Norway · Orca & Northern Lights · 7 Days / 6 Nights
Orca & Northern Lights Expedition · Norway · 3–9 December 2026
Join a small-group winter expedition in northern Norway, searching for orca by day and the northern lights by night. A comfortable, hosted adventure in one of the most dramatic places on earth.
Norway Tour 2026
NEW TOUR!
NEW TOUR!
Swim with Orcas in the Wild Fjords of Norway
Imagine towering snow-dusted mountains, glassy fjords, and icy Arctic waters alive with orcas and humpback whales moving through their natural winter feeding grounds-completely wild, powerful and free.
Majestic Whale Encounters invites you to experience one of the most extraordinary wildlife encounters on Earth: swimming with orcas in the remote fjords of northern Norway. These intelligent, striking animals-often called the pandas of the sea-offer moments that are raw, humbling and unforgettable.
We are a small, family-run company built on a deep respect for whales and the ocean. Every Norway expedition is thoughtfully designed to prioritise ethical interactions, small group sizes, and meaningful time in nature. This is not mass tourism. It's intentional, respectful Arctic exploration.
Based aboard our expedition vessel MS Freya, we explore the fjords by zodiac, following the whales' movements each day. In-water encounters are always guided by whale behaviour and conditions, ensuring calm, respectful interactions that put the animals first.
After each day on the water, you'll return to the warmth and comfort of Freya-sharing stories, enjoying nourishing meals and drinks, and watching the Arctic skies. This region is one of the best places in the world to witness the Northern Lights, often dancing overhead late into the night.
To protect both whale welfare and guest experience, our groups are intentionally small:
- Maximum of 12 guests onboard
- Guided, carefully managed in-water encounters
- Dedicated expedition and Majestic leaders throughout
This ensures unhurried, intimate encounters and a relaxed, supportive environment both on and off the water.
Between swims, soak in the beauty of the Norwegian Arctic-silent fjords, snowy peaks, wildlife sightings and moments of stillness that stay with you long after the journey ends. Many guests describe this expedition as profoundly moving and deeply transformative.

Why Norway · Why December
Northern Norway in early December is raw, beautiful and unforgettable. Short daylight hours mean long, dark Arctic nights with strong chances of seeing the aurora borealis when the skies are clear. During the day, you’ll head out into the fjords in search of orca and other wildlife that gather to feed.
This is a small-group expedition hosted by experienced Arctic guides and the Majestic Whale Encounters team. You’ll have a warm base to return to, hearty meals, and plenty of time to enjoy the winter landscapes in comfort.
We keep group sizes limited, choose our partners carefully, and focus on respectful wildlife viewing and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere on and off the boat.
Trip Snapshot
- Destination: Northern Norway
- Dates: 3–9 December 2026
- Duration: 7 days / 6 nights
- Trip style: Small-group expedition with daily boat outings (weather permitting)
- Group size: Limited group for comfort and better wildlife viewing
- Accommodation: Warm, comfortable base with shared common areas
- Fitness level: Moderate – you should be steady on your feet on a moving boat and able to handle cold conditions outdoors
- Hosted by: Experienced Arctic guides and Majestic Whale Encounters
What's Included

- 6 nights accommodation in northern Norway (twin share – single supplement usually available)
- Daily breakfast and other meals as specified in your detailed itinerary
- Scheduled boat outings to search for orca and other marine wildlife (weather and conditions permitting)
- Opportunities to view the northern lights on clear nights
- Return transfers between the local airport/meeting point and your accommodation (within set times)
- On-trip support from your Majestic Whale Encounters host and local Arctic guides
- Pre-departure information, packing list and gear recommendations
What's Not Included
- International and domestic flights to/from Norway
- Travel insurance (mandatory – must include medical, evacuation and winter conditions)
- Personal expenses, drinks and meals not listed as included
- Winter clothing and specialist cold-weather gear
- Optional activities or excursions not listed in the itinerary
- Single supplement (if you prefer your own room)
Is This Norway Expedition Right for You?
This expedition is designed for travellers who don’t just want to tick a box, but who are excited by wild places, changing weather and real adventure.
It’s a good fit if:
- You’re comfortable with cold weather and happy to rug up properly
- You understand that wildlife and the northern lights can’t be guaranteed
- You like small groups and shared experiences with like-minded people
- You can move steadily on boats and uneven surfaces, and climb in and out of small vessels
It may not be the right trip if:
- You dislike cold conditions or are unwilling to invest in adequate winter gear
- You need fixed, guaranteed schedules and sightings
- You prefer large hotels and big-group tours

If you’re not sure whether this is for you, send us a message. We’ll give you an honest answer.
Itinerary Overview · 3–9 December 2026
This is a sample outline only. Exact timing of boat outings and aurora viewing will always depend on weather, sea conditions and daylight.
Day 1 · Arrival in Norway
Arrive at the designated meeting point in northern Norway and transfer to your base. Meet your hosts and fellow guests, settle in and enjoy a welcome briefing.
Days 2–6 · Orca, Fjords & Northern Lights
Across these days, you’ll head out on scheduled boat trips to search for orca and other marine wildlife, conditions permitting. Expect short daylight hours, beautiful Arctic light, and a mix of time on the water and time to relax back at base.
On clear nights, you’ll have opportunities to look for the northern lights. Your local team will monitor forecasts and let you know when conditions look promising.
There may also be time for optional local activities depending on the location, weather and group preferences.

Day 7 · Departure
Check out and transfer back to the airport or onward meeting point for your journey home.
A more detailed daily overview, including typical timings, will be sent in your pre-departure information.
Where You’ll Stay & What to Expect
Your base in northern Norway will be warm, comfortable and well set up for winter, with twin-share rooms and shared common areas where you can relax between outings. Single supplements are often available if you prefer your own room.

Boat outings are run with experienced Arctic skippers and crew who know these waters and conditions well. Vessels are chosen for safety and comfort in winter conditions and are appropriate for wildlife viewing.
You will need proper winter clothing and footwear to stay comfortable outside, particularly on the boat. We’ll send detailed recommendations and a packing list once you book, so you know exactly what to bring or hire.
MS Freya - Your Artic Home
Why Choose Majestic Whale Encounters?
- Ethical, whale-first approach guided by experience and respect
- Small, intimate groups for meaningful encounters
- Experienced in-water and expedition leaders
- Family-run business with genuine care for whales, guests, and crew
- Carefully curated vessels, locations and itineraries-no compromises
