Winter Whales of Norway | MS Polarfront | IExpedition

MS Polarfront Winter Whales of Norway

  • Overview

    This trip is a unique opportunity for everybody interested in orcas, humpback whales, white-tailed eagles, Arctic winter, Northern Lights and breathtaking landscapes.

    For only a few short weeks, starting from the end of October until mid-January, Northern Norway is the place of the largest gathering of whales in the world. They follow the enormous amount of spring-spawning herring that can be found in the fjords. This unique spectacle of nature offers us the opportunity to snorkel with wild orcas and watch their behaviour under water.

    Duration: 7 days
    Passengers: 16 passengers
    Embarkation Point: Tromsø
    Disembarkation Point: Tromsø
    Physical rating: Soft Adventure
    Fly/Cruise: Cruise only
    Single Supplement: 2.0x twin rate or share options
  • Itinerary
    • Day 1 - Arrival and boarding

      Our adventure starts in Tromsø, a small city in Arctic Norway. We recommend you arrive at least one day prior to embarkation, just in case you're flight might be delayed. This also gives you the opportunity to explore the town's museums and cozy city centre or to go on a husky safari or snowmobile ride.
      A transfer from Tromsø centre to the harbor is included. You will board the ship in the afternoon of the first day. Once on board you'll have plenty of time to get settled in your cabin and explore the ship. In the evening, the ship will leave Tromsø towards a location where we expect to find whales. Meanwhile you can enjoy dinner and have some time to meet the other guests.

      Be prepared for cold but rewarding days out at sea with spectacular sightings of a unique display of mother nature. Bring a good portion of adventurous spirit. We deal with true wildlife encounters and unpredictable weather conditions.

    • Day 2/6 - In search of Whales and Orcas

      For five full days we will follow the schools of herring and pods of orcas and humpbacks in the protected surroundings of the beautiful Norwegian fjords. Our ships all have spacious decks so you can take in the amazing scenery. The bridge of the ship is a great place to look for whales and enjoy the beautiful light and views of the Norwegian fjords. We have an open bridge policiy so you are welcome at almost any time.
      Two expert guides will accompany you on your whale watching adventure. They will share their knowledge with you and will do their utmost to offer you the best experience. Our guides and crew are constantly on the look-out for whales and orcas. Whenever the conditions are right, we will take the zodiacs and go out on the water.

    • Day 7 - Disembarkation

      Our ships usually arrive back in Tromsø the night before disembarkation. After breakfast and saying farewell to the crew, it is unfortunately time to disembark. Our guides can arrange a transfer to the airport or to your hotel if you choose to extend your stay in Norway.

    Please consider that our voyages are expeditionary in nature. This means, that there are no concrete itineraries, your captain and expedition leader will utilise their vast experience to chart the best course for your expedition depending on the climatic and environmental conditions. Mentioned highlights and wildlife cannot be guaranteed.

  • Adventure Activities

    Snorkelling

    During our trips it is our goal to go snorkeling as often as possible. Being on a small ship gives us the advantage to be on location when daylight starts and we can easily travel around in the fjords to find the whales.
    To offer the best possible experience, we only take a maximum of 8 snorkelers per zodiac.

    The snorkeling activity is intended for persons in reasonably good health. You need to have a certain level of fitness and strength in order to participate. Actively swimming and getting in and out of the zodiac can be challenging. If you are unable to go snorkeling, you are still more than welcome to join the zodiac for topside whale watching.

    Included
  • Inclusions
    Inclusions / Exclusions

    Included in your Expedition

    - All service taxes and port fees
    - Lectures by the experienced guides
    - Use of sauna & hot tub on board Polarfront & Explorer
    - Warm zodiac suits for non-snorkelers
    - Snorkeling activity & snorkeling gear
    - Coffee, tea & water throughout the day
    - Breakfast, lunch & dinner (Starts with dinner on the first night, ends after breakfast on the last day)

    Not included in your Expedition

    - Pre and post voyage excursions and hotel
    - All items of a personal nature such as laundry, bar drinks, meals ashore and telephone charges
    - Flights & transfers
    - Rental thermal overalls (€ 80 p.p. at time of booking)
    - Gratuities
  • Map
    Map norway
  • Gallery
  • Vessel

    MS Polarfront is a luxurious expedition vessel that is sturdy enough to bring you to destinations high up in the Arctic. The vessel was built in 1976 and served as a Norwegian weather station up to 2010. It was created to face rough seas and harsh weather conditions, making it an excellent expedition ship. After it's years as a wheather ship, MS Polarfront started a second life as an arctic expedition cruise vessel. A highlight of comfort is the advanced stabilization system, unique on this type of vessel, which prevents rolling of the ship and ensures you have a comfortable voyage. 

    There are 2 zodiacs and 2 pedalboats on board to go on excursions and get closer to nature.

    The ship was nicely refurbished in 2018, offering a luxurious and high-end experience for it's passengers. In total there are 8 twin cabins, offering room for a maximum of 16 guests. The cabins are situated on the lower deck and all have at least 2 porthole windows. The cabins are spacious and each has their own comfortable bathroom with shower. You'll also find a hair dryer, bathrobes and bathroom products.

    MS Polarfront has a large outside deck space at the front of the ship as well as on the back where you will also find a sauna and hottub to warm up after a long cold day out on the arctic seas. Inside there's a comfortable salon, dining area, library and fitness room.

    Features & Facilities
    Key Facts
    Luxury star rating: 4
    Guests #: 18
    Crew #: 10
    Ice Class:
    Speed: 10
    Refurbished: 1976
    Technical Specs
    Year built: 2018
    Length: 55m
    Width: 10
    Draft: 4
    Tonnage: 927
    Registry: France
    Elec Outlets:
Check Voyage Dates, Pricing and Availability
All available dates
Ready to book your expedition?

We understand that the trip of a lifetime takes planning, so we make the financial commitments easy to manage.

  • Confirm your booking today with just USD$ 1,000 per passenger.
  • Pay your 25% deposit 5 day later.
  • Final payment due 120 days prior to departure.
polarfront deluxe suite iexpedition

Deluxe Suite

04 Jan 2025 - 10 Jan 2025
Twin beds or double bed Private bathroom 2 or 3 porthole windows At least 2 closets for storage Situated in the front or middle the ship
USD$ 5,488pp
USD$ 5,488pp
polarfront deluxe suite iexpedition

Superior Suite

04 Jan 2025 - 10 Jan 2025
Twin beds or double bed Spacious cabins Private bathroom 2 or 3 porthole windows At least 2 closets for storage
USD$ 5,712pp
USD$ 5,712pp
polarfront deluxe suite iexpedition

Executive Suite

04 Jan 2025 - 10 Jan 2025
Large cabin with living and sleeping area Twin beds or double bed + convertible sofa Large bathroom + separate toilet 3 closets and open shelves 4 porthole windows
USD$ 6,272pp
USD$ 6,272pp