In Norway, we have the privilege to live and work alongside some of the most remarkable wildlife on the planet. This unique opportunity allows us to offer our visitors exceptional whale watching experiences. However, with this privilege comes the responsibility of ensuring the well-being of these animals at all times. We follow international and local whale watching guidelines, and use our experience and knowledge in order to minimise any impact on the animals.

We believe that by following established guidelines to our best ability, respecting wildlife, maintaining professional seamanship, and committing to ongoing education and learning, we can ensure our whale watching activities are conducted in a responsible manner.

Here is a summary of the whale watching guidelines we follow.

  • The whales should always be in control of the nature and duration of the encounter with us
  • Reduce the vessel speed at a 300-400 m distance from the whales
  • Approach whales slowly, at constant speed, from the side and slightly to the rear
  • We do not actively approach closer than 50-100 m
  • Keep a parallel course with travelling whales
  • Avoid sudden changes in speed or direction
  • If whales seem distressed or show avoidance behaviour, we leave them alone and slowly depart from the area
  • Mothers with calves, or resting, feeding and/or socialising whales are approached and viewed with extra care and consideration, or left alone
  • In addition to the captain, we always have at least one dedicated observer on duty
  • Give fishing and research vessels space to work
  • If whales decide to approach us, we maintain our course with slow steady speed, or let the engines run in neutral, or turn engines off if appropriate

You can find more information about Visit Tromsø’s guidelines here