Reisafjord
Whale watching near Tromsø
Tucked away in Sørkjosen, Northern Norway, the Reisafjord Hotel offers a cozy base for exploring the wildlife wonders of the Reisafjord. Just a short trip from Tromsø, this fjord comes alive from late October to late January, when orcas and humpback whales chase the herring migration into these Arctic waters. A boat with a heated cabin makes for a comfortable adventure, blending the thrill of spotting wildlife with the ease of a winter day on the water.
Perched near the fjord’s edge, the Reisafjord Hotel sets you up perfectly for a whale-watching trip. After a hearty breakfast—maybe with fresh local fish or reindeer sausage—you’re just steps from the harbor. The boat, designed for Arctic conditions, has a warm cabin to keep the chill at bay, letting you focus on the experience without worrying about the cold.
As you glide across the Reisafjord, the scenery elevates the journey. Snow-capped mountains frame the calm, glassy waters, setting the stage for spotting wildlife. The captain, often a local with deep knowledge, points out orcas moving in tight pods or a humpback’s dramatic tail slap. Large cabin windows bring the action up close, though the deck’s there if you crave a crisper view.
The herring migration pulls whales into the fjord, making November to January the best time for sightings. They often feed near the shore, so encounters feel almost guaranteed. Inside the cabin, hot coffee or tea keeps you warm between glimpses of spouts and fins, with blankets and cushioned seats adding extra comfort. The fjord’s quiet, broken only by whale blows, wraps you in its calm.
Back at the Reisafjord Hotel, the day’s magic lingers. The cozy vibe—maybe a crackling fireplace and fjord views—invites you to unwind. Dinner, possibly featuring seafood from nearby waters, caps off the adventure. Staying here turns a whale-watching trip into something more: a heartfelt plunge into Northern Norway’s wild winter beauty, steeped in warmth and wonder.
Included
- Stay at Reisafjord Hotel including breakfast- and dinner buffet.
- One whale watching excursion from a boat with heated cabin
- Outdoor clothing and safety gear
Not included
- Transport to and from Tromsø. See available transport options
Arrival: Flexible arrival date in the period November - January.
Departure: Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays November - January.
- The Arctic Route arrival and departure tickets from/to Tromsø
- Stay at Reisafjord Hotel including breakfast-, lunch- and dinner buffet
- Whale watching from a boat with heated cabin
- Outdoor clothing and safety gear
- Self drivining dog sledding
- Evening aurora hunting on snowmobile
- Guided tour to Kronebutikken with local storytelling
Arrival: Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays in the period December - January
Departure: Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays in the period December - January
