Akureyri: Whale Watching Tour in Eyjafjörður Fjord Boat

Summary

Eyjafjörður whale watching with locals from Akureyri harbor

You’ll head out from Akureyri harbor wrapped in warm overalls, scanning Eyjafjörður fjord for humpback whales with a local guide sharing stories and hot drinks onboard. Sometimes you’ll catch just a glimpse or maybe something more — either way, it’s honest and real. Even if sightings are missed, they let you try again for free.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the slap of water against the hull and this sharp, salty smell that crept up as we left Akureyri’s dock. It’s not a big city — you can see the colored houses shrink behind you pretty fast. Our guide, Sigrún, handed out these thick blue overalls (I laughed at myself trying to wriggle into one — they’re warmer than they look) and pointed out where to stand for the best view. The wind stung my cheeks but honestly, I didn’t mind. There’s something about being bundled up with strangers all squinting at the same horizon that makes you feel like you’re in on a secret.

We drifted deeper into Eyjafjörður fjord, which is longer than I expected — snow still clinging to the mountains even in June. Sigrún told us stories about humpback whales coming back every year, and how sometimes they slap their fins just to show off. She said it’s never guaranteed, but there’s always hope. Someone next to me whispered “there!” and suddenly everyone moved at once — cameras up, kids pressed against the glass. I caught just a flash of black and white before it vanished under the gray water. It was quick, but my heart sped up anyway.

After that first sighting, there were more — sometimes just a spout or a tail flick. The cold got into my fingers but I couldn’t stop watching. Sigrún poured us hot chocolate inside (the boat has big windows so you don’t miss much), and she joked about Icelandic weather being “creative.” She also explained how their whale watching tours follow strict rules so the animals aren’t bothered — which made me feel better about being there at all. I liked that honesty; it felt right.

I still think about that moment when everything went quiet except for the water and someone gasped softly as a whale surfaced right near us. Not close enough to touch or anything dramatic — just close enough to remind me how small we are out here. The ride back was quieter, except for some laughter when Li tried to pronounce Eyjafjörður (none of us got it right). So yeah… if you ever find yourself in North Iceland with half a day free, this is worth bundling up for.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale watching tour in Eyjafjörður

• Depart from Akureyri harbor
• Board specially modified sightseeing boat
• Watch humpback whales in Eyjafjörður fjord
• Enjoy views and expert guidance
• Return to Akureyri harbor

Top questions

How long does the whale watching tour from Akureyri last?

The tour lasts between 2.5 to 3.5 hours depending on conditions.

Are children allowed on this Akureyri whale watching tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join and ride in prams or strollers.

What happens if we don’t see any whales?

If there are no sightings, you can join another tour for free in Reykjavík or Akureyri.

Is pickup included for this whale watching tour?

No hotel pickup is included; tours depart directly from downtown Akureyri harbor.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?

The boats have steep stairs and high thresholds; wheelchair users may bring foldable chairs but should contact ahead for assistance.

What should I wear on an Akureyri whale watching trip?

Warm clothing is recommended; overalls, raincoats or blankets are provided onboard.

Are service animals allowed on board?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

Is public transportation available near the departure point?

Yes, public transport options are available nearby in Akureyri.

What’s included

Your day includes warm overalls or raincoats and blankets to borrow onboard, guidance from a professional local guide who shares stories throughout the cruise, access to multiple viewing platforms and large windows for indoor comfort, plus complimentary WiFi so you can share photos right away—even if your fingers are half-frozen by the end.