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At Elding, whale watching supports vital marine research aimed at understanding and protecting ocean life. Using photo-identification techniques, we track individual whales through dorsal fins and fluke patterns, gaining insights into migration, social behaviour, and population trends. Every tour contributes to our growing database - helping preserve Iceland’s marine environment for future generations.

Your travel choices matter - and small actions can make a big difference for the environment. Elding provides simple, practical tips to help minimise your footprint while on tour, from proper waste disposal to mindful resource use. Join our mission for a greener future and help us improve by sharing your feedback on sustainable travel practices.

From 2007 to 2010, Elding participated in the SMART-H2 project, exploring the potential of hydrogen as a sustainable marine fuel in Iceland. As part of the project, we installed a hydrogen-powered Auxiliary Power Unit aboard one of our boats to reduce engine noise near whales and test hydrogen performance in harsh marine conditions. Though the project has concluded, it continues to inspire our pursuit of cleaner energy solutions for the future.

The Blue Flag is an internationally recognised eco-label awarded to beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating tourism operators. It promotes responsible tourism and environmental excellence in both freshwater and marine environments. As a Blue Flag operator, Elding meets strict criteria for water quality, safety, environmental education, and sustainable management - ensuring high standards for both nature and visitors.

Elding’s journey with EarthCheck reflects our long term commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible tourism. Starting with Silver in 2008, advancing to Gold in 2013, and achieving Platinum in 2018, we’re proud to lead by example in eco-conscious marine tourism. Learn how our certified practices protect nature while delivering unforgettable, sustainable experiences in Iceland.

Elding offers eco-friendly and educational whale watching tours from Reykjavík and Akureyri, designed to inspire care for the ocean and its inhabitants. Passengers observe whales in their natural habitat while learning about marine life, conservation, and responsible tourism. Our commitment to sustainability makes us a top choice for those seeking ethical and meaningful wildlife experiences in Iceland.

Elding is a family business and the first to offer whale watching from Reykjavík. With over two decades of experience, we provide responsible wildlife tours, all year round. Our tours range from incentive tours and the ferry to Viðey Island, to seasonal tours such as puffin watching and sea angling in summer and Northern Lights Cruises and Imagine Peace Tours in winter.

The Elding team is built on strong family ties and lasting friendships. Over the years, three generations have worked alongside a dedicated group of colleagues to shape Elding into what it is today. We take great care in recruiting and training new team members, valuing knowledge, experience, and a deep respect for nature.

The luxurious yacht Elding II was built in England in 1987 and came into the Elding family in 2001. Having been used previously as a ferry boat in Norðfjörður (East Iceland), it is well suitable for the various adventures at sea such as puffin tours, fishing and private whale watching. 

As Reykjavík’s leading family-owned whale watching company, Elding is committed to sustainable tourism and protecting Iceland’s marine environment. Our tours follow strict eco guidelines, and our sustainability policy focuses on reducing impact, conserving natural heritage, and preserving ecological balance. Join us for responsible sea adventures that let you enjoy the ocean without disturbing its inhabitants.

Elding was originally built as a rescue boat but came into the hands of the Elding family in 2000. Since then we have made many changes to the boat to make it better suited for whale watching and other adventures at sea. It's mainly used for whale watching and private fishing tours in the summer time but increasingly also for Northern Lights Cruises in the winter time. 

Hafsúlan was originally built as a ferry boat in Norway but brought to Iceland in 1998 to serve as a whale watching boat. It came into the hands of the Elding family in 2007 and is now our main whale watching boat. It's also used for Northern Lights Cruises in the winter time and various private tours with larger groups. We have made many changes to the boat to make it better suited for whale watching and other adventures at sea, such as adding the rooftop viewing deck. 

In the festive spirit we are now introducing a fantastic christmas combo; Whales and Christmas Walk. This cultural and gastronomic walking tour of Reykjavík a wonderful alternative to the traditional city sight seeing tour and will get you into a true Chr

Realizing that Iceland has a lot to offer we decided quite early on to offer the so called Combo Tours to guests that want to make the most of their time while in Iceland. This way guests can easily combine whale watching with some of the exciting adventures our collaborators are offering.