876 Consecutive Whale Sightings in Dalvík – A New Record
From June 6th, 2025 to March 7th, 2026, whale watching tours from Dalvík in North Iceland achieved an extraordinary milestone: 876 consecutive tours with humpback whale sightings.
This level of consistency is exceptional and highlights the rich feeding grounds in Eyjafjörður.
Whale watching in Iceland is no longer just a summer product.
March is traditionally considered one of the most difficult months for whale watching in Iceland. However, this year proved otherwise:
One of the most remarkable patterns is the return of a humpback whale known as “Ryder,” now seen for three consecutive winters.
Additionally, a minke whale was spotted in March — much earlier than the typical mid-April arrival.
The majority of sightings occurred in:
These areas are becoming increasingly important for whale watching tours in North Iceland.
This record and consistent winter sightings suggest a shift in whale behavior and seasonality. Whale watching is no longer limited to peak summer months.
With proven consistency and high sighting rates, Dalvík offers one of the most reliable whale watching experiences in Iceland — even in winter.
The combination of factors observed during March points to a thriving marine ecosystem in Eyjafjörður:
These signs all indicate a productive and healthy environment for marine mammals.
For us at Arctic Sea Tours, witnessing this ecosystem every day is both a privilege and a responsibility. Responsible whale watching allows visitors to experience these animals while maintaining respect for their natural behaviour and habitat.
While winter whale watching continues to deliver incredible experiences, the coming spring months often bring even more activity to Eyjafjörður.
As daylight increases and marine productivity continues to build, whale numbers can grow and feeding behaviour often becomes even more dynamic.
Arctic Sea Tours operates whale watching tours from Dalvík in North Iceland, offering access to the rich waters of Eyjafjörður.
Whether visiting in winter, spring, summer, or autumn, each season offers its own unique perspective on the whales and marine life of the fjord.
If you are planning a trip to North Iceland, we would be delighted to welcome you on board.