Whales & The Land of Fire and Ice Whales.append_The people who visit are not the only magnificent creatures that land on (or beneath) the black and desolate rocks: Above is a Word Feature piece by [source:name]. The islands rich waters are nutrient-dense and support a variety of whales that thrive on its marine life. Whale watching in Iceland is an experience that guarantees to take whale lovers on an unforgettable journey which fills them with memories of the gentle giants they found.
In this complete guide we will dive deep into the whale watching experience in Iceland, including what whales you can see and when and where to see them as well as some conservation principles that make all of us better stewards. As a fan of the ocean or someone just curious to learn more about these giant beings, you won´t regret watching the whales in Iceland.
The Rich Diversity of Whales in Iceland – Whales of Iceland
Life-abounds-the-waters-of-Iceland,-which-have-bearing-on-both-sustaining-and-breeding-for-whales, who have to tact and species diversity in history. Iceland is often said to offer some of the best whale watching in the world with 20 different types of whale that have been recorded in Icelandic waters. Starting from the giant blue whale to the play full dolphins, these magnanimous marine creatures any time admirably survive in North Atlantic Ocean off coast of Iceland where they roam and play making a spectacle never-before-seen to the lucky ones who get an opportunity not perdurable but still unforgettable.
Sei Whale Tongue (Balaenoptera borealis) — Icelandic Whales
- Minke Whales – The most mischievous of the baleen family, these small, slender whales are also the species you’re most likely to see on an Icelandic whale watching cruise. They are perhaps best known for their acrobatic displays; breaching and slapping the water with tail flukes.
- Humpback Whales: The giants of the deep, that sing hauntingly beautiful songs on their oceanic travels (almost as entertaining as my vocal renditions of all 100 verses of ’99 Bottles’ when I’m stuck in traffic). Commonly sighted feeding in Icelandic waters during warmer months, humpbacks are known for dramatic acrobatics, such as breaching and fin slapping.
- Orcas (Killer Whales) —These intelligent and powerful hunters are at the top of most whale watchers’ list. Orcas are social animals and live in pods, so their black and white coloration is a well known species feature.
- Blue Whales — the species of whale that towers over even the strangest giants next to them (humans), are not common sightings in Iceland. There are certain experiences which get etched in our memories forever and witnessing these gentle giants with their massive size and gracious moves is one of them.
- Fin Whales : The second largest mammals on the world, fin whales are long and fast swimmers that frequently jump and lunge through waves. Their towering dorsal fin and sleek, elongated body make them a stately figure in the water.
- Sperm Whales: The deep diving whales have large heads and they can hold their breath for a long time as well. Sperm whales are more commonly found in the deep waters of Iceland, and their distinctive clicks can be heard on underwater microphones from whale-watching boats.
Iceland is home to a variety of other species as well, including sei whales, beaked whales, pilot whales and several small cetaceans.
Every species of whale provides a unique look into the wonders of the ocean. Watching them go about their business, socializing and just being massive in the wild puts into perspective how vital it is to both preserve these beautiful animals as well as this delicate environment.
Next, we have created an in depth guide for you to learn when and where are the best times and places to go whale watching in Iceland and get the best possible opportunity to see these gentle giants.
Best Time and Places for Whale Watching in Iceland
Whale Watching Season – April to October is the whale watching season of Iceland with high season lasting from June through August. These waters around Iceland are full of a wide array of whale species that are coming to take advantage of the food and easy conditions these summer months provide. That said, whale watching can be done all throughout the year, although different species migrate at different moments.
For instance, in wooing months minke and humpback whales are no everyday occurrence and orca more commonly spotted throughout the winter and spring. When preparing your trip to witness whales in Iceland, these thoughts are very important: which species you plan to watch and when will you be traveling.
While considering best spots for a whale watching vacation, Iceland hosts several wonderful feast of places — each with their own variety and personality. Take a look at the main whale watching places.
The capital offers easy access to whale watching tours that go out from the Old Harbor. This is where the tours head off to as they make their way through Faxaflói Bay, with minke whales, humpback whales and white-beaked dolphins likely sightings!
