Whale & Dolphin Watching from Akureyri

Akureyri sits at the head of Eyjafjordur, Iceland's longest fjord, where steep mountains plunge into calm waters that attract humpback whales each summer. While neighbouring Husavik gets more attention as Iceland's whale watching capital, Akureyri offers its own compelling version of the experience — calmer seas, dramatic scenery, and fewer crowds.

Eyjafjordur: A Different Kind of Whale Watching

The fundamental difference between whale watching from Akureyri and from most other Icelandic ports is the setting. Eyjafjordur is a sheltered fjord, nearly 60 kilometres long and flanked by mountains that rise over 1,000 metres on both sides. The result is remarkably calm water — a significant advantage for anyone concerned about seasickness, and a beautiful backdrop for wildlife encounters.

Humpback whales enter the fjord each summer to feed on the rich concentrations of krill and small fish that gather in its nutrient-dense waters. The whales often feed in water that is relatively shallow by oceanic standards, which means they surface frequently and are easier to observe than in the open ocean.

The Tour

Ambassador operates from Akureyri's harbour, a short walk from the town centre. The boat heads down the fjord, passing fishing villages, seabird colonies, and waterfalls cascading down the mountainsides. The guide — typically a local with deep knowledge of the fjord's ecology — scans the water and keeps passengers informed about what to watch for.

When humpback whales are spotted, the boat positions itself carefully, cutting the engine to allow the animals to surface naturally nearby. In Eyjafjordur, the whales often seem particularly relaxed, surfacing repeatedly in the same area as they feed. You may watch a single whale for 15 to 20 minutes as it goes through its diving cycle — surface, blow, arch, and that dramatic tail fluke lift before it descends.

White-beaked dolphins frequently appear in pods, racing alongside the boat with the playful energy that makes them a favourite with children and photographers alike. Harbour porpoises are common but harder to spot — small, shy, and surfacing briefly before disappearing again.

The Scenery Factor

What sets Akureyri apart is not just the wildlife but the landscape you see it in. Watching a humpback whale surface against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains reflected in glass-calm fjord water is a visual experience that open-ocean tours simply cannot replicate. The photography opportunities are exceptional, particularly on clear mornings when the light in north Iceland has a crystalline quality.

The mountains themselves are home to Arctic foxes, reindeer, and nesting seabirds. Your guide will point out colonies of puffins, fulmars, and Arctic terns on the cliffs as the boat passes.

Practical Advice

Warm overalls are provided and worth wearing even on sunny days — the wind on the fjord is cold. Bring your own binoculars for the best wildlife spotting, and a camera with a zoom lens of at least 200mm for whale photography. Seasickness tablets are rarely needed in Eyjafjordur but bring them if you are normally susceptible.

Akureyri is a natural base for exploring north Iceland. Combine your whale watching with a day trip to Myvatn, a visit to Godafoss waterfall, or the short drive to Husavik for a second whale watching tour from the open ocean side. The contrast between the sheltered fjord and the exposed bay makes for a fascinating comparison.