Whale Swim Guide & Underwater Photographer
The guide you hire when you want a safe, memorable whale encounter.
I take small groups in-water with orcas, humpbacks, and other whale species — with nearly a decade of experience, hundreds of hours underwater, and a deep commitment to doing it right.
Meet Ivan
Ivan Breslauer
I'm a freediver and whale swim guide based in Madeira. I've been snorkeling with orcas in Norway every season since December 2016 — this coming season marks a decade in the water with them.
I've lived and worked two whale seasons in Tonga as an underwater photographer, SCUBA guide, and whale swim guide. I've guided hundreds of clients in the Arctic and South Pacific, accumulated over 270 hours underwater with whales, and spent the better part of a decade building the skills and knowledge to do this work properly. I hold SSI Freediving Instructor Level 2 and PADI Divemaster certifications.
Read my full story →What Clients Say
“Ivan made our encounters with orcas an incredible experience. We loved it!”
Rafael L.
Mexico · Norway, 2023
“We travelled to Tonga specifically to swim with humpbacks, and Ivan made sure we got the absolute most out of every day in the water. His passion for these animals is completely contagious.”
Marcus & Julia K.
Germany · Tonga, 2019
“The blue shark encounter in the Azores was mind-blowing — and having Ivan in the water with us made it feel completely safe.”
Lucy B.
UK · Azores, 2021
Featured Expedition
Swim with Orcas in Arctic Norway
Late October through January, orcas gather in the fjords of northern Norway to hunt herring beneath the Arctic sky. This is your chance to get in the water with them.
- Small groups aboard historic expedition vessels
- In-water encounters with orcas and humpback whales
- Expert in-water guidance and safety
- Northern lights, fjord landscapes, and Arctic serenity
- Operator with 30+ years of experience in the area
Work with Ivan
How I Can Help You
Custom Trip Planning
I'll design your ideal whale encounter anywhere in the world — Tonga, Mexico, Norway, or beyond. Drawing on years of personal experience and an extensive network, I'll match you with the right expedition for your goals and skill level.
Get in touch →
Private Guiding
Hire me as your dedicated in-water guide for whale encounters. I cover safety, freediving coaching, pre-dive briefings, and underwater photography — so you can focus entirely on the experience.
Get in touch →
Underwater Photography
A decade of whale photography, available as fine art prints or digital files. Each image is a window into moments few people ever witness. Inquire for pricing and availability.
Inquire via email →Ready to get in the water?
Whether you're joining a Norway expedition or building something custom — I'd love to hear from you.
Get in Touch