This photographic safari is unlike any other – we combine two of the most iconic and awe-inspiring natural events on the planet – the magnificent light display of the Northern Lights/Aurora Borealis and the huge congregation of Orcas and other whales in the fjords of Norway during the winter spawning season. Although the auroras do occur during the entire year they are best viewed during clear winter nights, which coincides with this prime whale-viewing season.

We will be photographing an array of different photographic genres and disciplines on this tour. From good opportunities in daylight conditions to some dark evenings, capturing the mesmerising light displays of the Aurora borealis. Breathtaking landscapes and seascapes will be on offer at almost any given time during the tour whilst we traverse the unspoilt beauty of the fjord systems. We will be capturing whales from both our ship or zodiac as well as from underwater should you wish to do so with an underwater setup. Prolific birdlife will be our constant companions on the tour and will certainly enthral the bird photography lovers.

We will not only be testing the extreme capabilities of our cameras but also our own creative artistry as photographers.

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The Orcas:

In terms of wildlife we can expect to see a variety of whale species but our main objective will be to work with Orcas, also known as Killer whales.

Orcas, along with other whales species enter the northern fjords of Norway and feed on the spawning herring population. At this time of year millions-upon-millions of herring enter the fjords and evoke a feeding frenzy that is a sight to behold.

Up to 1200+ different Orcas have been counted in the fjords during this period and the photography can be absolutely electrifying.

In terms of photography there are two options. You can photograph the whales and other species from the zodiac or you can don your drysuit / wetsuit and free dive with the whales.

This population of Orcas only feed on herring and therefore do not pose a risk to humans. Should you have an underwater housing you will be able to pull off some of the most incredible photographic and cinematographic underwater opportunities that exist with these animals. This is as good as it gets with Orcas.

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The Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis:

The Northern Lights are a natural event that occur year round. That said, as with all natural phenomena, there are no guarantees of when they would occur.

Ideal conditions needed include cold, dark nights when the air is crisp, and little to no light pollution.

The Northern fjords of Norway offer just these perfect conditions especially during the early winter weeks when statically we have the best chances of open skies that coincide with a solar storms. Our tour takes place during this time and the odds of photographing this spectacle are in our favour.

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Included:

• Services of 2 Tusk Photo hosts + 2 Expedition staff
• Accommodation on board the MV Vikingfjord as well as the hotel on the first day of arrival.
• All meals and drinks while on MV Vikingfjord
• All activities
• Transfer from our hotel in Alta to the MV Vikingfjord

Excluded:

• Transfer from the airport to the hotel on day 1 as well as transfer on day 8 to the airport.
• Visas
• Gratuities
• Purchases of a personal nature.
• Travel costs to and from Alta / Norway

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