Whale Watching in Iceland

Location: Leaves from Reykjavik, Iceland

Recommended by Niels of Whale Watching Tromso

How do I know it’s ethical?

Whale watching can be a fun, educational, and exciting way to spend time with family and friends. However, making sure that the encounter is ethical should be your top priority. And the Eco-Friendly Whale Safari in Reykjavik tours are exactly that. Here is how:

• They come highly recommended by national science and marine life centers that aim to protect and research whales.
• There have been no complaints against the tour operator for disturbing the marine wildlife ever.
• The IWWA regulations and guidelines for whale watching are followed, such as minimum distances from whales and dolphins, avoiding direct contact, and so on.

Description of the Experience

• This eco-friendly whale tour focuses seriously on the protection of the natural habitat of whales. With sound being the primary mode of communication among whales and dolphins, it is imperative that vessels are as noiseless as possible. In this tour, you are onboard durable, eco-friendly vessels that are almost noise-free.
• This Classic experience (as compared to the RIB ones) will have you on the largest Icelandic whale-watching vessel in operation – Andrea.
• A 5-language commentary, a tour time of ample 3 hours, a whale feeding system allowing you to come very close to the gentle giants, and the possibility to even spot white-beaked dolphins, sharks, and harbor porpoises apart from the usual mix of minke and humpback whales.

Tips for preparing for the experience

• Dress appropriately for whale watching. This means ditching loose clothing, shoes, and pre-layered clothing. Carry additional waterproof jackets to wear as and when required.
• High-SPF sunscreen is critical. Sunglasses will also help you avoid damage from the sun.
• Pack the bare minimum, take any anti-seasickness medication, put everything in a waterproof bag, do not carry any valuables, and of course – make sure your camera is fully charged!
• We would recommend the winter months for whale watching in Iceland. This surely means that the waters will be rough and the temperatures very low, but it also means there will be fewer other people and a good chance of spotting belugas in all their glimmering beauty. The summer months are surely calmer, warmer, and more comfortable which leads to tours being successful more often, more coasts being open, and a wider diversity being on display – but the summer lacks the scenic beauty of snowcapped mountains and the possibility of witnessing the spectacular Northern Lights.

Company/ Cost: 

Company: Run by Whale Watching Iceland Special Tours. Special Tours specializes in exploring local Flora and Fauna.

Cost: $83.31 per person.

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This is one post on a series of ethical animal tourism posts by travel content creators. The experiences cover all seven continents and a variety of animals. Ensure that your animal experience is an ethical one.

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