and Muffins

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 326 reviews · 3h 30m · from $199

Join a small RIB boat from Bleik Marina for 3.5 hours of whale and wildlife watching in Bleik Canyon. Guides such as Christina, Norbert, Bekka, and Katie have led trips focused on respectful wildlife viewing. Expect warm flotation gear, sea eagles, puffins, possible orcas, and hot drinks with muffins afterward.

“Fabulous trip. All protection kit is provided, gloves, suit, boots and googles. Clear instructions are given. Christina and Norbert provided commentary on the birds and fish we were seeing. We didn’t see whales but did see a pod of dolphins. Puffin island was swarming with puffins and eagles. Throughly enjoyed my trip.”

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Lofoten: Trollfjord Sea Eagle Safari by RIB Boat - Dressing up at Sjømannsgata 5
Fjord Cruises, Fjord Cruises in Svolvaer, RIB & Speedboat Safaris, Tour Reviews, Tours in Svolvaer, Whale & Wildlife Watching, Whale Watching Tours in Svolvaer

Lofoten: Trollfjord Sea Eagle Safari by RIB Boat

11.Trollfjord Sea Eagle Safari by RIB Boat

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 308 reviews · from $97

From Sjømannsgata 5 in Lofoten, you’ll gear up in a warm suit and safety equipment before riding a RIB through Raftsundet to Trollfjord. Guides such as Alan, Jonas, and Bård have shared local stories, Viking sites, and eagle facts. The ride is lively, scenic, and best for ages eight and up.

“Well planned and quality/pricing ratio appropriated! Our tour guide was really open to solve our questions and prepared at explaining what we visited. Outfit provided in winter season in strongly appropriated. Recommended!”

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Bodø: Saltstraumen Sea Eagle Trip by RIB - Finding the floating meeting point in Bodø
RIB & Speedboat Safaris, Tour Reviews, Tours in Bodo, Whale & Wildlife Watching

Bodø: Saltstraumen Sea Eagle Trip by RIB

12.Saltstraumen Sea Eagle Trip by RIB

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 250 reviews · 2 hours · from $135

From Bodø, you’ll ride a rigid inflatable boat to Saltstraumen, watching for white-tailed eagles with a Norwegian-speaking skipper-guide. The two-hour trip includes a safety briefing, photo stops, wildlife viewing, thermal suit rental, life jacket, and goggles. Expect speed, spray, cold air, and striking coastal scenery.

“Opplevelsen var helt fantastisk! Guiden vår var veldig imøtekommende og ga veldig god info og ekstra fart på båten :D”

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Fjord, Mountain and Wildlife Tour - Kaldfjord and Ersfjord: the main scenery begins
Fjord Cruises, Fjord Cruises in Tromso, Tour Reviews, Tours, Tours in Tromso, Whale & Wildlife Watching, Whale Watching Tours in Tromso

Fjord, Mountain and Wildlife Tour

13.Fjord, Mountain and Wildlife Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 229 reviews · 4 to 5 hours (approx.) · from $123

Travel from Tromsø’s historic centre through Kvaløysletta, Kaldfjord, Ersfjord, Blåmannsvika, Skjellsvika, and Grøtfjord. Guides such as Abdul, Andreia, and Mansoor stop often for photos and may find reindeer, seals, or frozen water. Hot chocolate, cake, and thermal suits are included.

“Amazing experience. Smooth pickup and drop off. Good stops and enough time at each stops. Highly recommended.”

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From Tromsø: Arctic Wildlife & Fjord Sightseeing Tour by Car - Leaving Tromsø for Kvaløysletta
City Sightseeing Tours, Fjord Cruises, Fjord Cruises in Tromso, Tour Reviews, Tours, Tours in Tromso, Whale & Wildlife Watching, Whale Watching Tours in Tromso

From Tromsø: Arctic Wildlife & Fjord Sightseeing Tour by Car

14.Arctic Wildlife & Fjord Sightseeing Tour by Car

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 224 reviews · 6 hours · from $220

Travel from Tromsø to Kvaløya and Sommarøy in a small group of up to eight, guided by a local English or Norwegian-speaking driver such as Adrian, Erik, Fabian, or Stefan. Expect fjords, beaches, fishing villages, frequent photo stops, possible reindeer and sea eagles, and lunch at Sommarøy Arctic Hotel.

“We were super lucky, as it was just us two in the van, so we felt like VIP’s. The guide and driver Eirik was amazing and so lovely and put up with us chatting at him for hours. He showed us some amazing views, even during a snow blizzard. The coffee and lunch stops were also fab. He was very attentive, knowledgable, accommodating and friendly. Thanks for an awesome day!”

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Tromsø Whale Safari with MS Keiser Wilhelm - Searching the herring grounds for orcas
Tour Reviews, Tours in Tromso, Whale & Wildlife Watching, Whale Watching Tours in Tromso

Tromsø Whale Safari with MS Keiser Wilhelm

15.Tromsø Whale Safari with MS Keiser Wilhelm

★★★★★★★★★★4.3 · 161 reviews · from $194

Join Cruise Service in Tromsø for a 6 to 8 hour whale safari aboard the warm catamaran MS Keiser Wilhelm. Guides, including Mario, explain whale behavior and the Arctic setting in English. Look for orcas and humpbacks near herring grounds, with indoor seating, an open deck, and a bar serving drinks and snacks.

“The trip was amazing, saw whale and orcas.the crew was really good and informative. There was just some noise in the cabin which could be improved.”

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