Whale watching from Akureyri makes perfect sense – you’re ideally positioned on Iceland’s northern coast where whales feed in the nutrient-rich waters. The city serves as an excellent launch point for 3-4 hour tours into Eyjafjörður fjord, where sightings of humpbacks and blue whales are common.
I’m particularly fond of the smaller boats that carry 12-20 passengers – they provide a more intimate experience and can maneuver quickly when whales are spotted. The best operators use quiet engines and offer warm overalls plus hot drinks. Ambassador and Arctic Sea Tours stand out for their experienced naturalist guides and high success rates.
Let’s explore the top whale watching tours in Akureyri that consistently deliver memorable encounters.
Good To Know
Akureyri offers comfortable whale watching tours with heated indoor cabins, cushioned seating, and a maximum capacity of 200 passengers on larger vessels.
Tours from Akureyri provide a free whale sighting guarantee and have multiple departure times throughout the day, catering to different schedules.
Akureyri’s whale watching experiences are highly rated, with knowledgeable guides and successful wildlife sightings, including humpback whales, blue whales, and dolphins.
Some Akureyri tours highlight eco-friendly practices, such as using low-sound boats, and offer citizen science adventures where participants can collect microplastic samples.
Discounts are available for Akureyri whale watching tour participants at local attractions like the Húsavík Whale Museum and restaurants, enhancing the overall experience.
Whale Safari and Puffins RIB Boat Tour From Húsavík
The Whale Safari and Puffins RIB Boat Tour from Húsavík offers a thrilling 2-hour excursion to Skjálfandi Bay, where travelers can spot a variety of marine wildlife, including blue whales, humpbacks, and porpoises.
During the peak breeding season (mid-April to mid-August), the tour also visits Puffin Island to observe the vibrant puffin colonies. With a maximum of 12 travelers, the RIB speedboat provides an intimate and exhilarating experience, allowing close encounters with these magnificent creatures.
Experienced guides offer live commentary, sharing their knowledge about the local wildlife and ecology. Warm safety overalls and rain jackets are provided, ensuring guests’ comfort throughout the tour.
The meeting point is the Gentle Giants Ticket Center in Húsavík, with pickup and drop-off included for accommodations within walking distance. Travelers are advised to arrive at least 40 minutes before departure.
With an excellent 94% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this tour is a must-do for wildlife enthusiasts visiting the Akureyri region.
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Whale Watching From Downtown Akureyri
Whale watching from downtown Akureyri offers a convenient and accessible way to spot these magnificent marine mammals.
Set out on a 740-review, 90% recommended cruise that maximizes your chances of seeing humpback whales in the Eyjafjord, known for its summer feeding grounds. Sail aboard a high-speed, specially modified vessel accommodating up to 200 passengers, with indoor and outdoor seating, a café, and a bar.
The tour provides thermal coveralls, raincoats, and blankets to keep you comfortable as you admire the rugged coastline and snow-capped mountains.
While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the tour offers a free retry if no whales are spotted. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the whales’ lifecycles and feeding behaviors, making this an educational experience.
With various departure times, including late-night cruises from June to August, this tour is an excellent opportunity to witness these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.
Priced starting at SEK 1,135.30 per person, the whale watching experience in Akureyri is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting the region.
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Big Whales & Puffins RIB Boat Tour From Húsavík
Nestled along the scenic Skjálfandi Bay, Húsavík offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the majestic marine life of North Iceland.
The Big Whales & Puffins RIB boat tour is a top-rated experience, with 97% of travelers recommending it. Departing from Húsavík Adventures, this 2-hour tour takes guests aboard a nimble RIB boat to spot humpback whales, puffins, and other marine creatures.
Accommodating up to 12 passengers, the small group size ensures limited competition for views. Guests are provided with warm overalls, life jackets, and other equipment to ensure comfort, regardless of weather conditions.
The knowledgeable guides are trained to locate and approach wildlife, offering insightful live commentary throughout the tour. Highlights include witnessing whales breach and perform tail dives, as well as close encounters with these magnificent creatures.
With a 4.9/5 rating and free cancellation available, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking an unforgettable whale watching adventure in North Iceland.
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100% Whale Watching
Conveniently located 25 minutes north of Akureyri, 100% Whale Watching offers captivating whale-watching tours in the serene Eyjafjordur fjord. Recommended by 97% of travelers, the tour features diverse whale species, including the majestic humpback whales.
With a maximum capacity of 72 travelers, the experience promises an intimate and personalized encounter. Guests can enjoy warm coffee, pastries, and safety clothing provided for the trip. Angling tour options are also available for those seeking a more diverse adventure.
