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Whale-spotting in Norway

There are plenty of fantastic outdoor activities in Norway, but whale-watching is undoubtedly one of the most interesting. Norway is one of the best places to see whales, and tourists from both near and far have travelled to Norway to catch a glimpse of these fascinating creatures.
4 min readUpdated: Oct 15, 2025By: The Fjord Tours team
Two orcas splash near ocean surface as they swim together.

Where can I go whale watching in Norway?

Norway is a fantastic place to spot whales. With its magnificent fjords and fantastic scenery, Norway can offer visitors plenty of opportunities for whale watching all year round. The best spots for whale watching in Norway are in the north of the country.
In Northern Norway, there’s plenty of interest in whales and whale watching, and many locals are very knowledgeable about these fascinating creatures. In fact, an interesting new whale-watching centre is currently being built, scheduled to open in June 2023. Known as “the Whale”, this architecturally stunning whale-spotting platform and museum will be located on the northern island of Andøya in Norway’s Vesterålen archipelago.
With plenty of travelers heading off for a spectacular whale watching holiday in Norway every year, taking part in a guided whale safari is the best way to spot whales. The most commonly spotted whales in Norway are sperm whales, orcas (killer whales), and humpback whales, but you may very well see other species. During your whale safari tour, you’ll likely spot some other fascinating local wildlife too!
Large catamaran with passengers sails past snowy peaks in cold waters.

Where are the best places for whale watching in Norway?

One of the best places to see whales in Europe is in the north of Norway. Tromsø and other parts of northern Norway are fantastic places for whale watching because the typical locations where whales are known to be are just a quick boat ride away.
In Tromsø, whale watching is a very popular activity for tourists hoping to catch a glimpse of these magnificent beings. The sea outside Tromsø usually has plenty of whales and orcas in the winter, with a range of different whale safaris and excursions available. For a spectacular experience, you’ll likely never forget, hop on board a quiet hybrid boat for a silent whale-watching safari along Tromsø’s stunning coastline. 
The beautiful Lofoten islands are another fantastic area for whale activity. Since there are plenty of fjords in Lofoten, it’s a prime location for whale watching, especially in the wintertime – but it’s certainly possible to spot whales here all year round.
Humpback whales lunge feed, mouths open, surrounded by fish.

When is the best time to go on a whale watching tour in Norway?

If you plan well and go at the right time of year, you’re almost guaranteed to see one of these magnificent creatures on a whale-spotting tour. The whale watching season in Norway runs from the end of October to mid-January. With plenty of guided whale safari tours available at this time of year, you’re very likely to spot whales during your trip.
However, there are plenty of chances for whale watching if you’re traveling to Norway outside of the official whale-watching season too. Humpback whales can often be seen off the coast of Norway, especially near the fjords, until the end of March. Also, orcas and porpoises can often be spotted in the stunning Lofoten Islands between the months of May to September.
Orca whales breathing at surface on guided whale watching tour in Tromsø northern Norway

Are whale-spotting safaris safe?

Whale-spotting safaris and fjord tours are perfectly safe. On your whale watching tour, you’ll be in the company of experienced local guides. As long as you go on a whale-watching trip with a trustworthy tour provider and follow the rules and guidelines that apply, it’s a safe and unforgettable experience. Keep in mind that these majestic creatures deserve our respect, and when you’re on a whale watching tour watching them in their natural environment, you’re like a guest in their home.
Whale watching in Norway is a fantastic opportunity to see whales in their natural habitat. For many international travelers this is a real once-in-a-lifetime experience, so no matter where you go to spot a glimpse of these giants of the ocean, we hope you enjoy the ride!
A pod of orcas swims in the ocean, with snow-capped mountains in the background and soft pink hues in the sky, suggesting sunrise or sunset.

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Small town covered in snow at night, warm-lit houses, streetlights casting soft glow, with snowy mountain range in background.

Norway’s Arctic Climate

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Mother polar bear with two cubs on ice, bathed in soft golden light, creating serene, peaceful atmosphere.

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Small town covered in snow at night, warm-lit houses, streetlights casting soft glow, with snowy mountain range in background.

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Person standing in snow with arms raised under bright green and yellow Northern Lights, surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

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