In an extraordinary display of community coordination and compassion, more than 60 long-finned pilot whales that became stranded on the shores of Ólafsfjörður were successfully rescued on June 21, 2025.
Locals, rescue teams from Ólafsfjörður, Siglufjörður, and Dalvík, along with dedicated volunteers, worked tirelessly to save the animals. Among them was Klara Mist Olsen Pálsdóttir, experience manager and captain at Arctic Sea Tours whale watching in Dalvík, who played a vital role in the rescue efforts.
“It was an emotional and unforgettable experience. Everyone came together—locals, rescue services, tourists—and we acted as one,” said Klara.
The stranding began on Saturday afternoon. With urgency and compassion, rescuers coordinated efforts using two straps—one placed around the head and the other near the fluke—to gently guide the whales back into deeper water. Teams of four to eight people worked together to move each animal, while the local fire brigade sprayed water to keep the stranded whales cool and comfortable as the tide came in.
Thanks to their swift response and unwavering determination, every single whale was safely returned to the sea.
Eyewitnesses described the moment the pod swam free as “overwhelmingly beautiful.”
This successful rescue is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through unity and respect for nature. It also highlights the critical role that local knowledge and marine expertise play in conservation efforts.