Norway
Have you been dreaming of authentic encounters with the ocean’s top apex predators? Perhaps take a closer look below the surface to see deeper into the life of a killer whale?
Well… you’re invited to discover why Norway is the ultimate destination to witness orcas in their natural habitat, where breathtaking fjords and abundant marine life converge to create an unparalleled wildlife spectacle.
November 15 - 22, 2024
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Skjervoy, Norway
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November 15 - 22, 2024 〰️ Skjervoy, Norway 〰️
TRIP ITINERARY
Here’s what we’re up to
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Meet in Tromso to get to know each other while exploring the local sauna and cold plunge culture. This day will set us up for success for the cold days that await us further north, helping us mentally prepare for the challenges we will face ahead. Of course, we’ll also find many places to stay warm from cozy cafes to outdoor fires.
Other things to do in Tromso: Museums, reindeer farm visit, etc.
If your flight arrives on this day I can help you get sorted with a place to stay with the rest of the group, or you can choose to book a night stay of your preference!
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Getting from from Tromso to Skjervoy *NOTE* It’s important to catch this last boat as there are no sailings on Saturday November 16.
Link to buy Express Boat tickets: https://fylkestrafikk.no
Once you step foot in Skjervoy the trip begins. Our team will pick you up at the ferry terminal to drive you to our winter cabin home for the week!
Here you’ll claim your beds, settle in, enjoy the views, before heading out for our first adventure of the trip - the grocery store! Meals for the week will be prepared by our home chef Raphaël and dietary restrictions would be discussed prior. But, this is a great time to hand pick snacks for the boat or make special meal suggestions.
Time to rest off that jet lag, see you in the morning XX
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“Grounding in” is a little ritual I practice on every trip that allows us to prepare for success in the upcoming days. This day is a good opportunity to get accustomed to the new time zone, get to know your surroundings and most importantly, practice using your gear and equipment for the week.
With beach access from the cabin we have options for an arctic exploration snorkel or opt for short hikes in the area.
Just maybe, Lady Aurora will bless our eyes with her Northern Lights.
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What you’ve all been waiting for!
Your home chef Raphaël will arrive early morning to prepare breakfast and lunches for the boat while you make your way out of bed to get any gear ready to leave for a full day on the water (cameras, wetsuits, drysuits, fins, snorkel, mask, etc). We’ll have breakfast and go!
This is your trip! We can stay out on the water as long as you’d like or until the weather permits. After sundown, a heated sauna is available at the marina to anyone who would love to warm up. Once people are ready, we’ll start driving back to our cabin to recap our day with conservation chats and looking through photos and videos by the fire while the cook prepares dinner for us.
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Although check out of the cabin is at noon, the ferry back to Tromso isn’t until 6pm. Depending on your flight and preference, our crew can drive you to the ferry terminal on November 21 to avoid the long wait.
You’ll be leaving Skjervoy with a heart full of knowledge and understanding for our oceans, new likeminded friends and the feeling of accomplishment for braving the cold every day!
What to expect on the water
Arriving at the marina before the sunrise with pastel colours in the sky. Our small crew of 7 will board our Merry Fisher boat and head out to search for whales. The orcas will be our greatest interest, but we’ll look out for humpbacks, fin and sperm whales as they are now competing for the herring.
For those who’d like to get underwater to seek ethical interactions that promote connection, we recommend you to be geared up and ready at any moment. Our captain and guide have adopted the USEA approach to ensure this encounter causes the least disruption to their natural behaviour and increases our chances for a memorable experience. We must remember that we are there to observe and respect, the orcas will choose to interact with us once we’ve built their trust.
Where we’re staying
Only an 11 minute drive from the Marina, your quaint cabin in Kågen awaits. Here you will find tranquility surrounded by views of high mountains and the sea reflecting itself with nature.
This will be your HQ for the orca expedition but it’s also the perfect place for northern lights, and hiking trails just outside the cabin if interested. Heated floors, a fireplace and great amenities will make you feel right at home.
