yacht in iceland

Boat & Catamaran charter in Iceland - Yacht Rental

Iceland yacht rental.

Dive into an unprecedented sailing experience with Yachting.Rent’s premium yacht rental service in Iceland. Our mission is to make the awe-inspiring Icelandic waters accessible to everyone, from the novice adventurer to the seasoned seafarer.

Iceland, a land of contrasting landscapes, offers a unique blend of volcanic formations, shimmering fjords, and spectacular glaciers that turn sailing into an extraordinary adventure. Yachting.Rent equips you with a high-quality, well-maintained yacht of your choosing, whether you’re planning a tranquil sail around the picturesque Vestmannaeyjar archipelago, or venturing further out into the North Atlantic to catch a glimpse of the majestic whales and the enchanting Northern Lights.

We understand that every voyage is different. That’s why our fleet includes a variety of yacht sizes and types, each impeccably maintained for safety and performance. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a daring expedition with friends, we’ve got the perfect yacht for you.

Our dedicated team of sailing enthusiasts is always at your disposal, providing you with professional advice on choosing the right yacht, planning your route, and ensuring you’re fully equipped for your Icelandic journey.

With Yachting.Rent, you can navigate the icy waters of Iceland in comfort and style. Start your Icelandic sailing adventure with us today!

Daniel Goldman

CEO of Yachting.Rent

Boat & Catamaran charter in Iceland

Bali 4.5 – 4 + 2 cab. – Adria Chicha – 2017

Lagoon 450 F – 4 + 2 cab. – Shiva – 2018

Lagoon 42 – 4 + 2 cab. – Hanselli – 2024

Lagoon 42 – 4 + 1 cab. – pirelli – 2024.

Saxdor 320 GTC – Olivia – 2022

Saxdor 320 gto – kali – 2022.

Why Choose Us

Yacht charter in Iceland

Embrace the adventure of a lifetime with Yachting.Rent’s exceptional yacht charter services in Iceland. With us, you are not just hiring a yacht, you are charting your course to an unforgettable journey across the unspoiled Icelandic seascape.

Iceland is a sailor’s dream, with its breath-taking fjords, captivating northern lights, and the awe-inspiring spectacle of whales in their natural habitat. Yachting.Rent provides an exclusive range of luxury yachts, inviting you to explore these wonders in comfort, safety, and style.

We pride ourselves on delivering a service that goes beyond simple yacht charter. Our experienced team is dedicated to understanding your unique needs and crafting the perfect Icelandic sailing experience for you. We’ll guide you through selecting the right yacht from our impressive fleet, each one impeccably maintained and equipped with everything you need for your journey.

Whether you dream of gliding through the serene waters of the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago, adventuring into the wild North Atlantic, or simply soaking up the stunning Icelandic coast, we’re here to turn that dream into reality.

Yachting.Rent is more than a yacht charter in Iceland. We’re your partner in adventure, bringing unparalleled sailing experiences within your reach. Start planning your voyage with us today.

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About Iceland

Why is Iceland a good sailing destination?

Set sail for the adventure of a lifetime with Yachting.Rent as we show you why Iceland is an unparalleled sailing destination. Offering more than just breathtaking scenery, Iceland’s unique marine environment offers countless opportunities for memorable experiences.

Iceland’s breathtaking fjords, majestic glaciers, and distinctive volcanic landscapes offer an unparalleled backdrop for sailing. The ethereal Northern Lights and the Midnight Sun provide extraordinary experiences that only Iceland can offer. With such an array of natural phenomena, every day brings a new spectacle to capture your imagination.

Beyond the unique scenery, Iceland’s seas are brimming with marine life. Sailors can often spot playful dolphins, puffins, and even majestic whales in their natural habitat. The thrill of witnessing these creatures up close from the deck of a yacht is an experience like no other.

Despite its seemingly remote location, Iceland offers modern marinas with excellent facilities. Along the coast, charming fishing villages welcome sailors with open arms, providing an authentic taste of Icelandic hospitality and culture.

But it’s not just about the destination – the journey matters too. Whether you are an experienced sailor or a complete novice, sailing in Iceland offers a range of challenges and opportunities to learn. From navigating the calm fjord waters to the open sea, there’s always something new to discover.

At Yachting.Rent, we’re here to help you discover why Iceland is more than just a good sailing destination – it’s an exceptional one. Let us guide you on a sailing journey you’ll never forget. Start your Icelandic adventure with us today!

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What Choose

Sailing boat or Catamaran, what to sail in Iceland

When planning a sailing adventure in the enchanting waters of Iceland, choosing the right vessel is crucial for the experience. At Yachting.Rent, we provide both sailing boats and catamarans, ensuring we cater to all your sailing needs.

If it’s an intimate and traditional sailing experience you seek, our fleet of sailing boats is ideal. These vessels are perfect for closer encounters with Iceland’s nature, weaving through the narrow fjords and close to the dramatic cliff faces. The maneuverability and agility of a sailing boat provide an unmatched sense of connection to the wind and the sea, offering a journey as exciting as the destination.

On the other hand, our catamarans offer an excellent choice for those seeking more space and comfort. With their double hulls, catamarans provide more stability than a monohull, making them a popular choice for families or groups. They feature larger living spaces, both inside and out, perfect for enjoying the panoramic views of Iceland’s stunning landscapes. With their shallow draft, catamarans allow you to get closer to the shore, perfect for exploring secluded bays and inlets.

Both our sailing boats and catamarans come equipped with modern navigation and safety equipment, ensuring a secure and enjoyable sailing adventure. Our expert team at Yachting.Rent will guide you in choosing the perfect vessel based on your needs and sailing skills.

Whether it’s the adventurous feel of a sailing boat or the comfort and stability of a catamaran, Yachting.Rent has you covered for your Icelandic sailing experience. Embark on your next adventure with us and discover the majestic beauty of Iceland from a new perspective!

Find inspiration for your next holiday

The Northern Lights by Sea: Viewing the Aurora Borealis from a Sailboat in Icelandic Waters

Sailing Under the Midnight Sun: Experiencing Iceland's Endless Summer Days by Sea

Viking Maritime Heritage: Exploring Iceland's Rich Sailing Traditions and Longship Legacy

Whale Watching Adventures: Spotting Orcas, Humpbacks, and Minke Whales off Iceland's Coast

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THE 10 BEST Iceland Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in iceland.

• Dolphin & Whale Watching
• Fishing Charters & Tours
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• Kayaking & Canoeing
• Speed Boats Tours
• River Rafting & Tubing
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• Parasailing & Paragliding
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• Chinese (Simplified)
• Special Tours
• Harpa Reykjavik Concert Hall and Conference Centre
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• Old Harbour
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik

2. Big Whales & Puffins RIB boat tour from Húsavík

3. Golden Circle, Secret Lagoon and Kerid Crater Tour from Reykjavik

4. Northern Lights Cruise from Downtown Reykjavik

5. Whale Watching & Dolphin Yacht Cruise

6. Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavik

7. Whale Watching from Downtown Akureyri

8. Whale Watching in Húsavík with Friends of Moby Dick

9. Whale Watching Tour from Akureyri City Central

10. Express Whale Watching by RIB boat from Akureyri

11. Half-Day Whale Watching and Northern Lights Combo Tour

12. Traditional Oak Ship Whale Watching Tour From Husavik

13. Speedboat Whale Watching in Reykjavík Iceland - Small group

14. Traditional Whale Watching Tour from Húsavík

15. Icelandic Horse Riding and Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavik

16. RIB Boat Tour

17. Whales and Puffins Tour from Husavik

18. Northern Lights Yacht Cruise

19. Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in Reykjavik

20. Small-Group Reykjavik RIB Whale Watching Cruise

21. Whale Watching and Bubbling Sands Snorkeling Combo in Húsavík

22. Northern Lights Yacht Cruise in Reykjavik

23. Northern Lights Boat Cruise from Reykjavik

24. Whale Safari and Puffins RIB Boat Tour from Húsavík

25. Original Carbon Neutral Whale Watching Tour from Húsavík

26. Whale Watching in Husavik

27. Whale-Watching Tour from Reykjavik

28. Reykjavik Premium Puffin tour | Close Up and Personal

29. Reykjavik's Finest Catch: Guided Sea Angling Tour

30. Whale Watching and Sea Angling Tour

What travelers are saying.

• Noemi M 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Golden circle adventure We had an amazing day with Vik and Kristof, they are the best tour guide and driver ever. Don't miss to book a ride with them when you are in Iceland, and you'll have a once in a lifetime experience! 😊 Read more Review of: Golden Circle, Secret Lagoon and Kerid Crater Tour from Reykjavik Written March 19, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

The Best Boat Trip Tours in Iceland

No journey through Iceland is complete without a boat trip tour. Some of the best boat trip tours in Iceland get you up close and personal to icebergs, glaciers, and majestic wildlife like whales, puffins, and dolphins.

