Whale Watching Tromso

Whale Watching Tromso: Best Tours

Whale Watching Tromso: Best Tours

orca or killer whale, Orcinus orca, and whale watchers, Tromso, Norway, Atlantic Ocean

Whale Watching Tromso: Best Tours

Embark on an Arctic Odyssey with Handpicked Tickets: Spot Majestic Whales on an Expedition through the Pristine Arctic Fjords.

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BEST Tours

Our Expert Comparison for Your Whale Watching Safari in Tromso! We Have Handpicked the Top Options, So You Can Easily Choose Your Ideal Experience.

Tried and True Certified

Our Selection Spotlights the Top-Rated Tromso Whale Watching Tours, Delivering Unbeatable Price-Value. The Result of Research and Insights from Participants.

Experience of a Lifetime

Let Expert Guidance Craft Your Whale Watching Expedition. Count on Priceless Insider Tips from Norway Specialists for an Authentic Experience.

Whale Watching Tromso: Select your Tour

By Verified and Authorized Operators!

Polar Whale Safari From Tromsø

4.5

152 Reviews

From €144.38

Viator

  • Reserve now & pay later
  • Duration 8 hours
  • Lunch and beverages included
  • Free cancellation

A great tour with super friendly staff. Be prepared for a bumpy ride in places and to get a little wet if on top deck.

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Tromsø: Whale Watching Tour by Hybrid-Electric Catamaran

4.5

2.2K Reviews

From €152.52

GetYourGuide

  • Reserve now & pay later
  • Duration 8 – 9 hours
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Live tour guide in English
  • Free cancellation

Overall a great expedition and amazing to watch the whales at such distant sight.

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From Tromso: Whale Watching in Magic Skjervoy

4.7

578 Reviews

From €247.09

GetYourGuide

  • Reserve now & pay later
  • Duration 12 hours
  • RIB Boat tour
  • Free cancellation

We found the whale watching tour exactly as described. The team were very friendly and did explain everything fully to us.

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Polar Whale Safari From Tromsø

152 Reviews

This Tromsø whale watching tour offers an 8-hour adventure to Skjervøy, where you can spot humpback and killer whales in their natural habitat. Explore Norway’s marine wildlife with a local guide, relax on an open deck or heated cabin, and enjoy a light lunch and beverages during your journey.

“A great tour with super friendly staff. Be prepared for a bumpy ride in places and to get a little wet if on top deck. Best of all, we got to see whales surrounded by beautiful scenery.” Rachael_K, December 2023

From €144.38

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Viator

  • Reserve now & pay later
  • Duration 8 hours
  • Lunch and beverages included
  • Free cancellation

Tromsø: Whale Watching Tour by Hybrid-Electric Catamaran

2.2K Reviews

This ticket includes an exceptional 8 to 9 hour Whale Watching tour in Tromso, featuring a hybrid-electric catamaran equipped with heated indoor saloons and panoramic windows. With the expertise of an experienced whale watching guide, embark on a remarkable journey into the heart of the Arctic to spot humpback and killer whales. 

“Overall a great expedition and amazing to watch the whales at such distant sight. Great job by the entire team and crew who have made a memorable experience to all of us. […]. Bharath – India; 20 December 2023

From €152.52

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GetYourGuide

  • Reserve now & pay later
  • Duration 8 – 9 hours
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Live tour guide in English
  • Free cancellation

From Tromso: Whale Watching in Magic Skjervoy

578 Reviews

Embark on a thrilling 12-hour whale-watching adventure from Tromsø, featuring an exciting RIB boat (rigid-inflatable boat) excursion. After a scenic 3.5-hour drive to Skjervøy, hop into the RIB for a 2.5-hour journey through the fjords, where you’ll spot majestic humpback whales and orcas from up-close. Refreshments are included. 

“We found the whale watching tour exactly as described. The team were very friendly and did explain everything fully to us. We understood that we had to be realistic about a whale encounter and this is not garaunteed. The team did everything they could and we were really impressed […]” anoop, February 2024

From €247.09

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GetYourGuide

  • Reserve now & pay later
  • Duration 12 hours
  • RIB Boat tour
  • Free cancellation

What Is So Special About Whale Watching Tours in Tromso?

Tromsø, nestled in northern Norway, offers an unparalleled and exhilarating whale-watching experience that captivates visitors worldwide. Encompassed by the Arctic’s pristine waters, this city presents a rare chance to observe majestic creatures such as orcas (also known as killer whales), and humpback whales in their unspoiled environment. Witnessing these giants breach the surface amidst the breathtaking Arctic landscapes is truly awe-inspiring.

