Whale Watching in Husavik

Husavik, a pretty fishing town on Iceland's north coast, calls itself the whale-watching capital of Europe, and the rich waters of Skjalfandi bay back the claim. Boat trips, some on traditional oak sailing vessels, go out in search of humpback and minke whales, dolphins and, on lucky days in season, the mighty blue whale.

What you actually see

• Humpback and minke whales - the whales that feed in the bay in summer.
• Blue whales - the rare chance of the largest animal on earth.
• The oak sailing boats - the traditional vessels some tours use.
• Husavik and its whale museum - the harbour town and its museum on the whales.

When to go

Summer, roughly June to August, the peak whale season and the time boats run most reliably; sightings are never guaranteed but odds are high in summer. The bay is cold, so dress warm even in July.

Honest expectations

Whales are wild, so sightings are likely in season but never certain, and the boats warn of this. It is cold and can be rough on the water, so dress warmly and consider seasickness. It is far north, best combined with the Myvatn and Akureyri region.

Nearby

Lake Myvatn and Godafoss are within reach; Akureyri, the northern capital, is an hour away.