Boat trip tours will range in price from $40 to $200 depending on how long the tour lasts, how luxurious the boat is, and the time of year the tour is booked. The summer season in Iceland is busier than other seasons, and tours become competitive and sell out quickly. You will pay a premium for a spot on a boat trip tour during the summer. Boat tours are generally safe, but there are some dangers to be aware of. Iceland gets a lot of precipitation during the year, even during the summer, so you should keep up to date on weather patterns as they roll in.

Boat tours will start at tour stations that are near major cities or significant natural landmarks like glaciers. The capital of Iceland, Reyjavik, will have several boat tours available, but northeast towns also provide many Northern Light and whale watching tours for Iceland.

The best boat trip tours in Iceland are listed below.

1. Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Boat Tour (Jökulsárlón, Iceland, May-November)

The Jokulsarlon Glacier boat tour is a small boat tour of a glacier’s towering icebergs for those who want a chance to get up close and personal to these beautiful ice formations. 

The tour costs $44 and lasts for 35 minutes. There is no minimum age requirement for this tour, and it is easy to traverse. These facts make the tour perfect for families, couples, and anyone who wants a breathtaking view of these otherworldly icebergs. The whole tour package includes boat tickets, a life jacket, and an experienced guide that will know their way around the water. 

The guide will also provide knowledgeable insights into the area’s surrounding history, traditions, and culture. You will want to bring a camera to ensure you can capture all beautiful natural sights in high-quality resolution. The tour is only available in English. You will need to arrange travel separately from the tour because airport transfer and travel perks are not part of this tour package.

The tour starts as you begin heading to the cafe in Jökulsárlón, Iceland, at least twenty minutes before you are scheduled to depart. You will exchange your printed vouchers for actual tickets, and once it is time, you will begin boarding an amphibious vehicle that starts on land and then drives into the water. After entering the water, the vessel will navigate further into the lagoon, getting as close as possible to blue icebergs and the glacier’s tongue. The glacier is nearly 1000 years old, and despite the changing conditions of Iceland and the surrounding regions, it remains a fixture of Iceland.

While on tour, you will likely encounter various forms of wildlife. Seals like to make their home on the Jökulsárlón glacier. You will often see them playing in the water by the boat or laying out on floating icebergs. If you are lucky, a seal might get close enough to get a good picture of them. They are used to seeing human tour groups and don’t have a natural fear of humans that would make them hide from your camera. After the tour, you could also visit the nearby Diamond Beach , where you can see a different view of the seals and icebergs from afar.

This tour package can offer you a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled time. The tour requires you to pass a COVID-19 test to ensure that you are healthy before taking your flight to Iceland. In the event that you fail a COVID-19 test, you will also be offered a full refund. In the event of a weather condition that cancels the event, you will also receive a full refund on the tour package

If you love icebergs, this tour is one of the best ways to get close to them. Many other boat tours in Iceland will keep a fair bit of distance from them, but because of the unique way the icebergs form, this tour can get you closer than many others. One thing to note is that this tour will not get you close to the glacier edge, so if you are trying to get further out into the sea, you will need to look for a more extended tour. Don’t forget to bring weather-appropriate clothing and gloves to keep your hands warm. Even though this tour takes place in the summer, It can still get chilly out on the water.

2. Whale Watching From Dalvik Tour (Dalvik, February-December)

The Whale Watching from Dalvik Tour is a winter boat tour where visitors experience different types of whales up close and personal. In addition to whales, guests will also see different kinds of birds and beautiful natural scenery.

This tour costs $73 and lasts for three hours. It is offered from February to December, which puts it squarely in the winter season of Iceland. The tour price does not include any airport transfers or other hotel pick-ups. You will need to meet the tour boat on location when you book this tour. This whale watching tour consists of the full whale-watching tour and a bird-watching segment, the tour where bird enthusiasts will have a chance to get great photographs of Icelandic birds. It also includes hot chocolate and other hot drinks as refreshments for passengers as they bundle together to stay warm to watch the natural splendor out on the water. This tour has no age restriction, so this is an excellent experience for families with smaller children. It is also pretty safe, so it is a leisurely tour for most people. Many reviews of this tour pointed out how much of an excellent family experience this is and how well all family members enjoyed it.

The tour starts at the ticket office in Dalvik. This ticket office is called Hafnarbraut and is located just above the harbor next to a gas station. You will see a big whale-watching sign that you cannot miss. After you exchange your voucher for a ticket, you will be led onto the boat when your meeting time arrives. 

As the ship goes out to the water, you will hopefully be greeted by humpback whales, minke whales, or white-beaked dolphins. It is also possible to see porpoises and blue whales. It is not guaranteed to meet aquatic wildlife on tour, but this tour boasts a 98% success rate of seeing a whale or a dolphin. Some types of whales, like blue whales, only have a 2-5% chance of being seen while on tour. Count yourself as extremely lucky if you meet a majestic blue whale on this tour. There are over 24 species of whales found in Iceland, so you never know what you might find until you are already out on the water. 

The tour provides a whale-watching guide that tells you everything you need to know about the wildlife. You also have a good chance of seeing many species of local birds, as the tour takes you by the beach and mountains of the nearby coast. 

Be sure to pack sufficiently warm clothes and gloves for this trip. Iceland, in the winter, can get quite cold, and frequent icy weather conditions are expected. This tour package provides guests with a winter jumpsuit to help insulate them from the cold. Iceland gets a large amount of precipitation every month of the year, and that precipitation is more likely during the winter. You will also need to provide your own meals, as even though this tour lasts for several hours, meals are not provided on this tour.

3. Zodiac Boat Tour of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon (Jokulsarlon, May-October)

The Zodiac Boat Tour of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is a small boat tour that takes guests on an exploration of massive icebergs. The tour keeps the group size small so that everyone can get a more intimate experience with these beautiful blue icebergs.

Going on this tour costs $80 per person and lasts one hour. The difficulty level of going on this tour is relatively low, so most age ranges and mobility restricted people should be able to partake in this tour. However, this tour has a minimum age requirement of ten years. So if you are looking for family-friendly boat tours in Iceland, this one might not make the list depending on how old your children are. 

The tour is provided in English, but there are no other language options available. This boat tour is a summer one between May and October. A summer tour generally has more favorable weather and temperatures, but Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable. For this reason, you should still prepare adequate clothes, and possible adverse weather conditions could make the boat trip more difficult. The tour does not offer hotel pickups or airport transfers, so it will be up to you to make it to the check-in area 30 minutes before departure.

After you, or your group has made it to the check-in area, the tour will commence. You should arrive at the check-in area at least 30 minutes early because the tour will provide flotation suits and life jackets. This tour wants everyone ready and suited up before they get on the boat, so you should get there early to change into the proper safety equipment. You may also want to pack warm clothes and sunglasses in case the sun has a glare, or the weather turns for the worst.

After everyone is suited up, you will be led to a small Zodiac boat that is low to the ground. Zodiac boats are inflatable boats that are small and low enough to navigate through obstacles, and their design allows you to go ashore if necessary. During the tour, you will navigate through cracks in ancient ice and between floating icebergs that are a magnificent shade of blue. The Zodiac boats will power through the waters at high speeds and get as close as possible to the giant floating ice. Also, during the tour, you will see seagulls and seals playing on the ice if the weather is nice enough. You should also bring a camera if interested in capturing these fantastic wildlife scenes. The nearby black sand or Diamond Beach also makes for a great photo opportunity. Sometimes you can even catch a rare event like a relaxing walrus or other large creature.

During the tour, you will hear facts about the area from your tour guide. You will learn about how the glacier lagoon has been expanding since the 1970s because of the effects of global warming on the coastline. The tours in this area started after a James Bond film in the 1980s used this location to film its opening scene.

4. Reykjavik Puffin Tour (Reykjavik, May-August)

The Reykjavik Puffin Tour is a boat-watching tour that features the adorable Puffin. These cute birds are nicknamed sea parrots for their likeness to parrots and other similar birds. They also resemble penguins because of their black and white color and love of fish.

This tour costs $46 and lasts for one hour. A great thing about this boat trip is that they can guarantee a 100% chance for their passengers to encounter a puffin. This is a fantastic perk because many wildlife tours cannot offer the same guarantee. Many tours have found ways to boost the percentage, but there is also a chance with other tours, you could miss out on the animal you saw because of nature’s unpredictability. This tour also includes an expert captain that can navigate safely through Iceland’s waters without issue. In addition to the captain, the tour also provides a knowledgeable guide that is happy to answer questions about the surrounding area and is an expert on puffins. The guide will provide commentary and insight during the tour to get the most out of your experience. This tour also provides guests with binoculars to see beautiful natural sights in the distance.

