Norway

Orcas, Fjords and Arctic Magic

Imagine this: endless sunrises painted in shades of pink, stunning northern lights, majestic eagles soaring over snow-covered mountains, and right beneath you, orcas gliding through the cold fjord waters, side by side with humpback whales, fin whales, and sometimes even sperm whales. Welcome to Skjervøy, Northern Norway, where Mālama Earthventures, together with the NGO Orcestra and its founder Chérine Baumgartner, offers an expedition that gives you deep insight into the lives of the Arctic giants of the sea.

We follow the herring migration through the sheltered fjords of Northern Norway where orcas and whales come to feed. On board a modern, well‑designed sailing yacht, you’ll be part of a small group and experience adventure and Arctic magic up close, accompanied by researchers and/or biologists.

Orca-Expedition with Mālama Earthventures & Orcestra

This journey is more than whale watching. It is a contribution to Orcestra’s research, life on the water, and a deep connection with nature. You will have the chance to:

Watch whales up close

From a RIB boat, right in the action

Experience research & knowledge first-hand

E.g. with hydrophone recordings, data logs, and expert insights

Spend the night in the middle of the fjords

On board a sailing yacht with a small team

Witness northern lights

Stunning Arctic landscapes & islands, with sauna, excursions, and cozy time on board

Travel Focus at a Glance

Location: Skjervøy, about 2 hours by ferry from Tromsø
Duration: 7 days (incl. 5 days at sea)
Vessel: Sailing yacht with cabins (double occupancy), saloon & kitchen
Participants: small group (max. 8 people), intensive support
Focus: Orcas, humpback whales, fin whales, nature experience

Why Orcas in Norway?

Northern Norway is one of the best places in the world to observe orcas in the wild. In the winter months (late October to January), massive schools of herring move into the sheltered fjords, followed by orcas, humpback whales, fin whales, and more.
At the same time, you’ll experience the Arctic winter with its quiet, mystical atmosphere: pink skies, dancing northern lights, and a nature that touches you deeply. And all of this in a small, respectful group with real experts at your side.

What to expect

RIB outings to orcas and other whales to observe the animals up close
Insights into the world of orcas (acoustics, behavior, ecology)
High chance of northern lights, island visits where possible (e.g. sauna on Spildra)
Shared cooking & life on board (expedition style)
Free time with games, reading or conversations in the saloon

Note: No sailing experience required. Good health and team spirit are expected.

Weather & Preparation

Water temperature: approx. 4–6 °C Air temperature: −5 °C to +5 °C (depending on weather, often windy) Before the trip, you will receive from us a detailed itinerary, packing list, and personal recommendations, so you are perfectly prepared, whether for sea conditions, whale encounters, or northern lights observations.

Orca-Expedition in Norway

Price on request

Private use of the sailing yacht with dinghy

Chérine Baumgartner, Founder of Orcestra & her team

All meals & drinks on board (excl. alcohol)

Not included: Flight to Tromsø, Ferry (approx. 2 hours), Hotel in Tromsø, Travel & cancellation insurance (recommended), Tips for the crew (cash in EUR or NOK), Alcohol (can be purchased in Tromsø before departure).

Further details will be sent to you in your personal offer after our conversation.

Important note

We are well protected in the fjords, but we are still in the Arctic winter. Storms are possible, in which case we may stay in port. The start and end location may also change at short notice, depending on the herring migration (e.g. Alta instead of Skjervøy). Such changes are only made if we deem them necessary to provide the best whale experience and you will be informed in advance (any flight rebookings must be covered by yourself).

Best Travel Time

Safety & respect for nature

With all the fascination for orcas and other ocean giants, one thing is especially important to us: your safety and that of the animals.

This journey stands for respect toward nature and its inhabitants. We take care not to disturb the animals and behave around them with attentiveness, calmness, and restraint.

This also means that, even if we see orcas, we cannot guarantee getting very close to them with the RIB boat. We do our best to enable intense and respectful encounters, but only if it is safe for both humans and animals and the animals are not disturbed.

Your well-being and that of the animals come first.

Unsere Expeditionen orientieren sich an den bewährten Sicherheitsstandards. Dazu gehören:

Professional briefings
Experienced guides with expertise in animal behavior and dynamics
Clear rules for behavior at sea
Emergency equipment on board and well-trained crews
Daily assessments of weather, currents, and animal behavior

If conditions are not safe, we refrain from RIB activities. Our decisions are always made in the spirit of respect, safety, and animal welfare. You will be honestly informed, professionally guided, and attentively accompanied – for an unforgettable experience.

Norway - Just the Way You Want It

Whether you travel as a nature lover, photography enthusiast, research-minded person, or simply someone longing for the true North: this expedition changes perspectives.

Want to combine your expedition with other highlights? No problem!
We tailor your experience entirely to your wishes & budget, for example with:

Extensions in Norway
Transfers & hotels in Tromsø
Flight tips & recommendations
Combinations with northern lights adventures or husky tours

For memories that will stay with you for a lifetime.
All details and options will be sent to you in your personal offer after our conversation.