Whale Watching on board a Traditional Oak Boat from Árskógssandur

Watching whales in their natural environment is a bucket-list activity for many travelers heading to Iceland’s north coast. This particular tour, offered by North Sailing from Árskógssandur, combines a charming traditional oak vessel with expert guiding and a chance to see minke, humpback, and even orca whales. It’s a genuine opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in the wild, all while enjoying some simple comforts aboard a beautifully crafted boat.

What really makes this tour stand out is the intimacy of the experience—the small group sizes, knowledgeable guides like Laura, and the cozy onboard atmosphere with hot chocolate and cinnamon buns. At the same time, it’s worth noting that this is a weather-dependent activity; your chances of spotting whales are higher on clear days, but Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable. This tour seems best suited to travelers who value authentic experiences, scenic beauty, and expert local insights over high thrills.

Key Points

• Authentic vessel: Travel aboard a traditional Icelandic oak boat, adding a nostalgic charm to your whale watching adventure.
• Expert guides: Guides like Laura are praised for their knowledge and personable approach, enhancing your chances of spotting whales.
• Flexible scheduling: Multiple departure times throughout the day help you fit the tour into your Iceland itinerary.
• Comfort & warmth: Warm overalls are provided, and the onboard hot chocolate and cinnamon buns offer cozy moments amid the excitement.
• Weather dependence: Good weather increases your chances of sightings, but tours may be canceled or rescheduled in bad conditions.
• Additional discounts: Enjoy savings at local spots like Ströndin Bistro, Beer Spa, and Kaldi Brewery, adding value to your trip.

The journey begins at the hotel meeting point in Árskógssandur, where you’ll check in and board your traditional oak vessel. With a maximum of 65 travelers onboard, it’s a relatively intimate experience that allows for better interaction and more personalized guidance. Many reviews mention how easily accessible and welcoming the meeting location is—an important detail for travelers trying to coordinate their Iceland adventures.

Once on board, the cruise across Eyjafjörður fjord offers more than just whale sightings. The scenery along Iceland’s north coast is striking, with rugged hills, waterfalls, and distant mountains framing your view. The vessel’s wooden construction lends a nostalgic feel that complements the natural surroundings beautifully. Expect to hear your guide, such as Laura, share insights about the local marine life and the species you might see, including minke, humpback, and orca whales.

What to Expect During the Tour

The duration of approximately 2.5 hours makes for an engaging yet manageable trip. We loved the way guides like Laura explain whale behaviors—how they swim, feed, and sometimes even breach—adding context and excitement to sightings. Reviewers frequently mention the skill of guides in predicting whale movements, which greatly enhances the experience.

Monitoring the water for signs of whales involves patience—some trips start slow, as one reviewer noted, “Slow at the beginning but after 30 min. we had a whale and then several dives with tails in the air.” When the whales do appear, it’s often close enough to almost touch, according to reports. People mention moments like “we could almost touch the whales,” which underscores how close and personal these encounters can be.

Comfort and Onboard Amenities

Weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, especially on the water, which is why warm overalls are provided—a thoughtful touch praised in reviews. You’ll want to dress warmly, with hats, gloves, and good shoes, as conditions can change quickly. The onboard treats such as hot chocolate and cinnamon buns are perfect for warming up after a whale sighting or during quieter moments. As one reviewer put it, “hot chocolate is offered on board,” which makes the experience cozy and memorable.

The Chance of Sightings

Most travelers report seeing whales—some see multiple species, while others catch a couple of glimpses. Several reviews highlight how guides like Laura or the captain have a keen eye, often spotting whales before most passengers do, or predicting their movements. Seeing two humpback whales was a common highlight, and some fortunate groups even encountered orcas.

The reviews also acknowledge that whale sightings depend heavily on weather and luck. If the sea is calm and the weather clear, your chances increase. Conversely, trips can be canceled or rescheduled if conditions are too harsh—a common occurrence in Iceland. However, the tour policy allows free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, which is reassuring for those wary of weather-related disappointments.

Value and Pricing

At $94.79 per person, this tour is reasonably priced considering the experience it offers. When you factor in the expert guidance, the chance to see multiple whale species, cozy onboard amenities, and the authentic wooden vessel, the value is clear. Plus, the added discounts at local spots like Ströndin Bistro or Beer Spa mean you can extend your Iceland adventure without breaking the bank.

The Small Group Experience

Reviewers consistently mention the benefit of a smaller group size—around 11 to 65 travelers—meaning more space and fewer crowds. This intimacy allows guides to be more engaged and responsive, and passengers often feel more comfortable asking questions. The personal touch is a significant advantage over larger, more commercial tours.

This whale watching trip is ideal for travelers who appreciate authentic, relaxed experiences in scenic environments. It suits those who enjoy a bit of history and charm—traveling on a traditional wooden vessel adds a nostalgic touch many find appealing. It’s perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers alike, especially those eager to learn from knowledgeable guides like Laura or Þórný.

If you’re after guaranteed whale sightings, keep in mind that nature can be unpredictable, but the enthusiastic guides and cozy onboard amenities make this tour worthwhile even if the whales play hard to get. It’s also a good choice for travelers who want flexible departure times to fit their Iceland schedule.

This whale watching tour from Árskógssandur offers a well-balanced blend of authenticity, comfort, and expert guidance. The traditional oak vessel, combined with warm overalls and onboard treats, provides a cozy, charming setting to observe Iceland’s majestic whales in their natural habitat. The small group size and knowledgeable guides like Laura or Þórný make the experience feel personal and insightful, elevating it beyond just a boat ride.

While weather conditions can influence your chances of sightings, the consistent praise from past travelers—many of whom managed to see multiple whales—indicates that luck is a big part of the fun. For those who value scenic beauty and local expertise, this tour delivers a memorable glimpse into Iceland’s marine life without the crowds or commercial overstretch.

If you’re seeking an authentic, well-organized, and genuinely enjoyable whale watching experience in Iceland’s north, this tour is a strong contender. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate a touch of tradition, believe in the value of knowledgeable guides, and enjoy a cozy, scenic adventure on the water.

How do I find the meeting point for the tour?
The tour begins at the hotel in Árskógssandur, where you check in and board the boat. The meeting point is easily accessible and includes a convenient check-in process.

What should I wear for this tour?
Dress warmly with good shoes, hats, gloves, and layered clothing. Warm overalls are provided to help you stay comfortable during the approximately 2.5-hour cruise.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance. If the weather is poor, your trip might be canceled or rescheduled, with options for a full refund or a different date.

Will I see whales every trip?
While many reviews mention sightings of minke, humpback, and orca whales, sightings depend on weather, sea conditions, and luck. The guides are skilled at spotting whales, but nature is unpredictable.

Are there discounts available?
Yes, passengers receive a 10% discount at local spots like Ströndin Bistro, Beer Spa, and Kaldi Brewery, adding extra value to your overall Iceland experience.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Absolutely. The small group size and cozy atmosphere make it family-friendly, and the guides’ expertise ensures a safe, enjoyable trip for all ages.

This tour promises a genuine Icelandic adventure—beautiful scenery, expert guidance, and the thrill of seeing whales in their natural environment. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable experience, it’s a choice worth considering when exploring the north coast of Iceland.