Auroras and Whales #01

Description

Description

Winter is coming, the sun is beginning to disappear over the Arctic as it is travelling lower and lower over the horizon, thus colouring the daytime sky with fantastic colours of oranges, reds and purples, allowing photographers to enjoy the long ‘golden hour’ and soft light.

This time of year simultaneously reveals two main attractions of northern Norway: the aurora borealis and herds of whales.

The Northern Lights in northern Norway can be seen from September to March. Depending on their intensity, they paint the sky with a wide range of colors and create dynamic, unforgettable displays. Spending a full week in the north significantly increases the chances of witnessing them, as visibility largely depends on cloud cover. During this time, we stay far away from civilization, replacing city lights with breathtaking mountain views.

Every year in the second part of October herds of whales enter the fjords near Spildra following shoals of herring and are stay here until January. The word ‘herds’ is used deliberately, as we usually see many whales rather than individuals. The Kvænangen Fjord is visited by groups of orcas and humpback whales, but we also happen to see sperm whales and fin whales. The whales are really close to us and we can observe them hunting, playing and raising their young.

The highlight of the trip is a stay on the stunning island of Spildra. Wild, remote and largely unknown, with beautiful beaches, mountains, hiking trails and a fascinating history. This is also where our aurora-watching spots are located. Additionally, Spildra offers other attractions, such as a sauna, a bonfire and evenings in a cozy local pub, where dinners with friendly islanders reveal stories about life in the far North and uncover the secrets of the Arctic. You will feel at home, well, very very far in the North indeed. The small fishing harbor always has space for our yacht and serves as our base for whale-watching safaris, as the whales arrive right here.

We will explore the Kvænangen Fjord, surrounded by spectacular mountain ranges. We will sail deep into the picturesque Jøkelfjord, which ends at the Øksfjordjøkelen glacier. We will also try to find time for fishing. During the day, our main focus will be searching for pods of humpback whales and orcas, while at night we will hunt for the Northern Lights. We will also hike on Spildra Island, aiming to reach beautiful beaches, rock formations, and ancient Sámi or bear burial sites.

All of this combines into an unforgettable and truly unique experience. The expedition requires engagement from participants and, at times, overcoming discomfort and personal limits — you may feel like an explorer. After all, this is the remote High Arctic, where many things are naturally more challenging.

One of the greatest advantages of this expedition is that we maximize our time searching for the main attractions: whales, orcas and the Northern Lights. For this reason, we remain in the area around Spildra Island, which lies at the very heart of this extraordinary world. We avoid losing two full expedition days sailing the Tromsø–Spildra–Tromsø route or waiting for suitable weather windows, as participants can reach the island quickly and affordably within a few hours using convenient public transportation (high-speed ferries or buses).

Those who wish may extend their stay in Tromsø to explore the city and nearby attractions. We are happy to assist with organizing your stay in Tromsø as well as returning from Spildra Island.

Date of the Trip:

22/10/2026 - 29/10/2026

Number of Days:

Trip Route:

Spildra – Orca and Whale Safari – Kvænangen – Jøkelfjord – Burfjord – Spildra

Difficulty Level:

easy / tourist

Description of the Trip

This time of year simultaneously reveals two main attractions of northern Norway: the aurora borealis and herds of whales.

Those who wish may extend their stay in Tromsø to explore the city and nearby attractions. We are happy to assist with organizing your stay in Tromsø as well as returning from Spildra Island.

Gallery

Date and Price

Date: 22/10/2026 - 29/10/2026

1,350.00€ + 380.00€ (common contribution)

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Price - read!

The price includes:
accommodation in a 2/3-bed cabin
cruise on a fully equipped expedition yacht
yacht navigation and the care of an experienced captain
yacht insurance and search and rescue insurance
individual participant’s insurance against personal accidents, costs of medical treatment and luggage
contributions to the Tourist Guarantee Fund and the Tourist Assistance Fund
taxes and cruise fees
sailing knowledge training

The common contribution includes:

food and drinks for the participants
administrative fees

Additionally we provide:

assistance in finding the most favourable flight options
advice on preparing for the trip

The price does not include:

transport to and from the cruise
additional expenses ashore, such as shopping or restaurants
dinner in a cosy pub on Spildra (about 350 NOK – 30 EUR)
sauna on Spildra (200 NOK)

Payment schedule:
20% – at the time of booking
40% – 5 months before the beginning of the trip
40% – 3 months before the beginning of the trip
If any of the dates falls later than three months before the expedition starts, the payment should be made at the time of booking or three months before the expedition starts.

Trip Program

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Day 1: Tromsø

Tromsø

We start embarkation at 4 p.m. We explore Tromsø by walking its streets – admiring the historical centre of the town, interesting colourful houses, the open-air museum, the cathedral, to reach the most popular Storgata street, where we can stock up on souvenirs and relax in one of numerous bars.

