Hauganes Whale Watching Tour: Eyjafjordur Humpbacks & Dolphins

Summary

Eyjafjordur whale watching from Hauganes with local crew

You’ll head out from Hauganes with a local guide into Eyjafjordur’s wild waters, searching for humpback whales, dolphins, and seabirds. Listen to live stories from your captain (a real fisherman), sip hot coffee on deck, and feel Iceland’s raw sea air on your face. If you’re lucky — those whales get close enough to make you forget everything else for a minute.

What’s the experience like?

Li was already grinning before we even left Hauganes — you could smell the salt in the air and hear the gulls arguing over something invisible. Our guide, Jon (who’s apparently a fisherman in winter), handed out these thick overalls that made me feel like a kid again. I kept fumbling with the zipper while he explained how far we’d go into Eyjafjordur. “If you’re lucky, maybe blue whales today,” he said, kind of offhand, like it wasn’t a big deal. The boat engine rumbled to life and honestly, I was more nervous than I thought I’d be.

The water was calmer than expected — just that low slap against the hull and this weirdly hypnotic silence between bursts of seabird noise. Jon pointed out a minke whale first (“there!” — everyone scrambled to one side), but it was the humpback that got everyone quiet. It surfaced so close I swear I could see its scars. There’s this moment where time just stops and all you hear is your own breath and maybe someone else’s camera clicking too fast. I didn’t expect to feel so small, or so lucky.

We had coffee (strong enough to wake up a rock) and some cinnamon pastries while drifting near Hrisey island — Li tried to pronounce it properly and Jon laughed, correcting her gently. He started telling us about fishing here in winter; apparently, whales are better company than tourists sometimes. The whole thing felt oddly personal, like we were guests instead of customers. On the way back, my hands were cold but I didn’t care — still thinking about that massive tail disappearing into grey water.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale watching tour in Hauganes

• Meet at Hauganes meeting point
• Depart for whale watching tour
• Observe whales and sea life
• Return to Hauganes

Top questions

How long does the whale watching tour from Hauganes last?

The tour lasts between 2.5 to 3 hours.

What kinds of whales can you see in Eyjafjordur?

You might spot humpback whales, minke whales, harbour porpoises, white-beaked dolphins, and sometimes blue whales or orcas.

Is the whale watching tour suitable for children?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

Are refreshments included during the whale watching tour?

Yes, light refreshments are provided onboard.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible and infants can ride in prams or strollers.

Do tours run from Akureyri directly?

No, tours depart from Hauganes which is about 25 minutes north of Akureyri.

Is there a live guide during the tour?

Yes, there is live commentary from a local guide who is also a professional fisherman in winter.

What’s included

Your day includes light refreshments like hot drinks and pastries on board; live commentary from your local captain; all taxes and fees handled; plus full accessibility for wheelchairs or strollers if needed — just bring your sense of wonder (and maybe gloves).