Text: Sonja L. Birch-Olsen

A fountain of water stands up in the air only 30 metres away and we can make out the size of the 15 – 16 metres long animal in the water, as it glides slowly forward for a while.

Then the captain shouts “diving!” and the whale arches his back, lifts his big fluke (his tail) and disappears again into the deep accompanied by the sounds of ecstatic children, clicking cameras and an applauding international audience.

Emotional reactions

Whales spark emotional reactions in just about everyone. More than any animal alive, they are used as a metaphor for our planet's fragile ecological balance.

Louise Thompson from England is totally in love with the big creatures. In fact, they are the main reason for her holidaying in Norway.

– I can’t explain it, there’s something magical about whales. Ever since seeing a documentary about whales on TV as a child, I’ve dreamt of seeing whales in their natural element. This safari has been a fantastic experience.

World record

The sperm whales hold the world record among the earth’s mammals in diving. They can dive down as deep as 3,000 metres, so it is unlikely you will be seeing the same whale twice on the same trip.

However, chances seeing at least two other whales are pretty good, as the safaris are arranged in an areas known as the whales’ lavish food chambers. Here thousands of whales come to feed on squid and fish.

The most common whale to spot during the summer season is the sperm whale, but if you are lucky you may also see pilot whales, minke whales, humpbacks, dolphins and killer whales. You will also enjoy the magnificent scenery, lots of fresh sea air, and natural surroundings guaranteed to make a lasting impression.

Facts

Companies offering whale safaris during the summer:
Arctic Whale Tours
Whalesafari Ltd.

Where:
Stø and Andenes in Vesterålen (in the county of Nordland)

When:
From mid-May to mid-September

Prices:
From NOK 870 for adults and NOK 550 for children.
Most companies have a whale guarantee - if you are unlucky and do not get to see whales on your first trip, you are eligible for a new trip free of charge or a refund.

Good to know:

• Book in advance
• Cancellations may occur, so you should not stake everything on one single day
• As the sea can become a little choppy it can be wise to take a seasickness tablet one hour before departure

What to bring:
Warm clothing and footwear