Whales

Whales

Whales in the Arctic is common to see

We are encountering whales on our expeditions and we also do whale safaris outside of the Norwegian coastline. Blue Whales, Minky whales, Bowhead whales and Fin whales is some of the whales we see in the Arctic. We also can encounter Humpback whales and Killer whales. For the latter two we also do excursions by ship nearby Tromsø.

The blue whale is the largest animal ever to have lived on earth. In the Northern Hemisphere blue whales are 24–28 meters long, can weigh up to 200 tonnes and produce a distinctive, high blow that can be up to 12 metres tall.

The blue whale is the largest animal ever to have lived on earth. Its mottled colouration, which is a mix of light and dark patches of slate grey, often appears to be various shades of blue when seen through the water. Some animals have distinct chevrons curving down their backs from the blowhole area, similar to fin whales, while others do not.

Regardless of the patterning, blue whales generally appear lighter in colour than the other rorquals. Blue whales are most commonly observed alone or as pairs. They are commonly seen around Svalbard in summer.

whales in the arctic
Seasons and light on Svalbard

Upcoming Whales tours

polar bear family in fron of glacier
Svalbard

Autumn Svalbard Adventure

10. Sep 2026 - 18. Sep 2026
We are embarking on an Autumn light and pack ice adventure designed to immerse participants in the spectacular autumn light and, potentially, the first new snow of the season on the mountains. This Svalbard Autumn Adventure includes a trip to the pack ice, including a traditional journey through the stunning Svalbard archipelago. We have the opportunity to encounter the unique wildlife of Svalbard and cruise by zodiac boats, allowing us to get close to the glaciers. Svalbard is renowned as the true realm of polar bears, walruses, bearded seals, Arctic foxes, and a diverse array of other Arctic wildlife. In September, the quality of light in around the archipelago transforms; sunsets and sunrises return after the long, sunlit summer, bathing the landscape in vibrant hues. In recent years, our autumn expeditions have been marked by truly spectacular moments, highlighting the unique appeal of Svalbard during this season.
Spots available 4 SPOTS AVAILABLE
Season Autum season
Duration 8 nights / 9 days
drift ice cruises
Svalbard

Arctic Ocean expedition and Svalbard photography

11. Jun 2027 - 20. Jun 2027
As an Svalbard Tour Operator, Arctic Wildlife Tours have long experience. Embark on an extraordinary Arctic Ocean photography expedition, journeying north of Svalbard and around its rugged coastline. This adventure is designed to take full advantage of Junes seasonal changes, when the pack ice begins to open up, presenting greater opportunities to explore further into the Arctic wilderness. Our expedition is made possible by the ice-strengthened vessel Kvitungen, which allows for unique exploration opportunities unmatched by other ships operating in Svalbard. This particular journey gives time spent the pack ice and the chance to visit some of Svalbard’s most secluded fjords and majestic glaciers. The dynamic Arctic environment offers remarkable opportunities to capture both the breathtaking natural beauty of Svalbard and the vibrant animal life that thrives in these remote northern reaches.
Spots available SOLD OUT
Season Main season, Peak season
Duration 10 days
pack ice expeditions
Svalbard

Svalbard July Pack Ice Expedition

17. Jul 2027 - 29. Jul 2027
Join us for a 13 days long expedition around Svalbard on board the "next level" ice strengthened ship, M/S Kvitungen. The Arctic Ocean and Svalbard undergoes a distinctive change as the lingering snow and ice melt during the summer. Despite the warming temperatures, substantial areas remain blanketed by drift ice, preserving the region’s characteristic landscape. During this season, the pack ice remains relatively close to the Svalbard islands. Its proximity allows for easy access, making it an excellent time for exploration and observing the natural environment up close. Our ice strengthened ship Kvitungen will navigate easily in such ice conditions. The movement and activity of the wildlife make mid summer an ideal period for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. The dynamic environment also offers remarkable opportunities to capture the essence of Svalbard’s natural beauty and vibrant animal life.
Spots available SOLD OUT
Season Main season, Peak season
Duration 13 days
polar bear in the pack ice 2
New!
Svalbard

Svalbard July Pack Ice

08. Jul 2027 - 17. Jul 2027
Arctic ocean wildlife expeditions takes you up in the pack ice north of Svalbard. On board the "next level" ice strengthened ship, M/S Kvitungen. Despite the warming temperatures, substantial areas remain blanketed by drift ice, preserving the region’s characteristic landscape. During this season, the pack ice remains relatively close to the Svalbard islands. Its proximity allows for easy access, making it an excellent time for exploration and observing the natural environment up close. Our ice strengthened ship Kvitungen will navigate easily in such ice conditions. The movement and activity of the wildlife make mid summer an ideal period for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. The dynamic environment also offers remarkable opportunities to capture the essence of Svalbard’s natural beauty and vibrant animal life.
Spots available AVAILABLE SPOTS
Season Main season, Peak season
Duration 10 days
Photographic opportunities on Svalbard
New!
Svalbard

Svalbard August Pack Ice Expedition

16. Aug 2027 - 25. Aug 2027
Join us for this expedition on Svalbard on board the "next level" ice strengthened ship, M/S Kvitungen. Late August marks the beginning of the autumn and the light changes. The midnight sun is history for this year and the nights are darker. During this season, the pack ice still remains reachable to the Svalbard islands. By sailing a few hours we will be in the pack ice, making it an excellent time for exploration and observing the natural environment up close. Our ice strengthened ship Kvitungen will navigate easily in such ice conditions. The movement and activity of the wildlife make late summer an ideal period for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
Spots available SPOTS AVAILABLE
Season Main season, Peak season
Duration 10 days