Whale Watching in Iceland

Traditional oak-boat whale watching in Europe's whale capital with expert guides and rich marine life.

• Starting point: Husavik Harbor, Iceland’s whale-watching capital
• Everything you get: A 3-hour whale-watching cruise on a traditional oak boat with an expert wildlife guide offering live commentary. Stay warm with included overalls and rain jackets as you explore Skjálfandi Bay’s rich marine life and stunning scenery.
• Sights covered: Spot humpback whales, blue whales, minke whales, dolphins, porpoises, seabirds, and experience sweeping views of Skjálfandi Bay and surrounding mountains.
• Why choose this: With near-guaranteed sightings and expert guidance, it’s your best shot at seeing whales on your very first try.

Inclusions #

• 3-hour whale-watching boat tour on a traditional Icelandic oak boat

• English-speaking specialized wildlife guide

• Thermal suits & safety gear

• Rain jackets (if needed)

Exclusions #

• Hotel pickup & drop-off

• Food and drinks

• Seasickness medication

What to bring

• You should dress in warm layers, including thermal base layers and a fleece or sweater.
• A waterproof and windproof jacket will help protect you from sudden weather changes.
• Make sure to wear closed, warm shoes or waterproof boots for comfort at sea.
• Bringing a hat, gloves, scarf, and extra woollen socks will keep you better insulated.
• Cameras and phones are recommended to be stored in protective waterproof bags to prevent damage.
• Sunglasses and sunscreen can help with glare and UV exposure on the water.
• Seasickness medication is recommended if you are prone to motion sickness.
• Carrying a small backpack with snacks, a water bottle, and optional binoculars can enhance your trip.

What’s not allowed

• Smoking, including the use of e-cigarettes, is prohibited on all boats and premises.
• Large bags or bulky backpacks are not permitted on board due to limited space.
• Drones are not allowed on any scheduled tours.
• You're not allowed to get alcoholic beverages on board.

Accessibility

• Guests using wheelchairs can join the tour aboard the larger oak boat Sylvía, depending on conditions.
• Assistance may be required when boarding due to the narrow entrance of approximately 57 cm.
• The crew is available to help, although full lifting support must be provided by accompanying companions.
• Afternoon or evening departures offer more space and may be more comfortable for guests with mobility needs.
• Informing the operator in advance ensures that the crew can prepare appropriate assistance.

Additional information

• Arriving at least 40 minutes before departure ensures enough time for check-in and boarding.
• Tours may be altered or cancelled due to weather changes to maintain guest safety and comfort.
• A free return voucher is offered if no whales or dolphins are seen during the tour.
• Children are required to wear life jackets, which are provided by the crew.
• Although toilets are available onboard, guests are encouraged to use on-land facilities beforehand.
• Food and drinks are not sold on the boats, so guests should bring their own if needed.
• The operator does not provide secure luggage storage and cannot take responsibility for personal items.
• Boats remain within Skjálfandi Bay, where rich wildlife offers the best viewing opportunities.

High-speed RIB tour for close-up whale and puffin encounters in Husavik’s Skjálfandi Bay.

• Starting point: Husavik harbor, the heart of Iceland’s whale watching capital.
• Everything you get: 2-hour adventure on a modern 12-seater RIB speedboat, English-speaking wildlife guide, live commentary, visit to Puffin Island (April 15-August 15), close-up whale watching, waterproof overalls, and life vests for warmth and safety.
• Sights covered: Skjálfandi Bay, blue whales, humpback whales, and Puffin Island hosting thousands of puffins during the nesting season.
• Why choose this: With small group sizes and a fast RIB boat, this tour delivers a personal, up-close experience. Spot more wildlife in less time.

Inclusions #

• 2-hour whale watching tour on an RIB speedboat

• English-speaking expert guide

• Small group; 12-seater boat

• Warm and waterproof overalls and life vests

Exclusions #

• Food & drinks

Sail Skjálfandi Bay for an unforgettable whale watching adventure with expert local guides

• Everything you get: A 3-hour cruise on a traditional Icelandic oak ship, guided by whale watching experts, with warm overalls and raincoats provided if needed. Enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and cinnamon cookies as you spot whales, dolphins, and seabirds in their natural habitat.
• Why choose this: With a 97%+ success rate for whale sightings and cruises aboard traditional Icelandic boats, this is a must-do experience for wildlife lovers.

Inclusions #

• Hot chocolate and cinnamon cookies

• Expert tour guide

• Warm overalls and raincoats upon request

What to bring

• Dress warmly and in layers, as weather conditions at sea can be cold and unpredictable.
• Bring a hat, gloves, and scarf for added warmth.
• Sunglasses and sunscreen are recommended for sun protection.
• Bring a camera or binoculars if you wish to capture wildlife sightings.
• Carry a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at check-in.

What’s not allowed

• Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not permitted on board for safety reasons.
• Pets are not allowed, except for registered service animals.
• Alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication are strictly prohibited during the tour.
• Smoking is not permitted on the vessel.

Accessibility

• This experience is not wheelchair accessible.