The tour boasts an impressive 4.9 rating from 233 reviews, praising the knowledgeable staff, excellent organization, and the opportunity to see multiple whales up close. Families and children are welcome, and the tour is wheelchair accessible.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience, providing flexibility. Overall, 100% Whale Watching is a must-try for visitors to Iceland, offering a memorable and safe way to witness the magnificent marine life of the region.
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Whales and Puffins Tour From Husavik
Just a short distance from Akureyri, the Whales and Puffins Tour from Husavik promises an unforgettable wildlife experience. This highly-rated, half-day tour offers the chance to spot whales, dolphins, and the iconic puffins.
With 80 reviews and a 91% recommendation rate, the tour has earned a Badge of Excellence. Participants will be provided with warm overalls and light refreshments, while also enjoying discounts at local attractions.
The knowledgeable guides lead the way, sharing expert commentary and taking routes optimized for wildlife sightings. The tour is wheelchair accessible and welcomes service animals, though children must be accompanied by adults.
While most travelers report excellent experiences, including seeing up to 9 whales and multiple puffins, a few issues have been noted. Some have encountered cancellations due to weather, and a handful felt the whales were being pursued rather than observed naturally.
Plus, limited parking and confusion around check-in times have been mentioned. The Whales and Puffins Tour offers a unique and well-regarded way to explore the natural wonders around Akureyri.
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Whale Watching in Húsavík With Friends of Moby Dick
The Húsavík Whale Watching Tour with Friends of Moby Dick offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the majestic marine life of Iceland’s north. This highly-rated tour, with a 4.8-star rating from 78 reviews, provides a chance to see humpback whales, minke whales, and other captivating whale behaviors.
Based in the picturesque town of Húsavík, the tour is led by friendly, knowledgeable guides, many of whom are marine biologists. Participants enjoy warm protective overalls, life jackets, and complimentary drinks and snacks during the excursion.
While weather conditions can sometimes be challenging, the tour emphasizes safety and comfort, ensuring a memorable experience for all. With a 95% recommendation rate and a starting price of $85.83 per person, the Húsavík Whale Watching Tour is a must-do activity for anyone visiting the Akureyri region of Iceland.
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Whale Watching on a Traditional Oak Sailing Ship From Husavik
Those seeking a unique and memorable whale watching experience can embark on a journey aboard a traditional Icelandic schooner from the picturesque town of Húsavík.
The 3-hour tour is recommended by 91% of travelers and features rugged natural scenery and insights into Icelandic sailing traditions.
Participants can assist in sailing the ship, donning special cold-weather suits for warmth and dryness. A guided narration during the whale search provides valuable insights, while light refreshments, including cinnamon buns and hot chocolate, help keep spirits high.
The tour departs from the Húsavík harbor, a short walk from the North Sailing Ticket Centre where tickets can be redeemed.
With a maximum of 45 travelers per tour, the experience offers an intimate and authentic encounter with the whales and the region’s maritime heritage.
Wheelchair accessibility and service animal accommodations make the tour accessible to all.
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Whale Watching in Husavik
While the town of Húsavík is renowned for its exceptional whale watching opportunities, visitors can also embark on captivating tours from the nearby port of Akureyri.
A 3-hour whale watching excursion from Húsavík aboard a traditional oak boat offers the chance to observe humpback, blue, and minke whales, as well as dolphins and seabirds. Rated 4.7 based on over 100 reviews, with 93% of travelers recommending the experience, the tour includes a professional guide, warm overalls, and bathroom facilities on board.
Passengers can enjoy hot cocoa and cinnamon buns on the return journey. The tour also offers discounts on admission to the Húsavík Whale Museum and access to the Geosea warm sea bath.
With a maximum of 100 travelers per tour and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this whale watching experience from Húsavík is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Akureyri.
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Whale Watching From the Heart of Akureyri
Set out on a captivating whale watching adventure from the heart of Akureyri, Iceland’s “Capital of the North.” Depart from the town’s charming harbor for a thrilling excursion to encounter the world’s largest mammals in their natural habitat.
Enjoy comfortable, first-class amenities on the boat, including a heated indoor cabin, cushioned seats, and 360° panoramic views from the top deck. The tour includes multiple whale watching platforms, warm overalls, and blankets to keep you cozy.
With six departure times to choose from, the excursion is accessible and flexible. Arrive at least 15 minutes early at the Elding Whale Watching Akureyri near the HOF building downtown.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and children are welcome with adult supervision and safety vests. While weather conditions may vary, the crew is knowledgeable, and they guarantee a sighting – if no whales are spotted, you can try again for free.
Priced from €83 per person, this memorable experience is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Akureyri.
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Whale Watching and Sea Angling Tour
For those seeking an unforgettable adventure, the Whale Watching and Sea Angling Tour in Akureyri, Iceland, is a must-try experience. This eco-friendly tour boasts a 4.7-star rating from 55 reviews, earning a Badge of Excellence for its responsible whale-watching practices.
