Norway Orca Snorkeling ExpeditionDecember 04, 2027 – December 10, 2027
A small-ship adventure in the fjords of Northern Norway

$6,995per diver*

$6,995per non-diver*

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Few wildlife experiences compare to slipping into the cold Arctic waters of Northern Norway surrounded by snow-covered fjords, with orcas and humpback whales moving through the herring schools around you. This snorkeling expedition is designed for travelers looking for a true adventure: small-group, flexible exploration focused on unforgettable in-water encounters in one of the most dramatic environments on the planet. Between Zodiac outings, Northern Lights potential, remote coastal scenery, and life aboard the intimate 16-guest Polarfront, this once in a lifetime trip delivers a rare combination of adventure, wildlife, and remote exploration that few destinations in the world can match.

 

About the Diving

The snorkeling on this trip is centered entirely around wildlife encounters in one of the most unique marine environments in the world. There is no scuba diving on this trip.  Each day, the expedition team searches the fjords and coastal areas for active whale activity, particularly orcas and humpback whales feeding on massive schools of herring that gather in Northern Norway each winter. When conditions line up, guests enter the water from Zodiacs in small groups for respectful surface-level encounters with the whales as they move and feed beneath the surface. Guests are also welcome to experience the fjords and its wildlife entirely from the zodiacs without entering the water.

No two encounters are ever the same. Some may involve watching humpbacks lunge feeding in the distance, while others may place you in clear Arctic water with orcas passing silently below. The experience is very much wildlife-driven rather than staged or scheduled, which is a huge part of what makes it feel so special. Conditions, weather, visibility, and animal behavior all play a role, and the expedition team adapts throughout the week to maximize opportunities while always prioritizing safety and responsible wildlife interaction.

Because the experience takes place in Arctic conditions, guests will snorkel in drysuits with thermal layers provided by Waterproof Expeditions. They offer snorkeling drysuits in men's and women's sizes ranging from S through XXL (XL for womens' sizes) , but sizing availability is somewhat limited. Guests outside typical size ranges, or anyone who already owns a drysuit they know fits them well, should strongly consider bringing their own suit for comfort and reliability during the trip.

Guests should also be comfortable with the active nature of the experience. This is not a resort-style snorkeling trip. Participants should be able to climb in and out of Zodiacs, tolerate cold weather conditions, and swim comfortably in drysuit equipment while waiting for and responding to wildlife activity. You do not need freediving experience, but a reasonable comfort level in the water and an adventurous mindset will go a long way toward making the most of the trip.

The Polarfront is a beautifully restored expedition yacht built specifically for remote northern waters, combining true Arctic capability with a warm, comfortable onboard experience. Originally launched as a Norwegian weather ship, the vessel was designed for stability and rough conditions, making it exceptionally well suited for winter travel in the fjords of Northern Norway. Carrying just 16 guests, the experience on board feels far more personal than a traditional cruise, with the flexibility and small-group atmosphere that make trips like this so special.

The ship itself is thoughtfully set up for expedition travel. Spacious exterior decks provide excellent wildlife viewing and photography opportunities, while easy Zodiac access allows for efficient departures during snorkeling and exploration outings. Inside, the Coriolis Lounge serves as the social hub of the boat, where guests gather for meals, presentations, photo sharing, and relaxed evenings after a day outside. The vessel also features a panoramic sauna, outdoor hot tub, small fitness room, and onboard library, all of which make returning from the cold especially enjoyable. An open bridge policy means guests are often welcome on the bridge with the captain and guides while underway.

Food aboard the Polarfront is a major part of the experience. Meals are designed around long days in cold environments, with hearty, high-quality cuisine served in a relaxed communal setting. The boat emphasizes locally sourced and responsibly produced ingredients, with a mix of Scandinavian and French influence throughout the menu.

Cabins aboard the Polarfront are all spacious suites with private bathrooms, heated towel racks, storage space, and multiple porthole windows. Unlike many expedition vessels, there are no small “standard” cabins onboard.

The Executive Suite is the largest cabin on the ship at approximately 26.8 m² (288 ft²), featuring a large sleeping and sitting area, four porthole windows, a spacious bathroom with separate toilet, and extensive storage. It includes one fixed double bed and is best suited for a couple. There is only one Executive Suite onboard.

The Superior Suites range from approximately 19 to 23.5 m² (205–253 ft²) and offer additional living space along with flexible bedding configurations that can be arranged as either twin beds or one double bed. These suites include private bathrooms, multiple porthole windows, and generous storage, making them an excellent option for either couples or friends traveling together.

The Deluxe Suites range from approximately 18 to 20.5 m² (194–221 ft²) and provide a comfortable, efficient home base between excursions. They also feature flexible bedding arrangements, private bathrooms, multiple porthole windows, and well-designed storage space. While slightly smaller than the Superior Suites, they still feel spacious by expedition ship standards and are very comfortably appointed for the week onboard

Your Norway adventure leaves from Tromso, Norway. We suggest arriving a day or two early to ensure you are there for the trip should any travel disruptions occur.

Included in your trip:

• Accommodation 6 nights, 7 days
• All breakfast, lunch and diners, Coffee
and tea
• Zodiac excursions and 2x Waterproof
Expeditions Snorkel guides
• Snorkel equipment (Waterproof D9
drysuit, snorkel, mask, boots and fins)
• Port and fuel charges as part of the
programme.

 

Not included:
• Alcoholic drinks;
• Optional pre and after tours;
• Transfers upon request;
• Air Tickets and hotels;
• Personal travel and cancellation Insurances. Kindly note that travel insurance, including medical evacuation & repatriation cover is mandatory for all voyages on the Polarfront.

  • Executive Suite: the largest cabin on board, with one fixed bed and best suited for a couple. There’s only one of these.  $9750 per person (double occupancy)
  • Superior Suites: a step up in size with flexible bedding, good for couples or two people sharing. (4 suites/8 spots) $7995/person (double occupancy)
  • Deluxe Suites: comfortable, efficient cabins that work for couples or two people sharing. (3 suites/4 spots) $6995/person (double occupancy)Travelers signing up solo will be matched with a roommate of the same gender