Norway Skjervøy whale watching

One of the best places to see humpback whales and orcas in Europe during November-January. Sometimes the animals are just outside the village of Skjervøy and can be seen from the shore but to make sure to see them you should book a trip on a rib boat. They will provide all the gear you need on the boat. Just wear a couple of layers of warm clothes underneath (merino wool underwear, technical mid layer and warm socks is all you need).

Weather sealed camera and lenses are a must. There will be splashes or rain on you. Focal lengths between 70-300 mm seems to be enough. Because this is the darkest time of the year (polar night) and the sun doesn't come up at all (it just visits the horizon) you should use fast lenses (f2.8 or faster). My best bet to get successful shots would be a f2.8 70-200 lens.

You can drive all the way there or fly to Tromso and book the trip from there where they will transport you to Skjervøy.