Led by an experienced captain, the tour offers excellent chances of spotting humpback, minke, and blue whales in the Eyjafjörður fjord. Along With whale sightings, you’ll also have the opportunity to observe dolphins and other marine wildlife.
Comfort is a priority, with a large, stable oak boat and warm overalls provided to minimize motion sickness. Indulge in hot drinks and Icelandic pastries as you take in the stunning scenery.
The tour also includes a fishing component, allowing you to try your hand at sea angling and potentially catch cod and other fish. With a convenient meeting point, wheelchair and stroller accessibility, and free cancellation, this tour caters to a wide range of travelers.
Don’t miss this chance to learn about Iceland’s breathtaking natural wonders.
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Traditional Whale Watching Tour From Húsavík
The Traditional Whale Watching Tour from Húsavík invites visitors on a captivating journey to witness the magnificent whales that grace the waters of Skjálfandi Bay.
This traditional tour aboard an oak boat allows travelers to enjoy Iceland’s rich marine life and stunning coastal landscapes. With a maximum capacity of 70, the tour offers an intimate experience with professional guides providing live commentary on the wildlife and culture.
Highlights include the chance to spot humpback and blue whales, as well as potentially encounter dolphins and puffins.
The tour’s inclusion of warm safety overalls, rain jackets, and transportation ensures a comfortable and hassle-free experience. While whale sightings can’t be guaranteed, the majority of reviews praise the tour’s exceptional crew and memorable excursions.
At €80 per person, this whale watching adventure from Húsavík is an excellent opportunity to take in Iceland’s natural wonders.
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Original Carbon Neutral Whale Watching Tour From Húsavík
Why not explore the Original Carbon Neutral Whale Watching Tour from Húsavík? This tour provides a sustainable whale watching experience with minimal disturbance to whales in their natural environment.
Cruise around Skjálfandi Bay, where you might spot minke, humpback, sperm, pilot, and even blue whales. The tour uses low-sound, carbon-neutral boats, ensuring a more eco-friendly adventure.
During the tour, you’ll enjoy onboard hot chocolate and cinnamon buns while a professional guide shares information about the whales and the company’s eco-friendly practices.
With 83 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this Akureyri-based tour is highly rated. However, past guests have reported issues with boat availability, overcrowding, and weather-related cancellations. The hosts are committed to improving the service based on this feedback.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, allows service animals, and has a maximum of 70 travelers per group.
With confirmation upon booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this carbon-neutral experience is worth considering for your whale watching adventure in North Iceland.
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Express Whale Watching by RIB Boat From Akureyri
Akureyri, the vibrant coastal town in North Iceland, offers a thrilling alternative to the traditional whale watching experience. The Akureyri Express Whale Watching by RIB boat promises an intimate and up-close encounter with some of the region’s magnificent marine life.
Departing from the Elding Whale Watching Akureyri pier, this 2-hour excursion accommodates a maximum of 12 passengers, ensuring a personalized experience. Aboard the nimble RIB boat, participants don protective overalls, goggles, and gloves before cruising along the stunning Eyjafjörður fjord.
The knowledgeable guide highlights the area’s natural wonders and wildlife, with stops to observe humpback whales, mink whales, white-beaked dolphins, and more. With a whale sighting guarantee, this tour offers the best chance to spot these magnificent creatures.
Recommended by 94% of travelers and boasting a 4.7-star rating, the Akureyri Express Whale Watching promises an unforgettable adventure in one of Europe’s premier whale-watching destinations.
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Husavik Traditional Oak Ship Whale- and Puffin-Watching Cruise – Akureyri
For those seeking an authentic whale- and puffin-watching experience, the Húsavík Traditional Oak Ship Cruise from Akureyri promises an unforgettable adventure.
Departing from the North Sailing ticket office across from Húsavík Church, this tour offers a wildlife-spotting cruise in Iceland’s coastal waters aboard a traditional wooden oak boat. Accompanied by a knowledgeable marine biologist guide, guests can expect to spot dolphins, whales, puffins, and seabirds, with live commentary providing insights into the local marine life.
The tour includes warm overalls, light refreshments, and a 20% discount at the Húsavík Whale Museum. Guests can also enjoy a 10% discount at the Gamli Baukur Restaurant and Geosea in Húsavík.
With a maximum of 50 travelers per tour, the experience is wheelchair-accessible and allows infants to sit on laps. While whale sightings can’t be guaranteed, recent reviews praise the team’s responsiveness and the rare opportunities to witness breaching humpback and blue whales.
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Traditional Oak Ship Whale Watching Tour From Husavik
This 3-hour Original Whale Watching tour from Húsavík, Iceland, the self-proclaimed capital of whale watching, offers an intimate encounter with humpback whales in their natural habitat.
