September Whale Watching in North Iceland: A unique wildlife adventure with North Sailing
As summer fades in North Iceland, September emerges as one of the most captivating times of year to experience the magic of whale watching. Whether you are departing from the famous Húsavík or the tranquil shores of Árskógssandur, North Sailing offers an unforgettable opportunity to witness whales in their natural habitat, framed by the arctic beauty of the region. Here is why you should join us this September.
Why choose September for whale watching?
September is a transition month in Iceland, offering the perfect balance between the vibrant energy of summer and the calm beauty of early autumn. This makes it an ideal time for whale watching, both regarding whale sightings and exceptional surroundings, with the first snows of winter decorating the mountaintops.
Migration patterns and whale activity
September provides an excellent chance to spot some of the ocean’s most majestic creatures before many of them begin their long migrations to warmer waters. Humpback whales, minke whales, and white-beaked dolphins are still actively feeding in the rich waters of Skjálfandi Bay and Eyjafjörður, allowing you to witness their different behaviours in the seas.
Weather and sailing conditions
While Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, September often brings milder winds and calm seas, creating ideal conditions for a smooth sailing experience. The quieter harbours and less crowded boats mean a more intimate, personal adventure on the water, allowing you to connect with nature on a deeper level.
Can you see the Northern Lights in September?
As the days go shorter, there is another reason September is special: the chance to see the Northern Lights. After your whale watching day tour, you might be treated to a dazzling display of the auroras across the night sky—a magical way to cap off a day spent out at sea.
What whales can you see in September?
September is a great time to spot marine wildlife in North Iceland.
Humpback Whales
Known for their spectacular breaches and tail slaps, humpback whales are often the stars of the show. These massive creatures are known for their playful, acrobatic displays, and they sometimes approach the boats for a close encounter. September usually offers daily sightings of humpback whales, both in Húsavík and Árskógssandur.
Minke Whales
Although smaller than the humpbacks, minke whales are still an incredible sight to behold. They are curious by nature and may approach the boats, allowing for close-up views as they surface for air. Sightings of minke whales are steady throughout the summer in Húsavík and Árskógssandur and can be seen on our tours regularly.
Other species to witness
September also brings occasional sightings of playful white-beaked dolphins. These energetic creatures often travel in pods and add an extra element of fun to your tour. Throughout the years, we have been treated with some surprising sightings of other rarer species in September such as fin whales, pilot whales and northern bottlenose whales. As with other months of the whale watching season, these are always a treat, and the element of exploring the wild never stops to surprise us.
Húsavík and Árskógssandur: Two unique departure points for whale watching tours
Húsavík – The Whale Watching Capital of Iceland
Húsavík has long been recognised as Iceland’s whale watching capital. With its rich history of maritime culture and its prime location on the shores of Skjálfandi Bay, it is no wonder that Húsavík is often the first choice for whale enthusiasts. The traditional oak boats of North Sailing offer a timeless, eco-friendly experience, gliding across the bay as you search for the whales in their natural habitat.
Árskógssandur – A hidden gem in Eyjafjörður
If you’re looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, Árskógssandur is a perfect alternative. Located on the western shores of Eyjafjörður, this serene town offers a quieter, more intimate whale watching tour onboard one of North Sailing’s wooden boats in the company of their experienced local crew.
What to expect on your September tour?
A North Sailing whale watching tour offers an immersive adventure, and our goal is always to offer our passengers an inspiring and educational experience.
Duration and comfort
Our Húsavík Original whale watching tours last around 3 hours, while our tours from Árskógssandur are approximately 2,5 hours. Both will give you plenty of time to experience the excitement of spotting whales while enjoying the beauty of the Icelandic coastline.
September can bring cooler temperatures, so it is essential to dress in warm, layered clothing. North Sailing provides passengers with warm overalls and raincoats if needed, but we also recommend bringing a hat, gloves, and sturdy shoes to keep warm while on the water.
Hot chocolate and cinnamon buns
To round up the experience, we offer complimentary refreshments on all our whale watching tours. On the way back, our crew will serve hot chocolate and cinnamon buns, which are usually very well-appreciated by passengers in the sometimes chilly September weather.
Expert guides
Each tour is led by knowledgeable guides, many of whom are marine biologists or trained naturalists. They offer fascinating insights into the behaviour, biology, and conservation of whales, enriching your experience with their passion and expertise.
Local attractions to enhance your visit
What to do in Húsavík?
While in Húsavík, consider visiting the world-renowned Húsavík Whale Museum to deepen your understanding of the marine life you have encountered on your tour. And, for a relaxing end to the day, dip in the warm pools of Geosea, Húsavík’s geothermal sea baths, with panoramic views over Skjálfandi Bay.
What to experience in Árskógssandur?
In Árskógssandur, the unique Beer Spa is just a few minutes walk away from North Sailing’s ticket office. Treat yourself to a soak in warm beer (yes, really!) or warm up in the outside tub to enjoy the stunning views of Eyjafjörður. For those wanting to explore more of the area, the Eyjafjörður region is perfect for scenic drives and visits to different little villages on the coastline. Not to mention Akureyri, the capital of the North, only a 30-minute drive from Árskógssandur.
Join us in September
September whale watching in North Iceland with North Sailing is an experience like no other. With breathtaking landscapes, a rich array of marine life, and the serenity of autumn, it is the perfect time to sail out. Book your tour now and discover why so many visitors fall in love with the whales of Húsavík and Árskógssandur.
