Day 1: Board your ship in Tromso
Your journey begins in the town of Tromso, sometimes referred to as the ‘Paris of the North’ on account of its romantic setting and lively street scene. Your vessel, the s/v Rembrandt van Rijn, will be waiting in Tromso harbour, ready to set sail late this evening.
Late this evening, you set sail from Tromso. Depending on the weather and the movement of the herring shoals, you will travel either south-west towards Senja, Norway’s second largest island, notable for its spectacular fjords, islets, and mountains; or north-east to Kvaenangen fjord and the island of Uloya.
Day 2-6: Whale-watching
The next five days will be spent sailing along the coast of Senja and Andfjorden, or alternatively, to the northern fjords of Ullsfjorden, Lyngen and, ultimately, Kvaenangen.
In this region of Norway, various species of whale, including orca, sperm and humpback, are frequently sighted in the early winter months, as they follow the herring shoals north into the Arctic Circle. The route you take will ultimately depend on the weather conditions, the amount of daylight during the voyage, and the expected location of the whales.
During the cruise, the ship crew will be on the lookout for humpback whales and orcas. Near Andenes, along the edge of the continental shelf, sperm whales are also known to dive particularly deep to feed on giant squid.
You may also see the rare white-tailed eagle, one of the largest birds of prey in Europe, which feeds on the large shoals of herring.
Each day, your vessel will moor in the afternoon at one of the many scenic fishing villages that still thrive in northern Norway. On the route around Senja, these stops might include Skrolsvik, Andenes, or Gryllefjorden; if travelling to Kvaenangen fjord, you are likely to moor at Skjervoy, Seglvik, Reinfjord and Burfjord. Once the sun has set, you can enjoy short hikes along the coast – with luck, clear skies and favourable conditions will allow you to see the aurora borealis.
Day 7: Return Tromso
Today will see you return to Tromso, typically arriving mid-afternoon. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the town independently. You might like to pay a visit to the Arctic Cathedral, and/or enjoy a ride on the Fjellheisen cable car for stunning views of Tromso and its surrounds from Mt Storsteinen.
Be sure to return to the vessel in time for supper and your last night on board.
Day 8: Disembark in Tromso
After spending the last night on board, you disembark on day eight with memories that will accompany you wherever your next adventure lies.
Your journey ends in Tromso. We can help with your onward transfer arrangements and accommodation in Tromso/Oslo if required.
North Norway Whale Safari
Please see price guide for upcoming departures. For rates, cabin availability, and information on currently available special offers, please contact us
North Norway Whale Safari
2022/23 Departures Available | Explore the northern Norwegian coastline in search of humpback whales, orcas and the aurora borealis on this seven-night Arctic winter cruise. You will sail aboard an historic schooner that is perfectly suited for sailing among the islands and narrow fjords of northern Norway. Available Nov-Jan.
Outline Itinerary
Price guide
Please see chart below for upcoming departures. For more detail, including information on currently available special offers, please contact us.
Pricing
8 days from £1865pp
On the roof of Africa
We had the best time ever. All 3 parts of the holiday (Kili/Pongwe/Stone town) were exceptional.