TRIP DETAILS
Tell me more
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Those seeking a connection with orcas and the natural world. The intrepid traveller who enjoys type 2 fun, feels a sense of accomplishment when overcoming a challenge. Is able to withstand sub-zero temperatures, risk of cold-shock, frostbite, hypothermia, cold-induced pain and little daylight.
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From November 15-22, 3250$ USD
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Private home chef
5 boat days on the water with a captain knowledgable about Norwegian fjords
First Aid & Safety Guide
7 nights cabin rental with beach access
Professional photos from the trip
Opportunity to swim with Orcas and potentially humpback and fin whales ethically
Reflective/coloured hoods for safety when snorkelling
Chance to see the northern lights
Access to a sauna session at the end of each boat day
An intimate trip with likeminded people (5 spots)
Heated boat cabin and blankets
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Survival Suit (a type of waterproof dry suit intended to protect the wearer from hypothermia if immersed in cold water or otherwise exposed after abandoning a vessel, especially in the open ocean).
Wetsuit or Drysuit, gloves, boots, socks, hood, snorkel, fins.
Flights
Ferry to and from Skjervoy
Food (approx. 80$ per person)
Gas for car & boat. (approx. 140$ per person)
Tips for Captain
Optional Days
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Simply fill out the application form and you will be contacted for me to answer any questions before placing your deposit. 50% deposit to secure your spot. Next payments will be 25 % in August and October. If you need a different plan don’t hesitate to ask!
Meet the Crew
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Jessica-Marie
EXPEDITION HOST, SAFETY GUIDE, FREEDIVER, PHOTOGRAPHER
Hi, I’m Jess! My curiosity and passion for our oceans has led me all around the world to study ethical wildlife encounters. As a marine conservationist and storyteller I use media as a voice for our wild to ensure their protection. I fell in love with Norway’s abundant waters and am excited for the opportunity to bring you along on the journey.
I’ll be on board to ensure we are following the USEA approach method designed to respect orcas and whales, as well as creating a safe and comfortable environment for all mammals involved hehe. I hope this trip empowers you with knowledge about the life of orcas and allows you to live briefly in their world, while I capture the magic for you to enjoy forever.
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Storm
SKIPPER, GUIDE
Hey there! I’m Storm, an adventure enthusiast with a passion for all things outdoors. Whether I’m diving into sports or soaking up nature’s beauty, I grew up exploring these fjords I get to call my backyard.
On a regular day, I’m a mechanic and boat fitter, steering the ship at our Yamaha dealership in Nord Troms. I thrive on meeting new faces and sharing my love for boats and the open sea.
When the season hits, I’m your go-to guide for thrilling whale watching and boat trips! Can’t wait to share these adventures with you. Let’s set sail and make waves together!
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Merry fisher
THE JEANNEAU MERRY FISHER 795 MARLIN - THE SUV OF THE SEA
This will be our home out on the water! Perfect for small groups with an interior cabin with recessed side deck and side-door access to cozy up and stay warm. We will have portable heaters and blankets for us to keep dry inside.
Frequently asked questions
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Water Temperature: 7 °C
Air Temperature: High 2°C | Low -4°C
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If you plan on getting in the water, yes.
You can choose between a 9mm wetsuit or a dry suit. Wetsuits typically have more movement abilities in the water and you can get one custom fitted by Polo Sub for around 300€.
You'll have my assistance throughout the entire process while selecting your gear.
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Everyone who signs up will receive a packing list.
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Yes, I’m happy to support you with your project on board as well as be part of your team if needed!
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Deposits are 100% refundable before July 1. After July 1, it will be dependant on whether I can find someone to replace your spot.
Book your spot
This is an expedition where we will be going out daily on boats, spending 6 hours or more jumping in and out of the Arctic Ocean every day. While we have planned this expedition for November when there is the most sunlight, there is always the possibility it is cold, windy, wavy, bumpy, snowy.
Deposits are 100% refundable before July 1.
After July 1, it will be dependent on whether I can find someone to replace your spot.