Departures are available in the morning, afternoon, or evening, allowing visitors to choose a time that suits their schedule. The tour includes light refreshments, live commentary from expert guides, and a maximum of 125 travelers for a personalized experience.
Guests will be transported to the meeting point at North Sailing – Húsavík Whale Watching, where they’ll don warm, waterproof survival suits before embarking on their whale-watching adventure. Along the way, they may also spot Minke whales, dolphins, puffins, and other seabirds.
After the tour, travelers can enjoy hot chocolate and cinnamon rolls on the return trip. With over 400 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Akureyri and seeking an unforgettable encounter with Iceland’s marine wildlife.
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Hjalteyri Whale-Watching Tour on Traditional Oak Ship – Akureyri
Departing from the charming village of Árskógssandur, this traditional oak ship whale watching tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the waters of Eyjafjörður fjord and spot an array of marine life, including minke, humpback, and orca whales.
Aboard the cozy ship, guests can enjoy hot chocolate and cinnamon buns as they take in the stunning natural surroundings. The tour includes knowledgeable guides, warm overalls, and hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a comfortable and informative experience.
Travelers can choose from morning, afternoon, or evening departures, allowing for flexibility. With a maximum of 48 guests per tour, the experience is intimate and personalized.
Discounts are available at local businesses, adding to the value. Most travelers can participate, and the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive.
With an impressive 4.6-star rating from 74 reviews, this Hjalteyri whale-watching adventure is a must-do for anyone visiting the Akureyri region.
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Studying Whales and Wildlife Experience in Skjalfandi Bay
Travelers exploring the Akureyri region can enjoy a unique citizen science adventure at Skjálfandi Bay, known for its high likelihood of whale sightings. This tour combines wildlife-spotting with the opportunity to contribute to marine conservation efforts.
Participants will collect water samples and analyze them for microplastics using a provided microscope, aiding in important research. The eco-friendly vessel also allows guests to learn the art of hoisting sails.
With the chance to see humpbacks, orcas, and blue whales, this is one of the best whale watching experiences in Iceland. The tour includes onboard amenities like restrooms, hot chocolate, and warm overalls.
A professional guide and marine research expert lead the excursion. Meeting at the North Sailing – Húsavík Whale Watching site, the maximum group size is 25 travelers. While not wheelchair accessible, the location is near public transportation.
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Whale Watching Tour From Akureyri City Central
A popular whale watching tour departs from Akureyri’s city center, offering travelers a chance to spot a variety of marine life in the surrounding Eyjafjörður fjord.
The tour, rated 4.6 out of 19 reviews, provides a comfortable and informative experience. Guests can enjoy heated indoor seating, free WiFi, and complimentary sea sickness tablets. The tour also includes the use of thermal overalls, ensuring warmth during the journey.
The tour operates in various weather conditions, and the company offers a sightings guarantee, allowing travelers to try again for free if no whales are spotted.
With a maximum capacity of 180 travelers, the tour provides ample space for everyone to have an enjoyable experience. Positive reviews highlight the sightings of humpback whales and porpoises, as well as the knowledgeable guides.
While some travelers have mentioned challenging weather conditions, the overall experience remains highly praised. The tour’s convenient location near public transportation and the availability of food and drink make it an attractive option for those seeking a whale watching adventure in Akureyri.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do the Tours Typically Last?
Whale watching tours typically last between 2-3 hours, allowing ample time to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitats. The duration provides a well-balanced experience for visitors to enjoy the whale sightings without feeling rushed.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tours?
The cancellation policy typically allows for full refunds if customers cancel their whale watching tours at least 24 hours in advance. Many companies also offer flexible rescheduling options in case of weather or other delays.
Are There Any Age or Health Restrictions for the Tours?
Most whale watching tours don’t have age or health restrictions, but some may have limitations for young children or individuals with mobility issues. It’s best to check with the tour operator for their specific policies.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tours?
Yes, passengers can generally bring their own food and drinks on the whale watching tours. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure their policies allow outside items.
How Do I Dress for the Whale Watching Tours?
It’s best to dress in layers for whale watching tours. Bring warm, waterproof clothing like a jacket, hat, and gloves. Wearing comfortable, non-slip shoes is also important to ensure your safety and comfort on the boat.
The Sum Up
Akureyri offers a range of fantastic whale watching experiences. Visitors can choose from RIB boat tours, traditional oak ship excursions, and even wildlife study experiences. Whether you’re hoping to spot whales, puffins, or other marine life, there’s an adventure to suit every interest. With multiple departure points and tour options, whale watching in Akureyri provides an unforgettable way to connect with the natural wonders of northern Iceland.