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. No road transfer included
• 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.
• Species spotted: Look for humpback whales and blue whales in Skjálfandi Bay. Puffins can be observed on Puffin Island during 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 & waterproof overalls & life vests

Exclusions #

• Food & drinks

What to bring

• Bring warm and waterproof clothes, sturdy footwear, and protective bags for cameras as it can be cold and wet out at sea.

What's not allowed

• This experience is not suitable for pregnant women or those with heart or back conditions.
• This experience is not allowed for guests under 8 years and those under the height of 130 cm (4.25ft).

Additional information

• The puffin season typically runs from April 15 to August 15.
• For your safety and comfort, tours may be rescheduled or altered on short notice due to weather or sea conditions. This may include skipping the visit to Puffin Island.
• Sightings are highly likely (up to 99%) but not guaranteed; if no whales or dolphins appear, you can join a GG1 Whale Watching tour free of charge, subject to availability.
• Tours require a minimum number of participants; if not met, departures may be changed or canceled, with alternatives offered.

Small group Eyjafjörður cruise capped at 30 guests, run by a local captain and guide for a warm, personal time on the water.

• Starting point: Board at the wooden pier in Hjalteyri harbor.
• Everything you get: Professional guide with live commentary, 2.5 hr cruise, safety briefing, plus hot drinks, water and a sweet treat on board.
• Species spotted: Humpback whales are the most frequently sighted species in Eyjafjörður, often seen surfacing, diving, and displaying their flukes.
• Why choose this: Family-run boat that treats you like a local guest, ideal if you care about genuine hospitality on the fjord.

Inclusions #

• 2.5-hour whale watching cruise from Hjalteyri

• Small group experience (max 30 passengers)

• Local captain with lifelong experience at sea

• Professional guide providing engaging insights & live commentary

• Hot drinks on board (coffee, hot chocolate & tea), water & a sweet treat

• Safety briefing before departure

Exclusions #

• Round-trip hotel transfers

What to bring

• Bring your mobile or printed voucher to present at the wooden pier meeting point.
• Dress warmly in windproof layers, as Icelandic weather and sea air can feel very cold.
• Wear closed-toe shoes with good grip that are suitable for a wet boat deck.

What’s not allowed

• Do not attempt to touch or feed any whales, dolphins, or seabirds during the tour.

Additional information

• Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed, but the chances of seeing whales in Eyjafjörður are high.
• The tour is suitable for all ages, so families with children are welcome on board.
• Please arrive at the pier at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time.
• The cruise lasts approximately 2.5 hours from departure to return.

Intimate whale cruise for max 30 guests, with a relaxed pace and commentary tailored to cruise passengers' short time ashore.

• Starting point: Pick up at Akureyri Cruise Port, bus transfer to Hjalteyri harbor, where you board your whale watching boat.
• Everything you get: Professional guide and local captain, Wi-Fi, safety briefing, live commentary, a sweet treat, plus hot drinks and water on board.
• Species spotted: Whale and dolphin species are identified on board by your guide, who explains each animal's behavior and surfacing patterns.

Inclusions #

• Round-trip transfer from Akureyri Cruise Port

• Small group experience (max 30 passengers)

• Professional guide & local captain

• Live commentary & safety briefing in English

• Hot drinks on board (hot chocolate, coffee, and tea), water & a treat

• Wi-Fi on board

Exclusions #

• Meals

• Guarantee of wildlife sightings

What to bring

• Bring your voucher on your phone or printed to show at pick-up and before boarding.
• Dress warmly in windproof layers, as Icelandic weather changes quickly.
• Wear closed shoes with good grip that are suitable for a wet boat deck.
• Bring a hat and gloves, as it can feel much colder on the water than on land.

What’s not allowed

• Do not attempt to touch or feed any wildlife during the cruise.

Additional information

• Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, although chances of seeing whales are high.
• This experience is suitable for all ages.
• Your drop-off will be at the same place where you were picked up.
• You must be at the meeting point before departure, as the bus waits a maximum of 10 minutes.

Family-run whale watching in Húsavík aboard either a traditional oak boat or Vinur, the only whale-watching vessel with indoor seating.

