How to plan your 3-Hour Classic Whale Watching Tour in Akureyri

Are you visiting Akureyri and looking for an exciting activity? Join a 3-hour classic whale watching tour to see the majestic humpback whales and other marine life in their natural habitat. We have put together a guide for you to plan your experience and make unforgettable memories.

Experience

Get ready to climb aboard a specially-modified high-speed whale watching ship and witness the beauty of the Eyjafjord’s humpback whales. With the help of our specially-trained whale watching guides, you can spot the animals easily and learn more about their behavior. During the tour, you can listen to your guide’s commentary and discover how the warmth of the summer sun brings vibrant life and plenty of food for the larger-than-life mammals.

Highlights

There are many highlights of this tour, including: – Encounter the incredible humpback whales of Eyjafjord departing from Akureyri – Travel with the only environmentally-certified whale watching company in Iceland – Help protect and preserve the wildlife and scenery of Iceland’s magnificent landscape – Keep up-to-date with the online whale diary and monitor sightings and conditions in the area

Full Description

The 3-hour classic whale watching tour from Akureyri is a popular choice for many visitors to Iceland. You can join the tour from the town’s harbor, where you’ll meet our expert whale watching guides. The guide will lead you to the boat and provide overalls on board for your comfort. Once aboard, you’ll set sail on an adventure of a lifetime. The boat is specially-modified for whale watching and is equipped with all the necessary safety features. Your guide will share information about the history of whale watching in Iceland and provide insights into the behavior of the whales. As you cruise along the Eyjafjord, you’ll have a chance to see the majestic humpback whales and other sea creatures in their natural habitat. You may also spot dolphins, porpoises, and seals. The boat has multiple viewing platforms, so you’re sure to have a great view of the animals. The tour is conducted by the only environmentally-certified whale watching company in Iceland. Our company is committed to protecting and preserving the wildlife and scenery of Iceland’s magnificent landscape. We also keep an online whale diary allowing you to monitor sightings and conditions in the area.

What’s Included?

The tour includes the following: – Boat tour – Live guide – Use of overalls onboard

How to Book the Tour

Booking the tour is easy with GetYourGuide. Simply click on this link to book your experience: book the tour here. You’ll receive a confirmation email with all the necessary details and instructions on how to prepare for your adventure.

Book Your Tour Now

Joining a 3-hour classic whale watching tour from Akureyri is an exciting and rewarding experience. You’ll get up close to the incredible humpback whales and other sea creatures, learn from expert guides, and contribute to the preservation of Iceland’s beautiful wildlife. We hope this guide has helped you plan your visit, and we look forward to seeing you onboard soon!

FAQ About Akureyri

Are you planning a trip to Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest city, and don’t know what to expect? Here are some frequently asked questions and answers to help you better understand this beautiful city.

1. What is Akureyri known for?

Akureyri is known for its beautiful landscapes, especially the fjords and mountains surrounding the city. The city is also famous for its numerous hot springs, which are perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. Additionally, it is well-known for its whale watching tours, skiing opportunities, and the Christmas celebrations.

2. What is the best time of year to visit Akureyri?

The best time to visit Akureyri is during the summer months (June to August), when the weather is mild, and the days are long. The winter months are also an excellent time to visit if you are looking for a winter wonderland experience, as the city is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and offers various winter activities such as skiing and snowmobiling.

3. How do I get to Akureyri?

Akureyri has its airport, the Akureyri Airport, which can be reached by direct flights from Reykjavik or by connecting flights from other European cities. The city is also accessible by road, with the drive from Reykjavik taking around 4-5 hours.

4. What are the top tourist attractions in Akureyri?

Some of the top tourist attractions in Akureyri include: – The Akureyri Church: This iconic church is situated on a hill and offers spectacular views of the city and surrounding mountains. – The Botanical Garden: The northernmost botanical garden in the world, with numerous rare and exotic plants. – The Akureyri Art Museum: A museum showcasing Icelandic and international art. – The Hof Cultural Center: A cultural center with a theater, cinema, and cafe. – Whale watching tours: An opportunity to see whales and other marine life up close and personal.

