Akureyri Express Whales in the Midnight Sun

📍 Akureyri, Iceland

4.5 ( 4,879 reviews)

See them in the wild

Akureyri Express Whales in the Midnight Sun

From

Duration2 hours

FitnessModerate

CancellationFree cancellation 24 hours before starting time.

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✅Instant confirmation

🏅EarthCheck

🏅World Cetacean Alliance Approved

Overview

Experience the excitement of zooming into Iceland's longest glacial fjord as we look for whales and dolphins in the ever-glowing Midnight Sun, on this 2 hr. RIB boat tour available each summer from 15th June until 14th August. With just 12 passengers per boat, this intimate adventure offers a personalised and up-close experience like no other. Our state-of-the-art boats are designed for speed and agility, allowing us to navigate the fjord swiftly and increase your chances of spotting whales, dolphins, and a variety of bird species, all while respecting their natural environment. Expertly led by our onboard naturalist and skilled captain, this tour is crafted for those who seek both the serenity of nature and the excitement of adventure, all under the mystical light of Iceland's evening sun.A 2 hr. speed-boat whale watching tour starting from the floating pier in Akureyri, where we can get you faster and closer to the whales. As whales never fully sleep, you can expect the same chance to see them, as on our day tours! If you have a passion for nature and love for adventure or just want a romantic yet exciting night out, then this is the tour for you!

wildlife highlights

Why you'll love it

🔹 A conservation success

Commercial whaling in the 20th century killed around 2.9 million whales, with some populations, such as humpback whales, lost 90% of their global population. In 1986, commercial whaling was banned, and species were able to recover (although three countries continue to hunt whales - Japan, Norway and Iceland).

🔹 Support local communities

Whale watching is a major source of income for some communities, especially those around no-take Marine Protected Areas, where fishing and other commercial activities are banned. There are strict guidelines for responsible whale watching, which largely involve speed limits, never chasing the pod, never separating mother and calf, and not getting too close.

🔹 See them in their natural habitat

Seeing them in the vast ocean is an experience one’ll never forget. We believe responsible whale watching is a great way to educate the public about these majestic giants and to support their conservation.

What you will be doing

Check-in & Boarding

Arrive at our ticket office by the floating pier next to Hof Cultural and Conference Centre in the heart of Akureyri. Check in at least 30 min. before departure to receive a briefing on the safety procedures and tour details. Suit up with the provided safety gear and prepare for departure. Once all passengers are ready, you board the RIB boat on the floating pier, following the crew. The guide will provide additional safety instructions and an overview of the areas you will be visiting during the tour.

Express Whale Watching

The RIB boat cruises through the Eyjafjord, offering opportunities to spot humpback whales, dolphins, and various bird species under the stunning light of the Midnight Sun. The boat's small size and speed allow for a more intimate and closer encounter with the wildlife. Your naturalist will provide information about the marine life and the surrounding environment as you explore different areas of the fjord. As whales never fully sleep, you have the same chance to view them as on our day tours!

Return to Akureyri

After an exciting experience in the evening sun, the RIB boat heads back to the floating pier. Enjoy the scenic views of Akureyri and the surrounding landscape as you return.

Things to know

AccessibilityMinimum age is 10

Fitness levelModerate

Tour languageEnglish

Licence requiredNone

Minimum age is 10
Make your own way to the floating pier, Oddeyrarbót 2, next to the cultural centre HOF in Akureyri, at least 30 min. prior to departure.
The tour lasts 2 hours from start to finish and requires a minimum of 2 passengers for the tour to proceed. If the minimum is not met, you will have the option to reschedule or receive a full refund
For safety reasons, participants must be at least 145 cm tall and able to stand comfortably in our saddle-like seats. The tour may not be suitable during pregnancy and is not recommended for those with a history of back or knee injuries. Please consult with your doctor prior to booking this tour. Keep in mind that you are required to sign a safety waiver prior to departure, confirming that you are physically fit
We abide by a Code of Conduct for responsible whale watching
thus, each encounter is on the animals&#39 terms and distance may be kept to minimise disturbance. In the event that no whales or dolphins are seen, we do not issue refunds, but you will be offered a complimentary ticket valid on our Classic Whale Watching tour for 2 years.

Inclusions and Exclusions

✅ Included

Guide
Safety Equipment
Warm Clothing

❌ Not included

Pick up and drop off transport
Refreshments

Where we'll meet

Meet up/Pick up location: Whale Watching ticket office, Oddeyrarbót 2, 600 Akureyri, IS

Instruction: Meet 15min before departure time

ReturnThis trip returns to meeting point

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