The Reykjavik Puffin Tour begins once you arrive at the meeting spot at Reykjavik harbor. You will then board your expert vessel that has been doing these tours for over seventeen years and is designed to get close to puffins safely. From there you will decide which of the two islands you will go to. Puffins live on two islands just off the coast of Reykjavik. These islands, Lundey and Akurey, act as homes for the puffins and are just a short 15-minute boat ride away. The island you visit will depend on the current weather conditions, but you are not missing out either way. Both islands look very similar and have beautiful picturesque vistas filled with small hills, rocky shores, and thousands of cute puffins. Each of these islands also has other animal species that make for great sightseeing. You may encounter arctic terns, guillemots, or fulmar. These islands are uninhabited by humans, making them the perfect place to see unique wildlife.

The captain of your boat will work hard to get you as close as possible without disturbing the puffins. Thankfully, puffins have become accustomed to humans watching them on tours and do not scare easily. While you will not get close enough to touch them, you will get more intimate than you think, and the binoculars will help you feel even closer. You will hear the tour commentary on the speakers of the ship as you observe the natural scene of wildlife living harmoniously with nature. After spending around a half-hour on one of the islands, the tour will end, and the boat will begin its 15-minute journey back to Reykjavik harbor.

This tour does not offer hotel pickups or airport transfers, so you must arrange travel to the meeting spot yourself. If something comes up and the tour needs to be postponed or canceled, the tour group is very flexible and will help you with more options without charging additional fees.

5. Glacier Lagoon Boat Tour & Glacier Hike (Vatnajökull, May-October)

The Glacier Lagoon Boat Tour & Glacier Hike combines the relaxing fun of watching the glacial landscape with a hike of the Falljökull glacier. On this tour, you will take a zodiac boat that can zip around the iceberg-filled lagoon of Jökulsárlón.

This tour costs $117 per person and lasts for nine hours. It is available from May to October so that you will benefit from the extended summer sun hours. You get several nice perks for the price, like an expert and knowledgeable guide, a small tourist-to-guide ratio, and a cancellation guarantee. This tour does have a minimum age of eight years, so not every person will be able to go on the tour. If you are trying to schedule a family trip with younger family members, this tour might not be the best one to pick. You will have to go to this meeting spot to start the tour, and the tour does not offer any pickup options from a hotel or airport, so you will be on your own. This tour is considered easy to traverse and not too dangerous, so it will not require too much effort to enjoy. You should remember that since this is a nine-hour tour, you will need to provide your own meals and manage your fatigue throughout the more extended tour.

The tour begins on location at the Glacier Lagoon parking lot in Jökulsarlon. You will start the boat ride and venture deeper into the deep water that the glacier has retreated from. This lagoon is an extraordinary experience because it is connected to the ocean. You will be able to see many icebergs and surrounding water that is bluer and saltier than many other Iceland lagoons. You will be provided with a flotation vet before boarding the vessel for safety. On your zodiac boat, you will see shiny icebergs and ride to the center of the lagoon, where you can get the closest to ancient floating blocks of ice that feels like you have been transported to another world.

After the boat tour, you will still be left with time for a glacier hike at the Skaftafell Nature Reserve. This will be about a 50-minute drive away from the boat tour area. You will arrive in a beautiful oasis surrounded by black sand beaches, volcanoes, and other glaciers. Guests will make their way up the icy slope on the glacier’s edge and watch as hundreds of meters of ice continuously fall off the melting glacier there. The glacier hike is about 1.5 miles long, not too far. It can be a strenuous trek if you are not in the best shape physically, but the view is definitely worth it. The tour guides take things slow enough for everyone to be comfortable, no matter their fitness levels.

While this tour does provide safety equipment, it doesn’t provide everything. You will want to bring warm outdoor clothing, waterproof clothing, something to cover your head, gloves, and hiking boots that are suitable for walking on ice. The tour will provide you with glacier hiking gear for the hiking portion and life vests for the boat trip portion. You will also keep in mind that the tour can get delayed due to rain or other weather conditions, which may reduce the amount of time for activities during the day. This tour will work with you if you need to postpone the tour due to the weather or other factors influencing your ability to hike or ride a boat. You can cancel 24 hours ahead of your scheduled time and reschedule your boat tour to another day.

6. Luxurious 3-Hour Whale Watching Boat Tour with a Bar & Cafe (Reykjavik, Year-Round)

The Luxurious Whale Watching Boat Tour is a premium boat tour available from Iceland’s capital city of Reykjavík. It is a great way to get close to majestic natural creatures like whales while having the creature comforts of a candy climate -controlled yacht.

This tour costs $101 per person and lasts for 3.5 hours. This tour is available all year round, so the price may increase or decrease a bit depending on the season you want to visit. This tour is great for families because there is no minimum age requirement. Any children you may have brought with you on your Iceland trip will be free to participate.

This luxury tour includes guidance from an expert and knowledgeable tour guide, a triple observation deck, wifi, medicine, warm blankets, a luxury climate-controlled inside area, and a bar and cafe. The stand-out feature of this tour is the bar and cafe, which serves refreshments and small food items to keep your energy high as you excitedly explore the coastal regions where whales roam. The viewing area also has a panoramic view, so you can see whales in any direction of the boat, no matter where they happen to be.

The tour starts as soon as you arrive at the meeting point in the Old Harbor district of Reykjavik. You will want to arrive at least 20 minutes before your scheduled tour so that the travelers all have time to organize and put on their flotation devices. From there, you will journey to several small islands that dot the Faxaflói Bay and a good portion of the Reykjavík coast.

Your tour will be located on a luxurious vessel called the Amelia rose. This yacht is designed to be an offshore vessel so that you will have a smooth ride free from the effects of the turbulent waves of the coast surrounding Iceland. If you are someone who gets seasick, you will have a much easier time enduring the weather. If you want to ensure you go out on this luxury vessel, the tour group needs to have at least 12 passengers. If the tour gets less than 12 passengers, the tour will be aboard the Axel Rose, a smaller yacht.

You will want to bring warm clothes, outdoor footwear, and a camera if you’re going to capture photos of different minke or humpback whales. You have a chance to see dolphins, porpoises and blue whales as well. Seeing a whale is not guaranteed, as the tour cannot predict where they will be. Keep that in mind if you are set on seeing a specific type of animal during this tour. Since the tour is over 3 hours long, you should be able to have a decently good chance of seeing that animal you were hoping for. If you often get seasick, you should ensure you don’t eat a huge breakfast and lay down ahead of time to lessen any potential symptoms.

7. Classic 3-Hour Sea Fishing Trip on an Oak Boat Tour (Reykjavik, May-September)

The Classic Sea Fishing Trip Tour is a fishing journey on an oak boat from Iceland’s capital. Rather than just seeing and taking pictures of wildlife, this tour aims to catch your own Icelandic fish and have it served to you as a meal. This tour has a cool concept that lets you enjoy the fruits of your labor at the end of the tour. Don’t be scared if you don’t have a lot of fishing experience, you will have plenty of opportunities to learn, have fun, and engage with nature regardless.

This tour costs $109 per person and lasts for a total of three hours. It is available from May through September. Being a summer tour, you will see calmer and less frequent weather and more daylight hours to schedule your tour. This boat tour provides fishing equipment and protective clothing, so you don’t need to buy any of those beforehand. Also, this tour comes with a fishing boat stocked with a group and captain knowledgeable about the surrounding Iceland coastal waters.

As mentioned, you get to keep anything you catch on the boat trip, and then your catch is served as a meal with a side of sauce and potatoes. If you assign up for the tour in May through August, there will also be a puffin-watching segment of the tour added as a part of its itinerary. The tour doesn’t offer much in the way of refreshments, but they do have fresh, clean water on hand to wash your meal down. There are no age restrictions on this tour, so that you can bring family members of any age on this trip. This tour is great for families because you get to spend a quiet and peaceful time catching fish and engaging in conversation.

Your journey begins as you go to the meeting spot in Reykjavik harbor. Be sure to arrive early, so your group has time to equip their vests before you set off. On a traditional oak boat, you will be setting out to the open seas. Your captain will tell you all of the tricks to quickly catching Icelandic fish, so you will be equipped with the knowledge of how to cast your line, set your bait, and get the big catch. During the tour, you will see beautiful mountains and scenic islands and meet different Icelandic wildlife. You get to experience these exciting sights and top off the experience with a meal that you helped prepare. Your trip will end as you are dropped back off at the Viking Maritime Museum.

