5 best places to go whale watching in Norway

Every year around midwinter, the Norwegian Sea becomes one of the world's best whale-watching destinations. Humpback, fin, and killer whales come from near and far to feast on migrating herring, creating a mesmerizing sight for nature lovers, but those are just a few of the species you can spot in Norway's waters. Sperm whales call Norway home year-round and the 20-meter-long mammals are the main attraction here, but venture far enough north to the Svalbard archipelago and you might be lucky enough to see the largest creature on Earth, the majestic blue whale. Dolphins, porpoises, seals, puffins, and other sea life are an added bonus to any whale-watching trip in Norway.

It's said that only one percent of people will see a whale in their lifetime, and this guide to whale watching is your invitation to join them. From the best places and times to see these magnificent animals to the must-know tips for the perfect whale-spotting experience, it's all here.

1. Tromsø

Any guide to whale-watching in Norway should start with Tromsø. The largest city in Northern Norway, the “Arctic Capital” is well-positioned near the whales' feeding grounds and you're likely to spot humpback whales, orcas (killer whales), and even the elusive sperm whale just outside its majestic fjords.

What makes it special?

A wide selection of whale-watching tours depart from Tromsø; it's also a great jumping-off point for other winter adventures, like chasing the Northern Lights.

When is the best time to go?

From October to January you have the best chance of seeing whales around Tromsø. Tours are timed to make the most of the short daylight hours, as the sun never rises from late November to mid-January.

2. Andenes

Andenes is a small fishing village on Andøya, an island with stunning views of the mountains and the Norwegian Sea, and one of few places where it's possible to spot whales in summer. It’s easy to reach from Tromsø and other larger towns and cities in Norway via the Arctic Route.

What makes it special?

Surrounded by water on three sides, Andenes' sea views are spectacular. Its western shore is soon to be the location of The Whale, an unconventional museum and knowledge center shaped like a whale.

When is the best time to go?

Andenes is the place to see sperm whales in summer, and you can spot minke whales, orcas, and dolphins too. RIB tours run from June to August, and these smaller vessels allow you to feel even closer to those spectacular tail flukes.

3. Lofoten

The Lofoten Islands form an archipelago that juts out from Northern Norway, scattered with fishing villages and dominated by dramatic mountain peaks. It’s one of the best places to see orcas and humpback whales in Norway, with whale-watching tours running in summer too.

What makes it special?

The unique combination of mountains, beaches, and fjords makes it a top destination for hiking and fishing as well as whale encounters. Nature lovers should keep their eyes above the water too as eagles swoop and vie for their share of the fish in the sea.

When is the best time to go?

You can spot whales off the Lofoten Islands almost all year round, but it's one of the only places to see orcas in summer. You can also take advantage of the long daylight hours and midnight sun for hikes and sailing.

4. Svalbard

One of the northernmost inhabited places on Earth, Svalbard lies between Norway and the North Pole. The archipelago is home to impressive glaciers and polar bears, and it's the best place in Norway to see the greatest whale of all, the blue whale.

What makes it special?

Aside from amazing wildlife, the rugged landscape of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, fjords, cliffs, and tundra makes Svalbard feel like another world. You can also see the futuristic architecture of the Global Seed Vault, the largest of its kind in the world.

When is the best time to go?

For whale watching, summertime is best. This is when blue, beluga, fin, and humpback whales are nearby. The 24-hour daylight gives you plenty of time to see other wildlife too, like sea birds and polar bears.

5. Senja

Senja is Norway’s second-largest island. Often called "Norway in miniature," its diverse landscape offers a sample of almost all of the country's landscapes. Whale safaris from Mefjord Brygge in the north of the island are a great way to see humpbacks and orcas in the herring-rich waters.

What makes it special?

Senja's mountainous western shore shelters the rest of the island from the harsh Arctic climate, resulting in a mild and lush landscape. The National Scenic Route leads you from Tromsø to Senja, making it a wonderful day trip from the city too.

When is the best time to go?

The whale-watching season in Senja starts in December, with humpback and killer whales feeding in the waters surrounding the island until February. This is also the best time of year to spot the Northern Lights.

FAQs about whale watching in Norway

What whale species can be spotted in Norway?

Sperm whales are the most abundant species, but humpback, minke, and pilot whales are common in Norwegian waters. You can also spot beluga and blue whales, as well as orcas and many other dolphin species, off the coast of Norway.

What's the best time of year to go whale watching in Norway?

You're almost guaranteed to see whales in Norway during the official whale-watching season, from October to mid-January. If you want to see whales in summer, the best spots are Svalbard, Ardenes, and Lofoten.

What should I wear for a whale-watching trip in Norway?

Wear flat, waterproof footwear and warm layers as it can get cold on the water, even in summer. Bring sun protection, a hat and sunglasses, and a rain jacket — you may need them all. Any required safety equipment, like life vests, is provided by tour operators.

What are the best whale-watching tours in Norway?

There are whale-watching tours in Norway to suit most travelers, from exciting RIB boat adventures to whale safaris aboard a luxury yacht to three-day trips that include a chance to see humpbacks, orcas, and the Northern Lights too.

What is the success rate of seeing whales on a tour?

While there's no guarantee, the success rate for whale-watching tours in Norway is very high, with most operators reporting sightings on more than 95 percent of their tours during the whale-watching season.