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TRIP REPORT: ORCAS AND NORTHERN LIGHTS
Alta, Norway's northern pearl, welcomed us with a blanket of fresh snow and the promise of arctic adventures for the start of our Orcas and Northern Lights expedition. Our seven-day expedition into the heart of whale territory began from this historic town, known to the Sami people as the "Town of Northern Lights." Little did we know that the next week would etch itself permanently into our memories as a dance between sea giants and celestial lights.
Some of the guest's images below:
Leaving Alta behind, we boarded the M/S Stockholm—a vessel that feels like home after eleven years of Svalbard expeditions. As the sun dipped below the horizon, we set sail, heading towards a quaint local village. Onboard, our expedition leaders, Christian and Beau, guided us through a safety briefing, setting the tone for the incredible week ahead.
The focus of our journey was clear: to spend as much time as possible observing and photographing humpback whales and orcas. Every winter, massive schools of herring make their way into the fjords, drawing these magnificent marine giants in large numbers. The anticipation was palpable.
The days rewarded us with extraordinary encounters. Both humpbacks and orcas graced us with their presence, and Christian's insightful presentations helped us understand their behavior, which in turn enhanced our ability to predict their movements and capture the perfect shot.
Photographing orcas was an exhilarating challenge. These sleek predators glide through the water like stealthy submarines, their tall fins slicing the surface. Predicting where they would next appear kept us on our toes. Humpbacks, by contrast, were gentler and more predictable. Their graceful arcs above the surface, followed by the iconic display of their flukes as they dived, offered countless opportunities for breathtaking shots.
Beyond photography, the sheer proximity to these majestic creatures was awe-inspiring. Watching them in such large numbers was an experience that words can barely convey—it felt otherworldly.
Evenings were a different kind of adventure. Each night, we docked at charming fishing villages, some with as few as 50 residents. Exploring these picturesque spots gave us a glimpse into the serene life of the Arctic. With hopes high for northern lights, we braved overcast skies caused by a lingering low-pressure system. Despite the weather’s reluctance, persistence paid off. On the last two nights—and even during our final morning—we were gifted with an unforgettable display of the auroras, their ethereal dance lighting up the Arctic sky.
This Orcas and Northern Lights expedition was nothing short of spectacular. From the breathtaking landscapes and incredible wildlife encounters to the endless photographic possibilities, it was an adventure that belongs on every bucket list. Norway has truly stolen a piece of my heart, and this experience has forever changed the way I see the Arctic.
Until next time,
Nature and the outdoors is something was instilled in me from a very young age, having grown up close the Kruger National Park. Most weekends were spent either visiting this iconic park looking for certain bird and mammal species or fishing at any given opportunity.
JOIN US IN 2025
Explore the fjords and frozen seascapes of the Arctic, in search of orcas & other whales, as well as the famous Northern Lights!