Meet orcas off the rugged coast of the Snæfellsnes peninsula by boat

The waters off Ólafsvík on the north coast of Snæfellsnes are among the best places in all of Iceland to see orcas. Especially from the winter months through to early summer, family groups move through the deep bays in search of herring. You can often watch several animals at the same time, sometimes even young ones. Orcas live in close-knit social groups and communicate using characteristic calls. Alongside the striking orcas you can also encounter humpback whales, common minke whales, long-finned pilot whales and white-beaked dolphins here. In June, male sperm whales can also be spotted. The whales hunt right close to the shore, so sightings are often possible shortly after leaving the harbour.

The whale watching tours with Láki Tours start in the harbour of Ólafsvík and last around two to three hours. The boats are small, which creates a personal atmosphere and allows for close encounters with the animals. Experienced guides provide information during the trip about whale behaviour and the marine ecosystem. Tours take place daily at 10am and 2pm during the summer months; advance reservation is recommended. Flotation suits are available on board and there is an indoor area with toilets. The view from the boat’s upper deck also offers wide vistas of the coastal landscape of Snæfellsnes.