Whale Watching in Húsavík
Decades of whale sightings in Skjálfandi Bay
Whale watching in Iceland has a rich history that dates back to the 20th century, although it wasn’t initially a popular tourist activity. Historically, Iceland was known for the whaling industry, which began in the 19th century. However, the focus gradually shifted from hunting to conservation and observation as attitudes toward whales changed and general awareness of the value of these animals is instantly growing in the country.
The industry began to grow rapidly in the 1990s. The first whale watching tour took place in our town Húsavík, which later became known as the "whale watching capital of Iceland." The natural abundance of whales in Icelandic waters, including species like the humpback whale, minke whale, and blue whale, made it an ideal location to observe these magnificent creatures.
Iceland’s focus on whale watching grew alongside global awareness about marine conservation. Today, whale watching is a popular tourism activity, and Iceland is considered one of the best places in the world to see whales in their natural habitat.
The first whale watching tours in Iceland are credited to Húsavík with it’s close proximity to Skjálfandi Bay, which is home and a migration route to a variety of whale species, including blue whales, humpback whales, minke whales, pilot whales, sperm whales and orcas - established Húsavík as the “whale watching capital of Iceland” and til today it is considered as one of the best places to see whales. Our small town became a major place for whale watching in the entire country. Húsavík’s early success led to the growth of the whale watching industry in Iceland, more operators are offering whale watching tours across the country.
If you’re staying in our guesthouse you may be interested to know that, Arnar (the house owner) was the first captain sailing whale watching tours from Húsavík. The first boat „Vinur” (isl. „Friend”) started sailing back in 1994 and shortly after „Moby Dick” in 1996 and though “The Wildlife Excursions” came to an end at the time, he continued sailing whale-watching tours in different locations in Iceland training more captains into sailing around wildlife.
Our team can confirm from first-hand that you are very likely to see whales when sailing from Húsavík and we would love to have you on board!
If you’d like to join us and sail with Arnar - since 2023, in the pristine waters of Skjálfandi Bay, the new „Moby Dick” is out at sea and you can come on board on one of our daily tours departing from Húsavík Harbour. Outside the Guesthouse, Whale Watching is our passion.
It all begins with an idea.
Claim your % discount!
Guests who book apartment stay directly through our website can get a voucher for 10% dicount to use for whale watching tours. Feel free to contact us directly if you have any questions or if you are hesitating if to join whale watching tour during your stay.