5. What are the best outdoor activities to do in Akureyri?

Akureyri offers many outdoor recreational activities, including: – Skiing and snowboarding: There are three ski resorts in the area, offering slopes for all levels. – Hiking and walking: Numerous hiking trails of varying difficulties can be found in and around the city. – River rafting: An adrenaline-pumping activity that takes you through the beautiful canyons of the area’s rivers. – Golfing: Akureyri Golf Course is an 18-hole course that offers spectacular views of the mountains.

6. What is the food like in Akureyri?

Akureyri offers a range of culinary experiences, with many restaurants offering traditional Icelandic dishes such as lamb and fish. The city has a thriving cafe culture, with many cafes offering homemade pastries and coffee.

7. What is the weather like in Akureyri?

Akureyri experiences a subarctic climate, with temperatures ranging from -2°C to 19°C throughout the year. The city can be quite windy, especially during the winter months, so be sure to pack warm clothing.

8. What are the Christmas celebrations like in Akureyri?

Akureyri is known for its elaborate Christmas celebrations, including a Christmas market, Christmas concerts, and a visit from Santa Claus himself. The city is also illuminated with festive decorations, creating a magical Christmas wonderland.

9. Are there any hotels in Akureyri?

Yes, there are many hotels in Akureyri, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury hotels. Alternatively, you can also find a variety of guesthouses and Airbnb rentals.

10. Is it easy to get around Akureyri?

Akureyri is a small city that can easily be explored on foot. However, if you want to explore the surrounding areas, it is recommended to rent a car. Buses are also available for transportation within the city and to neighboring towns. Additionally, local tour companies offer various guided tours to explore the region.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Akureyri

If you’re planning on visiting Iceland and want to explore beyond the capital city of Reykjavik, Akureyri is a great option. Located in the north of Iceland, Akureyri is the second-largest city in the country and offers a variety of activities for tourists. Here is a guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Akureyri.

1. Explore the city center

Akureyri’s city center is relatively small, but it’s packed with shops, restaurants, and museums. Stroll down the town’s main street, Hafnarstræti, and take in the colorful buildings and friendly atmosphere. Check out the Akureyri Museum to learn more about the town’s history, or visit the Akureyri Art Museum to see some contemporary local art.

2. Visit the Akureyri Botanical Garden

Akureyri’s Botanical Garden is one of the northernmost botanical gardens in the world. The garden features a variety of trees, shrubs, and flowers, including many Icelandic species. Take a leisurely stroll around the garden and take in the stunning views of nearby mountains.

3. Go skiing or snowboarding at Hlíðarfjall

If you’re visiting Akureyri in the winter months, you can ski or snowboard at Hlíðarfjall, a nearby ski resort. The resort offers a variety of slopes for all levels of skiers, and the stunning views of the surrounding mountains make for a memorable experience.

4. Go whale watching

The waters around Akureyri are home to several different species of whales, including humpback whales and minke whales. Take a whale watching tour and see these magnificent creatures up close. Tours generally run from May to September, but some companies might offer them year-round.

5. Visit Goðafoss

Goðafoss is a stunning waterfall located just outside of Akureyri. The waterfall is about 12 meters high and 30 meters wide and is surrounded by scenic landscape. Legend has it that in the year 1000, Iceland’s official religion was changed from Norse paganism to Christianity here. The history and beauty of this natural wonder make it a must-see for any tourist visiting Akureyri.

6. Take a dip in the hot springs

Iceland is famous for its many hot springs, and Akureyri is no exception. The nearby Mývatn area features several hot springs where you can relax and take in the beautiful surroundings. The Mývatn Nature Baths are a popular option and offer stunning views of the lake.

7. See the reindeer

The hills surrounding Akureyri are home to a herd of wild reindeer. While not guaranteed, there’s a good chance of seeing them if you go on a reindeer spotting tour. Seeing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

8. Try Icelandic cuisine

Akureyri offers a variety of restaurants serving up traditional Icelandic cuisine. For a unique and delicious experience, try the local delicacy of fermented shark, or take a chance on some smoked puffin. For a more familiar meal, try Icelandic lamb or fresh seafood.

Book Your Tour Now

From exploring the city center to soaking in hot springs, there are plenty of ways to spend your time as a tourist in Akureyri. With its stunning surroundings and variety of activities, Akureyri is a must-visit destination for any trip to Iceland.