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Arctic Whale Expedition Aboard M/V Cape Race
Northern Norway

Details
7 DAYS FROM 10500 PP

Best time to go
Late October – November

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Swimming with Orcas Norway 2027

Cape Race

Each winter the fjords of Northern Norway become one of the most extraordinary wildlife spectacles on Earth. Vast shoals of herring migrate into the sheltered Arctic waters, drawing in large aggregations of orcas and humpback whales that hunt cooperatively along the coastline.

This small-ship expedition aboard M/V Cape Race offers a rare opportunity to encounter these magnificent marine mammals in their natural environment. With space for just 10 guests, the vessel allows exceptional flexibility to move between fjords and follow the whales as they travel through the Arctic waters.

Guided by an experienced marine expedition team, your days will be spent searching for whales, heading out by Zodiac and, when conditions allow, entering the water to swim alongside wild orcas and humpbacks as they feed beneath the surface. Evenings offer the chance to watch the Northern Lights dancing above the Norwegian fjords.

This is one of the most immersive ways to experience Norway’s winter whale migration, combining adventure, wildlife encounters and exploration of one of the most dramatic coastlines in the Arctic.

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Swim with Orca Highlights


  • Witness the Largest Orca Aggregations in the World: Encounter pods of orcas and humpback whales feeding on vast shoals of herring.
  • Swim with Wild Orcas: When conditions allow, enter the water in small groups for unforgettable encounters.
  • Explore Arctic Fjords by Expedition Ship: Travel aboard the intimate M/V Cape Race with just 10 guests.
  • Learn from Marine Experts: Discover whale behaviour, photography techniques and marine ecology from your expedition team.
  • Watch the Northern Lights: Clear winter skies offer opportunities to witness the aurora borealis above the Norwegian fjords.

The Example Day by Day:

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Day 1 – Arrive Tromsø

Arrive in Tromsø, often known as the gateway to the Arctic. In the late afternoon you will board M/V Cape Race, your expedition ship for the coming days.

Meet your guides and fellow travellers before the vessel departs the harbour and sails into the dramatic Arctic fjords of Northern Norway.

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Days 2–6 – Searching for Orcas & Humpback Whales

Your days at sea will be spent tracking pods of orcas and humpback whales as they hunt the vast shoals of migrating herring.

Each morning the expedition team will assess recent sightings and whale movements before navigating to the most promising areas. When whales are located, you will board Zodiac boats to observe them at close range.

Weather and sea conditions permitting, small groups may have the opportunity to enter the water and swim alongside these incredible animals as they feed beneath the surface.

Between whale encounters, enjoy the spectacular landscapes of Northern Norway’s fjords, surrounded by snow-covered mountains and Arctic light. On board, your guides will share insights into whale behaviour, photography techniques and marine conservation.

During clear nights the crew will keep watch for the Northern Lights, which frequently illuminate the winter skies in this region.

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Day 7 – Return to Tromsø

After breakfast the ship returns to Tromsø, where you will disembark and begin your onward journey home.

Your time with the whales may have come to an end, but the memories of encountering these extraordinary animals in the wild Arctic waters of Norway will last a lifetime.

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Your Expedition Ship

M/V Cape Race

M/V Cape Race is a classic expedition vessel originally built in Canada in 1963 as the first steel trawler designed for North Atlantic fishing.

Designed to operate in some of the world’s most demanding seas, the ship’s reinforced hull makes her ideally suited for polar exploration. Today she operates as an expedition vessel, combining classic maritime character with modern comforts.

With space for just 10 guests, Cape Race offers an intimate atmosphere and the flexibility required to follow wildlife movements through Norway’s fjords.

On board guests enjoy:

  • Expert expedition guides
  • Seven ensuite guest cabins
  • Spacious viewing decks
  • Comfortable lounge and dining areas
  • Zodiac boats for wildlife encounters

Dates & Prices Swimming with Orcas Norway 2027

Dates and Prices for Swimming with Orcas Norway 2027
DateShipPassengersTrip LengthTrip StylePrices from
24th - 30th October 2027M/S Cape Race107 DaysSmall Group10500
30th October - 5th November 2027M/S Cape Race107 DaysSmall Group10500
5th - 11th November 2027M/S Cape Race107 DaysSmall Group10500
11th - 17th November 2027M/S Cape Race107 DaysSmall Group10500

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