8. Jokulsarlon Amphibian Boat Tour (South East Iceland, May-October)

The Jokulsarlon Amphibian Boat Tour is a scenic exploration of the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. This natural wonder is a hugely popular tourist spot, with thousands of people visiting it yearly. It makes for a great photo shoot and a surreal Iceland boat tour experience. The tour also participates in a carbon offsetting program called the Kolviður Fund. This fund ensures that a portion of the cost of your tour goes towards planting a tree in the first of Iceland to help offset the effects of global warming.

This tour costs $44 per person and lasts for 35 minutes. If you are looking for a great family adventure, you will be delighted to hear that this tour has no age restriction. No airport transfers or hotel pickups are offered as a part of this tour, so you will need to head to the meeting location on your own. The tour is considered easy to traverse, so there will not be too many people who will be physically limited from participating. This boat trip includes an English-speaking guide that will give you advanced insight into the surrounding area’s history and the environmental conditions of the glacier lagoon.

All the necessary equipment for the boat tour will also be provided, including any flotation devices. The tour will also provide power outlets and charger plugs if you need to charge any of your devices while participating in the tour.

Your tour starts after making it to Vatnajokull National Park , which photographers of the world term the “photographer’s paradise.” You will head to the Jökulsárlón boat launch point at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. During the tour, your vessel will navigate close to and around floating icebergs, blue glaciers, and gorgeous scenic views of the nearby mountains.

While this tour does provide some essentials, you will want to bring your own layers of warm clothes. Even though this tour takes place during the summer months, a weather event is still likely to occur that may need headwear, gloves, or scarves for you to remain comfortable. Be aware that this tour will need to be rescheduled if a severe weather event occurs, at which point you can get a refund or reschedule your tour for another time.

9. White Water Rafting Day Trip Tour (Hafgrímsstaðir, May-June)

The White Water Rafting Day Trip Tour has you trading in a big boat for a series of small rafts for tackling challenging rapid with a group of up to 42 people. You will travel into the Austurdalur wilderness and test your rafting skills against a six-hour white water rafting adventure on a grade 4 river .

This tour costs $191 per person and lasts six hours. This tour is considered challenging and should only be attempted by people with rafting experience and physically fit individuals. The tour only accepts adults as participants. The minimum age to participate in this tour is 18 years old. Because of the intensity and age restrictions, this tour is not recommended for families or couples. This tour is best done with a group of experienced rafters.

The tour includes all the necessary rafting equipment you will need. You will be equipped with a helmet, boots, gloves, and drysuit in your challenge against the rapid. Professional raft guides and safety kayakers will be on-site to protect anyone who falls off of their craft. Food is also provided during the tour, including freshly baked waffles and homemade hot chocolate refreshments.

Your journey will begin once you get to the meeting spot at Viking Rafting in the town of Varmahlíð. From there, you will go to the east glacial river gorge and experience an intense rafting day tour filled with deep canyon greenery and rapid white water waves. After an unforgettable journey through the Icelandic wilderness, you will return to your start point at Viking Rafting.

Thrill-seekers will love this tour; many reviewers say that this tour is not for the faint of heart. This tour is one of the best summer white rafting tours in Iceland and is a much book for adrenaline enthusiasts and lovers of wilderness scenery.

10. Family Rafting Day Trip from Hafgrímsstaðir Tour (Hafgrímsstaðir, May-September)

The Family Rafting Day Trip from Hafgrímsstaðir is a great alternative option for a rafting boat tour for people who aren’t experienced rafters. This tour is recommended for families and has a maximum group size of 60 people.

This tour costs $126 per person and lasts for 3.5 hours. You will be able to book this tour between the months of May and September. The tour includes all the essential equipment for rafting, like a drysuit, boots, gloves, and headwear. They also provide safety instructors and professional rafting guides to keep you safe during your river adventure.

The minimum age for this tour is six years old, so while this is billed for families, some families with smaller children might have to miss out. Airport transfer and hotel pick-up are not included in this your, so you will need to arrange a way for you to make it to the meeting point on your own. Even though this tour is safer than the expert tour, it can still be dangerous as it involves rafting over a moving river. Care should be taken to learn the proper safety rules from your instructors and maintain the safety equipment they give you.

Your journey starts with you making your way to Viking Rafting in the town of Varmahlíð. Your tour group will travel to a grade two river called the West Glacial River. From there, you will participate in a 10km descent on gentle rapids, where you will encounter some resistance from the river rapids. Still, it will be a primarily peaceful river ride through spectacular scenery and hot springs. After descending the river, you will be treated to hot chocolate made from the river’s hot spring . After taking some time to relax, the tour group will head back to the starting point.

You will want to bring your own food for this tour, as there will be no meals provided as part of the cost. You should also bring thermal underwear, a sweater, and a change of socks. After getting wet on your river tour, you will want some fresh clothes to change into. This tour is not recommended for anyone with heart problems or any serious medical illnesses.

What to know for Best Boat Trip Tours in Iceland

Before you book a boat trip tour, there are a few considerations you will want to know about. Some of the crucial considerations for the best boat tour trips are listed below:

Airport Transfer Arrival/Departure: There are a few boat tours that will pick you up from your hotel. However, the majority of boat tours require you to navigate to the meeting spot yourself. This also applies to any airport shuttles or transfer services.

Accommodation Cost: Individual boat tours will not cover accommodations for staying the night. You must book a tour package that explicitly covers accommodations.

Personal Travel Agent: Although boat tours provide knowledgeable guides and captains, none of these guides can serve as your personal travel agent. Before landing in Iceland, you must contact a personal travel agent to reduce the stress, not knowing if your plans will fall through or not.

Price Range: Boat tours range in price from $40 to $200.

Price Factors: The factors that influence the price of boat tours are listed below:

• Duration of tour
• The luxury of the boat
• Month the tour is booked

Popularity: Boat tours in Iceland are some of the most popular tours. Many people make the trek to Iceland just for a slight chance to catch a glimpse of a majestic whale or other rare animals. Your experience of Iceland is incomplete until you are out on the water looking back at the beautiful landscape.

COVID-19 Precautions: Iceland has relaxed many of its previous COVID restrictions. You no longer have to prove your vaccination status to travel to Iceland. However, many tour groups will require you to take a PCR COVID-19 test before you arrive in Iceland. You will also have to follow any social distancing or mask policies that any tours still uphold.

Which regions of Iceland are better for Boat Trip Tours?

Certain regions of Iceland are better for boat trip tours when compared to other areas. Some of the best regions for the best boat trip tours in Iceland are listed below:

• Western Region: The western region is better for boat trip tours because they get you closer to the natural habitats of certain animals like whales and puffins. The western region also contains Iceland’s capital Reykjavik, which has more tourism opportunities because of its size.
• Southern Region: Similar to the western region, the southern region has more attractions and more opportunities for boat trip tours because of its popularity. You also have some unique options for glacier boat tours that some of the other regions lack.

What are the Most Famous Boat Trip Tours of Iceland?

When researching boat trip tours, finding the most famous ones is a good place to start. The most famous boat trip tours of Iceland include the following:

• Luxurious 3-Hour Whale Watching Boat Tour with a Bar & Cafe: A boat tour famous for its luxurious yacht, comfy surroundings, and full-service bar and cafe.
• Classic 3-Hour Sea Fishing Trip on an Oak Boat: This tour is famous for appealing to the angler’s heart. Based out of Reykjavík, this tour is popular for being convenient and for its lunch service, which uses the fish you catch to prepare a meal.

What are the Best Boat Trip Tours for Families?

Not all boat trip tours are safe for everyone of all ages. The best boat trip tours in Iceland for families are listed below:

• Magical 2-Hour Northern Lights Boat Cruise: This tour has no minimum age requirement and is one of the best ways to show family members of all ages the Northern Lights.
• 2-Hour Whale Watching & Sea Fishing Boat Trip: A tour that boasts having the oldest whale watching tour operator in Iceland. This extra experience makes it safer for family members.
• Puffin Watching Tour on Breiðafjordur Bay: This tour is great for families because it gives the little ones the most time possible with puffins and uses smaller boats to get closer.
• Midnight Sun Whale Watching Boat Tour: A tour that takes full advantage of the midnight sun to produce a scenic whale watching experience for all ages. It is excellent for families because of all the safety precautions like its thermal overalls.

What are the Best Boat Trip Tours for Couples?

Boat trip tours for couples can be tricky to book because couples often want privacy to view things romantically with their partner. Some of the best boat trip tours for couples include the following:

• Ice Lagoon Zodiac Boat Tours: This tour uses Zodiac boats, which are small, agile, and only have enough room for two people and the driver. These boats make the tour perfect for couples.
• Fjallsárlón Iceberg Lagoon: A tour popular with couples because it can be customized into a private tour for couples who want some privacy.

What is the Most Common type of boat used in Iceland Boat Tours?

