Activity Snapshot
Activity description
Embark on a breathtaking tour of the fjord landscapes and wildlife at the Arctic Sea on this whale-watching experience from Alta. Welcoming adventurers ages 13 and up!
Alta is located in Norway’s Finnmark, a region of great natural beauty, cultural richness, and unique Arctic experiences. From November to January, the Norwegian fjords around Alta welcome the largest mammal in the world - the whale! This tour is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beautiful Arctic sea life.
Your adventure begins at one of the listed meeting points (please specify when booking). The experienced guide will collect you from your specified location in a heated and comfortable minivan. Then, you will be driven through Alta City, where you will see the Northern Lights cathedral, a church known for its distinct architecture inspired by the dancing lights so often seen in this area. Your guide will share the itinerary for the day while also relaying fascinating information about the city.
You will pass by the Alta Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site consisting of numerous rock carvings that date back to the prehistoric period. The carvings depict scenes of hunting, fishing, and daily life and are an important archaeological monument in Norway. The journey will last for approximately 1.5 hours from Alta to Burdfjord. Sit, back, relax, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the fjords along the way.
Upon arrival at Burdfjord, you will board an 18-meter-long (59-foot) boat. You and your group (a maximum of 30 passengers) will meet your experienced Captain. Then, the adventure begins! Setting sail for Kvænangsfjorden, you will admire the fantastic coastal landscape of the Arctic Sea and, if luck is on your side, you may spot the diverse species of wildlife that are native to this area. Every winter, whale species such as orcas (killer whales) and humpback whales will gather in the fjords for their big herring feast. These gentle whales enjoy their ‘food platter’, a natural and fascinating spectacle to behold.
In addition, varieties of arctic dolphins may also be spotted on the boat tour, as well as puffins, gulls, terns, and sea eagles. Keep your eyes peeled, your Captain and experienced guide will help you to catch a glimpse of them while sharing insights about their behaviours. Under the boat, for those who want to warm up, there is a heated cabin on the ship, where you can enjoy a hot chocolate and some snacks. When the whales are diving, you can still witness the magnificent sight from below deck. After the tour, you will return to the original departure point in Alta with lifelong memories!
For an unforgettable winter adventure, embark on this whale-watching experience in the Norwegian fjords.
Pick-up will be from one of the following locations, please specify when booking:
- Thon Hotel Alta/Alta Tourist Information
- Scandic Alta
- Alta Havn KF (Alta Harbour)
- Alta Airport
- Pick up from one of the listed locations
- Drive from Alta to Burdfjord (approximately 1.5 hours)
- Arrive at the pier and board the boat
- The adventure begins!
- Sail into Kvænangsfjorden while admiring the views and spotting the wildlife (approximately 3 hours)
- Enjoy hot drinks and snacks below deck
- Return to the pier in Burdfjord
- Drive back to the original pick-up location in Alta (approximately 1.5 hours)
- End of the tour
Special terms
Please be advised that since wildlife are unpredictable, their presence is never guaranteed.
In addition, this activity is not recommended for people with heart conditions.
- Guide
- Transfer from listed locations
- Snacks
- Hot drinks
- WiFi
- Warm layers of clothing
- Winter jacket
- Hat
- Scarf
- Gloves or mittens
- Camera
