Whale Watching Center Akureyri
Embark on an unforgettable whale watching adventure in Akureyri, Iceland, spotting humpbacks and minke whales in the stunning Eyjafjörður fjord.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calmer seas, active wildlife
Whale Watching Center Akureyri
Best Time
Calmer seas, active wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Embark on an unforgettable whale watching adventure in Akureyri, Iceland, spotting humpbacks and minke whales in the stunning Eyjafjörður fjord.
"Witnessing these gentle giants in their natural Arctic habitat is a truly surreal and awe-inspiring experience."
Warm Suits Provided
Most tours offer warm, waterproof suits. Don't forget a hat and gloves!
Bring Binoculars
Enhance your wildlife spotting with a good pair of binoculars.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Humpback Whale Encounters
Eyjafjörður
Witness the majestic humpback whales breach and play in their natural Arctic habitat. A truly unforgettable sight!
+1Minke Whales & Dolphins
Eyjafjörður
Keep an eye out for the smaller, faster minke whales and playful pods of dolphins that also frequent these waters.
Puffin Sightings
Coastal areas
During the summer months, you might spot adorable puffins nesting on nearby islands.
Scenic Fjord Views
Eyjafjörður
Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the charming Icelandic coastline from the water.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book in Advance for Peak Season
Dress for Arctic Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Warm Suits Provided
Most tours offer warm, waterproof suits. Don't forget a hat and gloves!
Bring Binoculars
Enhance your wildlife spotting with a good pair of binoculars.
Consider RIB Tours
For a faster, more intimate experience, opt for a Rigid Inflatable Boat tour.
No Whale Guarantee
Wildlife sightings aren't guaranteed, but tours often offer a second trip if no whales are seen.
Tips
from all over the internet
Warm Suits Provided
Most tours offer warm, waterproof suits. Don't forget a hat and gloves!
Bring Binoculars
Enhance your wildlife spotting with a good pair of binoculars.
Consider RIB Tours
For a faster, more intimate experience, opt for a Rigid Inflatable Boat tour.
No Whale Guarantee
Wildlife sightings aren't guaranteed, but tours often offer a second trip if no whales are seen.
Capture the Moment
Your tour operator might send you photos! Check your email post-trip.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the incredible opportunity to see whales in their natural habitat and the stunning fjord scenery. The crew's knowledge and helpfulness are frequently highlighted, with many appreciating the provision of warm suits. However, some reviewers noted issues with guide audibility or the quality of onboard refreshments, and the unpredictable nature of wildlife sightings can lead to disappointment for some.
"A fantastic experience. Our guide and captain were both tremendous. Our guide was a biologist who shared her incredible knowledge freely. I loved the surprise visit to a hot waterfall. The company even provides pictures from the excursion as part of the package (no extra charge). I highly recommend."
Jason Donkersgoed
"Insanely good. Well arranged tour, well maintained, equipped, and clean boat with plenty of places to seat and stand. The tour guide was knowledgeable AND fun. And, of course, you get to see whales, depending on your luck even repeatedly. Absolutely worth the price, not to be missed and definitely a reason to justify coming all the way to Akureyri"
Hugo Krajnc
"We didn't see any whales on our trip and therefore were given a voucher for a second trip, in either location, valid for 2 years. So we did the trip twice; once in Akureyri and once in Reykjavik.
In comparing the two trips (not the whales but the tour operators), I have to say that the experience in Reykjavik was far better.
The guide was difficult to understand (sound quality?) and was not as thorough in his explanations compared to the guides in Reykjavik.
They have coffee and basic drinks available for purchase. Was the crappiest latte I'd ever had. Also why not at least offer hot tea or coffee for free?
These are the main reasons for the lower stars. Boat was nice with suits available for warmth!
All said, the harbor is absolutely beautiful and a hot spring fed waterfall is fun to see from the boat!"