Many different types of boats are used in Iceland boat tours. A few of the common types are listed below:

• Zodiac Boats: These boats are popular for iceberg and glacier boat trip tours because they are agile and can maneuver around the floating ice.
• Yachts: A type of boat that is the most common in luxury boat trips. They are widely popular because they offer enough space for comfort and luxury and are often used in extended whale watching tours.

What is the Most Unusual type of boat used in Iceland Boat Tours

The Banana boat is the most unusual type of boat used in Iceland boat tours. This boat usually has a three to ten-seat capacity and is used to transport cargo. These boats are used in tours where water exploration is casual and laid back.

What are the Most luxurious Iceland Boat Trip Tours?

There are many luxurious boat trip tours for Iceland. One of the most expensive boat tours is the Northern Lights Luxury Yacht Tour in Reykjavik. It can cost over $200 per person during the summer and is costly because it offers a hotel pick-up option, amenities, wifi, drinks, food, and souvenirs.

What is the Price Range for Iceland Boat Trip Tours?

The average price range for Iceland boat trip tours is between $40 and $100. Some boat tours can break that scale and be more expensive, but this is the average price range. The price will differ based on the location, tour duration, and the amenities offered. Also, boat tours in the busy summer months tend to cost more than winter boat tours.

What is the Cheapest Boat Trip Tour in Iceland?

When looking to save money, you could try some of the cheapest boat trip tours. Some of the least expensive boat trip tours are listed below:

• Reykjavik Puffin Tour: This tour costs $43 and is cheaper because you only spend 30 minutes with the puffins before heading back.
• Affordable Boat Tour of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon: A similar tour only spends 35 minutes on the water that costs $44.

What are the Rules for Iceland Boat Trip Tours?

There are three rules to follow if you want to go on boat trip tours. These rules are for guest and staff safety, as well as for the safety of animals and the environment of Iceland. These rules include the following:

• Get to the meeting spot ahead of time: Boat tours often have to outfit you with safety devices before you get on the boat. It is essential that you show up early enough for everyone on tour to get equipped.
• Bring Sunglasses: Iceland’s sun can glare at you brightly over the water, so sunglasses are essential to ensure you can get a clear view of the tour.
• Dress Warm: Even during the summer sun, Iceland can still get cold when you are out over the water.

Is taking Photographs allowed for Boat Trip Tours?

Yes, taking photographs is allowed on boat trip tours. Many tours are set up so you can get unique and beautiful pictures.

Do Tour Packages offer Photography for Boat Trip Tours?

Yes, tour packages do offer photo opportunities on boat trip tours. You will have to provide your own camera for most boat trip tours.

Are Iceland Boat Trip Tours safe from COVID-19?

Yes, many tourists must pass a COVID test to enter Iceland, and many boat tour companies still practice COVID safe operation policies for their employees and guests.

Are Boat Trips in Iceland alone allowed?

Yes, private boat trips can be booked to have as small of a group as you want. However, many public tours do require a minimum number of guests.

Are you allowed to bring Food to the Iceland Boat Trip Tours?

Yes, you are allowed to bring food on Iceland boat trip tours. Some boat tours will provide beverages or food, but many will leave lunch or dinner up to you to provide.

What are the Best Sessions for Iceland Boat Trip Tours by Month?

Some of the best sessions for Iceland boat trip tours include:

• May-August: These months are great sessions for boat tours in Iceland because you get the maximum amount of sunlight. Some boat tours also offer special midnight sun tours to see the unique and breathtaking sky.
• November-January: Winter boat tours are better than some others because you can get a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Tours during the winter also tend to cost less because these months aren’t as busy.

What is the Average Duration of Iceland Boat Trip Tours?

Iceland boat tours last an average of 30 minutes to an hour, with some of the more expensive and luxurious boat rides lasting two to three hours.

The shorter boat rides have a better average price but often lack amenities and features. Depending on your budget and interest, scheduling many cheap boat tours or one extensive, all-encompassing boat tour is better.

Where do the Iceland Boat Trip Tours start?

When looking for boat tours, they will typically start near the shore. These places include the following:

• Reykjavik Harbor: One of the biggest harbors in the highest populated cities in Iceland. Many boat tours will originate from this point.
• Glacier Parks: Many boat tours explore icebergs and glaciers, and they usually originate from the shore closest to the glacier.

Are Iceland Boat Trip Tours hard to Finish?

No, Iceland boat trip tours are not hard to finish. Some of the tours can be difficult for your constitution, so some boat trips are not recommended for small children. There are a few boat tours with a minimum age of six or more.

What to know about Boat Trips in Iceland?

There are a few interesting facts to know about the boats in Iceland. Many of the tours that are popular today have only been going since the 1970s or 1980s. These tours owe their success to Hollywood movies filmed in these locations that inspired foreign tourists to come and experience them. The oldest steel boat in Iceland was built in 1912 and is called Garðar.

How many Boat Trips does Iceland have?

Iceland hosts many boat trips throughout all its regions. Every year in Iceland, at least 250,000 people go on boat trip tours. The estimated numbers divided by each region are listed below:

• North Region: 100,000 tourists go on the water to look for whales
• South Region: 50,000 tourists
• West Region: 75,000 tourists
• East Region:  25,000 tourists

What are the different types of boats in Iceland?

Iceland harbors use many different types of boats for their tours. Some of the popular choices are listed below.

• Zodiac boats: These small inflatable boats are maneuverable, speedy, and capable of going ashore.
• Fishing Boat: These boats come in different shapes and sizes but are made at high speed, so you can get out to deep waters and find fish to catch.

What are the other Activities for Iceland Tours?

People who travel to Iceland come for many different attractions. Some other activities you can sign up for in Iceland include:

• Bird Watching: Many people focus on the animals in the water, but many beautiful species of birds can be observed from a ship’s deck as well.
• Fishing: These fishing tours are great activities because some allow you to cook your catch and eat it with a meal.
• Relaxing ferry rides: Some ferry rides across Iceland can be several hours. These rides allow you to slow down and absorb the salty sea air.
• Whale Watching: Many people come to Iceland just to get as close as possible to sperm and blue whales.
• Island Tour : There are several islands off the coasts of Iceland that can be toured as a part of a boat tour.
• Boat Cafe: Some of the luxurious boat tours serve food and beer at a cafe during the trip that is worth the tour by itself.

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Welcome to Iceland Yacht Charter

Enjoy Iceland from a fresh perspective

Iceland is now one of the most trendy tourist destinations on earth. But during the peak summer months, the tiny country quickly becomes over run with the large numbers of visitors and roads are packed with cars, tour buses and jeeps. Now it is possible to enjoy all the peak season benefits that Iceland has to offer without the stress of battling the crowds. Iceland Yacht-Charter offers you a unique opportunity to see Iceland from another perspective ─ all while enjoying the privacy and peacefulness of your very own chartered yacht. We have a variety yachts to choose from as well as planned itineraries to some of the most breathtaking locations around the country.

Here is an overview of some of our most popular itineraries ─

Whether you are a seasoned sailor with years of sailing experience under your belt, or have no experience in sailing whatsoever, our yachts come equipped with everything you need for a magnificent journey of discovery around Iceland.

Let Iceland Yacht-Charter fulfill your dreams of seeing Iceland as never before.

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Luxury Yacht Rental in Iceland

Luxury yacht charter guide to iceland.

The land of ice and fire, a yacht charter to Iceland is a surreal dream. The collision of frozen winters and simmering volcanoes has carved out a dramatic coastline with sweeping fjords, snowy peaks, and steaming geysers. Wild and untamed, you will sail and stumble across quaint traditional fishing villages but mostly Iceland remains free from the shackles of civilization. Get ready for a sailing adventure of tiny churches, wildflowers spilling down to blue seas, conic volcanoes, and incredible adventures as you immerse yourself in Iceland’s raw energy.

Reasons to Charter a Yacht in Iceland

Otherworldly encounters.

Sailing to Iceland truly feels like you have stepped ‘beyond the wall’ in an episode of Game of Thrones. This is a land brimming with otherworldly sights and sounds. From eerie natural formations etched in the rocks to deep dark ice caves, Sulfur smoke and hot spring steam, there’s more whales in the water than people on land, and never have you felt so in awe of nature’s elements.

Myths and Legends

Steeped in folklore and fantasy, Iceland may make its mark as an outdoor playground but its also a great destination for steeping yourself in stories. These were the lands of the Vikings and even to this day, Iceland has a strong fabled element of being the land of elves and hidden people. Even the most skeptical charter guests may find themselves carried away by the magic that seems to permeate these mythical lands.

