Description
Summary
Description
Cruise through Eyjafjordur Fjord on this 5-hour whale and puffin-watching tour in Hauganes, run by Iceland’s oldest whale-watching operator since 1993. The calm, sheltered fjord, free transfers from Akureyri, and a low minimum age of 3 make it easy going for families and wildlife lovers.
This shore excursion in North Iceland makes the most of limited cruise time, combining whale watching and puffin spotting in one half-day trip. This way, you don't have to choose between them or book two separate excursions.
Your journey begins with a scenic 30-minute transfer from Akureyri to Hauganes, a peaceful fishing village on the western shore of Eyjafjordur. This small harbor is the gateway to some of North Iceland’s best whale-watching waters.
From here, you board the boat and cruise through the sheltered waters of Eyjafjordur, where calm seas, mountain views, and abundant birdlife create the perfect setting for wildlife watching. The boat trip lasts around 2 to 3 hours. Eyjafjordur is Iceland's longest fjord, and its nutrient-rich waters make it one of the country's most reliable spots for whales.
With help from your guide, you will search for humpback whales, minke whales, harbor porpoises, and white-beaked dolphins. If conditions are right, you may see whales surfacing, diving, or showing their tails above the water.
During the summer puffin season, the boat cruises toward Hrisey Island, Iceland's second-largest island, where puffins gather during nesting season. Watch these colorful seabirds resting on the water, nesting along the cliffs, and flying close to the boat.
Run by Iceland's oldest whale-watching operator, family-owned since 1993, the crew shares insights about the wildlife and fishing traditions while following responsible wildlife-viewing practices.
This Hauganes boat tour runs from July to August, when puffins are still active around Hrisey Island and whale sightings are typically strong in Eyjafjordur. The warmer summer weather also brings calmer seas and longer daylight hours, creating better conditions for wildlife watching and photography.
Warm coveralls are provided to keep you comfortable on deck, even in cool Icelandic weather. Enjoy complimentary refreshments, including coffee, hot chocolate, and freshly baked cinnamon buns, while taking in the views and watching for wildlife.
For cruise passengers, the schedule is planned with enough time to return to Akureyri Port before your ship’s departure.
See Iceland’s whales and seabirds surrounded by the dramatic landscapes of Eyjafjordur on this guided whale and puffin-watching tour in Hauganes from Akureyri. Check availability now by choosing a date.
