Get wet, get adrenaline and get new big friends on this trip up in Arctic Norway.
Every autumn the fjords in northern Norway fill with herring and fish coming from the ocean to spend the winter in calmer waters. The bigger animals follow their favorite dish, and when they are all together from late October it is a spectacular show going on for weeks. This intense nature experience we hope to share with you. Welcome to Sail & Snorkel with Orcas and whales!
After having sailed with orcas and whales for many seasons we have now decided to take it a step further and jump into the water with them, and you are invited to join.
From Tromsø to the adventure
We start this trip in Tromsø and sail to where the animals are. For many years they have been around Tromsø, but the last years they have been further north around Skjærvøy east of the Lyngen alps. So most probably also this season this is the area where we will sail, passing between towering, snow-capped peaks and enjoying the breathtaking views in these areas.
The “bright” dark season
Our favorite part of the dark months in the north is the vibrant and ever-changing light. From deep blue and purple tones at dusk to days filled with a perpetual sunrise/sunset, which lasts for hours. The mountain peaks are bathed in the warm pink and orange colors, really worth experiencing.
During this time of year, conditions are also often perfect to see the dancing northern light, the aurora borealis. We sail in the heart of the northern lights’ epicenter and enjoy prime seats for the show. Along the way, we anchor in secluded ports without light pollution, we visit historic fishing villages, and sail amidst Northern Norway’s raw and wild nature, where white peaks plunge a thousand meters into the sea.
A winter sail on Valiente also includes bonfires on the beach, catching fish for dinner, and hopefully a hike or two on land during the week.
Our diving instructors
Aksel loves being at sea! While he enjoys life above water, he prefers to stay below the surface. A skilled spearfisher and former Norwegian Champion, Aksel has explored the entire Norwegian coast and has been self-sufficient with fresh seafood for years. As a freediving instructor, he’s passionate about introducing the underwater world to others. He can spend hours sharing stories about the wonders of the Norwegian Ocean.
Monica is equally in love with the sea, combining her passion for diving and sailing. As both a scuba and freediving instructor, she enjoys guiding people into this incredible underwater world. Monica ensures that you’ll feel safe and have a fun, memorable adventure.
Diving Gear
If you don’t have your own freediving equipment, we provide a free wetsuit, fins, mask, and snorkel.
Our expedition vessel Valiente
Our 70-foot expedition boat Valiente is a stable and comfortable steel vessel, built for Arctic waters. She is well equipped with large outdoor areas, a warmed up wheelhouse, and a saloon with a 360-degree view. We have a central heating system and the cabins are spacious and comfortable. On board Valiente, you’ll find your favorite spot to take in the wild and inspiring nature and surroundings. You can find more info and pictures of this vessel here.
The skipper and crew will ensure you a safe journey and are well-acquainted with our favorite anchorages and harbors. They also have extensive knowledge of whales, the northern lights, and seafaring life in general. They will also share fascinating stories and folklore related to these subjects.
Valiente is the ideal boat for any sea adventure. On board, we have a RIB tender that seats 7 people, a dinghy, and SUP boards. After being in the water, the boat welcomes you back, warm and cozy, where you can enjoy a hot shower if desired.
Be part of the crew on board
As with all our trips, you’ll learn to sail. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, we’ll challenge you. You’ll feel a sense of accomplishment and gain lasting memories. If you’re a first-timer, we aim to turn you into a sailor quickly. For those of you with more experience, you’ll be challenged to take on more responsibility and bigger challenges.
On our trips we invite you to be a crew member more than a passenger, and you will join in on all tasks on board. You will steer the boat, hoist and trim sails, cook, tidy, navigate, fish, and do anchor drams, tying knots—the full sailing experience!
Awesome experience with the whales swimming up to the sailboat to check us out. Fantastic displays of Northern lights as well as all the varieties of sailing: fair winds, storm, snow, hail and fog. All taken with good cheer in good Company.
Ling, Northern lights sailing, November 2023
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome on board!
We meet at the pier in Tromsø guest harbor at 16.00, and start by getting to know each other and the boat. We go through the boat, safety routines and the program for the week and prepare for sailing already this first evening. We aim to cast off not too late, and will head out towards Grøtsundet Lyngen and Skjervøy! We anchor somewhere north of Tromsø, to have better chances of starting the trip with a small aurora show!
