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NORWAY

Embark on an unforgettable expedition in Norway, where the breathtakingords serve as the perfect backdrop for swimming with majestic orcas and humpback whales. Experience the thrill of face-to-face with these incredible creatures in their natural habitat, while surrounded by stunning landscapes. This adventure promises not only excitement but also a deep connection with nature. Join us for an experience that will leave you in awe of the of the ocean.

Norway Expedition

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Destination

  Norway 

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Dates

October 21-27

October 28- Nov 3

November 4-10

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Suitable for:

Freediving

Diving in the Arctic

Join myself and Gian Paolo Vanni for an ethical, authentic, and intimate into the heart of the Arctic. Experience the breathtaking landscapes and connect its remarkable inhabitants, all while embracing sustainable practices. This trip offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of this pristine environment. 

Out here nature is our itinerary, where it leads us we will. Swimming with whales by day, and watching the northern lights by night. 

What Makes This Trip Unique?

Life on the sailboat, Raido

  • ​Enjoy the beauty of the unknown, and living wherever the action is instead of traveling through the cold every day to find it. 

Small group

  • Max 4 people per trip, to remain intimate between us and the whales. 

  • Smaller group keep the experience safe, and ethical 

Local Captain​

  • Ronnie our local Captain has been sailing most of his life in Norway with his father and now is excited to use his knowledge with us.

  • ​The local knowledge between Ronnie and Gian helps us make decisions, and move respectfully through the water and maximize the quality of everyones experience.

​Ethical Encounters 

  • This is so important, as these animals are incredibly special and deserve every ounce of respect. They are the reason we are here, and we need to remember that.

  • Patience is a virtue, and with it comes better encounters when they are calculated and respectful.

  • We do not chase whales ever

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What To Expect

No Set Daily Schedule — We Follow Nature’s Pace

Up here in the Arctic, everything moves on nature’s terms. Weather, wind, light, and wildlife activity change constantly, so instead of a fixed itinerary, each day unfolds based on what the ocean and the animals are doing.

A day with us might look like:
• checking the latest weather and herring movements
• cruising toward the fjords with the best potential
• watching orcas and humpbacks from the deck as the action develops
• hopping into the dinghy when conditions allow for a closer look
• optional snorkeling sessions if behavior, visibility, and safety all line up
• heading back to a sheltered spot to warm up, review photos, and chat about the plan for tomorrow

No two days look the same. Every experience is shaped by the moment—guided by the wild, not a rigid schedule.

Requirements

To keep everyone safe and comfortable throughout the expedition, this trip is designed for guests who are:

• in solid physical and mental health
• able to move confidently around a boat and get in and out of the dinghy
• comfortable spending time in cold, Arctic conditions
• respectful of wildlife, guidelines, and safety procedures
• within a healthy weight range, since dinghy operations, cold-water gear, and balance on deck can be physically demanding

For those interested in snorkeling with orcas:

• prior snorkeling or freediving experience is strongly recommended
• you should feel confident in open water and in cold environments

If you’re unsure whether this trip is the right fit, Let's chat! Im happy to answer any questions!

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Whats Included/Not 

Included

  • Navigation aboard our Arctic expedition vessel

  • Cabin accommodation (shared)

  • Full board during the days at sea

  • All whale-watching and cetacean observation activities

  • Dinghy access for closer encounters

  • Continuous photography and nature guidance

  • Safety briefings and in-water preparation

  • Presentation on Norways wildlife

Not Included

  • Flights

  • Hotel before/after the expedition

  • Snorkeling equipment rental

  • Travel insurance (mandatory)

  • Alcoholic beverages and personal expenses

Raido, our little home

Life on Raido, meaning Journey is part of the adventure. She’s a true Arctic sailboat.. cozy, sturdy, and built for exploring fjords and wild coastlines. Because of her design, we live in close quarters, and that closeness is a beautiful part of the experience.

 

Cabins are small and shared, with just enough space for the essentials. You’ll fall asleep to the soft sounds of the sea, wake up to snowy mountain views, and share the rhythm of daily life with a small group of like-minded ocean lovers.The boat has one shared shower and two bathrooms, and we rotate respectfully. It becomes a smooth, easy routines, quick hot showers, light usage, and lots of communication. Most guests find that by day two, it already feels natural.

Living on Raido is truly about connection: with nature, with simplicity, and with each other. It’s comfortable, warm, and communal exactly the kind of environment that makes Arctic expeditions unforgettable.

Meet the Team

Gian Paolo Vanni

 is a professional photographer and expedition leader with a lifelong passion for nature. He has guided adventures across remote regions around the world, from Arctic fjords to tropical rainforests. Known for his calm presence and safety-first approach, he creates meaningful, respectful wildlife encounters for every guest. His work blends technical skill with a deep love for the natural world, making each expedition both inspiring and unforgettable.

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Janelle Van Ruiten 

Ocean-focused photographer, Professional Shark Diver, Expedition Guide, Captain, Speaker

Is This trIp For YOU?

If you feel this trip aligns with you, and is something you have always dreamed of, like me...
Lets reserve your spot!


Send me the dates interested and your experience! 

Thanks for submitting!

VAN RUITEN BLUE

janellevanruiten.com

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