Whale watching

Whale watching in Iceland

I would like to give you some tips, even if you are not traveling with us.

Partly because of my experience in Iceland, but also because I think you should think about who you book activities with.

I think one of the most important reasons is that it is better to support small and medium-sized businesses than those very large organizations. Where, by the way, most shares are often owned by American traders.

There are a lot of dollars in certain Icelandic companies.

Where and with whom?

If you go to Iceland and you want to see whales, there are actually about 4 places that are known for it.

Husavik

The best known is Husavík in northern Iceland, a 45-minute drive from Myvatn. The nice village calls itself ‘the whale capitol of Iceland’, but is that right? With a 98% certainty you will see whales, so the chance is quite high! However, the bay is extremely open and that is why people sail towards the open sea more often. A remedy against seasickness is offered as standard.

I have been on such a boat trip several times and have seen many, many sick people. So not really nice. Moreover, there are a number of very large and commercial companies, which means that it is often busy with boats when something has been spotted.

Reykjavík

Boats also go out to sea from the capital. I can make it short, I have never seen a whale up close on such a tour. The staff was pleasant, the boats good but large and the refreshments excellent. But I don’t think it’s recommended.

Westfjords

If you visit the West Fjords you can book whale safaris from various places. The fjords are generally quieter and the chance that you will see something is many times greater than in the capital. If you only visit the West Fjords, I would definitely book a tour here.

Eyjafjörður

This is the fjord where Iceland’s 2nd city is located. There are several places you can go. The further north you go, the less far you have to sail to see whales.

These are usually located near the island of Hrísey.

My absolute recommendation is the family business at Hauganes.

Local people, formerly fishermen, from the village or surrounding area.

The bay is generally very quiet, a relief for people who suffer from seasickness.

Moreover, there is a nice restaurant in this village where you get a discount on food with your tour ticket, including delicious ‘fish & chips’.

They also plant a tree, just like us at Local Adventures, for every traveler who comes with them as environmental compensation.