Orcas and Northern Lights Photo Tour
Explore the breathtaking fjords of Norway for Orcas and Northern Lights
ORCAS AND NORTHERN LIGHTS SPECTACLE
We explore the magical fjords of Norway a photographers dream
This photographic safari is unlike any other – we combine two of the most iconic and awe-inspiring natural events on the planet – the magnificent light display of the Northern Lights/Aurora Borealis and the huge congregation of Orcas and other whales in the fjords of Norway during the winter spawning season.
Although the auroras do occur during the entire year they are best viewed during clear winter nights, which coincides with this prime whale-viewing season.
Join us in November aboard the MV VikingFjord for an unforgettable experience where we will target Orcas, and many other species of whales like Humpback-, Minke- and Fin whales hunt and feed in the fjords, whilst putting ourselves in the best possible position to view spectacular display’s of light in the northern night sky.
Overview
We will be photographing an array of different photographic genres and disciplines on this tour. From good opportunities in daylight conditions to some dark evenings, capturing the mesmerising light displays of the Aurora borealis. Breathtaking landscapes and seascapes will be on offer at almost any given time during the tour whilst we traverse the unspoilt beauty of the fjord systems. We will be capturing whales from both our ship or zodiac as well as from underwater should you wish to do so with an underwater setup. Prolific birdlife will be our constant companions on the tour and will certainly enthral the bird photography lovers.
We will not only be testing the extreme capabilities of our cameras but also our own creative artistry as photographers.
The Orcas:
In terms of wildlife we can expect to see a variety of whale species but our main objective will be to work with Orcas, also known as Killer whales.
Orcas, along with other whales species enter the northern fjords of Norway and feed on the spawning herring population. At this time of year millions-upon-millions of herring enter the fjords and evoke a feeding frenzy that is a sight to behold.
Up to 1200+ different Orcas have been counted in the fjords during this period and the photography can be absolutely electrifying.
In terms of photography there are two options. You can photograph the whales and other species from the zodiac or you can don your drysuit / wetsuit and free dive with the whales.
This population of Orcas only feed on herring and therefore do not pose a risk to humans. Should you have an underwater housing you will be able to pull off some of the most incredible photographic and cinematographic underwater opportunities that exist with these animals. This is as good as it gets with Orcas.
The Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis:
The Northern Lights are a natural event that occur year round. That said, as with all natural phenomena, there are no guarantees of when they would occur.
Ideal conditions needed include cold, dark nights when the air is crisp, and little to no light pollution.
The Northern fjords of Norway offer just these perfect conditions especially during the early winter weeks when statically we have the best chances of open skies that coincide with a solar storms. Our tour takes place during this time and the odds of photographing this spectacle are in our favour.
Included:
- Services of 2 Tusk Photo hosts + 2 Expedition staff
- Accommodation on board the MV Vikingfjord as well as the hotel on the first day of arrival.
- All meals and drinks while on MV Vikingfjord
- All activities
- Transfer from our hotel in Alta to the MV Vikingfjord
Excluded:
- Transfer from the airport to the hotel on day 1 as well as transfer on day 8 to the airport.
- Visas
- Gratuities
- Purchases of a personal nature.
- Travel costs to and from Alta / Norway
Itinerary
Embark on a thrilling Svalbard Arctic Photo Safari, with our experienced guides taking you on a journey through one of the world’s most awe inspiring wilderness areas.
Day 1
- Arrive Alta / Tromsø in Northern Norway.
- We stay at a hotel in Alta on the first night. The hotel will be confirmed closer to the departure date.
- Dinner will be included this evening.
Day 2
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Transfer to the MV Vikingfjord
- We set sail to the Orca grounds
Day 2 to 8
- Exploration of the fjords.
- Photographing whales and Northern lights
Day 8
- Return to Alta / Tromsø
- End of tour
Facilities
Discover the perfect blend of classic charm and modern comfort aboard the MV VikingFjord, a vessel with a rich history and a touch of maritime elegance.
This specular vessel was completely refitted and rebuilt in 2023 to the most modern shipping standards.
The ship has 8 ensuite cabins for a maximum of 12 guests. It boasts an open plan lounge with rear facing windows and an observation lounge in the bridge for guests to enjoy.
Furthermore, it has a hot tub on the deck as well as a sauna for your enjoyment.
The ship has been finished with light colour tones in a modern Scandinavian design.
The Vikingfjord at a glance:
- 8 Spacious cabins with windows and modern decor, comfortable beds and ensuite bathrooms with a choice between doubles, twins or singles room configurations.
- One of the rooms is classified as the 15 m² Signature Penthouse room with large windows, double bed, desk & chair with all the associated amenities of a penthouse experience.
- Sauna and Hot Tub
- 2x fully equipped Zodiacs for cruises and shore landings
- Mini Bar and Coffee station
- TV and audio facilities for presentations an training.
Room 1-4 Twin or Double / Room 5-6 Single / Room 8 Penthouse
SADC Rates
SADC stands for the Southern African Development Community, a regional intergovernmental organisation consisting of 16 southern African countries. SADC rates are special discounted rates offered to citizens of SADC member states who wish to travel to other member states. These rates are usually lower than standard rates and can provide significant savings to travellers.
If you are a citizen of a SADC member state and would like to find out if you qualify for these rates and what the tariffs will be, please don’t hesitate to enquire with us. We’ll be happy to assist you in any way we can.
