~ FOR GREATER UNDERSTANDING OF OUR MARINE LIFE ~
Whaling vs. Whale Watching
Iceland is one of the best places in Europe for whale watching, offering unique and close encounters with whales in their natural environment. Whale watching plays an important role in supporting sustainable tourism and contributes significantly to the local economy.
Over the years, Iceland has become an established whale watching destination, with thousands of guests from all over the world joining our tours each year. We make sure to take the opportunity to educate guests about whaling in Iceland and encourage thoughtful choices, including supporting whale-friendly dining options during their stay.
Commercial whaling in Iceland began in 1948. Much of the opposition to whaling relates to both welfare concerns and resource use, including the fact that only a portion of each animal is utilised. At the same time, whale watching has proven to be a far more valuable and sustainable use of whales, both economically and culturally, although the Icelandic government maintains that the two industries can coexist.
Elding has actively opposed whaling in Icelandic waters since it was resumed in 2003 under scientific permits and again in 2006 as commercial whaling. Our position is based on economic, socio-cultural, and animal welfare considerations. We believe that the broader long-term interests of coastal communities and marine ecosystems are not served by the current whaling activities, and we remain concerned about its potential impact on whale watching and whale populations.
Whaling has at times taken place in areas close to whale watching grounds, which can pose risks to the animals encountered on our tours. In 2013, an agreement was made to expand the no-whaling sanctuary in Faxaflói bay, although this was later reduced back to its original boundaries following a change in government policy.
Our long-term observations suggest that we often encounter the same individual whales across multiple seasons, which may indicate that local populations are smaller or more resident than previously assumed.
A 2013 survey of Icelanders, commissioned by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), found that only a small percentage of Icelanders regularly consume whale meat, with the majority stating they do not purchase it at all.
We believe that Iceland’s marine environment is best supported through sustainable use and ensuring that future generations can continue to experience them in the wild.
This is a title.
Support the Movement to End Whaling in Iceland
One of the most powerful ways to help protect whales is by supporting the organisations working tirelessly to end commercial whaling. By signing petitions, raising awareness, and sharing their message, you help demonstrate that people around the world value whales alive in the ocean - not hunted.
We encourage you to learn more about these campaigns:
-
IFAW – Meet Us, Don't Eat Us - a global campaign highlighting the importance of protecting whales and promoting responsible whale watching as a sustainable alternative to whaling.
-
Hvalavinir (For the Love of Iceland) - a grassroots Icelandic campaign advocating for an end to commercial whaling and celebrating whales as an invaluable part of Iceland's natural heritage.
Every Whale Watching Tour
Makes a
Difference
By choosing whale watching, you're helping support a sustainable and ethical industry that creates jobs, contributes to local communities, and demonstrates that whales are worth far more alive than dead.
Every visitor who comes to Iceland to experience whales in their natural environment sends a clear message that living whales have lasting ecological, cultural, and economic value.
Together, we can help ensure future generations experience these incredible animals where they belong - in the wild.