Expedition Cruise Norway FAQ

During our trips from October until January you have the best possibilities to see whales and orcas. They usually come to the north of Norway during this period, however we can't guarantee any wildlife sightings.
Please note that days are short during the winter months. At the end of November, the polar night sets in. From mid-December until the second week of January it's too dark for us to go out on the water. Therefor, we don't offer any trips during this period. Have a look at the following website for the amount of daylight during our expeditions: https://www.timeanddate.com/sun/norway/tromso

Our trips are taking place during the winter months and we travel above the arctic circle. It can be calm and sunny weather, but rain, snow and even storms are not uncommon. Expect temperatures to be slightly below freezing during the day.

Embarkation/boarding usually starts at 4 pm on the first day. We will gather at a hotel near the harbour in the center of Tromso. From the hotel we will either walk to the ship or we will arrange transport if the ship is not docked in the city center.

Disembarkation is after breakfast on the last day. If you wish to leave earlier due to an early flight or excursion we are able to arrange early check-out.

If you are unable to arrive on time for boarding please contact your Expedition Leader. They will inform you what you should do.

The minimum age for children on our expedition cruises in Northern Norway is 12 years old. Due to the nature of our expeditions they must be under constant parental supervision and must share a cabin with their parent.
Please note that our polar snorkeling activity is accessible for passengers from 16 years and older but only when a drysuit is available in their size. The drysuits provided on board start from size extra small, which is a EU women's size 34. It is also allowed to bring your own drysuit.

Flying a drone is allowed, however it should always be in accordance with the expedition leader and captain before use. Please notify us when making your booking in case you would like to bring a drone.

No, you don’t need to snorkel and can enjoy the close whale encounters from the zodiac. You will have an excellent view on spy hopping and tale waving from the ship. Plus the beauty of the scenery and twilight are also amazing topside experiences.

For this trip we provide a dry suit, hood, gloves, fins, boots, mask and snorkel. Special Warmtec undergarment is not included in the price but can be rented on board. Learn more about polar snorkeling and our polar snorkeling package here.

When have travelled to colder regions (maybe Antarctica, the Arctic or a skiing trip) before, you can most likely wear similar clothes. We recommend to wear several layers of thermal (wool) clothes to keep you warm and cosy inside the dry-suit. Learn more about what to wear and how to dress for polar snorkeling.
During our expedition you are able to rent a warmtec undergarment for EUR 75 for a week. This suit keeps you comfortable and warm during your time in the water.

No, we will not scuba dive, only snorkel with the whales. We are much more flexible getting in and out of the water with only snorkel gear. The whales are often seen at the water surface, therefore it is not necessary to dive deep to see them. Weights and belts are available on board for those who would like to use it.

In keeping with our expedition's atmosphere, dress code on board is informal. Bring casual and comfortable clothing. Keep in mind that much of the scenery is best appreciated from the deck, which can be slippery. Bring sturdy shoes with non-slip soles and make sure your jacket is never far away in case whales have been sighted and you quickly want to go outside. Wear multiple layers of clothing, since it is comfortably warm aboard the ship but often cold on deck.

There is no WIFI onboard but you can use your mobile device and sim card and use the local roaming networks. We are usually close enought to shore the have cell phone reception and data roaming network.

This often depends on the weather during the trip. When there's a lot of wind and high swell the boat will be less stable and you might feel seasick. Being out on deck ot up on the bridge might help as you have a clear view on the horizon.
We always recommend our guests to visit a doctor or pharmasist before the trip in case you easily get seasick and are prone to motionsickness.

You are nearly always welcome on the bridge, an excellent place to watch ship operations and maintain a lookout for wildlife. Please remember, however, that the bridge is a working place. To enable our officers to navigate the ship, remain on the port side of the bridge and please do not eat or drink. When in port, during rough weather and other times for reasons of safety, the bridge will be closed to visitors.

The electrical supply aboard the ship is 220v, 50Hz. Electrical outlets are standard European with two thick round pins. U.S. passengers may need a 220v/110v converter.

Passengers on a typical expedition cruise range from their 30s to their 70s - with a majority usually from 40 to 65. Our expeditions attract independent-minded travellers from around the world. They are characterised by a strong interest in exploring remote regions, nature and wildlife. The camaraderie and spirit that develops aboard is an important part of the expedition experience.

The customary gratuity to the ship’s service personnel is made as a blanket contribution at the end of the voyage which is divided among the crew. Tipping is a very personal matter and the amount you wish to give is at your discretion. It is better for the crew, if you can give them cash in Euros or Norwegian Krone.