Year after year, thousands of tourists flock to Tromsø, eager to partake in this natural marvel, making it a bucket list-destination. Tromsø’s whale watching isn’t just an ordinary excursion; it’s a spellbinding rendezvous with nature that leaves an indelible mark on the soul.

Whale Watching Tromso: Compare your Options

Polar Whale Safari From Tromsø

4,5

152 Reviews

8 Hours

Viator

€144.38

Tromsø: Whale Watching Tour by Hybrid-Electric Catamaran

4,7

2.2K Reviews

8-9 Hours

GetYourGuide

€152.52

From Tromso: Whale Watching in Magic Skjervoy

4,8

578 Reviews

12 Hours

GetYourGuide

€247.09

Polar Whale Safari From Tromsø

152 Reviews

Duration: 8 Hours

Inclusions:

  • Guide
  • Snacks
  • Beverages
  • Lunch
  • Free Cancellation

Prices Starting at

€144.38

Book Now!

Viator

Tromsø: Whale Watching Tour by Hybrid-Electric Catamaran

2.2K Reviews

Duration: 8-9 Hours

Inclusions:

  • Experienced whale watching guide
  • Heated indoor saloons & panoramic windows
  • Hybrid-electric whale watching boat
  • Wi-Fi
  • Professional tour guide 
  • Tap water
  • Free Cancellation

Prices Starting at

€152.52

Book Now!

GetYourGuide

From Tromso: Whale Watching in Magic Skjervoy

578 Reviews

Duration: 12 Hours

Inclusions:

  • Bus transfer from Tromso and back
  • Rigid-inflatable boat whale watching excursion
  • Tour guide
  • Warm flotation suits
  • Sandwiches
  • Tea
  • Coffee
  • Free Cancellation

Prices Starting at

€247.09

Book Now!

GetYourGuide

Prepare for Your Tromso Whale Watching Tour in Advance

To make the most of your whale watching experience in Tromsø, it’s essential to plan ahead. There’s a variety of ticket options and boat types available, but we’ve handpicked the most popular ones to make your visit seamless. 

Since the boats only have a certain capacity and sell out very quickly, we strongly recommend buying your tickets online in advance, especially during the high season. This is the only way to ensure you don’t miss out on this unique experience.

Plan Your Visit
Orca calf spy hopping to have a look around at the whale watching boats. Northern Norway.
Group of orcas, killer whales traveling in Norway sea along snowy island in fiord with sailing yacht on backgound

Why Choose Whale Watching in Tromso?

  • High Whale Sighting Chances: Tromsø’s ideal location attracts orcas and humpback whales, offering an excellent opportunity to see these magnificent creatures.
  • Spectacular Arctic Scenery: The Arctic landscape with snow-capped mountains and icy fjords provides a stunning backdrop to your whale-watching experience.
  • Educational Insights: Knowledgeable guides share in-depth knowledge about whale behavior, biology, and conservation, enhancing your understanding of these creatures.
  • Diverse Wildlife Encounters: Aside from whales, you may also spot seabirds and seals, creating a well-rounded wildlife adventure.
  • Northern Lights Combo: Tromsø’s position above the Arctic Circle allows for combined tours, letting you witness both whales and the mesmerizing Northern Lights in one journey.

Highlights of a Whale Watching Tour in Tromso 

Whale Sightings

Tromsø’s Arctic waters offer a unique opportunity to witness orcas, humpback whales, and fin whales feeding on herring. Thanks to the silent hybrid-electric catamarans and robust inflatable boats (RIBs), you can experience these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat. As these magnificent marine creatures breach and play amidst the icy fjords, visitors are treated to a breathtaking display of nature at its grandest. 

Arctic Wildlife

Beyond whales, the surrounding ecosystem thrives with diverse life, including seagulls, white-tailed eagles, guillemots, eider ducks, and cormorants. Seabirds grace the skies, while playful seals bask on ice floes, showcasing the interconnectedness of Arctic ecosystems and the harmonious coexistence of various species.

Arctic Landscape Whale Watching Tours in Tromso

Arctic Landscape

Norway’s breathtaking Arctic landscape, adorned with snow-capped mountains, pristine icy fjords, and picturesque coastal villages, serves as the captivating backdrop for your whale watching adventure. Immerse yourself in the stunning views of the herring-rich Arctic fjords and the frozen landscapes, as you bear witness to the grand spectacle of nature.

