Activities11 min read
Whale Watching in Iceland: Complete Guide
Last updated: December 5, 2025
Iceland's nutrient-rich waters attract numerous whale species, making it one of the best whale watching destinations in the world.
Whale Species in Iceland
Commonly Seen
Minke Whale
Most commonly spotted
7-10 meters long
Often curious about boats
Year-round presence
Humpback Whale
Spectacular breaching displays
Can reach 15 meters
Often seen in north
Best: April-October
White-beaked Dolphin
Actually a dolphin
Playful, often ride bow waves
Travel in groups
Year-round
Occasionally Seen
Blue Whale
World's largest animal
Up to 30 meters
Primarily in north
Best: June-July
Fin Whale
Second largest whale
Distinctive asymmetric coloring
Fast swimmers
Best: May-September
Orca (Killer Whale)
Impressive predators
More common around Snæfellsnes
Follow herring
Best: January-March
Best Whale Watching Locations
Húsavík (Whale Capital of Iceland)
Highest success rates
Multiple species
Traditional boats available
Excellent whale museum
Best: April-October
Reykjavik
Convenient from capital
Multiple operators
Good year-round
Combined city tours
Akureyri
North Iceland base
Good for humpbacks
Less crowded
Near other attractions
Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Orca sightings
Smaller boats
Less touristy
Beautiful scenery
Best Time for Whale Watching
By Month
January-March: Orcas (Snæfellsnes)
April-June: Migration increases
June-August: Peak season, most species
September-October: Still good, fewer tourists
November-December: Reduced, weather dependent
By Species
Minke: Year-round, peak summer
Humpback: April-October
Blue: June-July (mainly north)
Orca: January-March (west)
Tour Types
Standard Whale Watching (3 hours)
Most popular option
Large stable boats
Good for families
Refreshments available
Lower seasickness risk
RIB Boat Tours (2-2.5 hours)
Small, fast boats
More adventurous
Closer to whales
Overalls provided
Not for everyone
Combination Tours
Whale watching + puffins
Whale watching + sea angling
Longer duration
Better value
What to Expect
Success Rates
Summer in Húsavík: 95%+
Reykjavik summer: 85-90%
Winter anywhere: 50-70%
Most operators offer rebooking if no whales
Typical Tour
1Check-in and briefing
2Sail to feeding grounds (20-45 min)
3Search for whales (1-2 hours)
4Return to port
5Total: 2.5-4 hours
What to Bring
Warm layers (even summer)
Waterproof jacket
Hat and gloves
Sunglasses
Camera with zoom
Motion sickness tablets (if prone)
Snacks
Seasickness Prevention
Take medication 30 min before
Stay on deck, look at horizon
Fresh air helps
Avoid reading
Light breakfast
Ginger products may help
Ethical Whale Watching
Good operators:
Keep respectful distance
Don't chase whales
Limit time with each whale
Educate passengers
Support research
Booking Tips
6Book in advance during peak season
7Check weather forecast
8Compare operators and reviews
9Understand cancellation policies
10Ask about guarantees (free rebooking)
Photography Tips
Use fast shutter speed (1/500+)
Zoom lens essential (200mm+)
Watch for blow spouts
Be patient and ready
Protect gear from spray
Whale watching is magical and accessible in Iceland. With the right preparation and expectations, it's likely to be a highlight of your trip.
Ready to Experience Iceland?
Book a guided tour and let our experts show you the best of Iceland.