Guide to Whale Watching in Tromsø, Norway

If you’re visiting Tromsø, Norway, and whale watching is on your list, you’re in for a memorable experience. The waters around Tromsø are some of the best in the world for spotting whales, including orcas, humpbacks, and more. Surrounded by the stunning Arctic scenery, it’s an opportunity to witness these magnificent animals in their natural habitat.

Here’s what you need to know to plan your whale-watching trip, including information on how to choose the most ethical whale watching tour.

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When is the Best Time to See Whales in Tromsø?

The whale-watching season in Tromsø runs from early November to late January. During this time, the fjords are teeming with herring, which attracts various whale species to the area to feed. Conveniently, this also overlaps with Northern Lights season, and Tromsø is also one of the best places to see the aurora.

Types of Whales You Can See?

Several species of whales frequent the waters near Tromsø, including:

• Humpback Whales: Known for their distinctive tails and acrobatic breaches.
• Orcas (Killer Whales): Recognizable by their black-and-white coloring and tall dorsal fins.
• Minke Whales: Smaller and more elusive but still a common sight in the area.
• Fin Whales: The second-largest whale species, occasionally seen in the region.
• Sperm Whales: Rare visitors, recognizable by their large heads and deep-diving behavior.

Right now, tours travel to the rich feeding grounds around Skjervøy, which is a few hours by boat from Tromsø, and where you’ll have the best chance to see these whales. Because the trip to Sjkervøy takes at least 3 hours, plan for whale watching to be a full day adventure.

Can You See Whales During Polar Night?

Yes, whale watching is possible during Tromsø’s Polar Night, which lasts from mid-November to mid-January when the sun doesn’t rise above the horizon. There’s still enough ambient light around midday to spot whales, and many tours are scheduled during these twilight hours. Boats are also equipped with lights to improve visibility, so you won’t miss out on the action even in the Arctic’s darkest months.

Types of Whale Watching Tours Available from Tromsø

Tromsø offers a variety of whale-watching tours to suit different preferences and adventure levels. From family-friendly options to adrenaline-fueled adventures, there’s something for everyone.

1. Catamaran Tours

Description: Ideal for families or anyone seeking a smooth, comfortable ride, catamaran tours provide stability and ample viewing areas, both indoors and out.

What to Expect: These tours typically last 6-8 hours, with a 2–3 hour ride to the whale feeding grounds near Skjervøy. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Arctic fjords and snow-capped mountains. The catamarans are equipped with heated indoor areas, plenty of seating, restrooms, and food options available for purchase.

2. Silent Hybrid-Electric Catamaran Tours

Description: Perfect for eco-conscious travelers, these tours use hybrid-electric boats designed to reduce noise pollution and emissions, offering a quieter, more eco-friendly, and more ethical whale-watching experience. This was the option I ultimately chose. There’s plenty of indoor warm seating and large outdoor viewing platforms.

What to Expect: Like traditional catamaran tours, these also last about 6-8 hours with a similar journey time to the feeding grounds. The quiet engines make it easier to hear and observe the whales in their natural environment. Onboard amenities include heated indoor seating and food service, keeping you warm and comfortable.

3. RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) and Bus Combo Tours

Description: For those seeking more adventure, this option combines a scenic bus ride to Skjervøy with an exhilarating RIB tour. These boats are much smaller, faster, and easy to maneuver, which allows for a closer, more dynamic encounter with the whales. I did not do a RIB boat whale watching tour in Tromsø, but I did do one in Iceland, and let me tell you, it’s fast and fun!

What to Expect: The bus ride to Skjervøy takes about 3.5 hours, with incredible Arctic mountain and fjord views en route. Once there, the RIB tour lasts about 2 hours, giving you an up-close whale-watching experience. Waterproof suits are provided to keep you dry, and lunch is included. Keep in mind, there’s no indoor seating—this is an outdoor adventure, so dress warmly!

4. Overnight Whale Watching Cruises

Description: For those who want to make the most of their Arctic adventure, overnight cruises combine extended whale-watching opportunities with comfortable onboard accommodations.

What to Expect: These cruises typically last 24–36 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy whale sightings and relax in between. Boats are equipped with cozy cabins, communal areas for lounging, and meals featuring Arctic cuisine. As an added bonus, you may even get to spot the Northern Lights on clear nights.

Choosing the Most Ethical Whale Watching Tour

If you’re looking to experience the beauty of Tromsø’s marine life responsibly, a hybrid-electric boat tour is your best bet. Here’s why:

• Environmentally Friendly: Hybrid-electric boats drastically reduce carbon emissions compared to traditional fuel-powered vessels. By choosing this option, you’re supporting a more sustainable approach to whale watching.
• Minimal Disturbance to Whales: Unlike fuel-powered boats, hybrid-electric vessels operate almost silently, which reduces underwater noise pollution. Noise can stress whales and disrupt their natural behaviors, so a quieter experience is better for them and for you.
• Closer to Nature: The quietness of hybrid-electric boats allows for a more peaceful and immersive experience, letting you observe the whales without unnecessary noise interference.

Regardless of the tour type you choose, look for companies that strictly adhere to local guidelines for whale watching, including maintaining safe distances and avoiding high-speed pursuits.

My Whale Watching Experience in Tromsø

I chose Brim Explorer’s Silent Whale Watching Tour, which was excellent. This tour is on a comfortable, large hybrid-electric catamaran, which creates less underwater noise and is better for the whales. The boat has plenty of indoor warm seating and outdoor viewing decks, with food and drink available for purchase. We left at 8AM to make sure we had daylight when we hit the feeding grounds, and returned to Tromsø about 4PM. Regardless of what type of tour you do, plan on it being an all day activity.

The guides are incredibly knowledgeable and enthusiastic about whales and give a few presentations (in English) during the ride to Skjervøy. I thought the presentations were very interesting and it also helped pass the time; the ride was about 3.5 hours to Skjervøy. The scenery on the way to and back from the feeding grounds is stunning as well, especially in mid-January when you get to experience sunrise and sunset within a few hours of each other (truly epic photography lighting).

Once we got to Skjervøy, the crew was diligent about keeping a safe distance from the whales, following best practices. We saw minke whales, fin whales, and sperm whales! The guides were particularly excited about the sperm whales because they hadn’t seen any that season yet.

Pro tip: the water can be choppy, particularly close to Skjervøy where there’s less protection from the open ocean. If you’re prone to seasickness, make sure to come prepared. I’m not, but there were some very unhappy people on my tour who didn’t anticipate the waves.

The boat departs from Tromsø city center in front of the Clarion Edge Hotel. I booked my tour through Viator.com – you can book this tour here.

Other Recommended Whale Watching Tours

Here are additional options for highly rated whale watching safaris leaving from Tromsø:

Whale watching in Tromsø is an experience you won’t forget—there’s something magical about seeing these ocean giants up close in their Arctic playground. Whether you go for the cozy comfort of a catamaran or the adrenaline rush of a RIB tour, you’re in for an incredible adventure. Just remember to bundle up, charge your camera, and prepare for a front-row seat to one of nature’s most awe-inspiring shows.