Imagine sliding quietly into icy Arctic water while orcas (killer whale norway) and humpback whales glide through shimmering clouds of herring beneath you. Above, snow-dusted mountains rise straight from glassy fjords. Later that night, you are in a hot sauna, watching the aurora borealis dance over a dark, silent bay. This is the kind of experience Valhalla Expedition has built its entire philosophy around.
Based in remote Seglvik in northern Norway, Valhalla Expedition runs intimate whale-watching and snorkeling adventures designed for serious nature lovers, underwater enthusiasts and photographers who want more than a quick boat trip. With a maximum of 8 guests per boat, ocean‑worthy RIBs, experienced crews and a strong commitment to ethical, low‑impact wildlife tourism, every element is crafted to deliver powerful encounters that still put animal welfare and safety first.
Why the Arctic Fjords Around Seglvik Are So Special
Each winter, herring gather in the fjords of northern Norway, attracting large numbers of orcas and humpback whales. Seglvik, a small settlement only reachable by boat, sits directly in this wild, dramatic landscape.
From this secluded base, guests with Valhalla Expedition are surrounded by:
- Rich marine life including orcas, humpback whales and seabirds that follow the herring.
- Photogenic fjords and mountains where steep peaks drop straight into deep blue water.
- Minimal light pollution that makes the northern lights and star-filled skies stand out in vivid detail.
The result is a setting that naturally combines wildlife encounters with landscape and night-sky photography, giving you multiple subjects to shoot and enjoy every day and night of your trip.
Small Groups, Big Experiences: The Valhalla Expedition Difference
Valhalla Expedition’s trips are intentionally small and personal. The focus is on quality of experience, not volume of guests.
- Maximum 8 guests per boat so everyone has space, clear views and calm access to the water.
- Ocean‑worthy RIB boats that are fast, agile and designed for high‑seas navigation in Arctic conditions.
- Highly qualified, experienced crews who know the local weather, fjords and whale behavior intimately.
- Remote base in Seglvik for a true “far away” feeling, whale spotting directly from the house and quick access to the action.
This setup allows the team to adapt to conditions, move efficiently when needed and position the boat thoughtfully without crowding the animals or other vessels. Guests benefit from both comfort and a sense of real adventure.
Ethical Whale Watching: Low Impact, High Respect
One of Valhalla Expedition’s core values is that breathtaking encounters should never come at the expense of the wildlife you are there to see. The team follows an ethic that prioritizes animal welfare over guest demands or dramatic photos.
What Ethical Whale Watching Means in Practice
- No chasing whales or orcas; the boats do not pursue animals at high speed or cut off their path.
- Safe distances are respected, allowing the whales to decide if they approach or simply continue on their way.
- Calm, predictable boat movements to avoid stress or disturbance to feeding, socializing or resting animals.
- No risky behavior to satisfy requests; the crew will not be pressured into unsafe or unethical actions.
This approach creates a more relaxed atmosphere for both humans and whales. When animals are calm and undisturbed, natural behavior is easier to observe and photograph, and guests often describe the experience as more meaningful and authentic.
Snorkeling with Orcas: High Adrenaline, Deep Connection
For many visitors, the highlight of a Valhalla Expedition trip is the chance to snorkel in the Arctic fjords when conditions allow. Seeing orcas underwater is an intense, often life‑changing experience, and the team designs every step around safety, respect and the comfort level of each guest.
How a Snorkeling Drop Typically Works
- Positioning the boat: The captain carefully positions the RIB at a respectful distance from the whales, anticipating their likely direction.
- Clear instructions: When conditions are right, you will hear the call to get ready. Final guidance is given before anyone enters the water.
- Controlled entry: At the captain’s signal, snorkelers slide quietly off the side of the boat, staying together and following the guide’s lead.
- Observe, never chase: In the water, guests remain passive observers. The orcas choose if and how close they come.
Under the surface, the world changes instantly. You may see black‑and‑white silhouettes weaving through shimmering curtains of herring, hear distant calls and clicks and feel the surge of cold, clear water. Many guests describe it as watching an underwater ballet, with the whales moving in perfect, silent coordination.
Safety First, Always
Because of the powerful environment and the presence of large animals, safety is non‑negotiable:
- Experienced guides choose when and where snorkel entries happen, based on weather, sea state and animal behavior.
- Quality gear and briefings help you handle the cold and understand exactly what to do in and out of the water.
- Personal limits respected; if you prefer to stay on the boat and photograph from above, that is always an option.
This balance of adrenaline and careful oversight allows guests to experience raw Arctic nature while staying well within safe boundaries.
Beyond the Boat: Complete Arctic Experiences on Shore
Valhalla Expedition is not just a daytime whale tour. Your base in Seglvik is part of the adventure, with a full “after‑sea” program that showcases the best of Arctic nights and local culture.
Aurora & Night‑Sky Viewing
Seglvik’s isolation means minimal light pollution, offering dark skies and wide horizons. In the evenings, you can step outside to:
- Watch the aurora borealis from nearby viewpoints with unobstructed fjord and mountain panoramas.