One of a Kind Adventures

Whether its galloping horses across glacier strewn beaches or diving down in the narrow space between two continents, even the wildest imagination couldn’t dream up the one of a kind adventures that Iceland has to offer. Get ticking experiences of your bucket list as you descend down into the Thrihnjukagigur Volcano, soak in the Blue Lagoon, and burrow down through the ice as you walk the halls of the Langjokull Glacier.

Where to Visit in Iceland

Simmer in the steamy delight of the Blue Lagoon, party all night in the capitals eclectic club scene, and soak up the sheer creativity to be found in this pint-sized chic city. Incredible artistic offerings, an enviable and completely original culinary scene, craft beer hot spots, and Viking longhouses – there is so much to keep you spellbound in Reykjavik. The capital is also home to the highest number of people in the whole country, inviting you to plunge right in and find out what makes Icelandic people so intriguing.

Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Nicknamed Iceland in a Nutshell, this wild and wonderful peninsula encapsulates everything you set sail for. This is where the fjords splay out in sparkling technicolor, where golden beaches fringe the cobalt blue waters, and where volcanic peaks and soaring sea cliffs with screeching birds rise high enough to blot out the sun. Reaching on for close to 100km, you can sail the breadth of this magical shoreline, stopping to strap on your hiking boots and visit lava field churches and other cosmic sights.

Vatnajökull National Park

The Vatnajökull National Park is the epic arena for the battle between ice and fire. Occupying 13 percent of Iceland, this behemoth park space is a world of contrasts. Here, you will witness groaning glaciers, geysers and bubbling hot springs sending steam into the sky, and sands as black as midnight. Head to Hofn to see Europe’s largest ice cap which rises out of the cold blue sea and seems directly at odds with the warm red rocks that flank these waters.

When to Charter a Yacht in Iceland

Set sail for Iceland in the summer months to see the sun stay high in the sky, falling briefly to dip her head in the water before rising again. The midnight sun and the softer temperatures make this an excellent time to explore both land and sea.

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Luxury Yacht Charter in Iceland: The Ultimate Guide

Destinations  >  Regions  >  Northern Europe > Iceland

Location spotlight: A thrilling Yacht Charter in Iceland

Iceland is one of the most remote, volcanically active and sparsely populated countries on the planet. It rests on the edge of the Arctic Circle and has an incredibly diverse topography that includes mountains, lava fields, glaciers, farmlands, fjords, lakes, and rivers.

With a craggy coastline a little over 3000 miles long, Iceland has plenty of potential for surf exploration. Without crowds to push the search for empty breaks further afield, much of the Icelandic surf scene is centred around the Reykjanes Peninsula. This peninsula points southwest into the North Atlantic and plays host to a range of surf spots, from lava reefs to boulder points and black sand beaches

What kind of experiences are there to enjoy on a luxury yacht charter in Iceland?

The troll peninsula.

A must for a YACHTZOO yacht charter in Iceland is The Troll Peninsula. It is every skier’s dreamland, with about 90% of the mountains skiable, meaning there are not many cliff faces or flat spots. The mountains are the perfect mix of steep to very steep couloirs and faces, to wide open low-angled glacier runs. What really sets the Troll Peninsula apart from any other heli-ski destination is the fact that you can ski up to 1300 metres, which runs all the way down to the ocean. There are plenty of slopes for skiers of all abilities, from very extreme terrain suitable for pro riders to nice, gentle areas for first-time heli-skiing. The Mountains of the Trolls are up to 1500 metres (or 5000ft) high, but you can, in many cases, ski the entire vertical all the way down to the ocean. The average heli-ski run is around 900 metres (or 3000ft) in a vertical drop. Due to the northerly position, there is no tree skiing in Iceland, in fact, the local joke is that if you get lost in an Icelandic forest, you just have to stand up!

4WD excursions

For another high-octane option, we can arrange with Pelorus to take you to explore the national parks of Iceland in specially modified 4WD vehicles for use in rough environments,; in the mountains or on glaciers. These re-engineered trucks can tackle the most extreme conditions in Iceland. Re-building the body and the frame to fit engineered 38-inch tires plus upgrading suspension and drivetrain. The trucks were used to drive to the Magnetic North Pole with the British TV show Top Gear in 2007, where they carried the presenters and film crew over 1400 km over sea ice, boulder fields and small islands.

Wildlife spotting

Whilst cruising onboard your yacht during your luxury holiday in Iceland, keep a weather eye out for over 20 species of whale, from the prolific humpbacks to the more elusive fin whale, the second largest whale species after the blue whale, therefore the second largest mammal on the planet. Other species, such as dolphins and minke whales, are common but occasional visitors are blue whales, orcas, pilot whales and sperm whales

When is the best time to go on a luxury Yacht Charter in Iceland?

Whilst the summer is the easiest time to cruise Iceland, the Westfjords are cruise-able all year round and it is safe to do so.

Where to visit on a yacht charter in Iceland?

Langjökull (the long glacier).

Langjökull (the Long Glacier) is the second largest in Iceland. It covers an area of about 950 km² and most of it rises to between 1200 and 1300 m above sea level. Until now, what lay beneath the surface of the Langjökull glacier had been a mystery, known only to a small group of scientists and glaciologists. You will reach the foot of the glacier by helicopter and meet a world-renowned glaciologist, who will bring you into the heart of the tunnel, where you’ll learn about this massive undertaking. You will enjoy lunch beneath the glacier, in specially heated tents. The setup will be a cosy affair in a unique location with a beautiful view over the Eiríksjökull and Langjökull glaciers.

Silfra Fissure

Silfra, one of the world’s most exceptional snorkelling and diving sites, is located on top of the tectonic plates between Europe and America. The Silfra Fissure runs through Thingvellir National Park, which is the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Iceland. Discover this spectacular underwater landscape as you float in crystal clear water for a true bucket list experience. The captivating underwater colours of Silfra are sure to leave you thirsty for more. The endless varieties of blue, along with the amazing visibility, make Silfra a unique site all year round. Snorkelling and diving in Silfra will give you the opportunity to explore the depths of the crevasse as you float peacefully through the waters.

Iceland Hot Springs

There are hot springs all over Iceland, not only the famous Blue Lagoon but also smaller secret ones across the North and inside the national parks. The Icelandic tradition of bathing outdoors in volcanically heated pools dates right back to Viking times. A few of these old pools survive today – often sited in spectacular locations – whilst almost all settlements here, however tiny, have installed geothermally heated swimming pools with accompanying hot tubs.

The characteristics of this water are unique in many ways. It contains a large amount of minerals, is alkaline and well suited for bathing. Due to its chemical composition, bacteria do not survive in the lagoon, meaning that it is naturally pure and hygienic water.

What are the major yachting ports in Iceland?

Of course, no trip to Iceland would be complete without a visit to Reykjavik, a great yachting entry port that showcases some stunning restaurants and charming streets. Not only this, but it is also home to Mjolnir Gym, where you can train with superstars of the UFC and try your hand at mixed martial arts. One of Iceland’s most famous athletes, UFC mixed martial artist Gunnar Nelson, trains at the club and his father, Haraldur Dean Nelson is one of the founders of the gym. Irish mixed martial artist Conor McGregor also trains at the gym.

Isafjordur is a small, friendly, ice-free port on the northern side of Westfjords. It is a useful staging post for a trip to Greenland, allowing extended cruising there.

Looking to contact a yacht charter broker in Iceland?

YACHTZOO prides itself on privacy and trust for our charter clients. Booking a yacht charter in Iceland is no different. With the help of YACHTZOO’s dedicated Iceland yacht charter broker specialists, you can choose between the highest quality superyachts, a choice of itineraries and the best rates available.

If you would like to book an Iceland yacht charter, please get in touch with a YACHTZOO Iceland boat charter broker by filling in the form here . A dedicated yacht charter broker will be in touch with you by phone or by e-mail with the perfect vessels for your Icelandic holiday.

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Iceland Yacht Charter

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Iceland is one of the trendiest tourist destinations on earth right now. But during the peak summer months, with a considerable number of tourists and roads filled with cars, tour buses, and jeeps, the small country quickly becomes overrun. Now, without the hassle of fighting the crowds, it is possible to enjoy all the peak season benefits Iceland offers. Sailing in Iceland gives you a rare opportunity to see Iceland from another angle, all while enjoying your yacht’s privacy and peacefulness.

Let your dreams of seeing Iceland as never before be fulfilled by Yachtco – ask us how . Use our site to find out which yacht or sailboats  matches your needs. Live an unforgettable adventure by sailing on the Islandic seas, or leave the yacht at the dock and explore the surroundings of your chosen destinations.

Nearby sailing areas

• The Sea of Norway
• The Arctic Ocean surrounding the Norwegian Sea, Scandinavia’s peninsula to the east, and northern Iceland to the west.
• Sailing from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour to the Norwegian Sea
• Set off from Reykjavik, Iceland, towards the Faroe Islands, Bergen, Haugesund, and Stavanger, Norway.

