English
English
Contents
Whales in Tromso
Humpback Whales
- Humpback whales can be 16 meters long and weigh around 30-40 tons. Known for their long pectoral fins, these whales are social and often spotted in groups, feeding on small fish and plankton using a method called bubble net feeding.
- Humpbacks are the most commonly seen whales in Tromso. They migrate to Tromso's waters during the winter to feast on herring, a key food source that gathers in these nutrient-rich waters.
- Fun fact: Humpbacks are famous for their breaching behavior, where they leap out of the water, creating a dramatic splash. They also sing, producing complex vocalizations to communicate across long distances.
Orcas
- Orcas, also known as killer whales, are easily recognizable by their black-and-white coloring and are among the most intelligent marine predators. They can grow about 8-10 meters long and weigh up to 6 tons. These whales are highly social and are always found living and hunting in pods.
- Orcas frequent Tromso's waters in search of herring, which they hunt in packs using a sophisticated technique called 'carousel feeding,' where they circle and herd the fish.
- Fun fact: Orcas have complex communication systems and can even have dialects unique to their pods. Each pod has its own vocal patterns, which help them stay connected during hunts.
Sperm Whales
- Sperm whales are the largest toothed predators, growing up to 20 meters long. They have massive square-shaped heads, making up one-third of their body length, and are known for their deep-diving ability, reaching depths of up to 2,000 meters.
- While sperm whales are less commonly seen in the Tromso area than in other parts of Norway, they can still be occasionally spotted during whale watching tours, offering a rare sight for lucky visitors!
- Fun fact: Sperm whales use echolocation to navigate the dark ocean depths and find their prey. Their heads contain spermaceti oil, which was once highly sought after for making candles and cosmetics.
Fin Whales
- Fin whales are the second-largest animal in the world, second only to the blue whale. They can grow up to 27 meters long and weigh around 90 tons. Despite their size, they are very sleek and fast and can swim at a speed of 37 km/h, earning them the nickname, 'greyhounds of the sea.'
- Although fin whales inhabit Norwegian waters, they are only occasionally spotted in Tromso's fjords. Sightings are very rare.
- Fun fact: Fin whales are among the loudest animals on Earth. Their low-frequency vocalizations can reach up to 188 decibels and travel hundreds of miles underwater, facilitating communication across vast ocean distances.
Why Tromso's waters attract whales?
Abundant food supply
One of the primary reasons whales flock to Tromso's waters is the massive herring migration that takes place every winter. As schools of herring move into the Arctic fjords, they provide a rich and reliable food source for whales like orcas and humpbacks. This seasonal feast is what draws whales to the area, making Tromso a prime feeding ground.
Nutrient-rich waters
Tromso's waters are rich in nutrients, and the cold Arctic currents bring these nutrients to the surface. This creates a thriving marine ecosystem that supports all kinds of marine life, from plankton to small fish and squids. The abundance of prey in these waters attracts larger predators like whales, who come to feed in this concentrated, food-rich area.
The Gulf Stream influence
The North Atlantic Current, an extension of the Gulf Stream, plays a key role in making Tromso's waters inviting for whales. This current brings relatively warmer waters to the region, keeping the fjords ice-free during the winter. The accessible, ice-free fjords allow whales easy entry into the area, providing them with a comfortable habitat in the harsh Arctic conditions.
Deep and sheltered fjords
The deep Arctic fjords near Tromso offer a safe and sheltered environment for whales away from the more challenging open ocean. The calm waters of the fjords serve as resting grounds where whales can socialize and feed in peace. For younger or smaller whales, the fjords offer protection from potential predators, making it a safe space for all.
Minimal human disturbance
The Arctic region benefits from low levels of industrial activity, resulting in healthier waters for marine life. The responsible tourism industry in Tromso also prioritizes eco-friendly and respectful whale watching practices, ensuring that whales are not disturbed by humans. This minimal disturbance allows whales to behave naturally and thrive in their habitat.
Book your whale watching tours from Tromso
Frequently asked questions about whales in Tromso
What's the best time to see whales in Tromso?
The prime whale watching season in Tromso is from November to January. During this period, large numbers of orcas and humpback whales migrate to the area to feed on herring in the fjords.
Can I see whales from the shore, or do I need to book a tour?
While there are occasional whale sightings from the shore, booking a Tromso whale watching tour increases your chances of encountering whales. The tours take you deep into the fjords, where whales gather to feed, offering close-up encounters. The tour will also include an expert guide to share fascinating insights about the whales, including their behavior, migratory patterns, feeding styles, and more.
Which species of whales are most commonly seen around Tromso?
Humpback whales and orcas are the most commonly spotted whales in Tromso. Both species migrate to the area's rich feeding grounds in winter. Occasionally, sperm whales and fin whales are also sighted, although these are rarer.
Can I see any other wildlife on a whale watching tour in Tromso?
Yes! Besides whales, you might see harbor porpoises, seals, and various seabirds like sea eagles. You might spot wildlife onshore, including reindeer and the rarely-seen Arctic fox.
Where do the whales in Tromso come from?
Whales migrate to Tromso from the North Atlantic and Arctic waters, following the seasonal movement of herring and other prey that gather in the fjords.
Can I see whales during the Northern Lights season?
Yes! The whale watching season overlaps with the Northern Lights season, so it's possible to enjoy both experiences during your visit to Tromso from November to January.
Can I see different species of whales on a single tour?
Yes, it's possible to see different species of whales in a single tour, especially during peak season. Orcas and humpback whales are the most commonly spotted, but you may also encounter fin whales or sperm whales. The rich feeding grounds in Tromso's fjords attract multiple species, making it an excellent location for diverse whale sightings during a single outing. Keep in mind that whale behavior is unpredictable, so each tour offers a unique experience!
Do the whales come close to the boats?
Sometimes, curious whales, especially orcas, may approach the boat, but tours do not chase or disturb the animals. The whales' approach is entirely on their own terms.
Are orcas friendly to humans?
Orcas, commonly known as killer whales, are not typically a threat to humans in their natural environment. There are no documented cases of orcas attacking people. These Norway killer whales are intelligent and social animals primarily focused on hunting.