- Photograph Arctic landscapes at night, from snowy ridges and reflections on the sea to the northern lights when they appear.
For photographers, this is a rare opportunity to combine daytime marine life shots with dramatic night‑sky images in a single trip.
Sauna, Jacuzzi & Arctic “After Sea” Comfort
After hours out on the water, the contrast of warmth and relaxation is a big part of what makes Valhalla Expedition’s trips so memorable. Guests can enjoy:
- Sauna sessions to thaw out and share stories from the day.
- Jacuzzi time under the open sky, sometimes with auroras flickering above.
- Bonfires on shore that add a cozy, traditional Arctic atmosphere.
These simple experiences turn each evening into a mini celebration of what you have seen and felt during the day.
Authentic Sami Cuisine & Culture
Food plays a central role in the Valhalla Expedition philosophy. Rather than generic meals, you are introduced to local flavors and traditions:
- High‑quality local ingredients rooted in northern Norwegian and Sami culture.
- Meals prepared by a Sami cook who brings culinary heritage directly to your table.
This focus on local cuisine adds depth to the experience, connecting you not only with the environment and wildlife but also with the people who call this region home.
A Typical Day with Valhalla Expedition
Every day in the Arctic is different, shaped by weather, light and wildlife. However, most days with Valhalla Expedition follow a comfortable, experience‑rich rhythm.
- Morning: A relaxed breakfast while the crew checks conditions and plans the day’s route.
- Daytime at sea: Several hours on the RIB boats searching for orcas, humpbacks and other wildlife, with opportunities for both whale watching and snorkeling when conditions are suitable.
- Afternoon return: Back to Seglvik for hot drinks, showers and time to review photos, share impressions and warm up.
- Evening “after sea”: Sauna, jacuzzi, bonfire, dinner featuring local cuisine and, when the sky cooperates, aurora and stars.
Because groups are small, there is plenty of time for personal questions, photography tips and in‑depth conversations about whales, conservation and Arctic life.
Designed for International Guests
Valhalla Expedition regularly welcomes visitors from many different countries who share one passion in common: a deep love for the sea and its wildlife. The team understands that for most guests, this is a once‑in‑a‑lifetime journey and structures the experience accordingly.
- English‑friendly environment that makes briefings and conversations accessible to international travelers.
- Clear organization so you always know the plan for the day, what to wear and how to prepare.
- Supportive, friendly atmosphere where solo travelers, couples and small groups quickly feel like a team.
Previous guests often highlight the combination of wild, sometimes challenging Arctic conditions with the warmth of the home base, generous food and genuine hospitality.
Who This Arctic Whale Adventure Is Perfect For
Because of its intensity and focus, a Valhalla Expedition trip is especially well‑suited to certain kinds of travelers.
Ideal Guests
- Whale and marine‑life enthusiasts who want more than a quick, crowded whale‑watching cruise.
- Underwater photographers and snorkelers comfortable in the water and excited by cold‑water adventures.
- Landscape and wildlife photographers keen to capture fjords, mountains, whales and auroras in one journey.
- Travelers who value ethics and conservation and want to support operators that put animal welfare first.
Good to Keep in Mind
The Arctic environment is powerful and dynamic. While the crew does everything possible to maximize comfort and safety, guests should arrive prepared for:
- Cold temperatures and variable weather, including wind, snow and changing light.
- Early starts and active days spent mostly outdoors and on the water.
- Wild, unscripted encounters; every day is different, and wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.
For those who embrace these realities, the reward is an experience that feels truly wild and unscripted, rather than staged or over‑managed.
Preparing for Your Trip: Practical Tips
To get the most out of an Arctic whale‑snorkeling adventure, a little preparation goes a long way.
Clothing & Personal Gear
- Layered clothing: Merino or synthetic base layers, warm mid‑layers and a windproof, waterproof outer layer for time on deck.
- Warm accessories: Hat, neck warmer, thermal socks and insulated gloves or mittens for boat days and evenings outside.
- Personal items: Any specific medications, skincare for cold and wind and a reusable water bottle.
Cameras & Photography
- Telephoto lens for whales at a respectful distance.
- Wide‑angle lens for landscapes, auroras and underwater scenes.
- Plenty of memory and batteries; cold weather drains batteries faster than usual.
If you plan to snorkel with a camera, a reliable underwater housing and a simple, easy‑to‑handle setup is often best in cold water.
Why Ethical Adventures Leave the Deepest Mark
Years after an Arctic journey, most guests remember not only the sight of orcas and humpbacks but how those encounters felt. Knowing that the whales were not chased or harassed, that their space was respected and that your presence had been kept as low impact as possible adds a powerful layer of meaning to the memories.
Valhalla Expedition’s philosophy is to transmit a deep love of the sea and its wildlife in a friendly, ethical atmosphere. Combine that with thrilling snorkeling, endless photo opportunities and warm “after sea” hospitality, and you have an Arctic experience that stays with you long after you have flown home.
If you are dreaming of seeing orcas and humpback whales in their wild, natural environment and want to do it in a way that honors the animals, the landscape and the local culture, an expedition from Seglvik with a small, dedicated crew may be exactly the adventure you have been waiting for.