Locations to visit

Visit the Icelandic capital of Reykjavik , where you can see Hallgrímskirkja, the enormous Lutheran church in the south-eastern part of the city center, before embarking on your sailing holiday. Built between 1945 and 1986, it is made of concrete; it has a spire of 74.5 m and was planned by Guðjón Samúelsson.

Explore the Harpa , a concert hall made up of steel frames and glass panels in various shapes and colors. You can see a famous metal sculpture named the Sun Voyager as you walk through the city’s old port, evoking the form of a Viking ship sailing towards the setting sun. Another landmark not to be missed is Perlan , a building that initially housed geothermal hot water. It’s a museum today, with a panoramic terrace and a revolving restaurant.

Stop by the Faroe Islands and visit the old city of Tórshavn, the capital of the islands. This town is packed with wooden houses with grass roofs, and the thoroughfares are lined with local shops. The cultural center is to the north, offering theatre, dance, and music performances in a contemporary, urban space. The national museum presents items from the Viking age and various church decorations.

In Bergen , where you can explore the beauty of the fjords. You can also indulge in fishing or take any amount of hikes. To give you an outstanding view of the fjords, visit the funicular that will take you up to 320 m. Next, go to the Bergen Aquarium, home to many fish species, including Vitus, Dodraugen, and Ping Kong, a treat for both young and old alike. On the quay in the center of town, you can find Bryggen and the fish market district, where you can also see some traditional fishing houses. You can find local restaurants offering cuisine based on fresh fish caught the same morning, such as lutefisk, a specialty of dried fish served with green pea purée, bacon, and potatoes.

Stop at Haugesund and see the monument to Haraldshaugen, a Norwegian national memorial to honor the first King of Norway’s memory, Harald Fairhair. Continue your visit to the church of Vår Frelsers, designed in the Norwegian red-brick style, located in the town center. This church, built-in 1901, can accommodate up to 1,050 people! Do not skip the Haugesund Theater and Concert Hall Festiviteten, where local shows are performed. Please continue exploring the city with a visit to the Karmsund Civic Museum, which houses a comprehensive collection showing Haugesund’s past, mainly it’s fishing and maritime industries.

At Stavanger , go and see the Swords in a Rock, a historical monument to commemorate the battle of Hafrsfjord. Visit Preikestolen during a hike or climb, an imposing cliff rising 604 m above the waters of Lysefjord. Guaranteed thrills!

Rent a boat in Iceland and sail in style

Charter a yacht for a week with or without a captain. You’ll find what you’re searching for, from a motorboat, a sailboat or even a yacht.

Do you need a license in Iceland to charter a yacht?

If you want a bareboat yacht charter, you need a license; here are some examples of sailing qualifications:

• INTERNATIONAL CERTIFICATE OF COMPETENCE: Your European sailing authority issues this certificate upon request, and you can automatically apply for specific national sailing qualifications.
• RYA Credentials: You will be eligible to take a bareboat charter from Iceland if you have the following qualifications, including Day Skipper (sail or motor endorsement), Coastal Skipper, or Yachtmaster.
• American Sailing Association (ASA): Widely recognized is the ASA 104 Bareboat certificate.
• US Sailing: The Certificate of Foreign Proficiency is generally recognized, and, in many cases, the Bareboat Cruising Certificate is also accepted.

When renting a yacht, what should I consider?

The key points to remember are what your budget is if you have the requisite sailing experience and expertise to run the boat (if it’s not going to have a skipper), with whom you’re sailing, where exactly you want to go, and what the weather would be like on your trip’s proposed dates.

What should I think about before I hire a yacht or a boat?

Before you book, you should consider having the skills to manage the yacht charter or boat rental and where you want to go with the weather. If it looks like the weather will be cold and warm, bring warm weather and cool weather clothing and note that it will be cool on most nights at sea.

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Amelia Rose

Experience the best of sailing with Amelia Rose, as you explore the seas around Reykjavík in comfort and style. This

Tsunami RIB Speedboat

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Best Yacht Tours in Iceland

Northern Lights Iceland Luxury Yacht Tour from Reykjavik

Experience the beauty of the northern lights in style on board a luxury yacht. See this natural wonder from three panoramic deck areas, or relax in the comfortable bar and lounge area. The experience crew will offer you a friendly, personalized service.

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Whale Watching Luxury Tour | Yacht Cruise

No booking fee, best price guarantee, free cancellation, secure payments, fully licensed local tour operators, information.

2-3,5 hours

Pick up, Self Drive

Iceland is indeed one of the most mesmerizing places that leave everyone speechless by its natural, raw, and untouched beauty. Iceland is home to the largest glaciers , waterfalls , black sand beaches , and geysers . But there is another side of Iceland too, especially for those who love navigating through the water to witness the marine life closely. Yes, you too can see Iceland’s marine life closely and that in a luxurious yacht. Isn’t that a great idea? You can not miss out on this luxurious whale watching tour that will give you once in a lifetime experience. So, let’s find more about this luxurious whale watching tour.

If you are someone who loves to explore marine life, then this tour is perfect for you. Not only whale watching, but you can also benefit from the luxurious yacht that is going to take you for the tour and that too with few people. It won’t be crowded, unlike most other whale watching tours in Iceland. Few passengers and personal service will be taken care of by the staff members. The tour is a small group tour that will commence from Reykjavik in a well-maintained and luxurious yacht, which is spacious enough for the small group.

The whole luxurious whale watching tour will take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours and will make you experience life away from the city of Reykjavik , hear to the calmness of the sea while enjoying the luxuries of traveling on a yacht. In this tour, you might witness humpback whales, Minke whales, dolphins, harbor porpoises. If you are traveling from May to August , which is a Puffin season in Iceland, then, you will love watching the Puffins as well. We will sail pass the puffins island where hundreds of puffins nest each summer. You will see them flying everywhere around you. During the tour, you will witness mountain Esja along the beautiful coastline as well. So, make the most of this luxurious yacht whale watching tour and witness the whales, dolphins and puffins in this tour.

• English speaking professional Whale Watching guide
• Transport by comfortable yacht
• Heated indoor cabins with toilet facilities
• Boat tour from Reykjavík
• Warm blankets
• Free WiFi on board
• Complimentary tickets to try again in case no whales are spotted on your tour

What to bring

• Warm clothing

Good to know

• This is a small group tour on a luxury yacht.
• The group size is maximum 35 passenger. 
• It is necessary to book this tour in advance. 
• Pick up from hotels in Reykjavik is available 45 minutes before departure. 
• Boats on this tours are Harpa – 70 feet long yacht and Amelica Ros – 108 feet long yacht. 
• All whale watching tours are subject to weather conditions and sightings cannot be guaranteed. We reserve the right to cancel the tour due to bad weather conditions.
• If there are no sightings on the tour use tour ticket to join us on the next available day.
• It is possible to book a pick up for the tour for extra price. You can book the pick up in the booking process. 
• This tour is accessible for those with limited mobility and for those with limited eye sight. 
• During summer time we will also go and see the puffins at the puffin islands. 

The meeting point for the tour is at Reykjavik Old Harbor.

Address: Ægisgarður, 101 Reykjavik

You should schedule to be at our departure point at least 15 minutes before scheduled departure.

You can book pick up from your hotel in Reykjavik for this tour. You can book the pick up in the booking process. 

The price for the pick up is ISK 4.000

Pick up will start 45 minutes before the tour departure. 

If the tour gets cancelled due to weather you can choose between rescheduling the tour for another departure or receiving a full refund. 

Free cancellation up to 1 day before the tour. If you cancel within 1 day notice, a 100% fee will be charged. 

However, we always ask you to cancel the tour as soon as possible so we can adjust the schedule for the day depending on how many people will be joining the tour. 

On this tour we offer free coffee, tea & hot chocolate.

We have almost 100% sightings on this tour. However, if you don’t see whales on the tour you can reschedule the tour free of charge for the next available day. 

Yes, and you definitely should! The setting on the tour is full of amazing, scenic views.

This is, of course, a personal choice, we have often had pregnant women on our trips. This tour is listed as easy so if you do not feel uncomfortable on a boat, this tour should be ideal for you. 

If you are unfortunate enough to miss out on them on our tour, we offer you to rebook the tour free of charge on another day of your trip.

In this tour you will be traveling on:

– Harpa Yacht: 70 feet long yacht or -Amelia Rose: 108 feet long yacht

Do you have a question?

We would love to hear from you, you might find interesting....

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From ISK 13,300

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Hidden Gems

Fishing in Iceland

History of Fishing in Iceland

Commercial fishing in iceland, types of fish in iceland, saltwater fish in iceland, freshwater fish in iceland, recreational fishing in iceland, fishing regulations in iceland, fishing independently in iceland, lake fishing in iceland, river fishing in iceland, ice fishing in iceland, sea angling in iceland, fishing tours in iceland.

