From late October through January, Tromso’s fjords become a feeding ground as vast shoals of herring arrive, attracting large pods of humpback whales and orcas. This event peaks between November and January, when sighting rates approach 100% on many tours. You’ll often witness dramatic behaviour like breaching, tail-slapping, and lunging as whales feed and interact, set against the still, icy backdrop of Arctic Norway.

For thrill-seekers and wildlife photographers, RIB tours offer unmatched proximity to whales. These boats glide quietly and swiftly within just a few meters of the water’s surface, giving you unobstructed 360° views. RIB safaris typically spend 2.5 to 3 hours on the water, making it a high-adrenaline, high-reward experience.

Whether you’re racing through fjords or cruising slowly along the coast, the views are reason enough to go. You’ll pass snow-dusted peaks, frozen bays, and remote islands bathed in soft Arctic hues of blue, pink, and gold. Besides orcas and humpbacks, you might also spot fin whales, dolphins, harbor porpoises, seals, puffins, white-tailed eagles, and old fishing villages along the coast. Some tours pass traditional fishing spots near Kvaløya Island, offering a peek into Norway’s coastal culture.

All whale watching tours in Tromso prioritize comfort. Arctic-rated thermal suits, flotation gear, boots, gloves, and goggles are provided, along with warm snacks and hot drinks like sandwiches, tea, or cocoa. For a more relaxed outing, catamaran cruises offer heated indoor lounges, outdoor viewing decks, onboard restrooms, and cafés. Plus, you get to choose the type of boat for the experience. Choose from hybrid-electric catamarans, high-speed catamarans, RIBs, or mid-sized heated boats.

Whale watching tours in Tromso follow a more ethical approach, unlike popular tourist spots where animals are fed, baited, or crowded. Most tours are led by experienced marine biologists or local Arctic guides and operators who observe whales in their natural habitat without disrupting their behavior or environment. Boats never chase or encircle whales, and guides are trained to read their behavior and maintain respectful distances. There’s no feeding or baiting—just quiet, responsible observation. It’s a more meaningful way to experience whales in the wild, on their terms.

One of the most common whale species in Tromso, humpback whales are famous for their acrobatic displays, often breaching and slapping the water with their fins. These gentle giants migrate to the Norwegian coast to feast on the abundant herring, making them a regular sight on whale watching tours Tromso. With a length of up to 16 meters, seeing a humpback leap out of the water is a memory that will last a lifetime.

Orcas or killer whales are another frequent sight in Tromso's waters, known for their striking black-and-white coloration. Though called 'killer whales,' they are highly intelligent and social creatures, often spotted traveling and hunting in pods. Tromso is one of the few places in the world where you can see orcas in large numbers, especially during the winter months when they follow the herring migration.

Fin whales, the second-largest creatures on Earth after blue whales, can grow up to 20 meters in length. While they aren't as frequently seen as humpbacks or orcas, they do occasionally glide through Tromso's waters. These majestic animals are known for their slender, streamlined body, allowing them to swim at impressive speeds of up to 25 mph, making them one of the quickest whale species.

Though less common in the Tromso area than in other parts of Norway, sperm whales do occasionally appear in Tromso's waters. These deep-diving whales are known for their large square-shaped heads and powerful dives as they hunt for squid in the ocean depths. Their unique clicking sounds are used for echolocation and can sometimes be heard on specialized tours with hydrophones.

Tromso's rich marine environment is home to more than just whales. It's not uncommon to spot playful dolphins leaping through the water alongside the boats or seals lounging on the rocky shores. You might also see various species of seabirds, including puffins, eagles, and gulls, which add to the magic of the Arctic experience.