- Witness orcas and humpback whales feeding in Norway’s Arctic waters.
- Experience the Northern Lights at their peak, illuminating the dark, polar-night skies.
- Cruise through scenic fjords aboard a comfortable, ice-strengthened vessel designed for intimate exploration.
- Enjoy exhilarating winter activities like dogsledding, snowmobiling, and unwinding in a traditional hot sauna.
- Discover remote Arctic villages, savor local cuisine, and immerse yourself in rich cultural experiences.
- Capture stunning images with expert guidance from professional photographer Scott Davis.
“Every aspect of the trip was well thought out, from the accommodations, the guide (Scott) and the itinerary. The food was excellent, the sightings (both animals and Aurora) were amazing and the participants were congenial and got along well.”
-Steve Gorfien
In the heart of Arctic Norway, where icy fjords slice through dramatic coastlines and the Aurora Borealis dances across the sky, Cheesemans’ Ecology Safaris offers an unforgettable winter expedition. Guests embark on a small-ship adventure, cruising through pristine waters in search of orcas and humpbacks, while immersing themselves in the stark beauty of Norway’s frozen wilderness.
This journey is more than just wildlife viewing—it’s an exploration of Arctic culture, photography, and thrilling winter activities that leave travelers with memories etched in frost and fire.
Trip Highlights:
Aboard the Arctic Expedition Ship: Cozy Comfort in the Cold
Guests embarked on a well-equipped, small expedition ship designed for intimate encounters with Arctic wildlife. With just 12 passengers, the vessel offered unmatched flexibility to navigate hidden inlets and linger during prime wildlife encounters.
From the spacious observation deck, guests marveled at misty whale blows rising from the water, and as daylight faded, the ship’s heated lounge provided a warm, relaxing space for reviewing photographs or sharing stories over dinner prepared by the onboard French chef.
Whales Up Close: Encounters with Norway’s Giants
The waters off northern Norway are renowned for hosting massive gatherings of herring, attracting pods of orcas and humpback whales that feast in spectacular fashion.
Each day, guests ventured out in sturdy Zodiacs to explore the fjords. With Scott Davis guiding the experience, the group had front-row seats to nature’s drama. Whales surfaced just meters away, their sleek dorsal fins slicing through the water. At times, guests witnessed cooperative hunting—a remarkable behavior where orcas worked together to corral herring into tight balls before surging in to feed.
As the golden Arctic light illuminated the snowy peaks, photographers captured breathtaking images of whale tails rising from the icy water.
Orca© Stephen Gorfien
Sunset© Stefan Froehlich
Orca© Stephen Gorfien
Orca and Zodiac© Stephen Gorfien
Orca© Stephen Gorfien
Humpback Whale© Stephen Gorfien
Humpback Whale© Stephen Gorfien
Orcas© Stefan Froehlich
Orcas© Stephen Gorfien
Orca© Stephen Gorfien
Orca© Stephen Gorfien
Orca© Stephen Gorfien
Orca© Stephen Gorfien
Humpback Whale© Stephen Gorfien
Humpback Whale© Stephen Gorfien
Orca© Stephen Gorfien
Orcas© Stefan Froehlich
Orcas© Stefan Froehlich
Orca© Stephen Gorfien
Chasing the Northern Lights: Nature’s Celestial Performance
One of the most magical elements of this journey was the opportunity to witness the Aurora Borealis in all its glory. With flexible itineraries and clear night skies, the group positioned itself in prime locations to watch the green, purple, and pink hues swirl above the frozen landscape.
Guided by Scott Davis, guests learned expert tips for photographing the Northern Lights, capturing mesmerizing images of this fleeting yet unforgettable display.
Adventures on Ice: Dogsledding, Snowmobiling, and More
For those seeking even more Arctic adventure, this journey offered a thrilling mix of winter activities and cultural experiences. Guests soared across snow-covered landscapes on an exhilarating dogsledding adventure, with eager huskies leading the way. On another outing, they geared up for a heart-pounding snowmobile tour, racing across frozen terrain as icy air whipped past their faces.
Between these adrenaline-fueled excursions, guests had the opportunity to explore remote coastal villages nestled among the fjords. Visits to these small fishing communities provided a glimpse into Norway’s rich Arctic heritage. A memorable stop at a local island museum revealed the resilience and traditions of those who call this frozen landscape home, with artifacts and stories painting a vivid picture of Arctic life.
Evenings often ended with a visit to a traditional Arctic sauna, where the warmth of the steam and the soft glow of candles created a soothing contrast to the day’s cold-weather exploration. Sampling local cuisine added another layer to the cultural experience, with hearty stews and warm pastries providing comfort in the chilly air.
Your Next Adventure Awaits!
If this taste of Norway’s frozen beauty has left you inspired, consider joining Cheesemans’ upcoming expedition to the breathtaking Lofoten Islands. Known for their dramatic peaks, vibrant fishing villages, and striking coastal scenery, the Lofoten Islands provide unmatched opportunities for Arctic wildlife photography, cultural immersion, and outdoor adventure.