Day 2: Full sailing day towards Kvænangen
After an exciting night, where hopefully everyone has also slept well and comfortably, we have a quiet morning. After breakfast, we put on our sailing gear and take a lesson in sailing on the way around the Lyngen peninsula. We eat lunch on board and later in the evening we set course for an anchorage or harbor for the evening closer to Kvænangen. If the weather is clear, we are happy to take a trip to the beach this evening for a bonfire.
Day 3: Whale watching, sauna and swimming in the sea
We start with an early breakfast today, in order to get out to the herring and the whale during the hours of daylight we have at our disposal. We try to find the herring, because that’s also where we would find the whales. Orcas and humpbacks on all sides and a horizon full of whale blows is of course our wish for today. The hours of daylight are flying by. When it gets dark, we sail to Spildra. Here they have both a sauna and a small local pub, so we will probably have a nice evening with the few permanent residents here.
Day 4: The magical winter light
In our opinion, the best thing about the winter is the light. Although we don’t see the sun that much here in the north at this time of year, the light is absolutely magical. Perfect for exploring and experimenting with the camera, with the majestic landscape as a self-written motif.
Day 5: Whales, orcas and northern lights.
We search for whales, orcas and northern lights.
Day 6; Whales, orcas and northern lights.
We search for whales, orcas and northern lights.
Day 7: Back to Tromsø and bye for now
On the last morning we have a nice breakfast. We clean, pack and tidy ourselves out of the boat. We say goodbye on the dock where we started at 10.00 in the morning. Thanks for a wonderful adventure!
Changes to the program
The program should be seen as a starting point, which we adapt to weather and conditions. We reserve the right to constantly improve the program for the better. With us along the way, we always have dinghies for beach landings and small expeditions. We have fishing equipment for the cod, and hiking equipment for bonfires and summit climbs – we are ready for adventure, are you?!
What is included?
- A trip experience with sailboat – experienced skipper/instructor with local knowledge on board
- All food we eat on board during the trip
- Our Comfort Package, which consists of accommodation on board in a shared double cabin (bunk or double bed) with a ready-made bed (warm and nice duvets and pillows!)
- An environmentally friendly, local, sustainable, unique, exotic and exclusive Norwegian adventure holiday
- A shared experience and friendship with like-minded adventurers from around the world
- A lot of time outdoors – raw and honest nature experiences
- Use of our shared equipment if available: dinghies, kayaks, fishing equipment, etc.
- All boat-related costs such as diesel, propane and harbor fees
- Personal safety equipment; Helly Hansen inflatable lifejacket
- Instruction, advice, guidance and practical training in boating and sailing
- Experienced free diving instructor on board
- Option to borrow free diving equipment – but bring your own if you have!
What is not included?
- Travel to and from the start/end location
- Optional meals at a cafes/restaurants during the trip
- Entrance to galleries, museums, or other alternative activities that you/we may come up with
- Rental of equipment and/or activities from external operators, ex. kayak, glacier hiking or surfing where possible
- Drinks such as wine, beer or exclusive apple juice and other luxuries (yes, we drink beer and wine on board, bring your own)
- Travel insurance and/or cancellation insurance – (up to you, but recommended!)
Important info
Travel
This trip start and ends in Tromsø.
You find more information on travel, equipment and other tips under Practical info.
Instructor and equipment
Experienced free diving instructor on board
Option to borrow free diving equipment – but bring your own if you have!
Deposit and payment
You only pay a deposit (NOK 6000) upon registration, the remainder of the payment is due 60 days prior to departure.
Safety and risk on board
We are all about people, and so we also take safety very seriously. On our trips we practice sail- and boat handling also for safety, and we spend time going through various situations that can arise at sea, how to handle them and how to avoid them.
On board a boat everyone must know what to do in critical situations and in the event of an emergency. Our philosophy is that partaking and participation builds safety. It is important for the safety of the whole boat that you are a participant on board, not just a passenger.
Therefore all our trips are to be considered sailing courses in addition to being great holidays and adventures: You are trained to make up the crew on board and so we build a capable team on board.
Feel free to contact us for a chat about safety and risk on our adventures.
