Can you imagine diving into the waters of the North Pole, where only a few dare to go?
Some people wouldn’t even consider swimming in the seas of Northern Norway, but what if we told you that you could swim surrounded by orcas and humpback whales? You might think twice before saying no, right?
The Importance of Herring
Herring is not only part of Nordic cuisine, but also one of the favorite foods of these majestic marine mammals.
Every year, the migration of herring to the northern coast attracts coastal communities in Norway. The herring arrive at the fjord coasts to spend the winter and seek protection, before spring arrives and they begin to reproduce.
These small fish barely exceed 20 cm in length, and yet, underwater, they form immense schools of millions of individuals. These herring shoals swim together without separating, which is essential, since the parents can’t distinguish their offspring — they all have to stay tightly grouped.
Orca Hunting Techniques
What the herring don’t expect upon arriving on the Norwegian coast is that someone’s already waiting. Orcas, lying in wait for this unique moment of the year, prepare once again to receive the massive balls of herring. They are one of the herring’s key predators and have developed specialized techniques to hunt them.
One of these techniques, known as “carousel”, involves gathering the herring into a tight, compact ball near the surface, then slapping them with tail blows until they weaken, allowing the orcas to eat them one by one.
And of course, this entire spectacle doesn’t just attract fishermen, who also want their share of the herring bounty. Other species, like humpback whales, are also avid herring consumers.
These whales take advantage of the orcas’ hunting techniques to get their own share of the feast. That’s why, while you’re witnessing this unique event of orcas hunting herring, a humpback whale might appear at any moment to claim its part of the banquet.
And of course, this spectacle also attracts adventurous divers from around the world.
The Norwegian fjords become the perfect setting for diving enthusiasts and wildlife observers — one of the few places in the world where you can swim with orcas in the open ocean.
Plan Your Diving Trip to Norway
So, what do you think? Are you ready for the adventure?
If you’re passionate about diving and nature, Norway is waiting for you with open arms. Join us next winter on a 9-day journey where you’ll witness this one-of-a-kind event.
Pack your 8mm wetsuit and underwater camera, but also your warm clothing, because during the trip you’ll not only enjoy encounters with orcas and humpback whales, but also experience life in the North Pole, including a night in the “city of the Northern Lights,” Tromsø.
What are you waiting for to live a once-in-a-lifetime experience?
