In north of Iceland, where snow-capped peaks meet the deep blue waters of Eyjafjörður, nature reveals itself in its purest form. Just 30 minutes from Akureyri, the charming harbour village of Hauganes offers front-row access to one of the country’s most spectacular wildlife experiences. This unforgettable 2–3 hour Whale & Puffin Tour combines dramatic fjord scenery with close encounters of Iceland’s most beloved marine life and seabirds.
Set sail from the peaceful harbour of Hauganes aboard The Puffin, a modern vessel purpose-built for comfort, stability, and exceptional wildlife viewing. As you glide into the calm, sheltered waters of Eyjafjörður, the longest fjord in Iceland, towering mountains frame the horizon while seabirds circle overhead — a dramatic backdrop for the adventure ahead.
Eyjafjörður is renowned for its rich feeding grounds, making it one of Iceland’s most reliable whale watching destinations. Humpback whales are the true stars of the fjord, frequently spotted breaching, tail-slapping, or gracefully diving beneath the surface. In addition, sightings often include minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, harbour porpoises, and occasionally other visiting species. With experienced local captains and knowledgeable guides on board, guests gain fascinating insight into the behaviour, ecology, and conservation of these magnificent marine mammals.
The journey also includes a scenic 20-minute sail to Hrísey, a picturesque island known for its vibrant puffin colonies during nesting season. Watching these charming seabirds — often called the “clowns of the sea” — as they nest along grassy cliffs and dart across the water is a highlight for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Owned and operated by Whale Watching Hauganes, proudly leading whale watching in Iceland since 1993, this tour reflects decades of maritime expertise and deep respect for the surrounding environment. Combining comfort, authenticity, and outstanding wildlife encounters, the Whale & Puffin Tour from Hauganes offers an intimate and memorable way to experience North Iceland’s extraordinary coastal wonders.