WHALE WATCHING IN HUSAVÍK
Operating from Húsavík and Árskógssandur, North Sailing is one of Iceland’s pioneers in whale watching, offering responsible tours in Skjálfandi Bay and Eyjafjörður, one of the country’s best whale-spotting areas. Sailing on traditional oak boats, their experienced guides focus on respectful encounters, sustainability, and sharing deep knowledge of the marine life and local history.
10% OFF ALL TOURS WITH THE CODE SAIIILING
REVIEWS
Kurt C
This whale watching adventure exceeded my wildest imagination! We saw and got quite close to 7 or 8 humpback whales and got some great photos.
Mike W
This is worth every single cent you pay for it!!!
Been on this ride before (a year ago) and had to come again and bring my son. Pure bliss!
WHY WE RECOMMEND
NORTH SAILING?
North Sailing is one of Iceland’s true pioneers in whale watching, with decades of experience operating in Skjálfandi Bay.
While North Sailing is best known for its long history in Húsavík, they also operate whale watching tours from Árskógssandur in Eyjafjörður, about 30 minutes north of Akureyri. This makes them a practical option for travelers staying in the Akureyri area, with tours running for most of the year and consistently good humpback whale sightings.
Their strong commitment to sustainability, small-group experiences, and respectful wildlife encounters really stands out. Sailing on beautifully restored traditional oak boats adds a unique, authentic feel, while their knowledgeable local guides share deep insights into the whales, the bay, and Húsavík’s maritime history.
It’s whale watching done properly: calm, responsible, and genuinely memorable.
IS NORTH SAILING
WORTH IT?
Yes. Especially if you’re seeking a whale watching experience that’s both authentic and respectful of nature. North Sailing has decades of experience operating in Skjálfandi Bay from Húsavík, one of Iceland’s most consistently productive areas for whale sightings. Their tours use traditional oak boats, which adds a slower, more immersive feel to the trip compared with larger vessel operations.
What sets North Sailing apart is their emphasis on sustainability, small groups, and knowledgeable local guides who explain not just where the whales are, but why they’re there and how the ecosystem works. If you enjoy marine wildlife, natural scenery, and a calm pace that lets you really take in the moment, many travelers find their tours well worth the time and cost.
STILL DECIDING?
Our whale watching guide compares different locations in North Iceland and explains what affects sightings, boat types, and overall experience.