Whales are some of the most fascinating creatures on Earth. Mysterious, powerful, and beautiful, these sea mammals captivate the imagination. Whale watching is an incredible way to connect with nature and make some memories of a lifetime.
Arctic waters are some of the best for spotting these majestic creatures when they breach the surface. When you first see a humpback emerge from the cold waters of a fjord or its fluke spray water into the air just before slipping back beneath the surface, you may find yourself so entranced you forget all about your camera.
Iceland, Greenland, and the waters around them are some of the best places in the world to see humpbacks, bowheads, minkes, belugas, fins, and even the elusive narwhal. They’re among the top destinations for whale watchers worldwide.
Take a Multi-Day Excursion
The more time you spend out on the water, the better your chances of spotting a pod. A multi-day excursion or cruise is one of the best ways to maximize your time out on the water with all the comforts you need.
It also provides you with an opportunity to head to more remote waters. Iceland gets comparatively more ocean traffic than Greenland. You can head to the quieter coasts of Greenland for a truly special occasion and still come back to enjoy all the charms Iceland has to offer.
The best time to visit Iceland for whale watching is from April to late September or early October. June, July, and August are the peak season.
Half-Day Tours
Half-day tours launching from Reykjavik, the capital of the northern island nation, are a popular option. The downside to this is that whales don’t appear on demand, and you’re not guaranteed to see anything.
Although the waters around Iceland are great for seeing marine life, and you’re sure to see plenty of great sights, if you have your heart set on whales, a multi-day excursion will improve your odds.
Enjoy the Locale
Don’t blind yourself to everything else you can do and experience nearby. Not only is Iceland a popular launching point for whale watchers, but it’s also an incredible travel destination in its own right. The country is rich with national parks, wildlife, volcanos, geothermal springs, and culture. Here are some great things you can do with an extended trip to Iceland:
- Go for a bath in one of the geothermal pools around Lake Myvatn, where the natural heat from beneath the earth makes for an incredible dip;
- Hike through Thingvellir National Park, a wild escape only a 45-minute drive from Reykjavik and a great place to see the Tectonic Plates between North America and Europe;
- Appreciate truly unique Nordic cuisine in Reykjavik, where many of the traditional staples of Iceland have been elevated into haute cuisine.
The world is an exciting place! Whale watching is a one-of-a-kind adventure, and it’s worth it to head out on an expedition on Arctic waters. Just don’t miss out on the sights, tastes, and experiences that may not be on your radar yet.
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