If there’s one experience in Tromsø that left me speechless, it was the whale watching tour from Tromsø to Skjervøy. I joined the tour with my husband in November 2024, and it was one of the most surreal, humbling, and beautiful days I’ve ever spent in the Arctic. We found the tour on GetyourGuide and simply loved it.

The Season:
Whale season runs from late October to mid-January, when herring attract humpback whales and orcas into the fjords. The best sightings are usually near Skjervøy, which is why tours make the long journey north.

The Journey:
This is not a short sightseeing trip—it’s a full-day adventure, 8+ hours, starting early in the morning while it’s still dark. Bundled in layers, we watched the sky transform into the magical Arctic blue twilight, culminating in a glowing polar sunrise by the whale-spotting area. That alone was worth the trip.

What We Saw:
On our day, the whales were a bit shy. No orcas, but a few humpbacks showed themselves—their tails rising slowly from the water, the mist from their blowholes, vanishing as quietly as they appeared. Every sighting left everyone in quiet awe. Nature is unpredictable—whales might appear, or they might not—but the fjords, Arctic light, and wildlife make the trip unforgettable regardless.

Practical Tips:

• Motion sickness: The sea can be rough—bring pills even if you usually don’t need them.

• Food: The boat offers snacks, but they’re limited—pack your own snacks and a thermos of hot tea or coffee.

• Clothing: It’s extremely cold on deck; wear layers, windproof clothing, and gloves/scarf for your face.

• Expect the unexpected: Sometimes you see whales, sometimes not. Either way, the fjords and Arctic scenery are magical.

Why I Recommend This Tour:
This isn’t just whale watching—it’s a chance to feel small in a vast, quiet, impossibly beautiful world. Fjords, Arctic light, cold wind on your cheeks, the hush while waiting for life to appear in the water—it’s a full Arctic experience. If you’re in Tromsø during whale season, don’t miss it, but be prepared both physically and emotionally.