- Húsavík — North Iceland: Known as the “Whale Watching Capital of Europe.” The sheltered bay of Skjálfandi is a calm and tranquil location perfect for both seeing whales. These waters feature humpback whales, minke whales and even blue whales.
- Akureyri – Another great spot for whale watching, situated up in the north. Most tours traverse these waters of sample the freshest home, Eyjafjörður, which is the lengthiest fjord within Iceland and also where you will have a good chance to witness if not both humpback whales as well minke whales combined with on premium days orcas.
- Snæfellsnes Peninsula: It is one of the most beautiful peninsulas in West Iceland and significant for its varied landscape and thriving wildlife. In the waters of Snæfellsnes Peninsula one can go on a whale watching tour in search of orcas, minke whales, white-beaked dolphins and harbor porpoises.
- Westfjords: Iceland’s remote and rugged Westfjords area offers whale watching opportunities that often leave visitors with less crowded vessels, but no less of a magical experience than found elsewhere. You could see humpback whales, minke whales and sperm whales with your own privy glimpse of the largely unseen blue whale.
To have a safe and good whale watching experience, selecting the right whale watching tour operator are paramount. Find operators that employ knowledgeable guides, have well-equipped boats and conduct themselves conscientiously whilst whale watching. From the size of the boat (think comfort level in particular: available restrooms), to how long the tour lasts, and any other amenities you care about — like, perhaps, an onboard cafe or educational presentations.
Whale Watching in Iceland No matter which location you select, the adventure of whale watching would leave you with experiences that will last a lifetime.
The Whale Watching Experience: What to Expect
When you go on a whale watching tour in Iceland, it is an exciting journey that leads you through curiosity and amazement. You’ll feel the anticipation in every creak of the boat as you climb on board, knowing that just off the horizon lies a kingdom visited by these regal creatures. Here is how it generally plays out:
Boarding the Boat
Your skipper will pick you up from your chosen harbor and board your selected boat among variety of traditional oak boats to modern RIB boats (Rigid Inflatable Boats) on the other side.
The crew offers a safety briefing and will keep you posted on how to stay safe before guiding you through the entire experience.
Depending on the tour operator and how the conditions are, you may be given warm overalls or blankets when out in the tundra.
Setting Sail
Then the ship will leave and go into open water to look for whales. Tour length depends on the tour and from where whales are sighted.
Cruising around the coastline will allow you to get a glimpse of Iceland’s breathtaking natural landscapes, such as towering cliffs and dreamy fjords punctuated by snow capped peaks.
Seasoned guides on board will talk about the marine life, whale habits and how whale watching in Iceland started.
Spotting the Whales
Whenever there is any sign of whales such as spouts, blows, or fins breaking the surface of water the crew will be aware and update with each potential viewing.
Once a whale is identified, the boat will begin to creep up and passively approach while maintaining a safe distance in order not to stress them out.
Depending on the species and how they behave, you might see anything from breaching and tail slapping to spy hopping.
The guides will also offer educational commentary on the various species you’ll encounter and teach you about their specific traits.
Other Marine Life Encounters
Although the tour mainly focuses on whales, there may also be other sea creatures that appear. Dolphins, porpoises, and seals are often seen adding to the thrill of a variety experience.
You’ll also get to see other seabirds on the cliffs and flying above the waves including puffins, gannets and guillemots.
Potential Concerns
You should be prepared for the seasickness either take for it before you go onboard or choose pets from a large breed because they are more stable. Passengers who get seasick while on the tour are also looked out for by the crew.
Weather: Iceland’s weather can be extremely fickle, prepare for temperature fluctuations and blazing winds. Dress with light, warm clothing that is waterproof.
Explore more of Europe? The whale watching experience in Iceland is an adventure, education and wonder ALL in one. They provide an opportunity to see these magnificent creatures in the wild and offer a greater understanding of the delicate nature of our marine environment on which they depend.
