About this expedition
This is for anyone who has ever dreamed of swimming with wild orcas in the Arctic and exploring some of Norway's most breathtaking landscapes. Every winter, orcas and humpback whales follow the herring into the fjords, creating incredible opportunities for close encounters.
In Reinfjord you stay in a remote fjord village that is only reachable by boat, with three days on the water looking for orcas and humpbacks. Then we cross to Koppangen in the Lyngen Alps for dog sledding, a day with the Sámi and their reindeer, a sauna, a hot tub and dark skies for the Northern Lights.
Watch the full itinerary
Every day of the expedition, walked through step by step. Prefer reading? The day-by-day plan is below.
What's included
✓
6 nights, Norwegian-style stays + All meals included
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3 orca days on the water + Max 8 guests
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Dog sledding and a Sami reindeer camp
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All transfers from Tromsø + Photos and videos of the group
Show not included
✕ International flights, travel insurance, a night in Tromsø if you arrive a day early, the optional photo package, alcoholic drinks and personal expenses (souvenirs and tips).
Itinerary
Day 1: The adventure begins
We welcome everyone personally at the Hurtigruten Ferry Terminal, right in Tromsø city centre. From there we take the express ferry north to Seglvik, past spectacular Arctic islands and mountain-lined fjords. In Seglvik we board our private boat for the final stretch into Reinfjord, our secluded Arctic base for the next three nights, only reachable by water. Good to know: Arrive in Tromsø at least one day before the expedition begins. If that's not possible, arrive very early on day 1 so you don't miss our transfer.
Days 2–4: Orcas and whales
Three days on the water, searching for orcas and humpbacks as they follow the winter herring. The ultimate goal: getting in the water with the orcas. Between sea sessions, local meals and time to warm up. Evenings bring cosy dinners in the traditional lavvu and a chance to watch for the Northern Lights. On day 4 we head out one last time in the morning, before travelling to Koppangen in the Lyngen Alps. Good to know: The water is roughly 4–7°C. You get a 10 mm wetsuit, hood, gloves and boots, plus a dryrobe for the boat. Getting in is always optional: whale watching from the boat is possible too.
Day 5: Dog sledding & aurora
Time to swap the boat for a sled. In the Lyngen Alps a team of eager huskies is waiting to take us on a ride through the Arctic wilderness, gliding through snow-covered landscapes surrounded by towering mountains. As evening falls we return to our waterfront retreat, where a warm sauna, an outdoor hot tub and dinner are waiting. If the skies are clear, we head out in search of the Northern Lights. Good to know: November and January are the heart of Northern Lights season. Sightings depend on weather and solar activity, so they're never guaranteed. If they appear, our photographer captures you beneath the aurora and shows you how to shoot it yourself.
Day 6: Sámi culture & reindeer
A completely different side of the Arctic. We travel by private bus through the Lyngen Alps to a traditional Sámi reindeer camp, to get up close with these animals and meet the people whose lives have been connected to them for generations. Surrounded by snow-covered mountains, we hear stories of life in the far north and share a warm meal, before heading back to our waterfront retreat for another evening together.
Day 7: The journey back
After one last breakfast together, we drive back to Tromsø through Arctic fjords and snow-covered mountains. One final chance to soak in the landscapes before we say goodbye in the city centre, with unforgettable memories and hopefully a few new friendships. Good to know: Estimated arrival in the city centre is 12:00–13:00. Book your flight home for 16:00 or later.
Your expedition leaders
Joost and Kenny lead every Maui expedition, and they are in the water with you.
Joost
Co-founder and expedition leader
Fascinated by the ocean since he was a little boy, he has swum with animals in every corner of the world. He started Maui because something was missing on the trips he joined himself.
Kenny
Co-founder and expedition leader
He has travelled all over the world, always looking for something new. What he cares about most is the group: making friends and making sure everyone has a great time.
Things to know
Best way to get there, and where is the pickup point?
Fly into Tromsø and arrive a day early if you can, or very early on day 1. We meet at the Hurtigruten ferry terminal in Tromsø city centre, a short walk from most central hotels. From there we handle everything until we drop you back in the city centre around 12:00–13:00 on the last day. Book your flight home for 16:00 or later, or add a night in Tromsø, as Arctic weather can shift plans.
Will we see the Northern lights?
Good chances. The aurora season around Tromsø runs from late August to early April, and we spend several evenings in Lyngen and Reinfjord, far from city lights. It's nature, so never guaranteed, but clear dark skies give us the best shot.
Suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, but on the orca days you stay on the boat as a whale watcher. To get in the water you need to be a good, confident swimmer, and the crew always has the final say based on conditions. All water entry is optional, and there's plenty more: whales from the boat, photo workshops, sauna, Sami culture and the Arctic landscapes.
Will there be photos and videos?
Yes. Professional pictures and videos of the group are included. On request: a full week private photo package, just for you.
Why join with Maui?
If you want to spend as much time as possible in the water with the wildlife, we're your best option. We work with the best local guides, and if you love taking pictures or being in them, for Instagram or just for yourself, you're in exactly the right place.
