🇳🇴 Norway — November 2025
Giants of the Fjord
Very cold water. Very large neighbors. Pictures from Below
Picking a tour company
I chose Valhalla for the setup. Diving is done in a 10M, which gives you better maneuverability in the water and keeps you feeling more connected than bulkier cold-water options. The location matters too: being in the fjord feels contained, quiet, and deeply authentic — less open-ocean chaos, more intentional time in the water.
That said, it’s not a private experience. Boats can carry up to ten people, and accommodations are shared — typically one roommate and a house with up to ten guests total. If you value solitude or luxury, this may feel crowded and is probably not for you.
If you value access, realism, and being truly in the environment, it makes sense. The is one other company which is further (about 3 more hours in) - waterbornexpeditions.com which uses dive suits and has 4-6 people MAX , I will try this next.
The Diving (and Swimming)
This isn’t fast or flashy diving. It’s slow entry, long pauses, and a lot of waiting before anything happens.
You spend time at the surface, adjusting to the cold, letting your breathing settle, and waiting. When encounters happen, they’re calm and unforced. The water is dark, dramatic, and incredibly still — the kind that makes you pay attention. Don’t expect to feel your feet after getting in but other than that the wetsuit will keep you warm ; the worst part is getting out :).
What to Pack
Cold water changes everything. Bring more than you think you’ll need.
Dry layers for after the water (multiple sets)
Thick socks, beanie, gloves
Thermos (non-negotiable) .. I filled mine with coffee daily
Easy on/off footwear
Swim gear you trust in cold conditions but you only really need one swim suit
Backup everything (the cold is unforgiving)
Handwarmers
Neoprene socks OR wool socks for diving - they help
Sweats/ yoga pants
If you’re warm on land, you’ll enjoy the water more. Simple math.
Vegetarian Food Notes
Valhalla does a decent job with vegetarian options, especially given the remote location, but bringing your own staples makes a big difference.
What helped:
Snacks you actually enjoy (you’ll need more than you think)
Instant noodles for quick, hot meals
Hot sauce (trust me — it saves everything
Instant coffee — especially if you’re a coffee snob