Sail & Freedive with Orcas and Whales

Join an exclusive 7-day expedition through the fjords of Northern Norway. Experience freediving with orcas and humpback whales, learn to sail in Arctic waters, and marvel at the northern lights on a unique journey.


Antarctic Peninsula
© SGN

Duration: 7 days / 6 nights on board.
Starts: Tromsø, Norway
Ends: Tromsø, Norway
Language: English speaking voyage

The itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather and ice conditions. The necessary adjustments will be made to ensure the best possible experience.


Included


Every autumn, the fjords in northern Norway fill with herring, attracting orcas and humpback whales in a natural spectacle that lasts for weeks. This luxury expedition invites you not only to observe these giants from the decks of expedition vessels like Valiente or Goxsheim but to dive with them in their frigid waters. Designed for experienced freedivers, the journey offers an intimate connection with marine life, supported by a freediving instructor and animal behavior experts, while sailing among snow-capped peaks and wild landscapes.

In addition to whale encounters, the voyage allows you to live the full experience of Arctic sailing, participating as a crew member in all tasks on board. Nights are dedicated to searching for the mystical northern lights in secluded ports without light pollution, visiting historic fishing villages, and enjoying beach bonfires. It is an odyssey that combines the physical challenge of Arctic freediving with the serenity of sailing under Norway's vibrant winter light, capturing unforgettable photographic moments.

Highlights:
Guided freediving with orcas and humpback whales in their natural feeding grounds.
Hands-on Arctic sailing training as an active member of the crew.
Northern lights sightings from privileged locations and secluded ports.
Use of expedition vessels specifically designed for polar waters.
Expert instruction from freedivers and whale behavior specialists.

Itinerary

© SGN
© SGN
© SGN

Day 1: Welcome on board!
Meeting in Tromsø and departure
We meet at Tromsø harbor at 16:00 to get to know the boat and safety routines. We aim to cast off early towards Grøtsundet and Skjervøy, seeking our first northern lights show as we leave the city behind.

Day 2: Sailing towards the whales & test dive
Heading around the Lyngen peninsula
After a practical sailing lesson, we set course for Kvænangen. We will enjoy lunch on board and, weather permitting, end the day with a bonfire on the beach to connect with the Arctic environment.

Day 3: Freediving with the whales
Seeking herring and cetaceans
We start early to make the most of daylight searching for herring, where orcas and humpback whales concentrate. In the evening, we sail to Spildra to enjoy its sauna and local hospitality.

Day 4: Freediving with the whales
Silent sailing and photography
We continue the search for cetaceans by following seabirds. Sailing boats allow for a respectful approach to marine life. We will enjoy the magical winter light and look for northern lights while anchored in a calm bay.

Day 5: Freediving with the whales
Wildlife and hiking
We will explore the areas most known for sightings. In the afternoon, there is an option to hike on the nearby islands before seeking the northern lights again from the boat or land.

Day 6: Sailing back to Tromsø & wrap up
Final day of sightings
Maximizing chances to see orcas and humpbacks in action. During the return journey, we will share stories and photos from the week while hoping for the northern lights to grace the sky one last time.

Day 7: Good bye for now
End of the Arctic adventure
We enjoy a long breakfast while sailing back to Tromsø. After cleaning and tidying the boat, we end the expedition at the dock at 16:00, saying goodbye to the crew and fellow travelers.

Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome on board!
Meeting in Tromsø and departure
We meet at Tromsø harbor at 16:00 to get to know the boat and safety routines. We aim to cast off early towards Grøtsundet and Skjervøy, seeking our first northern lights show as we leave the city behind.

Day 2: Sailing towards the whales & test dive
Heading around the Lyngen peninsula
After a practical sailing lesson, we set course for Kvænangen. We will enjoy lunch on board and, weather permitting, end the day with a bonfire on the beach to connect with the Arctic environment.

Day 3: Freediving with the whales
Seeking herring and cetaceans
We start early to make the most of daylight searching for herring, where orcas and humpback whales concentrate. In the evening, we sail to Spildra to enjoy its sauna and local hospitality.

Day 4: Freediving with the whales
Silent sailing and photography
We continue the search for cetaceans by following seabirds. Sailing boats allow for a respectful approach to marine life. We will enjoy the magical winter light and look for northern lights while anchored in a calm bay.

Day 5: Freediving with the whales
Wildlife and hiking
We will explore the areas most known for sightings. In the afternoon, there is an option to hike on the nearby islands before seeking the northern lights again from the boat or land.

Day 6: Sailing back to Tromsø & wrap up
Final day of sightings
Maximizing chances to see orcas and humpbacks in action. During the return journey, we will share stories and photos from the week while hoping for the northern lights to grace the sky one last time.

Day 7: Good bye for now
End of the Arctic adventure
We enjoy a long breakfast while sailing back to Tromsø. After cleaning and tidying the boat, we end the expedition at the dock at 16:00, saying goodbye to the crew and fellow travelers.


© SGN
© SGN
© SGN


INCLUSIONS

A trip experience with sailboat – experienced skipper/instructor with local knowledge on board.
All food we eat on board during the trip.
Our Comfort Package, which consists of accommodation on board in a shared double cabin with a ready-made bed.
An environmentally friendly, local, sustainable, unique, exotic and exclusive Norwegian adventure holiday.
A shared experience and friendship with like-minded adventurers from around the world.
A lot of time outdoors – raw and honest nature experiences.
Use of our shared equipment if available: dinghies, kayaks, fishing equipment, etc.
All boat-related costs such as diesel, propane and harbor fees.
Personal safety equipment; Helly Hansen inflatable lifejacket.
Instruction, advice, guidance and practical training in boating and sailing.
Experienced free diving instructor on board.
Option to borrow free diving equipment.

EXCLUSIONS

Travel to and from the start/end location.
Optional meals at a cafes/restaurants during the trip.
Entrance to galleries, museums, or other alternative activities.
Rental of equipment and/or activities from external operators.
Drinks such as wine, beer or exclusive apple juice and other luxuries.
Travel insurance and/or cancellation insurance.


* The prices are per person in US Dollars, unless expressly specified in a different currency. In that case, payment will be in US dollars at the exchange rate of the day.
** Rates are correct at the time of publication. All prices will be re-confirmed by email at the time of booking.
NOTE: Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy—and excitement—of expedition travel. When traveling in extremely remote regions, your expedition staff must allow the sea, the ice and the weather to guide route and itinerary details. This itinerary is a tentative outline of what you’ll experience on this voyage; please be aware that no specific itinerary can be guaranteed.

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