Visiting Whale-watching trips

About Whale-watching trips

From roughly November to January, orcas and humpback whales follow the herring into fjords north of Tromsø. Boat trips from the harbour and from fjord villages reached by bus aim to find them; where the herring winters changes from year to year, so some trips involve long journeys and sightings are not certain.

Tip: Choose an operator that explains where the whales are this season, and dress for hours on a cold deck.

Plan your visit

• Time needed: 6–9 hours.
• Cost: Expensive.
• Book ahead: Book early for December; the season is short and boats fill.
• Where: Fjords north of Tromsø.

Best time to visit Whale-watching trips

Whale-watching trips is outdoors, so weather matters most. The driest, most comfortable months are:

• July: 15°C (59°F) highs, about 12 rainy days, busy crowds.
• June: 12°C (54°F) highs, about 11 rainy days, busy crowds.
• September: 10°C (50°F) highs, about 15 rainy days, moderate crowds.

When to visit Tromsø has the full month-by-month picture.

Fit it into your trip

Our 3-day Tromsø itinerary visits Whale-watching trips on day 3, together with Tromsø Cathedral, Reindeer and Sami culture visits and Ølhallen.

• No. 10 of the 16 sights in our Tromsø things-to-do list.
• Day 3 of the 5-day plan.
• One of the picks in outdoors in Tromsø.
• A family favourite in Tromsø with kids.

If you like Whale-watching trips

• Northern lights tours — Tromsø region, 6–9 hours, evening into the night
• Fjellheisen cable car — Tromsdalen, 1–2 hours
• Dog sledding — Kvaløya and Tamokdalen, 4–6 hours including transfers
• Polaria — Sentrum, 1.5–2 hours

Staying near Whale-watching trips

Where to stay in Tromsø compares every area by price and who it suits.

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