Iceland is gaining a reputation as the hottest ‘cool’ destination in the Atlantic because of its stunning scenery and unique geothermal features. What is less well known is the abundance of wildlife watching opportunities found here. Located at 66° North, Iceland lets its visitors look at the Arctic Circle.
Iceland is also a great place to cast your gaze on several species of whales including Minke, Humpback, Sperm, Sei and the rare Blue whale. It is estimated that 14 species of whales reside or travel through the waters around this island nation.
Reaching Iceland for whale watching is relatively easy despite its location near the top of the world. Daily flights from North America and Europe arrive in Reykjavik; from here you can hope a short domestic flight to the city of Akureyri. An hour’s drive east will bring you to Husavik, often called the whale watching capital of Europe. The Husavik harbor, surrounded by high mountain peaks, offers stunning photo ops and is home base for several whale watching companies.
The traditional wooden boats found in the Husavik harbor are beautiful to behold and comfortable for travel if you can handle the sway. It’s a bit more noticeable than on bigger and newer boats, but riding the larger swells gives you a chance to make new friends. Grabbing the rail or the person next to you while you get your sea legs makes the ride between whale sightings much more exciting!
If seeing whales in the wild creates a desire to learn more, a short walk along the Husavik shoreline will bring you to The Whale Museum. This converted slaughterhouse is now one of the most visited attractions in Iceland. The museum houses several whale skeletons and some thought-provoking educational displays; one of the best discusses Iceland’s controversial participation in whaling.
The best time for whale watching is June to August. With more people coming each year local tour operators have created IceWhale, the Icelandic Whale Watching Association. Although membership is voluntary, the organization aims to reduce conflict between tourists and whales by setting standards and codes of conduct for its members.
If you would like to learn more about whale watching in North East Iceland or plan your own trip, check out the following websites:
Whale Watching Companies:
North Sailing www.northsailing.is
Gentle Giants www.gentlegiants.is
The Whale Museum www.icewhale.is
Travel information www.northiceland.com www.icelandair.net
If you’d like to view this part of the world view my video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ePQ6ctfTOZU
Carol Patterson
