Can you go whale watching in Iceland?
Yes! Icelandic waters are rich with marine wildlife, including more than 20 different species of whales. People travel to Iceland from all over the world to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. To learn more about what watching in Iceland, Sveinn Guðmundsson, from Elding Whale Watching Tours in Reykjavík, shares his knowledge about local whale species, responsible tourism, extraordinary whale sightings and more.
How long have you been giving whale watching tours in Iceland?
Elding Whale Watching Tours started in May 2000, so we‘ve been sailing out with guests and searching for these beautiful creatures for more than 20 years.
What are some of the most common whale species found off the coast of Iceland?
The most common species off the coast of Reykjavík are minke whales (from April to October), humpback whales, white-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoises. We are sometimes greeted by other species, such as orcas (killer whales), fin whales and pilot whales, just to name a few.
Photo courtesy of Elding
Can visitors expect to see a whale on their first whale watching tour?
Yes and no. Our success rate is quite high, roughly 95% during in the summer. However, this is the wildlife, and we never know how the day will be. That‘s why we always recommend planning the whale watching tour as early during the stay as possible, in case there are no sightings or the weather is bad. In case of non-successful tours, we offer our guests the chance to come back and try again – free of charge.
Is there a particular season or time of day when whales are most active in Iceland?
Not really, whale activity depends on food availability, as the waters around Iceland are important feeding grounds for the minke whales and humpback whales. They are usually busy searching for food.
Can you explain the general code of conduct for responsible whale watching? And, why it’s important?
The code of conduct for responsible whale watching is all about minimizing the impact we have on wildlife and the disturbance we might cause. We want to approach the whales carefully and on their terms, never from the behind or directly from the front, but from the side so they can always see us. We slow down when we get closer to 300 meters and stop when we‘re within 50 meters. The whales are often curious about the vessels and approach us on their own terms, but as these are wild animals they do that 100% on their own terms, and we need to respect that. We also want to be able to sail out again and again, so we do not want to scare the animals away from us.
Photo courtesy of Elding
Where can travelers go to learn more about supporting efforts to protect marine wildlife and ocean habitats in Iceland?
Travelers can actually learn a thing or two about marine protection, research, whaling (we‘re strongly against whaling) and the cetaceans at our own small whale exhibition. Our naturalists are also marine biologists, and they love to answer questions about the wildlife on our tours, so don‘t be shy to approach a staff member onboard. Ice Whale is a Icelandic whale watching organization with more information on their website about the subject.
What role do whales play in the local culture?
Whales are and have been a big part of the Icelandic culture for ages, and not as the main food source, but as a subject in many stories about sea creatures and monsters, an indicator for fishermen where to find fish and a subject for many marine biologists to study.
Can you name something that might surprise people about whale watching in Iceland?
Most Icelanders who go whale watching with us are surprised to learn that there are actually whales close to the harbour in Reykjavík! Many people believe that whales can be found many miles offshore, not just a few miles from the city center.
Can you describe an extraordinary marine wildlife sighting from one of your tours?
The most extraordinary marine wildlife sighting would have to be a blue whale! They are not a common sight in the waters off Reykjavík, since the waters in the bay are quite shallow and the blue whales are the largest animals on the planet. It was truly an amazing sight to see them and something we will never forget.
In addition to whale watching, what do you enjoy most about living in Iceland?
I enjoy living in Iceland because of the long days during the summer months, the clear and fresh air, the beautiful landscape, and last but not least, the city vibe with its design, fashion, amazing food and live music scene.
Thank you, Sveinn!
Photo courtesy of Elding
About Elding
Elding is a family-owned boat tour operator in Reykjavík offering whale watching and other adventures at sea. They are committed to offering sustainable and wildlife-friendly tours year round.
Website: https://elding.is/
Address: Elding Whale Watching, Ægisgardur 5, Reykjavik’s Old Harbour
Telephone: +(354) 519 5000
Email: [email protected]
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