100% Whale Watching

Key Points

• Affordable and popular: Priced at $90 per person, with bookings typically made 45 days in advance
• Two and a half hours of adventure: Set out on a 2.5-hour tour departing from Hauganes, a charming fishing village
• Wide range of whale species: Likely to see humpback whales, minke whales, harbor porpoises, and white-beaked dolphins, with chances to spot blue whales and orcas
• All safety gear included: Warm safety clothing and sea angling equipment provided, ensuring comfort and safety
• Expert guides and live commentary: Knowledgeable guides, many with fishing backgrounds, share insights throughout the trip
• Highly rated: With a 5.0/5 rating from 238 reviews, this tour is highly recommended by 97% of participants

Starting Point and Booking Details in Hauganes

This whale watching tour departs from Hafnargata 2, Hauganes, a picturesque fishing village about 25 minutes north of Akureyri. The meeting point is easy to reach, and the tour offers a mobile ticket for convenience. Most bookings are made about 45 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, making it a manageable experience for most travelers.

The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, but the location in Hauganes is straightforward to access. You can choose from several departure times throughout the day, which helps fit this activity into varied itineraries. The cost is $90 per person, covering all taxes, fees, and handling charges.

What Makes Hauganes the Ideal Whale Watching Spot?

Hauganes is situated on the west side of Eyjafjordur, a fjord known for its abundant marine life. The tour setting is a small, traditional fishing harbor, which adds to the charm of the experience. This location allows the boat to easily navigate into areas where whales are most often seen, whether they are venturing deep into the fjord or staying closer to Hrisey island.

This area is especially suitable for active travelers who appreciate a lively, scenic outing. The traditional boat used for the tour, combined with the professional fishing background of the captain, ensures the trip has both authenticity and expertise. The region’s natural beauty, combined with the chance to see a wide variety of whales and dolphins, makes Hauganes a top choice for wildlife enthusiasts.

The Experience of the Whale Watching Tour

The tour begins at the small harbour in Hauganes, where you board the boat equipped with warm coveralls to stay comfortable despite the sea breeze. As the vessel departs, the captain navigates into the fjord, where whales are most often spotted.

Most common species include humpback whales, minke whales, harbor porpoises, and white-beaked dolphins. With some luck, travelers may also see blue whales and orcas, adding excitement to the trip. The live commentary helps explain whale behaviors, ecology, and the marine environment, making the experience both fun and educational.

The guide’s expertise is repeatedly praised, with many reviews mentioning how interesting, funny, and knowledgeable guides make the trip engaging. The boat’s maneuvering ensures the best views of whales, whether feeding, swimming, or showing their tails. The sea angling equipment is available for those interested, adding another dimension to the tour if desired.

Included Amenities and Comfort Measures

All taxes, fees, and handling charges are covered within the ticket price. You receive light refreshments—including hot coffee and homemade snacks—to stay energized during the trip. Live commentary is provided throughout, enhancing understanding of the wildlife you encounter.

The safety clothing supplied ensures travelers stay warm and dry, which is especially appreciated by reviews highlighting how well the suits keep out the cold and water. No hotel pickup or drop-off is included, so travelers should plan to meet at the designated meeting point in Hauganes.

Practical Tips for the Whale Watching Tour

Most travelers can participate, as the tour is suitable for children when accompanied by an adult. Service animals are allowed, and the group size is capped at 72 travelers to maintain a comfortable environment. The most common whale sightings happen during the summer season, but whales, including humpbacks, are visible at various times throughout the season.

Booking in advance is recommended, as the tour is very popular, and most reviews indicate high satisfaction levels. The full refund policy allows free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure. Weather-dependent, the tour may be rescheduled or canceled if conditions are poor.

The Guided Approach and Onboard Atmosphere

The professional captain and crew are consistently praised for their friendliness, respectfulness, and ability to answer questions. The guide Júlía and her team share a wealth of facts about whales, making the trip both captivating and informative.

Many reviews highlight the welcoming and helpful crew, who go out of their way to ensure everyone feels safe and engaged. The small boat setting, traditional design, and live commentary foster an intimate, approachable atmosphere, perfect for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

Viewing Opportunities and Likelihood of Sightings

Incredible reports share sightings of multiple whales during a single trip, including feeding behaviors, swimming, and tail slaps. There’s always a chance to see whales up close, thanks to the crew’s skillful maneuvering. Even when whales are not present, the scenic fjord scenery and the boat’s comfort make the trip worthwhile.

Several reviews mention seeing at least four whales during the journey, with some trips providing many dives and clear views of the majestic creatures. The small harbor departure and focus on wildlife increase the chance of good sightings compared to larger, less personalized tours.

The Food and Refreshments on Board

Guests are treated to hot coffee, homemade snacks, and biscuits, which many reviews describe as delicious. These refreshments help make the experience even more enjoyable, especially during the cold days at sea. The crew ensures everyone stays comfortable with the warm safety suits and friendly service.

While there are souvenirs available for purchase, there are no included hotel transfers, so plan to arrive prepared at the meeting point.

Who Should Consider This Whale Watching Tour?

This tour is ideal for active travelers who want a short, engaging wildlife experience in Iceland. It suits families, solo adventurers, and wildlife enthusiasts eager to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. The knowledgeable guides and small boat size contribute to a personalized, memorable outing.

It’s especially suited for those who enjoy informative commentary, scenic fjord views, and the thrill of spotting marine creatures. Travelers should be prepared for sea conditions and wear the provided safety clothing for the best comfort.

Final Thoughts on the Hauganes Whale Watching Tour

The $90 price point for a 2.5-hour cruise is highly competitive given the quality of wildlife sightings and the expert guidance. The high ratings and consistently positive reviews reflect its reputation for delivering a satisfying and memorable experience.

While the tour does not include hotel transfers, the convenient meeting point in Hauganes and flexible departure times make it accessible for most visitors to the Akureyri region. The potential to see humpbacks, minke whales, dolphins, and even orcas makes this tour stand out among Iceland’s wildlife excursions.

For nature lovers and adventure seekers, this whale watching trip offers a strong combination of scenic beauty, marine wildlife encounters, and friendly, knowledgeable crew. It’s a well-organized activity that promises both education and entertainment, making it a highlight for any Iceland itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome when accompanied by an adult. The tour is safe and enjoyable for families, with safety suits provided to keep everyone warm and dry.

What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket covers all taxes, fees, handling charges, light refreshments (hot coffee, homemade snacks, biscuits), and live commentary from knowledgeable guides.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are not eligible for a refund.

What animals are most commonly seen?
Most sightings include humpback whales, minke whales, harbor porpoises, and white-beaked dolphins. There’s also a chance to see blue whales and orcas with some luck.

What should I wear on the tour?
Guests are provided with warm safety clothing, which is designed to keep you comfortable in the sea breeze and water spray. It’s advisable to wear layers underneath for added warmth.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, travelers are offered an alternative date or a full refund.