Plan Your Whale Watching Tour in Tromso, Norway

Plan Your Whale Watching Tromso Tour

While the timing of the specific safari may vary depending on the operator, it’s worth noting that the majority of Whale Watching Tours in Tromso typically begin in the early morning and extend for approximately 7 to 9 hours, allowing ample time to explore the Arctic waters and spot these magnificent creatures

>> Check out our selection of the best Whale Watching Tours in Tromso

Whale watching excursions depart from the Tromso harbor (Tromsø havn), conveniently located close to the downtown hotels.

On Foot: For those staying in the city center, reaching the Tromso harbor by foot is a pleasant option. A leisurely stroll from your downtown hotel will lead you to the embarkation point for your whale watching tour.

With Public Transport: Utilizing public transport is a convenient option, with various bus and tram routes connecting the downtown area to the Tromso harbor. These transport options ensure easy access to your whale watching adventure from different parts of the city.

By Car: If you’re traveling by car, the Tromso harbor is easily accessible by road. Simply follow the well-marked routes leading to the harbor area, and you’ll find parking facilities available in the vicinity.

Accessibility for whale watching tours in Tromso may vary, but it’s noteworthy that many tours offer wheelchair-accessible options, making this captivating experience inclusive for a wide range of visitors. We recommend reviewing the details of your selected tour before booking.

Whale watching tours in Tromso often include the provision of snacks and tea or coffee for your convenience. However, the availability of these refreshments may vary depending on the specific tour you choose. To ensure you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable experience, we recommend reviewing the details of your selected tour and, if necessary, bringing your own snacks along.

Respect Wildlife: Maintain a safe and respectful distance from the whales and other marine animals. Avoid sudden movements and loud noises that might disturb them. 

Listen to Guides: Pay close attention to the instructions given by our knowledgeable guides. They are trained to ensure your safety and provide valuable insights about the marine life you’re observing. Follow their guidance at all times.

No Feeding or Harassment: Do not attempt to feed, touch, or harass any marine animals. Let the wildlife behave naturally without interference. Any form of disturbance can disrupt their behavior and habitat.

Environmental Responsibility: Dispose of your waste responsibly. Use designated trash bins and recycling facilities to protect the Arctic ecosystem.

Stay within Designated Areas: Follow marked pathways and stay within designated areas at all times. These areas are designed to ensure your safety and the protection of the environment.

No Smoking: Smoking is prohibited in all areas of Whale Watching tours in Tromsø. This rule is in place to prevent accidents and maintain a clean environment.

Safety Gear: When on board, wear any safety gear provided, such as life jackets. 

Arrive on Time: Be punctual for your scheduled tours. Arriving on time ensures a smooth experience for all visitors and allows us to adhere to the tour schedule, maximizing your chances of encountering marine wildlife.

FAQ – Whale Watching Tromso

Tromsø is home to orcas (killer whales), humpback whales and fin whales, making them the primary species you’re likely to encounter during your whale watching excursion.

The best time for whale watching in Tromsø is typically from late October to early February, when orcas and humpback whales migrate to the area to feed on herring. This period coincides with the Northern Lights season, offering a unique experience.

Whale watching tours in Tromsø usually last between 7 and 9 hours, allowing ample time for observing whales, learning from guides, and enjoying the Arctic scenery.

While sightings are common, they cannot be guaranteed due to the wild nature of marine animals. However, our experienced guides maximize the chances of encounters based on their extensive knowledge of whale behavior and migration patterns.

Yes, children are welcome on most tours. We recommend checking specific age restrictions with the booking staff, as some tours might have age limitations for safety reasons.

Yes, you can easily book tickets for Tromsø whale watching online through our official website. Online booking ensures your spot on the tour and provides you with essential information about the excursion.

>> Check the Top-Rated Tickets for Whale Watching Tours in Tromsø.

This depends on your chosen tour. The Whale Watching Tours we’ve selected provide the flexibility to cancel your booking up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring you’re eligible for a full refund. For comprehensive details regarding cancellation, refund procedures, and the option to reschedule, we recommend reaching out to the dedicated customer service of your chosen tour.

>> Check the Top-Rated Tickets for Whale Watching Tours in Tromsø.

Dress warmly in layers, including waterproof and windproof clothing. Arctic weather can be cold, even in milder seasons. Additionally, wear sturdy, insulated boots and bring gloves and a hat to stay comfortable during the excursion.

Some tours include light refreshments, but it’s advisable to check the specific tour details. You’re welcome to bring your snacks and beverages, especially if you have dietary preferences or restrictions.

Yes, photography is allowed and encouraged. Capture the breathtaking moments, but remember to respect the animals’ space and follow the guidelines provided by our guides.