Additional information

• The tour duration is approximately 3 hours.
• Warm overalls and raincoats are provided if needed, but it is recommended to dress appropriately for the weather.
• The tour operates daily from 1 March to 30 November.
• Suitable for all ages; children under 7 years join for free but must be accompanied by an adult.
• Complimentary hot chocolate and cinnamon cookies are served on board.
• Tours depart from Húsavík, Iceland. Please arrive at the departure point at least 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time.
• Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure.
• Whale sightings are highly likely but cannot be guaranteed, as these are wild animals in their natural habitat.

Experience the whale capital of Europe with a family-run, whale watching tour.

• Everything you get: Enjoy a 3-hour guided whale watching your led by local experts. Stay warm & safe with weather-appropriate flotation suits and safety gears. Additionally, get 20% on tickets to the nearby Whale Museum.
• Why choose this: To enjoy a personal, eco-friendly experience with a passionate local crew, following responsible whale-friendly practices.

Inclusions #

• Windproof and waterproof flotation suits

• Highly qualified guides

• Safety equipment, including life jackets

• 20% off on Whale Museum entrance

Exclusions #

• Food and beverages

What to bring

• Bring warm clothes, including layers, a hat, gloves, and closed-toe shoes; safety overalls are provided, but it is colder at sea.
• Bring sunglasses or ski goggles with good UV protection; reflections from the sea can be very strong.
• Bring a camera or phone; a strap is recommended for safety.
• Carry light snacks & water; no service available on the boat.

What’s not allowed

• Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed on the boat; only bring necessities.
• Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
• Smoking onboard is strictly prohibited.
• Drones are prohibited on the tours.
• Single-use plastic is not allowed onboard; carry back all the waste to land.

Accessibility

• This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
• Infant seats are unavailable on board.

Additional information

• The tour operates on two different boat types, depending on the season. Vinur is a ferry-style boat with heated indoor space & multiple outdoor viewing platforms; operates from March to December.
• Moby Dick is a traditional Icelandic oak boat with a wide open deck; operates in July, August, & September.
• If you're traveling with infants, they must sit on your lap; infant seats are unavailable.
• Whale and dolphin sightings are not guaranteed. If neither are seen, you may join another tour (subject to availability); refunds are not provided.
• If you have big bags or luggage, they can be stored at the office before boarding.

Spot whales with a marine biologist and enjoy Iceland’s coastal views from a heated indoor areas.

• Starting point: Set sail from Reykjavík's Old Harbour, just steps from the city center.
• Everything you get: 2.5–3.5 hour whale-watching tour on a modern boat "Andrea", with indoor lounges, open-air decks, free Wi-Fi, warm overalls, and onboard café access.
• Sights covered: Spot humpback and minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, harbour porpoises, plus diverse seabirds across Faxafloi Bay’s stunning waters.
• Why choose this: Choose this experience for comfort, expert guidance, and an engaging, educational journey at sea. Enjoy a stable vessel, warm gear, and a flexible free-retry policy, ensuring a rewarding wildlife adventure in Icelandic waters.

Inclusions #

• 2.5 to 3.5-hour cruise aboard a modern, spacious boat

• English-speaking marine biologist guide

• Warm flotation overalls

• Access to indoor lounges, open decks & onboard café

• Free Wi-Fi onboard

Exclusions #

• Food & drinks (available for purchase on board)

• Hotel pick-up & drop-off

What to Bring

• Wear warm layers, sturdy footwear, a hat, and gloves due to changing weather conditions.
• Bring a camera to capture wildlife and scenic views.
• You must show a valid ID at check-in.

What’s Not Allowed

• You are not allowed to bring alcoholic drinks on board.

Accessibility

• The cruise is wheelchair accessible

Additional Information

• Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure.
• You may experience sailing from a different harbour in winter for better sea conditions, with transport provided.
• You may request free seasickness tablets at the ticket office or onboard.
• You will receive a free return ticket if no wildlife is spotted.
• Feel free to bring food and non-alcoholic drinks on the tour.
• Please note that weather and sea conditions may impact departure decisions.
• Arrive early, as parking is not provided by the operator but is available nearby.
• At the harbor, you can explore the Whale Watching Centre, watch videos, view skeletons and information boards, or browse the gift shop.
• By purchasing a ticket, you support summer research projects, eco-friendly tourism, and wildlife protection organizations.

Fast, stable catamaran ride offering quick access to whale areas with expert marine guides onboard.

• Starting point: Port of Akureyri, just a short walk from the town center.
• Everything you get: Enjoy a 2 to 3-hour guided cruise aboard a fast, comfortable catamaran with indoor and outdoor seating. Learn about marine life from expert guides, stay warm with provided overalls, enjoy Wi-Fi and onboard amenities, and benefit from a free return ticket if no whales are spotted.
• Sights covered: Spot humpback and minke whales, with chances of dolphins and porpoises, all set against Akureyri’s stunning fjord landscapes.
• Why choose this: Choose this for a smooth ride, expert guides, sustainable operation, warm gear, and a free retry if no wildlife is seen—guaranteeing a rewarding, worry-free experience.

