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The Humpback Whale is quite spectacular undergoing the longest migration of any mammal (5176miles/8334km one way), attracting females by singing to them and of course their energetic nature. On many occasions humpbacks have been seen breaching, tail slapping, fin slapping, blowing bubbles and spy hopping just to mention a few. The humpback is also one of the larger whales we encounter

Currently, we know of over 90 different species of Whales, dolphins and Porpoises collectively called cetaceans. These range from the largest animal that has ever lived on our planet the Blue Whale to the smallest the Hectors dolphin. They are found in every one of our oceans and even some of our rivers. Anyone that has been whale watching and seen these magnificent mammals up close can tell you that it is an experience never forgotten and a feeling of amazement and happiness not quite understood.

Seals and Sea lions are collectively called Pinnipeds. Harbour Seals are the most abundant in Iceland and are frequently encountered on Akurey (puffin colony). There has been 7 species of seals recorded in Icelandic waters but only two of these species breed here; the Harbour Seal and Grey Seal. 

On our whale watching tours we often encounter other species that don't belong to the whale and dolphin families. The various migratory and local seabirds, seals and even sharks bring surely added value to our tours. 

Cod is probably the most frequently caught fish on your sea angling tour with Elding. Cod is the most important marine resource in Iceland and most of the changes in Icelandic fisheries have more or less been focused around the sustainability of cod stocks. Such as the expansion of the EEZ closing areas, reduction in amount fished and controlling the fleet size. 

The fishing grounds in Icelandic waters are known to be some of the most fertile in the world and Faxaflói bay is no exception of that. Both territorial and migratory stocks are found in Faxaflói and as a result a wide variety of species can be caught on our tours.

Iceland’s diverse wildlife is a highlight for nature lovers, especially in coastal and marine areas. From seabird colonies to whales, dolphins, and seals, the island is surrounded by nutrient rich waters that support incredible biodiversity. Long summer days fuel plankton blooms, attracting marine mammals and making Iceland a prime destination for wildlife watching all year round.

At Elding, we actively campaign against whaling and encourage visitors to choose ethical experiences, avoid whale meat, and help raise awareness. Whale watching offers a sustainable alternative to whaling and plays a vital role in protecting Iceland’s marine life and global reputation. By supporting responsible tourism, you’re helping secure a better future for whales in Icelandic waters.

Elding is a proud founding member of IceWhale, the Icelandic Association of Whale Watchers. Since 2003, we’ve worked alongside other operators to promote ethical whale watching, support marine research, and advocate for protected whale sanctuaries. Through IceWhale, Elding continues to lead by example, helping shape a sustainable future for Iceland’s growing whale watching industry.

In 2020, Elding became the first Icelandic company to be certified by the World Cetacean Alliance (WCA), setting a global standard for responsible whale watching. This international recognition guarantees ethical practices, expert guiding, and exceptional wildlife experiences. As part of the world’s largest network of whale and dolphin tourism professionals, we’re proud to lead the way in sustainable marine tourism.

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.