Whale Watching on board a Traditional Oak Boat from Árskógssandur

Thinking about a whale watching trip in Iceland? This tour from Árskógssandur offers a charming and authentic experience aboard a classic oak vessel, giving you a genuine taste of Iceland’s rich marine life. We’ve taken a close look at what makes this tour special—think scenic fjord landscapes, knowledgeable guides, and the thrill of spotting whales in their natural habitat.

What we really love about this experience is its intimate, small-group vibe—most tours host around 11 to 65 travelers, making it easier to get a personalized experience. The warm onboard amenities like hot chocolate and cinnamon buns also help keep spirits high during the chilly moments at sea. Plus, the traditional wooden boat adds a layer of rustic charm that’s hard to match with modern ships.

That said, one consideration to keep in mind is that the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off—so you’ll need to make your way to Árskógssandur harbor. If you prefer a door-to-door experience or traveling with young children, this might require some extra planning.

This tour suits travelers who love authentic, laid-back adventures with a focus on wildlife and scenery. It’s perfect if you’re keen to learn from knowledgeable guides, enjoy cozy onboard treats, and want a genuine Icelandic boat experience rather than a large, impersonal cruise.

Good To Know

• Authentic Experience: Traditional oak boat adds charm and authenticity
• Wildlife Encounters: Likely to spot minke, humpback, and orca whales
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with detailed explanations
• Comfort & Refreshments: Warm overalls and onboard hot chocolate make the trip cozy
• Flexible Timing: Multiple departure times throughout the day
• No Hotel Pickup: Requires self-arranged transportation to Árskógssandur harbor

An In-Depth Look at the Whale Watching Tour

The Setting: Árskógssandur and Eyjafjörður Fjord

The starting point for this adventure is Árskógssandur, a small harbor in Iceland’s north coast. The fjord here, Eyjafjörður, is renowned for its clear waters and healthy whale populations, making it an excellent locale for spotting these gentle giants. The ride is roughly two and a half hours, giving ample time to soak in the scenery and scan the waters for whales.

The fjord’s wild, rugged landscape provides a stunning backdrop, with steep mountains and sweeping vistas. Unlike larger tours that might rush or get crowded, this small-scale experience allows you to enjoy the scenery with a more relaxed pace.

The Traditional Oak Vessel

Travelers consistently praise the classic wooden boat, noting its rustic charm and the authentic feeling it provides. Unlike modern aluminum or fiberglass boats, this vessel turns back the clock, offering a nostalgic maritime vibe. The boat is fitted with warm overalls—a thoughtful touch considering Iceland’s cool ocean breezes—helping you stay comfortable even when the wind picks up.

What the Tour Entails

Once on board, your guide will share insights into the variety of whales in the area, such as minke, humpback, and orca whales. Several reviews highlight guides like Laura, who is described as knowledgeable and personable, making the experience more engaging. She and other guides go beyond just spotting whales—they explain their habits and behaviors, enriching your understanding of these magnificent creatures.

The whales themselves are often close enough that you might almost touch them. Reviewers have mentioned sightings where whales surface just meters from the boat, with one guest saying, “we could almost touch the whales”. While these close encounters aren’t guaranteed, the likelihood is high given the tour’s reputation for decent sightings.

Wildlife Viewing and Timing

The best part? The possibility to see multiple whale species during a single trip. Most sightings involve minke whales, which are quite active and curious. Humpbacks are also often seen, with some guests witnessing their signature breaches or tail slaps. Orcas are rarer but still on the list.

Timing plays a role in your success—some reviews mention a slow start but then seeing whales after about 30 minutes to an hour. One guest experienced a dive that lasted about 20 minutes, which is typical whale behavior, but then the whales reappeared, giving everyone a good view.

Refreshments and Comfort on Board

A big perk here is the onboard hot chocolate and cinnamon buns, which are both comforting and delicious after some time at sea. These treats are included in the ticket price, adding a cozy element that makes the trip feel more like a friendly expedition than a commercial cruise.

Guests also appreciated the warm overalls provided, especially because Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable. The overalls fit most sizes and help keep you dry and warm, making it easier to focus on the scenery and whale watching rather than battling the elements.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of around 65 travelers, most trips are smaller, more intimate affairs. Some reviews mention being part of groups as small as 11, which means better chances of seeing whales and more personalized attention from guides. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a laid-back adventure.

Meeting Point and Accessibility

The tour departs from Hotel Kaldí in Árskógssandur, which is conveniently located and easy to find. Reviewers noted that parking is straightforward and that waiting in the hotel lobby with coffee or tea is a good way to pass the time before departure. However, it’s important to note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation.

Analyzing the Price and Overall Value

At around $94.79 per person, this tour offers a solid value—especially considering the included warm clothing, refreshments, and expert guides. Whale watching in Iceland tends to be pricier, but this experience strikes a good balance by focusing on small groups and authentic vessel charm.

Compared to larger, more commercial cruises, this tour feels more personalized and less rushed. The chance to see multiple whales in their natural environment, combined with the cozy onboard treats, makes it worth the price for many travelers.

What the Reviews Say

Guests consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, especially mentioning Laura and other crew members who are eager to share their expertise. Seeing whales, particularly humpbacks, is a highlight that many say exceeded expectations. Reviewers also mention how the scenery and tranquility of the fjord enhance the experience.

Some minor criticisms include directions to the meeting point, which a few found confusing, and the fact that no hotel transfer is offered—so planning your transportation is essential.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This whale watching trip is ideal for those seeking an authentic, laid-back adventure. It’s perfect if you enjoy small-group experiences and want to learn directly from knowledgeable guides. The cozy onboard amenities and rustic vessel add a special touch for travelers who appreciate traditional maritime charm.

It’s especially suited for visitors who don’t mind self-arranging transportation and are prepared for potentially variable weather conditions. If you’re eager to see whales close-up in a natural setting and enjoy scenic fjord landscapes, this tour offers excellent opportunities.

Final Thoughts

This tour combines Iceland’s natural beauty with a genuine sense of maritime history aboard a beautifully maintained oak vessel. It’s a flexible, friendly, and informative experience that provides a real connection with the wildlife and scenery of the north coast.

If you’re after culturally immersive, smaller group excursions with expert guides, this whale watching trip is a great choice. The inclusion of warm clothing, cozy snacks, and the chance to see whales in their environment makes it a well-rounded and memorable outing.

While it’s not a luxury cruise with all amenities included, the authentic boat, scenic fjord, and close whale encounters deliver true value for your money. This experience is especially appealing for travelers eager to enjoy Iceland’s marine life with a personal touch.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own warm clothing?
No, warm overalls are provided, which are designed to keep you comfortable in Iceland’s cool marine environment.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, the tour starts from Árskógssandur harbor, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

What species of whales might I see?
Most sightings include minke and humpback whales, with occasional orca sightings possible.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including time to spot whales and enjoy onboard refreshments.

Are there options for different departure times?
Yes, the tour offers multiple departure times throughout the day, allowing flexibility to fit your schedule.

What if the weather is poor on the day of my trip?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This whale watching tour from Árskógssandur delivers a cozy, authentic Icelandic adventure. Perfect for wildlife lovers and those seeking a genuine maritime experience, it offers excellent value and unforgettable scenery.