Level of the trip
No sailing experience? No problem! Our sailing adventures welcome both novices and seasoned sailors for an inclusive and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re new to sailing or a salty sea dog, our trips cater to all levels.
We aim to transform beginners into sailors quickly while offering experienced participants greater responsibilities and challenges. Our mainland sailing journeys involve 44-50 feet boats navigating coastal and protected waters, occasionally crossing open stretches for excitement. Route adjustments based on weather and conditions ensure a safe and adaptable voyage.
Trips are not overly strenuous; with rotating positions, participants can balance sailing and relaxation. Active engagement minimizes seasickness, and if it occurs, it passes swiftly. Weather, however, is unpredictable, with the potential for stronger winds and various conditions in northern Norway and the Arctic, making each trip a true sailing adventure. Be prepared for calm winds and rough weather—embracing the elements for an unforgettable experience.
What we expect from you
Our trips require a little effort from you who are joining – everyone on board must be ready to contribute and to give of themselves also socially; the more you open up, share and interest yourself in the others on board, the more enjoyable it gets.
When you’re sailing with us you are invited to take part in the running of the ship and all that comes with it. You will be sailing, docking, navigating, looking out for whales and icebergs, but also making food, serving others, doing dishes and helping clean the boat during the trip, and contributing in other ways when needed. On board we are all in the same boat and when all help out, the ship is most happy.
Our experience is that doing things together with others out in nature, and not least cooperating and doing activities with new people and different personalities than you might have around you normally, is what creates the best, most interesting and memorable moments and stories:)
Equipment and packing
As with all activities, there is plenty of special equipment and clothing for sailing. If you don’t have any of this, you will get very far with normal hiking/outdoor equipment. You do not need to buy a lot of new equipment to join our trips. Use what you have, borrow what you need from a friend, purchase used equipment, and if you have to invest in new equipment – buy quality items that will last! What you need is something waterproof and windproof on the outside, and layered warm clothing underneath.
Some jackets may not be waterproof “enough”, or might not perform too well in salt water, so you can consider a set of oilskin for the wettest days (available for rent or purchase on board). A pair of higher rubber boots for disembarking from the dinghy is very good to have, as well as indoor shoes below deck. Out at sea and in the Arctic it can be cold even in summer, so bring both swimwear and plenty of warm clothes. Well before departure, we will send you a detailed recommended packing list.
Read more and see our packing tips here:
PS: In a sailboat, you pack in a bag or sack, not in a rigid suitcase. 🙂
Food & cooking on board
On our trips, you will be part of the crew on board and get the chance to participate in all tasks for the operation of the boat. This includes cooking and preparing food – everyone take turns in the galley! Skippers and crew assist as much as they can along the way.
We have great menus with tasty, healthy and “boat-friendly” food, and for each trip we order provisions for all meals on board. If you have allergies or preferences, let us know in the registration form and we will take that into account as best as we can. You are also most welcome to bring any special food or drink with you. Why not bring some specialities from your country or region for the boat to enjoy?
During a weeklong trip we often sail by a good restaurant or two where we can have dinner on land. Some places we need to pre-book and we will then need to choose a menu before we arrive. More about all of this when you come on board!
Life on board & accommodation
Life on a sailboat is super social and fun, but it might feel a bit intimate at first. No worries though, that vibe usually fades after the first hour. Everyone chips in to run the boat, and we’re all part of the crew, which means quick bonding.
We’re keen to get to know you and hope you’ll connect with the rest of the crew. It takes some patience, generosity, and an open mind to thrive, but soon you’ll be focused on making new friends and enjoying raw nature experiences once sea life feels like home.
Sleeping arrangements in shared cabins with double or bunk beds can be a bit of a puzzle, but we’re pretty good at figuring it out. Let us know if you have preferences. You’re on your own for land accommodations before or after the trip.
The boat provides heating and good food, but fresh water isn’t always abundant. Water conservation means not showering every day, but when near freshwater sources, we make the most of it. But nothing beats a morning sea swim for that fresh feeling.
Til og fra Tromsø er fly det raskeste hvis du skal til Sør-Norge, sjekk ut SAS, Norwegian eller Flyr. Dersom du har tid til å reise sakte så er det likevel noe vi heller anbefaler! Hurtigruten til/fra Bodø og toget derfra er en flott reise i seg selv!