CatchingKato
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Akureyri is accessible by domestic flights from Reykjavik or by car via the Ring Road. Many whale watching tours depart directly from the Akureyri harbor.
Yes, most tour operators depart from the main harbor area in Akureyri, which is easily walkable from the town center. Look for signs for "Whale Watching."
You can fly from Reykjavik to Akureyri (approx. 45 minutes) or drive the Ring Road (approx. 5-6 hours). Driving offers scenic views of Iceland's diverse landscapes.
While Akureyri is a walkable town, local buses can help you get around. However, most whale watching tours are conveniently located near the town center.
Yes, Húsavík, often called the whale watching capital of Iceland, is a popular alternative, and some tours might offer routes from Reykjavik as well.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Prices vary by tour operator and duration. Expect to pay around $80-$150 USD for a standard tour. RIB tours can be more expensive.
It's highly recommended, especially during peak season (summer), to book your tickets online in advance to secure your spot.
Most tours include the boat trip, a guide, and often warm overalls. Some may offer free Wi-Fi or hot drinks for purchase.
Many operators offer a free second trip or a voucher valid for two years if no whales are spotted on your initial tour.
Some tour operators offer discounts, especially if you book online or use promotional codes. Keep an eye out for special offers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You have a good chance of seeing humpback whales, minke whales, and sometimes dolphins or porpoises in the waters off Akureyri.
Mornings and late afternoons are often good times, with calmer seas and active wildlife. However, sightings can occur at any time.
Standard tours usually last around 3 to 3.5 hours. RIB tours might be shorter, around 2 hours.
Dress in warm layers, including a waterproof jacket and pants, a hat, and gloves. Thermal suits are usually provided.
Absolutely! Bring your camera or phone to capture the incredible moments. Some guides are happy to help you get the best shots.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Some tours offer basic drinks and snacks for purchase, like coffee or soft drinks. It's advisable to eat before or after your tour.
Akureyri has a good selection of restaurants and cafes near the harbor, offering local Icelandic cuisine and international dishes.
It's best to check with your specific tour operator, but generally, bringing your own snacks is usually permitted.
Yes, Akureyri offers a range of dining options, and most restaurants can accommodate vegetarian and vegan requests.
Yes, it's a good idea to have a meal before your tour, especially if you tend to get seasick.
📸 📸 Photography
Use a fast shutter speed to freeze motion, a wide aperture for low light, and consider continuous shooting mode.
Use a waterproof camera bag or a rain cover. Wiping your lens frequently with a microfiber cloth is essential.
A telephoto lens (e.g., 70-200mm or longer) is ideal for capturing distant whales. A wide-angle lens can be useful for landscape shots of the fjord.
Wait for the whale to dive; this is when their fluke (tail) is most visible. Be patient and ready to shoot.
Yes, modern smartphones can take great photos. Ensure your lens is clean and consider using a waterproof case for protection.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and drinks, and be prepared for varying weather conditions. The guides are usually very engaging and can make the trip educational and fun for all ages. 💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be prepared for changing light conditions and potential sea spray; a waterproof camera bag and lens cleaning cloths are essential. Patience is key – wait for those dramatic breaches or fluke dives. Some tours even have guides who are knowledgeable about photography and can offer tips or help you get the best shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Choosing Your Whale Watching Tour
The choice between these options often depends on your comfort level, budget, and desired experience. While the larger boats offer more amenities like onboard restrooms and sometimes even Wi-Fi, the RIB tours provide a more adventurous feel and can sometimes lead to more dynamic wildlife encounters.
What to Expect: Wildlife and Environment
+1 Keep an eye out for dolphins and porpoises that often accompany the boats. During the summer months, the skies might be dotted with puffins, especially if your tour passes by their nesting areas. The Arctic environment can be unpredictable. Even during summer, the weather can change rapidly, and the sea can be cold. It's crucial to dress in warm, waterproof layers, including a hat and gloves. Most tour operators provide thermal suits to keep you comfortable and dry during the excursion.
Social
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