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Iceland Boat Tours

Five Ways to Explore Iceland by Boat

The autumn is a great time to explore Iceland by sea. And who doesn‘t love being on a boat? There are several different tours and trips you can take so you can enjoy one of the most diverse and beautiful environments Iceland has to offer.

Whale Watching

One of the most popular activities around Iceland is whale watching. A short boat ride from the coast of Reykjavík into Faxaflói bay can bring you within meters of minke whales, humpback whales, and white-beaked dolphins. Several companies operate whale watching tours not only in Reykjavík but all over Iceland. Húsavík is another great spot for whales. And for those hoping to spot the elusive Orca, try a whale watching tour in one of the many towns along the Snæfellsnes peninsula.

Sea Angling

Some companies around Iceland offer the opportunity to eat directly from the sea. On a sea angling tour, you can fish alongside experts, who will then grill right there on the ship any tasty morsels you might catch. Other tours, such as the Viking Sushi tour out of Stykkishólmur on the Snæfellsnes peninsula, will do the work for you and catch some delicious shellfish that you eat straight from the ocean.

Northern Lights Tour

Northern lights season begins at the end of August and ends in April when the night begins to get light again. During the winter months, the elusive northern lights can be difficult to see, especially from the light-polluted city of Reykjavík. The best way to witness this phenomenon is to get outside of the city. But if you don’t have a car and would rather not sit on a bus, a great way to experience the northern lights is at sea, away from any light pollution. With no light and no buildings for miles around, you have an excellent view for the show when it lights up the sky.

Kayaking and Surfing

For those feeling more adventurous, you can take a kayaking tour in the beautiful Jökulsárlón lagoon. Paddle around enormous icebergs as they gently float in the deep blue water at the base of Vatnajökull glacier. Not enough adrenaline? If you are an experienced surfer, the waters around Reykjanes peninsula are great for surfing. The water is cold and the waves can be strong, so it’s definitely not for beginners!

Ocean Cruise

For a more relaxing way to enjoy Iceland’s nature, you might consider a cruise company, many of which will take their time circumnavigating the island and making stops in some of the most beautiful parts of the country. These several-day-trips will naturally be more expensive than the 2-3 hour voyages into surrounding bays. But if you have the money and the time, it will be well worth it to see Iceland in a whole different light.

Visit our tour information centres for more tips and info!

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