In the evening we socialise over a shared dinner and, if conditions are favourable, we end the day with a walk together and await the appearance of the extraordinary aurora borealis.

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Day 2-7: Tromsø – Kvænangen – Spildra – Whale and Orca Safari – Kvænangen – Jøkelfjord – Burfjord – Spildra

Tromsø – Kvænangen – Spildra – Whale and Orca Safari – Kvænangen – Jøkelfjord – Burfjord – Spildra

We set sail after breakfast. We sail along picturesque fjords, admiring Tromso from the water. After a few hours, we pass the Lyngen peninsula with its landscapes of the rocky Lyngen Alps, whose steep slopes almost rise out of the water. The surrounding Ullsfjorden and Lyngenfjorden are thus extremely picturesque.

Our base for the coming days will be the picturesque island of Spildra — our northern gem, full of beautiful and atmospheric places with beaches, coves, skerries, small houses and striking rock formations. The horizon is enclosed by stunning mountain landscapes. In recent years, this area has been chosen by humpback whales and orcas as a place to feed and hunt and we often observe their pods directly from the island.

Spildra also offers excellent conditions for observing the Northern Lights. It is easy to find locations with minimal artificial light, which combined with the surrounding landscapes, allow for spectacular aurora photography.

Each day after breakfast, we will aim to head out for several hours to observe whales and explore the Kvænangen Fjord. We will spend the coming days searching for pods of humpback whales and orcas, as well as watching sea eagles soaring above. Whales usually move in large groups here, ranging from a dozen to several dozen individuals as they hunt herring. We may even witness the famous carousel feeding technique used by orcas.

One day will be dedicated to sailing into the deep and narrow mountain fjord Jøkelfjord, which ends at the Øksfjordjøkelen glacier. From the deck of the yacht, we should be able to see the glacier’s front rising above us, along with its distinctive blue hues.

We will also try to find time for fishing and preparing our catch in a traditional way, as the taste of fresh cod or halibut is truly unforgettable.

We will set aside time for hiking (and if there is snow, we have our own snowshoes) to reach the most beautiful spots on the island, especially on days with poorer weather. The surrounding scenery — beaches, rocks, and lighthouses — creates unforgettable views.

Among our land-based activities, we are planning an evening barbecue in a cozy, glass-enclosed shelter. We will schedule it to maximize our chances of admiring the Northern Lights.

We will also visit a small local pub run by Roy and Rita, where, over local beer, we will meet island residents and learn more about life in the far north — about humpback whale behavior and whether orcas are truly friendly animals. We are friends with the island’s inhabitants, which is why we love returning here and sharing the atmosphere and daily life of this remote Norwegian corner of the world with our expedition participants.

On the evening of the seventh day, we will prepare a farewell dinner together.

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Day 8: Spildra – Tromsø

Spildra – Tromsø

This day must always come — the day of farewells and returns. We hope that everyone will leave the yacht filled with fascination for the northern world and its unique beauty, carrying unforgettable memories of close and extraordinary encounters with whales.

At 06:05, ferry No. 9 departs from Spildra Island, arriving in Skjervøy at approximately 07:00. From there, at 07:35, a high-speed ferry departs for Tromsø (Prostneset), arriving at 09:55. This timing allows for convenient connections to return flights home.

In case of bad weather, the return journey may be carried out in the same way as the arrival by bus. At 05:40, bus No. 150 departs from nearby Burfjord and arrives in Tromsø at approximately 10:40.

Participants who wish to extend their stay in Tromsø can organize additional excursions based on our recommendations and assistance.

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Day Options: Self-guided excursions in the Tromsø area

Self-guided excursions in the Tromsø area

Participants who wish to extend their stay in Tromsø may choose from the following options:

OPTION 1: Fløya

A cable car ride to the Fløya viewpoint (671 m a.s.l.), offering a magnificent panoramic view of Tromsø and the surrounding area. The viewpoint is located halfway up the mountain at the upper station of the Fjellheisen cable car. For more ambitious hikers, the summit can be reached with an additional 45-minute gentle ascent. On the way back, it is possible to visit the Arctic Cathedral, one of Tromsø’s most iconic landmarks.

OPTION 2: Kvaløya and Sommarøya

Scenic road trip along the coastline of Kvaløya Island, offering breathtaking views, fjords, coves and beaches. The route passes through valleys surrounded by beautiful mountains, with waterfalls cascading down into small lakes. Along the way, there are frequent warnings about wandering reindeer and moose. The landscape changes constantly, displaying a full spectrum of colors and shapes. Stops include the beautifully located villages of Kaldfjord and Ersfjordbotn.

