POLAR SEAS
THE ARCTIC HERRING RUN
January 2025 | Skjervoy, Norway
Dive with schools of herring, accompanied by orcas and whales, in the wintry fjords of Norway.
IN BRIEF
Above the Arctic Circle, from November to February, millions of herring spawn in the protected waterways of the northern fjords. This natural event attracts some of the ocean’s most incredible apex predators, including orcas, humpback whales, and fin whales, who feast on the fatty, nutritious fish before they lay their eggs in mid-February.
From the comfort of our private luxury house and chartered boat, you will dive into the heart of the action. Prepare your thickest wetsuits for an unforgettable plunge into one of the ocean’s most spectacular wildlife events.
2025 TRIP DATES
SESSION 1: JANUARY 12-18, 2025
SESSION 2: JANUARY 17-23, 2025
LOFOTEN EXTENSION: JANUARY 23-26, 2025
-
Alex Pham
LEADER
With a background in social impact businesses and public policy from Harvard, Alex has worked with policymakers and social enterprises in Bhutan, Nigeria, Uganda, Zimbabwe, and Indonesia. Passionate about whales, Alex follows their migrations and is an expert underwater documentarian. He has worked in Timor Leste, Norway, Niue, French Polynesia, Tonga, Argentina, Brazil, Dominica, and beyond. Dedicated to preserving the world's beauty and sharing its joy, Alex continues to explore and connect with inspiring people worldwide.
-
Matt Reichel
LEADER
Matt is a documentary photographer, geopolitics enthusiast, and nature lover. He explores and documents the world's most remote regions, communities, and wildlife, driven by a passion for cultural preservation and environmental conservation. Through visual storytelling, Matt honors human and natural heritage, inspiring open-mindedness and compassion. He has guided numerous expeditions, and his work has been published in National Geographic, The New York Times, BBC, and more.
DAILY
Embark on a thrilling 5-6 hour daily boat trip from Skerjovy to witness one of the most incredible oceanic wildlife spectacles on Earth. As we venture into the wintry fjords, you'll have the unique opportunity to swim alongside orcas and humpback whales in their natural habitat as they feed on shoals of herring. The sheer exhilaration of seeing these majestic creatures up close is unparalleled, offering a truly wild and unforgettable experience.
During the winter months, daylight hours are limited, with the best conditions occurring between 9 AM and 2 PM. This means we'll need to make the most of our time on the water, embracing the crisp Arctic air and the breathtaking surroundings.
Our expert guides will ensure your safety and provide all necessary gear, including thick wetsuits to keep you warm in the frigid waters. Expect temperatures to be cold, but rest assured, the proper equipment will allow you to fully immerse yourself in this breathtaking adventure.
In addition to the incredible wildlife encounters, you'll have the chance to witness the beauty of the aurora borealis dancing across the night sky, adding another layer of magic to your journey. Not to mention, the shared experience of such an extreme (cold) and wild (truly wild) adventure fosters strong bonds and lasting friendships among participants.
Join us for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with the marine world in a way few ever experience, all while surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the northern fjords. Prepare for an awe-inspiring journey that combines the raw beauty of nature with the excitement of encountering some of the ocean's most magnificent inhabitants.
ACCOMMODATIONS: STANDARD OPTION
THE FISKECAMP SKJERVØY
We've booked standard accommodations at the Fiskecamp in Skjervøy. You'll stay in a cozy two-bedroom cabin, sharing a twin room with a fellow participant.
Each cabin shares a modern and well-maintained bathroom and hot-water shower, ensuring a comfortable stay even in the cold winter months.
The cabins also include a shared kitchenette and small living area, fully equipped with essential appliances and utensils, allowing you to prepare meals and relax together after a day of adventures. The rustic design of the cabins, with wooden furnishings and practical layouts, adds to the inviting atmosphere.
The property itself offers additional amenities to enhance your stay. After a day of exploring, unwind in the property's sauna, perfect for relaxing and warming up during the cold January days. The Fiskecamp also provides outdoor hanging areas, to go Aurora spotting in the evening.
ACCOMMODATIONS: DELUXE OPTION
PRIVATE LUXURY HOUSE WITH JACUZZI
For those looking for a deluxe accommodation option and for single supplements (solo/private rooms), we have also reserved an incredible four-bedroom house nearby in Skjervøy. The house is located right on the coast with sweeping views over the fjords.
The house is perfect for couples joining and looking to share a big bed, as well as anyone looking for more space and privacy while enjoying the thrill of swimming with orcas.
The house will also serve as our afternoon hang-out spot for the entire group since there is plenty of common space to talk, conduct photography and documentation workshops, whale lectures, and more.
However, the jacuzzi, bedrooms, and showers are only available to those who are living at the house as per the owner’s policy with us.
Upgrades are available only on a first come first serve basis, as rooms are limited.
COSTS
PRICING
Trip cost: $5150
OPTIONAL ADD-ONS
Gear Rental: $350
Single supplement upgrade: $550
Couples upgrade: $350 each
Add-on trips (see below)
Upgrades and single supplements are at a private luxury house.
INCLUDES
6-nights at the Fiskecamp in Skjervoy in a shared cabin (each cabin has two twin rooms with a shared bathroom and kitchenette between them- paid upgrades available to a luxury house first come first serve).
5 days of private covered 12-seater deluxe boat.
6 guests max, all by strict invite, plus crew.
Pro underwater photographer with the group.
Breakfasts daily.
Airport transfers from Tromso.
Photo and documentation workshops.
EXCLUDES
Optional (paid) upgrade to a luxury house (first come first serve) with solo and couples rooms.
Lunches and dinners.
Optional add-on extension trip to the Lofoten Islands.
Gear (rentals available for $350).
Insurance and personal spending.
Gratuities for the local crew.
EXTENSION TRIP: LOFOTEN ISLANDS
JANUARY 23-26
LAPPLAND AND LOFOTEN WINTER ROAD TRIP
Set out on an epic 4-day winter road trip adventure through Finnmark the Lofoten Islands, starting from Skjervøy. Begin by exploring the Sami heartland and reindeer camps in Finnmark, crossing into Finnish and Swedish Lappland.
Then continue to the Lofoten islands, strapping on a pair of snowshoes to conquer some trails where possible. Head to the charming village of Henningsvær, perfect for exploring quaint streets and grabbing a cozy meal.
Journey onward to Hamnøy and snap photos of its iconic red cabins before tackling the exhilarating hike up Mannen at Haukland Beach for unbeatable panoramas. Wander through the historic hamlet of Å, then cap off your adventure in Leknes. This trip is all about bonding with friends, embracing the elements, and soaking in the views.
ADD-ON COSTS
Extension trip: $990
INCLUDES
Transport and gas costs
3-night hotel accommodation
Sami reindeer herding overnight stay and aurora watching (includes one dinner and breakfast)
Snowshoe hike
EXCLUDES
All meals (except for the first dinner and breakfast)
Personal spending
Personal insurance
Flights