Inclusions #

• 2 to 3-hour whale-watching boat tour

• English-speaking expert guide

• Warm floatable overalls (adult & children sizes)

• Free return ticket if no whale sightings

• Onboard Wi-Fi, café, souvenir shop & toilets

Exclusions #

• Hotel transfers

• Food & drinks (available for purchase only)

• Parking fees

High-speed RIB boat gets you closer to whales with unmatched comfort and thrilling coastal views.

• Starting point: Reykjavik’s Old Harbour near the city center.
• Everything you get: Enjoy a 2-hour RIB adventure with close-up whale encounters in Faxaflói Bay, a scenic Reykjavík coastline cruise, expert guiding, warm gear, safety equipment, and admission to the Whales of Iceland museum, plus a free return ticket if no marine life is spotted.
• Sights covered: Spot humpbacks, minkes, dolphins, porpoises, and summer puffins, along with Reykjavík’s stunning coastline and the wildlife-rich waters of Faxaflói Bay.
• Why choose this: This RIB tour provides a more personal and close wildlife experience compared to larger vessels, thanks to its smaller size, speed, and agility.

Inclusions #

• 2-hour whale-watching RIB boat tour

• English-speaking expert guide

• Small-group; 12-seater boat

• Suspension seats for comfort

• Warm flotation overalls, life vests, gloves & goggles

• Safety equipment

• Admission to Whales of Iceland museum

• Visit to Puffin Island (summer)

• Free retry ticket if no sightings

Exclusions #

• Hotel pickup and drop-off

• Food & drinks

• Parking

What to bring

• Warm layers should be worn under the provided overalls to stay comfortable outdoors.
• Guests are encouraged to bring sturdy shoes, as the harbor and boat areas can be slippery.
• Carrying a hat, gloves, and sunglasses ensures protection from changing weather and glare.

What’s not allowed

• Children under 10 years old or anyone shorter than 140 cm are not allowed to join this tour.
• The tour restricts access to anyone unable to fit properly into the flotation overalls.
• Alcoholic beverages are not allowed on board.

Accessibility

• The RIB speedboat cannot accommodate wheelchair users due to the vessel's design.
• Guests must be in good physical condition, as boarding and movement on the boat require stability.
• Participation isn’t permitted for pregnant travelers or individuals with back or severe heart conditions.

Additional information

• Arriving at least 30 minutes before departure is required to ensure on-time check-in.
• A valid photo ID must be presented at the ticket office before the tour begins.
• All guests will be asked to read and sign a safety waiver prior to boarding.
• Sea conditions may vary, and seasickness tablets are available at the ticket redemption point and on board.
• A minimum of four passengers is needed for departure, and tours may be rescheduled if this isn’t met.

See whales and seabirds up close on a small group RIB speedboat adventure.

• Starting point: Floating pier at Hof Cultural Centre, Akureyri
• Everything you get: 2-hour whale and bird watching tour on a fast RIB speedboat, expert live guide, warm floatable overalls, gloves, goggles, headband, life vest, and all necessary safety equipment. Small group size—just 12 passengers per boat for a personalized experience.
• Sights covered: Eyjafjord (Iceland’s longest fjord), glacier-carved mountains, humpback whales, white-beaked dolphins, and diverse birdlife just below the Arctic Circle.
• Why choose this: Specially designed RIB boats let you get closer to wildlife than any other tour, with a higher chance of sightings and minimal disturbance to animals in their natural habitat.

Inclusions #

• 2-hour whale & bird watching tour

• English-speaking expert guide

• Small group; 12-seater boat

• Warm floatable overalls, neoprene gloves, goggles, and headband

• Life vest and other necessary safety equipment

Exclusions #

• Food & drinks

Sail Eyjafjörður’s calm waters for up-close encounters with playful humpback whales and seabirds.

• Starting point: Árskógssandur harbour, just 30 minutes from Akureyri, Iceland.
• Everything you get: Step aboard a traditional oak boat for a 2.5-hour whale watching cruise led by an expert guide. Stay warm with the provided overalls and raincoats if needed, and enjoy hot chocolate and freshly baked cinnamon buns as you listen to fascinating stories about the fjord’s wildlife.
• Sights covered: Eyjafjörður fjord, humpback whales, minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, harbour porpoises, seabirds, and mountain views.
• Why choose this: Experience North Iceland’s rich marine life with a high chance of humpback whale sightings, all in a scenic, tranquil setting with local treats and knowledgeable guides.

Inclusions #

• Expert whale watching guide

• Warm overalls and raincoats (based on weather)

• Hot chocolate and cinnamon buns

What to bring

• Dress appropriately for the weather, as conditions can be cold and windy on the water.
• Warm overalls and raincoats are provided, but it is recommended to wear layered clothing and sturdy shoes.
• Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at check-in.

What’s not allowed

• Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not permitted on board.
• Pets are not allowed, except for registered service animals.

Accessibility

• This experience is not wheelchair accessible.

Additional information

• Sightings of whales are not guaranteed, as this is a wild nature experience.
• The tour duration is approximately 2.5 hours.
• The experience operates from 1 February to 15 December.
• Children under 7 years join for free but must be accompanied by an adult.
• Please arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before departure.