The next stop is Sommarøy Island — often referred to as the Arctic Maldives. White sandy beaches, turquoise waters and traditional fishing cabins create a truly unique atmosphere shaped by the Arctic seasons. In summer, Sommarøy experiences nearly 70 days of midnight sun, while in winter it is known for strong winds, snowstorms and skies illuminated by the Northern Lights. The island is considered one of the most beautiful places in Norway and is a popular holiday destination for Norwegians. Local legend says that residents once petitioned the government to declare Sommarøy a time-free zone. Arctic surfers also test their skills here.

On site, there is time to explore the most beautiful spots and beaches. From here, you can also see Håja Island, whose distinctive shape inspired the architect of Tromsø’s famous Arctic Cathedral. If conditions allow, a hike to Hillesøytoppen is possible — the view is truly breathtaking. Caution is required due to low-flying sea eagles nesting in the area. After descending, a warm coffee at the cozy Arctic Hotel tastes especially good.

OPTION 3: Brosmetinden hike

Equipped with snowshoes, participants can hike up Brosmetinden, which offers spectacular panoramic views of the ocean and nearby islands. The summit reaches 525 meters and the round-trip distance of approximately 4 km takes about 1–2 hours. If energy and motivation allow, it is also possible to continue to the center of the island and hike Nattmålsfjellet (300 m), part of the Kattfjordeidet mountain range, often referred to as the “Scandinavian Chamonix” due to its high peaks and dramatic scenery. This hike is also relatively easy and takes about 40 minutes one way.

OPTION 4: Dog sledding

Animal lovers and adrenaline seekers can spend the first part of the day at a husky farm, where they can try their hand at driving a dog sled.

OPTION 5: Reindeer and Sámi village

A visit to a Sámi village, whose inhabitants have lived in these lands for centuries. As Sámi culture is closely connected with reindeer herding, participants can see a large herd of approximately 200 reindeer. The excursion includes feeding the reindeer, a reindeer sled ride, warm drinks, and a traditional bidos soup — made with reindeer meat and vegetables. A vegetarian version of the dish is also available.

The above program is only a framework and so is subject to change. Its execution depends on weather conditions. The order of individual stages may be modified and adapted to prevailing conditions and some elements of the program may be altered, shortened, or not carried out at all. The expedition takes place in the far north during the winter season. No one else operates expeditions of this kind in these conditions, and participants must be aware of the associated risks. On the other hand, the beauty of the raw northern environment lies in the fact that very little comes easily, and each time we feel like explorers of the polar regions. After all, this is the Arctic.

The expeditions take place during the period when the polar night is approaching or already present. With each day, the amount of daylight decreases. At the beginning of November, there are approximately 8 hours of daylight; by the end of November, this is reduced to around 4–5 hours, and in December there are only 3–4 hours of light (depending on cloud cover). In January, daylight gradually returns. This period is also when whales choose to visit the fjords — their numbers increase from mid-October to the end of December, and they begin to depart from mid-January onward. During this time of year, the Northern Lights are also particularly active.

Our top priority is to take you on a yacht journey into fjords inhabited by orcas and humpback whales. Observing them up close is one of the most extraordinary experiences of human interaction with wildlife. We also want to invite you to our friendly, little-known island of Spildra — it is truly beautiful.

During the expedition, while staying on Spildra, weather conditions may prevent us from going out to sea. In such cases, we will dedicate time to hiking on the island and engaging in other activities aboard the yacht. We are responsible for the expedition activities in the Spildra area; participants reach the island on their own responsibility. However, we provide guidance and assistance on how to get there in the most efficient way.

Snorkeling during the Northern Lights & Whales trips

This is an optional add-on during our trip, carried out in cooperation with Roy and on his vessel.

Roy has been organizing snorkeling expeditions for many years and is the person with the greatest experience in this field. We have been working with him for the third year now. Roy has lived on the island for over 30 years and has extensive knowledge of the habits of whales and orcas—where to find them and how to snorkel with them safely.

The several-hour trip starts and ends on Spildra.

Snorkeling takes place from a motor yacht or a ship, which means that before and during snorkeling, participants are not exposed to the cold in the same way as those operating from RIBs or speedboats. Roy’s full snorkeling expeditions take place from Monday to Thursday, so the snorkeling option within our trip may be organized during the weekend. For this to be possible, Roy must be available on one of those days, the weather conditions must be suitable, and there must be 3–4 interested participants from our group. There is no need to bring your own equipment, as everything except a mask and snorkel can be rented locally.

If you are interested in this option, please let us know during registration, and if a group is formed, we will do our best to organize it.

This option is available at an additional cost.

Despite the challenges described above, we are proud of our Auroras and Whales expeditions. They enjoy great popularity, and the majority of our participants decide to join based on recommendations from friends who have previously taken part in these trips.