Responsible Whale Watching: Protecting These Gentle Giants
Iceland is not only about seeing whales, but to see what can protect them and their habitats. Benefit to whale watching responsibly with ensures forevermore existence of this gentle giants in their natural habitat
Iceland is committed to the protection of whales and has therefore adopted onerous regulations for the conservation of these animals. These regulations include:
Keep Your Distance: Boats must remain at least 100 meters from whales to avoid disrupting them or causing unnecessary stress.
- No Touching or Feeding — You are not allowed to touch or feed the whales because doing so can have a negative impact on their natural behavior and health.
- Slow Down: Boats must slowdown in areas of high whale activity, inside a 500-yard buffer zone around the whales and adhere to speed limits, both to lower the risk of collision but also for minimizing noise pollution.
- Licensed Guides: companies offering whale watching tours have licensed guides on the boat who can inform about the whales and transmit respect for them.
It is important to go with a responsible whale watching tour and operator as this is not only supporting sustainable tourism but also ensuring that these beautiful creatures are protected. Look for operators who:
- Follow the law: make sure that the operator is following all appropriate Icelandic whale watching laws and regulations.
- Choose animal-friendly operators: Look for companies that put the health of the whales and their environment first by ensuring a minimal-lasting or impact on natural behavior.
- Support Educational Purposes: Choose an operator that offers to educate the information of the whales, their environment, and why it is important in conservation.
- Support research and conservation: Share your whale watching enthusiasm with those operators who contribute to research and conservation programs to protect the whales in a holistic way.
Opting to only participate in responsible whale watching tours because by doing so you will still have an amazing time, and also help ensure the future of these wonderful animals, along with their extremely vulnerable habitat.
Now, it is time to answer the frequently asked questions when it comes to whale watching in Iceland that will help you select your boat trip.
FAQs: Your Whale Watching Questions Answered – Whales of Iceland
We answer some common questions to make sure that your whale-watching experience is as rich and rewarding as possible.
What is the length of a whale watching adventure?
The average length of a whale-watching tour in Iceland is 2-4 hours, depending on where you are and what company you go with. Other tours may do longer trips and offer a multi-tour package like whale watching & puffin or visiting extra islands.
What do you wear for a whale watching tour?
Wear layers and dress warmly…even in the summer. Iceland is notorious for its fast-moving weather and it can get cold out in the open water. Do not forget to wear a waterproof and windproof jacket, comfortable pants, sturdy shoes.
When is the best time to see whales?
You can see whales all day, but most whale watching time will be in the morning to early afternoon when the sea is usually calmer. A few operators run whale watching trips in the evenings through summer though, so it is possible to see those whales by the midnight sun.
What if I see no Whales on my tour?
Whale sightings are likely, but not guaranteed in Iceland. In fact, the majority of quality whale watching tour operators have something akin to a “whale guarantee,” which means if you don’t see any whales on your whale watching excursion, then you can come back again for free another day.
What are the age limits for whale watching tours?
The great thing is that most whale watching tours are for all ages. Some may have age restrictions for safety, particularly on RIB boat tours. If you have children with you, best to ask the operator beforehand.
Conclusion – Whales of Iceland
Going whale watching in Iceland is a fantastic adventure and seeing the beauty of those animals moving with so light and graceful through the water gives me shivers everytime I think about it.Transfer to airport wher you catch your flight. Eveything from the playful games of dolphins to the motherly protection of humpback whales will create a loving memory in your heart.
Iceland has signed up to the principle of responsible whale watching ensuring the well-being of these majestic creatures so that we can safyly say whales have a future to look forward to on our shores. When you visit responsibly with a reputable tour operator you will be ensuring the safety and conservation of these majestic animals and their precious planet.
So if you are all set to grab the lifetime experience and explore this magnificent world of whales, Iceland is waiting for you with open arms. Grab your whale watching adventure and get ready to witness sea wonders today.
We would love to hear from you if you have recently been whale watching in Iceland, mapping your adventures back into our expanding travel network of the North Atlantic. Share your stores, pictures and tips in the comments down below!
