Whale watching in Iceland is one of those experiences that stays with you long after your trip is over. The combination of dramatic fjords, crisp sea air, and the chance to see humpbacks, minke whales, dolphins, and even orcas makes it a must-do for many visitors. With the right timing, location, and preparation, you can turn a simple boat tour into a highlight of your Iceland adventure.
Below are practical whale watching tips for Iceland visitors, along with suggestions on where to stay with Ourhotels.is to make your trip smoother and more memorable.
Whale Watching Seasons in Iceland
Whales can be seen year-round in Iceland, but the best time is generally from April to October, with peak season in the summer months of June, July, and August. During this time, the seas are usually calmer, the days are long, and many species are more active and visible.
Spring and early summer are excellent for humpback sightings, while late summer can bring more frequent encounters with dolphins and porpoises. Some areas in the Westfjords and along the Snæfellsnes Peninsula also offer chances to see orcas and larger whales.
Choosing the Right Whale Watching Location
West and Northwest Iceland are among the best regions for whale watching, and they pair perfectly with a road trip that includes comfortable, well-located accommodation.
– Borgarfjörður & Borgarnes area: While not a whale watching harbor itself, this region is a great base for exploring West Iceland’s coast and fjords. Staying at Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður gives you easy access to the west coast, making it simple to drive to departure harbors for whale watching tours while enjoying a peaceful countryside setting in between excursions.
– Snæfellsnes Peninsula & Breiðafjörður Bay: The Stykkishólmur area is known for its beautiful islands, birdlife, and marine life. From Stykkishólmur, you can join boat tours that explore Breiðafjörður Bay, where you may spot whales, dolphins, and countless seabirds. The Stykkishólmur Inn is an ideal place to stay if you want to combine whale watching with exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula’s lava fields, black beaches, and the iconic Snæfellsjökull glacier.
– Westfjords & Ísafjörður: The Westfjords are one of Iceland’s most dramatic and less crowded regions, and Ísafjörður is a key hub for whale watching in the northwest. Tours from this area often take you into deep fjords where whales feed in rich Arctic waters. Ísafjörður Inn offers a comfortable base right in town, so you can walk to the harbor, join your whale watching tour, and return easily to relax after a day at sea.
What to Wear on a Whale Watching Tour
Even in summer, it can be cold and windy out on the water. Dress for the conditions so you can focus on the whales, not the weather.
– Layers: Start with a thermal or wool base layer, add a warm sweater or fleece, and finish with a windproof and waterproof outer layer.
– Hat, gloves, and scarf: Essential, especially on longer tours or in early/late season.
– Sturdy shoes: Waterproof or water-resistant shoes with good grip are best on wet decks.
– Sunglasses and sunscreen: The sun reflecting off the sea can be surprisingly strong, even on cool days.
Many tour operators provide warm overalls or flotation suits, but it’s still wise to arrive prepared.
Photography Tips for Whale Watching
Capturing whales on camera can be challenging, but a few simple tips can improve your chances:
– Use a fast shutter speed: Whales move quickly, and the boat may rock. A fast shutter speed helps keep your images sharp.
– Zoom, but not too much: A moderate zoom lens (e.g., 70–200mm) is often better than an extreme zoom, which can be hard to stabilize on a moving boat.
– Focus on the water surface: Watch for blows (spouts), tails, and dorsal fins. Anticipate where the whale will surface next.
– Take many shots: Use burst mode if your camera has it. You’ll have a better chance of catching the perfect moment.
– Protect your gear: Use a camera strap and consider a waterproof cover or dry bag.
If you’re staying at Hvítá Inn, The Stykkishólmur Inn, or Ísafjörður Inn, you’ll have quiet, comfortable spaces to review your photos in the evening and recharge for the next day’s adventures.
Sea Sickness and Comfort on Board
Even if you don’t usually get motion sick, the open sea can be unpredictable. To stay comfortable:
– Take motion sickness tablets before the tour if you’re prone to nausea (always follow medical advice and instructions).
– Eat a light meal beforehand—avoid heavy, greasy foods.
– Stay on deck and look at the horizon; fresh air and a stable visual reference can help.
– Wear warm clothing; being cold can make you feel worse.
After your tour, returning to a cozy room at one of the Ourhotels.is properties—whether it’s Hvítá Inn in the countryside, The Stykkishólmur Inn by the bay, or Ísafjörður Inn in the heart of the Westfjords—can make all the difference in how you feel at the end of the day.
Respecting Wildlife and the Environment
Responsible whale watching is about more than just great photos. Iceland places a strong emphasis on protecting its marine life, and you can help by:
– Choosing reputable operators who follow local guidelines and keep a respectful distance from whales.
– Keeping noise to a minimum when whales are close.
– Not throwing anything overboard.
– Following the crew’s instructions at all times.
By staying in locally run accommodations like those in the Ourhotels.is family, you’re also supporting regional communities that depend on sustainable tourism.
Planning Your Whale Watching Trip with Ourhotels.is
One of the easiest ways to enjoy whale watching in Iceland is to build it into a road trip around West and Northwest Iceland, using Ourhotels.is locations as your overnight bases:
– Start in Borgarfjörður: Stay at Hvítá Inn, explore waterfalls, hot springs, and lava fields, and plan a day trip to nearby coastal towns for whale watching.
– Continue to Snæfellsnes: Check into The Stykkishólmur Inn and join a boat tour on Breiðafjörður Bay. Combine whale watching with island hopping and bird watching.
– Head to the Westfjords: Finish in Ísafjörður, staying at Ísafjörður Inn. From here, join a whale watching tour into the fjords and explore one of Iceland’s most remote and beautiful regions.
Each inn offers comfortable rooms, convenient locations, and a welcoming atmosphere, making it easy to rest between excursions and enjoy the slower pace of Icelandic coastal life.
Whale watching in Iceland is more than a simple sightseeing activity—it’s a chance to connect with nature in one of the world’s most striking landscapes. With thoughtful planning, the right gear, and well-chosen accommodation like Hvítá Inn, The Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn from Ourhotels.is, you can turn your trip into an unforgettable journey along Iceland’s wild western shores.
