Whale Watching
Northern Norway is one of the best places in Europe for whale watching. The nutrient-rich waters off the Lofoten and Vesterålen attract various whale species:
Where and When
| Location | Whale Species | Best Time | Price (from) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Andøya (Andenes) | Sperm whales (year-round!), orcas, humpback whales | May–September (sperm whales), Nov–Jan (orcas) | 1,200 NOK (108 €) |
| Tromsø | Orcas, humpback whales | November–January | 1,500 NOK (135 €) |
| Vesterålen (Stø) | Sperm whales, humpback whales | May–September | 1,100 NOK (100 €) |
Andenes on the Vesterålen Islands is Norway's whale capital. Just 14 kilometers off the coast, the seabed drops into a deep trench — the perfect hunting ground for sperm whales. The sighting rate is over 95%. Hvalsafari AS offers guided tours with marine biology guides.
In winter (November–January), orcas and humpback whales follow the herring schools into the fjords off Tromsø and the Lofoten — a spectacular spectacle, sometimes visible directly from the shore.
💡 Tipp
In Andenes, sperm whales are almost guaranteed to be sighted — no refund needed, as they are always there. Book a company that also uses hydrophones so you can hear the whales' clicks underwater. Bring seasickness tablets — the open sea can be rough.
