How to Plan Your First Orca Dive in Norway
Diving alongside orcas in the Norwegian fjords is a dream that few are fortunate enough to realize. In this article you'll find a step-by-step guide: when to go, necessary equipment, logistical aspects and practical advice to safely experience an unforgettable adventure.
We ourselves started precisely from the desire to dive with orcas, and the difficulty in finding clear information was the spark that gave birth to Koraliso.
Why dive with orcas in Norway
Orcas in the fjords
Every winter, orcas follow the herring schools that move into the deep waters of the northern fjords. Their presence is predictable from November to January.
Peaceful behavior during herring season
During this period orcas focus on food and show themselves to be generally calm, allowing close and photographable encounters.
Unique landscape setting
The Norwegian fjords offer a breathtaking scenery made of steep rocky walls, clear waters and snowy panoramas, making the experience even more extraordinary.
When to go and how to book
Ideal period
From late November to late January, when orcas descend into the fjords in search of herring.
Trip duration
Usually 7–10 days, including travel, pre-dive briefings and acclimatization time.
Indicative budget
€1,500–2,500 per person, depending on comfort level, number of dives and services included (dry suit, expert guides, transfers).
Booking with Koraliso
Search for "diving with orcas Norway" on Koraliso to find affiliated guides and tour operators. Each professional profile indicates availability, detailed prices and reviews from those who have already had the experience.
Technical preparation and logistical details
During dives with orcas in Norway it is essential to always follow a short course or specific briefing for cold water diving, in order to become familiar with safety procedures and equipment use.
Essential safety rules
- Maintain neutral buoyancy near the surface
- Respect a distance of at least 3–5 meters from orcas
- Prepare an emergency plan with the guide, including visual and sound signals
- Ensure a support boat ready to intervene
Trip logistics
Usually, you fly to Tromsø or Alta (direct connections from Oslo or overland), participate in an introductory briefing with the guide to define technical and behavioral details, and spend the days traveling by boat to the fjords identified thanks to satellite tracking of herring.
Two dives per day of 30–45 minutes each are conducted. Overnight stays are in refuges, lodges or small fjord hotels, which must be booked in advance because places are scarce in high season.
Practical tips in the field
For meals it is advisable to try fish soups and dishes based on herring and salmon, perfect for recovering energy. Many divers tell of the wonder of seeing a pod of orcas approach slowly, moving with the grace of an aquatic dance.
Practical tip: bring along a powerful dive light, because even in broad daylight, in the deepest areas of the fjord, natural light penetrates little and a beam of light helps spot precious details.
How Koraliso helps you in this adventure
Selection of expert guides
On Koraliso you find only professionals with international certifications for cold water diving and cetacean encounters.
Verified reviews
Read testimonials from those who have already had the experience to choose based on real parameters (guide's friendliness, quality of wetsuits provided, safety).
Logistical support
Contact the professional directly to define travel, dates and customizations of the tour (professional photo/video option, land excursions).