Iceland is a magical destination that offers many unique experiences, including the opportunity to go whale watching. Whale watching is one of the most popular activities in Iceland, with thousands of tourists flocking to the country every year to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures. In this article, we'll take a closer look at Iceland's whale watching industry, the best time to go, top spots to visit, the most common whales you'll see, and tips for a successful whale watching experience.
Iceland's Whale Watching Industry
Iceland is known for having a thriving whale watching industry that is committed to sustainability and responsible tourism. The industry has grown significantly in recent years, and there are now many companies that offer whale watching tours to visitors.
Whale watching tours typically last anywhere from two to four hours, depending on the company and the location. During the tour, you'll have the opportunity to see various species of whales, dolphins, and porpoises in their natural habitat.
Best Time to Go Whale Watching in Iceland
The best time to go whale watching in Iceland is from May to September. During this time, the weather is generally mild, and the ocean conditions are more favorable. Additionally, many species of whales, including humpback whales and minke whales, migrate to Iceland's waters during the summer months, making it the perfect time to see them up close.
Top Spots for Whale Watching in Iceland
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Husavik: Husavik is known as the whale watching capital of Iceland and is home to several companies that offer tours. The town is located in the north of Iceland and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and ocean.
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Reykjavik: Reykjavik is Iceland's capital city and is home to several whale watching companies. The tours depart from the old harbor, and you'll have the opportunity to see humpback whales, minke whales, and dolphins.
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Akureyri: Akureyri is located in the north of Iceland and is a popular destination for whale watching tours. During the tour, you'll have the opportunity to see humpback whales, minke whales, and sometimes even blue whales.
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Dalvik: Dalvik is a small fishing village located in the north of Iceland and is home to several whale watching companies. During the tour, you'll have the opportunity to see humpback whales and minke whales.
The Most Common Whales You'll See in Iceland
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Humpback Whale: The humpback whale is one of the most common whales you'll see during a whale watching tour in Iceland. These whales can grow up to 50 feet in length and are known for their acrobatic displays.
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Minke Whale: The minke whale is the second most common whale you'll see during a whale watching tour in Iceland. These whales are smaller than humpback whales, growing up to 30 feet in length. They are known for their speed and agility and are often seen swimming close to the surface.
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Blue Whale: The blue whale is the largest mammal in the world and can grow up to 100 feet in length. While they are not as commonly seen during whale watching tours in Iceland, there have been sightings of these magnificent creatures in recent years.
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Orca (Killer Whale): The orca, or killer whale, is a toothed whale that is known for its distinctive black and white coloring. They are often seen in the waters around Iceland, and some tours specialize in finding them.
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Sperm Whale: The sperm whale is the largest toothed whale in the world and can grow up to 60 feet in length. These whales are often seen in the deeper waters around Iceland and are known for their distinctive, block-shaped heads.
Tips for a Successful Whale Watching Experience
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Dress for the Weather: The weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, so it's important to dress in layers and wear warm clothing, even during the summer months.
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Don't Forget Your Camera: Whale watching tours offer some of the most incredible photo opportunities, so don't forget your camera or smartphone. Be sure to bring extra batteries or a charger, as you don't want to miss capturing the perfect shot.
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Take Motion Sickness Medicine: If you're prone to motion sickness, be sure to take medication before the tour. The ocean can be choppy at times, and you want to be able to enjoy the experience without feeling ill.
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Listen to Your Guide: The guides on whale watching tours are experts and have a wealth of knowledge about the whales and the surrounding area. Be sure to listen to their instructions and guidance to have the best experience possible.
