Akureyri: Whale Watching in the Midnight Sun

If you’re visiting Iceland and love the idea of spotting whales against a backdrop of endless daylight, this tour from Akureyri might catch your eye. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on reviews and detailed info, it’s clear that this experience offers something pretty special—namely the chance to see humpback whales in the soft glow of the midnight sun.

What we really like about it is how the guides seem genuinely knowledgeable and how the scenery—both of the fjord and the wildlife—is described as breathtaking. Plus, the boat itself sounds quite comfortable, with outdoor viewing spots and a heated indoor area. That’s helpful when Icelandic weather can be unpredictable.

On the flip side, a thing to keep in mind is that whale sightings aren’t guaranteed. If you’re set on seeing whales or are traveling with very young children, these uncertainties might be a consideration. That said, for those who love wildlife, scenic boat trips, and the magic of Icelandic summer nights, this tour appears to hit the right notes.

This experience is probably best suited for travelers who appreciate nature and are comfortable with a boat ride of a few hours. It’s also a nice fit if you want to combine a wildlife adventure with Iceland’s summer daylight—an unusual and memorable combo.

• Wildlife & Scenery: You’ll get the chance to see humpback whales and other creatures in the picturesque Eyjafjörður fjord.
• Unique Timing: The tour offers the rare experience of whale watching under the midnight sun, thanks to Iceland’s long summer days.
• Comfort & Convenience: The boat features outdoor viewing platforms, heated indoor seating, and Wi-Fi, making the trip pleasant regardless of weather.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable naturalist guides help you learn about the whales and the surrounding scenery.
• Interactive Experience: You’re encouraged to help spot whales, making you feel part of the crew.
• Value for Money: At $98 per person for about 3 hours, it offers a good balance of cost and experience—especially with crew photos and online sightings updates included.

Starting Point & Logistics

The tour kicks off at Elding Whale Watching Akureyri, located conveniently near the HOF cultural center in Akureyri. The meeting spot is straightforward to find, and since the activity ends back at the same location, logistics are simplified. The tour lasts roughly 3 hours, but check the schedule for specific start times, as they can vary.

What really makes this trip flexible is that you can reserve your spot now and pay later, which is handy if you’re still finalizing your Iceland plans. Plus, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, there’s less stress about weather or changing schedules.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Boat & Onboard Comfort

The boat is designed with comfort in mind. It’s a high-speed vessel with spacious outdoor viewing platforms, so you can truly enjoy the scenery and wildlife without feeling cramped. When the weather turns cooler or rainy—which it often does in Iceland—you’ll appreciate the heated indoor seating area. There’s also onboard Wi-Fi, so if you’re into sharing your trip instantly or just want to check in with friends, that’s a nice perk.

The crew takes photographs of sightings when possible, so you might leave with some great whale shots. They also provide thermal overalls (including children’s sizes), which are definitely recommended if the wind picks up or the temperature drops.

Wildlife & The Scenery

The main draw here is the chance to see humpback whales in the fjord, along with other local wildlife. The fjord, Eyjafjörður, is an especially scenic area—think rugged mountains, calm waters, and often a peaceful, almost surreal atmosphere.

And here’s what we love: the timing under the midnight sun. During Iceland’s summer months, the sun barely sets, bathing the landscape and the sea in a gentle glow. It’s a rare sight—whales in the water during what feels like late evening, but is really just Iceland’s extended daylight hours.

Guides & Education

The guides are described as friendly and knowledgeable, sharing insights about the whales, their behaviors, and the surrounding landscape. One reviewer mentions how their guide’s expertise made the experience even more memorable, specifically highlighting how close they got to the whales and their excitement at seeing them in a feeding frenzy.

This adds a layer of educational value that’s often appreciated during wildlife tours; you’re not just watching animals but learning about them.

The Sightings & the Reality

Whale sightings are the highlight, but they’re not guaranteed. One reviewer notes, “Although whale sighting isn’t guaranteed, our group was lucky to have seen and photographed a few.” That honesty is worth keeping in mind—nature doesn’t always cooperate, but the chances are good if conditions are right.

A fellow traveler shared their experience of being upgraded to a faster RIB boat after their original booking was canceled, describing it as “fantastic.” This hints at a flexible, customer-focused operation that wants to give you the best experience possible.

Cost & Value

At $98 per person for about 3 hours, this tour offers a decent price point considering the inclusions—expert guides, onboard photos, and access to both outdoor and indoor viewing. The online updates and whale diary are nice extras, helping you stay connected and informed about sightings and conditions.

Given the chance to see amazing wildlife in a stunning setting under the midnight sun, many travelers find this to be a worthwhile splurge. It’s not a cheap activity, but the value comes from the combination of comfort, scenery, and the potential for memorable wildlife encounters.

This whale watching trip from Akureyri really suits those who crave wildlife encounters combined with scenic beauty. If you’re okay with the unpredictability of spotting whales and enjoy learning from friendly guides, you’ll likely find this a rewarding experience. It’s also ideal if you want to experience Iceland’s famous midnight sun while on the water—something that’s pretty unique to the Icelandic summer.

Travelers who appreciate a well-equipped boat with indoor comfort and outdoor views will be happy here. It’s not overly commercialized—more of a genuine attempt to connect visitors with Iceland’s marine life—making it a good choice for those seeking authenticity.

If you’re traveling with children, it’s good to note that thermal overalls are available in kids’ sizes, which can be helpful for a family day out. Just remember that whale sightings depend on luck and conditions, so keep expectations realistic.

For anyone visiting Akureyri and eager to combine wildlife, scenic views, and the magic of Iceland’s summer nights, this whale watching tour seems to deliver. The guides’ expertise and the comfortable boat environment mean you’re set up for a memorable experience—even if the whales choose to stay hidden.

It’s especially appealing for those who love nature, are comfortable on a boat, and want a bit of Icelandic adventure with a touch of the extraordinary—the midnight sun. The price point is reasonable given the scope of what’s offered, and the ability to monitor sightings online adds an extra layer of engagement.

While there’s always a chance of missing the whales, most reviews suggest that the overall experience is highly valued, thanks to the scenery and the guides’ knowledge. If you’re ready to embrace the unpredictability of wildlife encounters and want a scenic, comfortable trip, this tour is worth considering.

How long is the whale watching tour?
The tour lasts about 2.5 to 3.5 hours, with most trips around 3 hours.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Elding Whale Watching Akureyri at Oddeyrarbót 2, next to the HOF cultural center.

Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are available for purchase on board, but are not included in the ticket price.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Thermal overalls are provided, and it’s advisable to dress warmly, especially if the weather is cool or windy.

Will I see whales every time?
Whale sightings depend on conditions and luck, but the guides do their best to find wildlife, and reviews indicate that sightings are quite good.

If you’re after a scenic, wildlife-filled adventure with a touch of Icelandic summer magic, this whale watching tour from Akureyri is worth having on your list. It balances comfort, education, and the chance for unforgettable moments—and that’s a pretty good combo in our book.

You can check availability for your dates here: