Akureyri: Whale Watching Shore Excursions

If you’re heading to Iceland’s northeastern coast, a whale watching trip from Akureyri is a must. This 2.5-hour adventure offers a chance to spot majestic humpback whales, playful dolphins, and a variety of seabirds—all in their natural environment. With a reputation for skilled guides, comfy boats, and stunning views, it’s a popular choice for travelers craving authentic marine encounters.

We love how the trip combines educational commentary with breathtaking scenery and modern amenities. Plus, the fact that it offers a second chance ticket if you don’t spot whales initially adds peace of mind. That said, the tour runs in cold, Icelandic weather, so packing warm clothing is essential.

This tour suits those who enjoy wildlife, appreciate a well-organized experience, and want a good mix of adventure and comfort. Families, solo travelers, or couples seeking a memorable marine adventure will find plenty to love here—especially if they’re eager to see whales up close without sacrificing comfort.

Good To Know

• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable staff, including biologists like Massimiliano, enhance your experience with insightful commentary.
• Comfort & Warmth: Heated indoor seating, full weather suits, and warm overalls mean you stay cozy despite the cold.
• Wildlife Encounters: Chances to see humpback whales, minkes, and even porpoises make every trip exciting.
• Modern Vessel: The fast cruising catamaran offers stability, speed, and great visibility for wildlife viewing.
• Flexibility: The option for a second chance trip ensures you won’t miss out on sightings.
• Convenient & Accessible: Meeting at the local ticket office, with no included transfers, makes it straightforward to join.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect on Your Whale Watching Trip

Starting at the Special Tours Akureyri Ticket Office, you’ll check in and prepare for your 2.5-hour adventure. The boat departs from a small, easily accessible port, making it a convenient option whether you’re on a cruise or staying in Akureyri.

The Boat & Comfort

Once aboard, you’ll find a large, modern catamaran designed for stability and speed, perfect for cutting through Eyjafjörður Fjord. The vessel has heated indoor seating, so if the weather turns chilly or windy, you can retreat inside without missing the action. For those who prefer the fresh air, the open deck provides excellent vantage points—just bundle up in the full weather suits provided, which are available in adult and children’s sizes.

The Crew & Guides

The crew is praised repeatedly for their professionalism and friendliness. Their knowledge of the fjord and marine life is evident, often making educated guesses about whale behavior—like knowing precisely when whales surface for a breath. Several reviews highlight guides like Massimiliano, a microbiologist, whose informative commentary made the trip not just fun but also educational.

Wildlife Sightings

The main aim is to spot humpback whales, which are known for their spectacular breaches and lengthy dives. Reviewers consistently mention seeing two or more humpbacks, with some lucky guests encountering five or more whales during their trip. The whales often surface close to the boat, allowing for impressive photo opportunities.

Fellow travelers have appreciated the guide’s ability to locate whales quickly. Laurie mentioned how the captain seemed to anticipate whale behavior, enabling guests to see the creatures “rise to breathe and then dive.” Many reviews talk about the close proximity of whales, with guides turning the boat to face them, ensuring everyone gets good views and photos.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Additional Marine Life & Bird Watching

Aside from whales, you might see minke whales, harbor porpoises, or seabirds soaring overhead. Reviewers like Ivan praised the presence of multiple whale species and the generous sightings they enjoyed, thanks to the crew’s expertise.

Refreshments & Extras

Onboard, a café offers hot drinks and snacks for purchase, perfect for warming up during or after the trip. The wi-fi is handy if you want to share your photos immediately or keep in touch. Some travelers appreciated the ability to buy refreshments, while others enjoyed being able to send photos to friends or family right from the boat.

The Second Chance Ticket

If you don’t see any whales on your first trip, don’t worry. The tour includes a ticket for a second ride, which many reviewers found reassuring. While whale sightings are not guaranteed, this policy improves the overall value and reduces the risk of disappointment.

The Value & Practical Considerations

While the trip costs a fixed fee, most reviewers agree it’s worth the price, given the high likelihood of seeing whales up close. The modern vessel, expert guides, and the possibility of multiple sightings justify the cost, especially considering the roughly 2.5-hour duration.

However, be prepared for Iceland’s chilly weather. Some guests mentioned it being cold, but with full weather suits and warm clothing, you can stay comfortable. The boat’s indoor heated seating is an excellent fallback if the weather gets too harsh.

Since the meeting point is at the Special Tours Akureyri Ticket Office, plan your arrival accordingly. The tour does not include transportation, so if you’re staying further away, arrange your own transfer.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This whale watching experience is perfect for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts eager to see whales in their natural habitat. It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and modern, comfortable boats. Families with children will benefit from provided warm overalls and the indoor seating, making the trip accessible and pleasant for all ages.

Couples or groups seeking a memorable, authentic Icelandic experience will find this trip well worth it. The chance to see multiple whale species and seabirds up close makes it a highlight—whether you’re into photography, marine life, or just the thrill of spotting something extraordinary.

The Sum Up

In summary, the Akureyri whale watching tour offers a well-rounded experience combining comfort, expert guidance, and the chance to see whales in the wild. The modern catamaran, the knowledgeable staff—including biologists and experienced captains—and the flexible second-chance policy make it a reliable choice.

The experience is best suited for wildlife enthusiasts, families, or anyone wanting a close-up view of Iceland’s marine life. It’s a great way to add a touch of adventure to your Iceland trip without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The combination of stunning scenery, engaging guides, and marine encounters makes this tour a highlight for many travelers.

If you’re looking for an authentic, well-organized, and rewarding wildlife experience in Iceland’s fjords, this whale watching trip is sure to deliver on those promises—just remember to dress warmly!

FAQ

Do I need to bring warm clothing?
Yes, Iceland’s weather can be cold even in summer. The tour provides full weather suits and warm overalls, but layering your own clothes underneath is advisable to stay extra warm.

Is there a possibility I won’t see any whales?
While whale sightings are common, they are not guaranteed. That’s why the tour includes a second chance ticket if you don’t see whales on your first trip, giving you peace of mind.

How long does the trip last?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, offering plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife without it feeling too long.

Can children participate?
Absolutely. Children are welcome, and full weather suits are available for them. The friendly guides and shorter duration make it suitable for families.

Where do we meet for the tour?
You’ll meet at the Special Tours Akureyri Ticket Office, located conveniently in the town. No transfers are included, so plan accordingly.

What kind of whales might we see?
Most sightings include humpback whales and minke whales. Some reviews also mention porpoises, and the crew’s expertise means they often find multiple species during the trip.

With its combination of expert guides, comfortable boat, and the thrilling possibility of whale encounters, this tour remains one of the best ways to explore Iceland’s marine life from Akureyri. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned wildlife watcher, it promises a memorable adventure in the icy waters of Eyjafjörður.

You can check if your dates are available here: