Whale Watching: Reykjavík vs North Iceland

Both Reykjavík and the north deliver whales — the choice comes down to convenience versus sighting rates. Here’s how they compare.

Quick answer

• Based in Reykjavík or short on time? Go from the city.
• Whales are a top priority and you’re heading north? Húsavík or Akureyri.
• Visiting in winter? Reykjavík — northern tours are largely seasonal.

Whale watching from Reykjavík

• Best for: convenience and flexibility.
• Why: leaves from the old harbour, runs year-round, and slots easily beside a city day tour or Golden Circle trip.
• Trade-off: sighting rates are good but generally below the north’s.

Whale watching in North Iceland

• Best for: the highest chance of seeing whales.
• Why: Húsavík and Akureyri sit on rich feeding grounds with some of the country’s best sighting records, and a wider species range.
• Trade-off: mostly summer-only, and a long way from Reykjavík — best for those already touring the north.

How to choose

• Maximise sightings: the north.
• Maximise convenience: Reykjavík.
• Travelling in winter: Reykjavík.
• Already up north: don’t miss Húsavík.

Frequently asked questions

Is whale watching better in the north of Iceland? The north has higher sighting rates and more species variety, but it’s seasonal and far from Reykjavík. The capital is far more convenient and still sees whales regularly.

Can you go whale watching from Reykjavík in winter? Yes — Reykjavík tours run year-round, unlike most northern departures, though summer remains the peak season everywhere.

See what’s sailing on the whale watching tours page, or check the best time for whale watching.