• Starting point: Depart from Húsavík Harbour. No road transfer included.
• Everything you get: Experienced local captain, knowledgeable guide, flotation suit, children's lifejackets, and a discount for the Húsavík Whale Museum.
• Species spotted: Humpback whales are frequent visitors to Skjálfandi Bay. Minke whales and white-beaked dolphins are commonly seen. Blue whales appear occasionally.
• Why choose this: Choose between open-deck viewing or the comfort of indoor seating while exploring one of Iceland’s premier whale-watching bays.

Inclusions #

• 3-hour whale watching cruise from Húsavík

• Windproof & 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.

Whale watching aboard a traditional Icelandic oak ship operated by one of Husavik's pioneering whale-watching companies.

• Starting point: Depart from Husavik Harbour. No road transfer included.
• 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.
• Species spotted: Minke whales and humpback whales are regularly seen in Skjálfandi Bay. Dolphins and blue whales are also possible sightings.
• 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 #

• 3-hour whale watching tour

• Sail on a traditional Icelandic oak ship

• See minke whales, breaching humpbacks, dolphins & blue whales

• Expert whale watching guide

• Hot chocolate & a cinnamon cookie

• Warm overalls & 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

• Warm overalls and raincoats are provided if needed, but it is best to dress appropriately for the weather.
• 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.
• Whale sightings are highly likely but cannot be guaranteed, as these are wild animals in their natural habitat.

Small-group RIB adventure from Akureyri with just 12 passengers, allowing closer wildlife encounters and faster access to whale habitats.

• Starting point: Floating pier at Hof Cultural Centre, Akureyri. No road transfer included.
• 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.
• Species spotted: Humpback whales are the main highlight in Eyjafjörður. Dolphins and seabirds may also be encountered during the search.
• Why choose this: Fast RIB boats cover a wider search area than conventional vessels, helping you reach wildlife-viewing zones more efficiently.

Inclusions #

• 2-hour whale & bird watching tour

• English-speaking expert guide

• Small group (12-seater boat)

• Warm floatable overalls, neoprene gloves, goggles & headband

• Life vest & other necessary safety equipment

Exclusions #

• Food & drinks

• Hotel transfers

What to bring

• Bring a wool or fleece sweater, warm hat, gloves, and sturdy shoes.

What's not allowed

• This experience is not allowed for guests under 10 years and those under the height of145 cm (4'9").
• This tour is not suitable for pregnant women or anyone with a history of back injuries; please consult your doctor before booking.

Additional information

• Each RIB boat accommodates only 12 guests, ensuring a small-group experience with a private guide and specially trained captain.
• Additional thermal gear and life jackets will be provided, but personal warm clothing is highly recommended.
• Transfers (pick-up and drop-off) are not included. Please make your own way to the floating pier at Hof Cultural Centre in Akureyri.

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: 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.
• Species spotted: 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 #

• 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 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: Depart from Akureyri Harbour. No road transfer included.
• 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.
• Species spotted: Humpback whales are the primary sighting species. Minke whales are also regularly spotted in Eyjafjörður.
• Why choose this: Includes a free return ticket if no whales are sighted, giving you another chance to experience Akureyri's marine wildlife.

Inclusions #

• 2.5-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

What to bring

• Warm layers and good shoes will ensure you stay comfortable on board, even in shifting conditions.
• It’s a good idea to pack hats and gloves, as the winds on the fjord can be chilly.
• Don’t forget a camera because sightings and landscapes make for excellent photos.
• Consider carrying sunscreen and sunglasses for bright days on the water.

What's not allowed

• Personal alcohol is generally discouraged as the boat offers its own beverage options.
• Bringing unnecessarily large bags or gear may not be accepted to maintain passenger comfort.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair access varies by tour, so it may be limited on this vessel.
• Reaching out to the operator beforehand helps determine if accessibility arrangements are possible.

Additional information

• Check-in must be completed 30 minutes prior to your scheduled sailing time.
• While wildlife sightings vary, the operator offers a complimentary retry ticket if no animals appear.
• Life jackets are mandatory for children under 12 throughout the excursion.
• Tours may be adjusted or canceled if sea conditions are unfavorable to ensure guest safety.