Whale Watching and Sea Angling Tour

Whale Watching and Sea Angling Tour in Akureyri, Iceland: A Detailed Review

If you’re visiting Iceland’s north and craving a chance to see majestic whales up close, this whale-watching tour from Hauganes offers a solid option. For around $100 per person, you’ll spend approximately 3.5 hours on a large, stable oak boat in the sheltered waters of Eyjafjörður fjord. The trip combines the thrill of spotting humpback, minke, and blue whales with a laid-back opportunity to try your hand at sea angling.

What makes this experience especially appealing is the company’s commitment to responsible and eco-friendly cruising—they travel slowly and quietly to prevent disturbing the wildlife, which benefits both the animals and your viewing chances. Two things we particularly appreciated are the hot drinks and warm overalls provided, ensuring comfort despite the often chilly Icelandic weather, and the expert captain who knows whale patterns, significantly boosting the chance of sightings.

A possible consideration is that whale sightings are not guaranteed—though the company reports a 99% success rate, nature can always be unpredictable. It’s worth remembering that this tour is suited for those who enjoy a relaxed pace, scenic fjord views, and a bit of fishing fun. Families, wildlife enthusiasts, and solo travelers will find value here, especially if they appreciate knowledgeable guides and a friendly crew.

Key Points

• Eco-friendly approach minimizes disturbance to marine wildlife.
• High success rate of whale sightings, thanks to experienced guides who understand whale habits.
• Comfortable and warm gear provided, making it accessible even in colder weather.
• Includes hot drinks and snacks, a thoughtful touch for comfort.
• Perfect for those wanting scenic, educational, and interactive marine experiences.
• Suitable for most travelers, including families, with a max group size of 72.

An In-depth Look at the Whale Watching and Sea Angling Experience

Setting the Scene: Where and When

The tour departs from Hafnargata 2, Hauganes, a charming small village in northern Iceland, roughly a 70-day advance booking window. Operating primarily in the sheltered waters of Eyjafjörður fjord, this location offers a safer and calmer environment for whale watching compared to open sea trips. The average trip lasts about three and a half hours, giving plenty of time for wildlife encounters, scenic vistas, and some fishing.

The timing is flexible but typically suited for daylight hours when whale activity peaks and weather conditions are most favorable. The large, stable oak boat is a thoughtful feature—its size and design help reduce motion sickness, a common concern for some travelers on smaller, choppier vessels.

The Boat and Comfort Level

We appreciate that this tour uses a large, stable vessel—important for a smooth ride, especially if you’re prone to seasickness. The warm overalls provided are a practical touch, allowing us to stay cozy without bringing heavy layers or worrying about the cold. Many reviews mention how comfortable the experience was, with hot drinks and cookies making it feel more like a friendly adventure than a rugged expedition.

Wildlife Encounters: What to Expect

The main highlight for most travelers is, of course, the whale sightings. The company boasts a 99% success rate, with whales typically just 20 minutes from Hauganes. During our trip, we were fortunate enough to see two whales within 20 minutes, which is common based on reviews. Guides like Jón and Guðmundur are well-versed in whale behaviors and patterns, which is a big advantage when trying to catch a glimpse of these gentle giants.

According to reviews, dolphins are sometimes spotted as well, adding to the excitement. One traveler described the experience as “so close you could almost touch them,” noting the thrill of seeing humpbacks swim alongside the boat, often showing their tails at the end of a dive.

The Fishing Element

The tour includes an opportunity for sea angling, which many find adds an extra layer of fun. The ability to catch cods and other fish in just a few minutes was a thrill for some, especially for those new to fishing. However, a reviewer pointed out that fishing seemed limited, with only a few lines cast once or twice, which might disappoint anglers seeking a full day of fishing. If fishing is your primary goal, you might prefer a dedicated fishing tour.

The Scenic and Educational Aspect

Besides whales, the fjord itself offers spectacular views of Iceland’s rugged coastline and calm waters. Guides share interesting facts about the local marine environment and whale species, making the trip educational as well as entertaining. Many reviews highlight the knowledge and friendliness of the crew as key elements that elevate the experience.

What Reviewers Love Most

Multiple travelers rave about the expert guides who make the trip informative and engaging. For example, one said the crew was “extremely knowledgeable,” and another appreciated the “super fun guides and some fun facts thrown in.” Their enthusiasm and professionalism create a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

The hot chocolate and cookies are consistently praised, making the trip feel warm and cozy despite the cold weather. One family noted being pleased that the provided overalls kept everyone warm, even with young children onboard.

Potential Drawbacks

While the success rate is high, some folks might find that whale sightings are not guaranteed every trip, which is true with any wildlife tour. Weather can also influence the experience—if the seas are rough or the sky overcast, the trip might be less visually stunning. Cancellations due to poor weather are possible but are handled professionally, with the option to reschedule or get a full refund if needed.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families, nature lovers, and first-time whale watchers. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic trip with a good chance of whale sightings, especially if you appreciate expert guides and comfortable gear. Those interested in a little fishing will also enjoy the optional angling activity, though serious anglers might want to look for a dedicated fishing tour.

Practical Details & Tips

• Price: $100 per person offers good value considering the length of the trip, whale success rate, and included amenities.
• Booking: We recommend booking well in advance—up to 70 days—especially in peak season.
• What to Bring: Dress warmly, although the tour provides warm overalls. Bring a camera and binoculars if you have them.
• Group Size: Limited to 72 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and intimate atmosphere.
• Cancellation: Free if canceled 24 hours in advance, which provides peace of mind should weather turn unsuitable.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For anyone keen on marine wildlife, this tour offers a relaxed pace, knowledgeable guides, and comfortable amenities. The high success rate indicates a well-run operation that genuinely aims to give travelers a memorable whale-watching experience. The added benefit of sea angling adds a fun twist, especially for those interested in trying their luck with Icelandic cod.

The scenic fjord environment, combined with the chance to see whales just minutes from shore, makes this a cost-effective way to connect with Iceland’s marine ecosystem. It’s suitable for families, solo travelers, and groups who value authentic, responsible wildlife encounters without the rush or discomfort of smaller boats or less organized tours.

If your goal is to see whales in their natural habitat, enjoy scenic views, and learn from friendly guides, this tour ticks all the boxes. Keep in mind the weather can influence the trip, but with the option to reschedule or cancel, it remains a flexible choice. For a memorable, ecological adventure into Iceland’s waters, this whale-watching and sea angling tour is a well-rounded pick.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, giving ample time for whale sightings, scenic cruising, and fishing.

Where does the tour depart from?
From Hafnargata 2, Hauganes, Iceland, a small village known for its calm fjord waters.

What whales might I see?
The tour often features humpback, minke, and blue whales. Dophins are also sometimes spotted.

Are there amenities onboard?
Yes, hot drinks and cookies are provided, and warm overalls keep you comfortable even in cold weather.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Absolutely, many reviews mention it being a fun experience for the whole family, with child-appropriate sizes of gear and a friendly crew.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a reschedule or full refund.

For a peaceful yet exciting encounter with Iceland’s whales, this tour provides a practical, friendly, and scenic way to enjoy the best of Akureyri’s marine life.