Where can you go fishing in Iceland, and what might you catch? Can you fish independently, and are there fishing tours and holidays you can join? What is the history of fishing in Iceland? Continue reading to learn all about Iceland’s most historic activity.

Photo from Kayak Fishing Adventure by Mount Kirkjufell

With incredible fjords, fertile oceans, and a network of lakes and rivers webbing across the country, it is little wonder why fishing in Iceland is so popular.

Surrounded by beautiful landscapes, in a secluded place of peace, the fishing spots around this little island nation are some of the most serene in the world. They provide the sought-after harmony most anglers need to handle the bustle of day-to-day life.

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Outstanding 2 hour whale watching & sea fishing boat trip with transfer from hauganes, classic 3 hour sea fishing trip departing from reykjavik harbor, classic 3 hour sea fishing trip from reykjavik | eat your catch.

The enterprise of fishing in Iceland, however, goes much deeper than the modern joys of doing it recreationally. No practice has been more vital to the survival of the nation’s people in its thousand years of history. Without the bounties of the ocean, it would be unlikely that the land would ever have been properly inhabited.

Even today, it is the country’s largest export and one of the biggest sectors of its economy. Iceland has fought wars over its fish, refused to join the European Union over access to them, and also used them to form a unique cuisine that is increasingly drawing foodies from around the world.

Fishing in Iceland is thus a historical, commercial and cultural enterprise, as much as it is a recreational one. This article will explore the importance of the industry to the nation, as well as guide you regarding how to best enjoy it on your travels here.

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Iceland was built on fish and wool. It survived in inhospitable conditions for centuries on very little else, without any significant infrastructure, and with hardly any outside contact. It was a mean and cruel life, but it kept the population alive until the nation could start to flourish with industrialization in the 20th century.

The bounties of the sea, however, could support large families and even bring them income due to the excess of marine life in the fertile waters around Iceland. What was fished up provided a fresh meal, was easy to conserve by salting or drying, and the by-products were exceedingly useful; fish-oil provided essential light for the dark winter months, and fish-leather was great for waterproofing clothing and writing on.

The abundance of food and resources hidden just below the ocean’s surface was an important facet of Norse heritage and beliefs; their God of the Seas, Njörðr , was renowned as one of the wealthiest deities. In spite of the dangers of taking to the seas of the North Atlantic, he was much more benevolent than his equivalents of Poseidon and Neptune in early Greek and Roman beliefs.

Little else is known about him, but all records point to the fact that he was widely revered by the seafaring Vikings.

Because fish was so vital to the survival of the early settlers, and because of the barren, unforgiving interior of the country, the vast majority of villages and towns formed in Iceland were - and still are - coastal. Before the population began a large-scale migration to Reykjavík in the 20th Century, there were many settlements of significance spread across every region.

Many have since been deserted, in spite of once being hubs of commercial activity. Búðir , for example, was once the fishing epicenter of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula , but changes in technology and development mean that all that is left now is a hamlet with a historic church and romantic hotel. Selatangar, on the Reykjanes Peninsula , used to draw hundreds of men for the fishing season, yet all that is left now are haunting (and allegedly haunted) ruins.

• See also:  The Ruins of Selatangar

In spite of the amount of life it brought to the nation, fishing was historically a very dangerous affair. Boats were poorly constructed, the coastline rocky and ever-changing, and the weather volatile. Fishermen were thus highly respected pillars of society and often had to meet a threshold of physical strength to be allowed on the water.

On Snæfellsnes, this was measured by the ‘Lifting Stones’ on Djúpalónssandur beach, which can still be found; visitors can see how they would have fared in time gone by. Their names reflected the titles of those who could lift them, and are as follows:

• Lightweight, or Amlóði, which weighs 23 kilograms
• Half as Good, or Hálfdrættingur, which weighs 54 kilograms
• Half Strong, or Hálfsterkur, which weighs 100 kilograms
• Full Strength, or Fullsterkur, which weighs 154 kilograms

While these stones give you a little insight into the lives of historic fishermen, there are a wealth of museums all around Iceland where you can learn far more. Within Reykjavík, there is a Maritime Museum , which covers the fishing industry and explorations of the settlers; in Ósvör, in the Westfjords , you can find one with a curator always dressed in traditional fishing attire; and in Eskifjörður , in the East Fjords , there is another, by the historic Randulff’s Sea House.

The most comprehensive, however, is the only museum in Iceland to win an international award: The Herring Era Museum in the northern town of Siglufjörður . It has five excellent exhibitions, including a boathouse with eleven historical fishing vessels.

Commercial fishing is one of the biggest industries in Iceland, exceeded only now by the service sector due to the nation’s explosion of tourism. The centuries-old agricultural sector and new booming enterprises such as manufacturing and software production still trail behind it.

Though only 5% of the workforce is directly employed in fisheries, an extra 15% relies on them to remain relevant. 40% of all Icelandic exports are fish, and the economy is still very resource-reliant.

It is largely because of their reliance on this industry that Iceland has refused to join the European Union, and why public opinion has held against it as an institution. Iceland is part of the EEA, allowing for free trade and movement, but the people have been very resistant to the idea of handing over their fishing policies and quotas over to Brussels.

As Icelandic commercial fishing is sustainable (though has, of course, encountered serious environmental issues along the way), they have never respected the rights of other governments to regulate this for them. They have very much played by their own rules, the boldness of which inspired three ‘wars’ with the United Kingdom.

While they had no casualties other than a few broken bones, the Cod Wars were a significant strain on North European relations from the 1950s to the 1970s. Icelanders started the conflict by extending their exclusive fishing grounds from three nautical miles to four, then twelve, then fifty, and finally to two hundred in 1976. Since 1982 the United Nations standard has been 200 nautical mile exclusive economic zone.

Though details of the final legislation after each extension were not quite so clear-cut, the basic results of each move by Iceland ended up with international support, and them getting their own way.

The results were knocks to the British economy and reputation. After all, the Cod Wars were the first and only times when one NATO country sent a military force to threaten another; yet even the terrifying might of the warships of the British Navy could not daunt the stubborn Icelandic fishermen in their rickety boats.

With fertile oceans and freshwater leaking from seemingly every pore of lava rock, it is no wonder Iceland has so many fish. Its number of different species - particularly in the lakes and rivers - are surprisingly few, but in terms of individuals, there is no shortage. Its oceans are breeding grounds for many species, and often the only places where endangered specimens such as Halibut can be found in high numbers.

It was largely the ocean’s fisheries that kept Icelanders alive for a millennium. The wealth of nutrition carried to the coasts by the Gulf Stream has allowed for an abundance of food to bloom, and such food has supported Icelanders as much as it has the nation’s many whales, dolphins, seals and seabirds.

Below are the species you are most likely to catch on a sea-angling tour.

One of the most commonly caught fish in Iceland is the Atlantic Catfish  (Steinbítur in Icelandic). It is popular as the Icelandic delicacy of dried fish. If you want to try this, it is recommended with large scoops of butter.

Catfish can be quite large, often over a metre long, and survive in the near Arctic waters with the anti-freeze that pumps through their blood. The heaviest recorded was 18 kg (40 lb).

Atlantic Cod

Cod  (Þorskur in Icelandic) is the favourite fish of New England and the UK, and, remembering that three wars were fought over it, it is similarly loved in Iceland. In spite of it being vulnerable throughout much of the Atlantic, it is still rather abundant here, and catching or purchasing it has less ethical concerns than throughout much of the rest of the world.

For those seeking a large catch, fishing for cod can be very rewarding. Often a metre or more, the largest recorded weighed a whopping 96 kgs (211 lbs).

Haddock  (Ýsa in Icelandic) are another species that are vulnerable globally, but have thriving breeding grounds in Iceland and are thus little threatened here. They have formed a large part of the Icelandic diet since settlement, and are used in some classic dishes. The most notable of these is smoked haddock from the Arctic island of Grímsey .

In spite of being delicious and easy to catch, haddock are small compared to other species you might hook up on a sea angling tour; they rarely exceed 60 centimetres.

Mackerel  (Makríll in Icelandic) are even smaller than haddock, often not reaching half their length. What they lack in size, however, they make up for in global abundance, without any major conservation concerns surrounding them. As such, mackerel fishing is a highly commercial enterprise.

Mackerel is increasing in popularity in Iceland due to its red meat and high levels of nutrition; it also has low levels of mercury, meaning it can regularly be eaten without worry.

Atlantic Halibut  (Lúða in Icelandic) are the only fish caught on sea-angling tours that are endangered, so catch-and-release is highly encouraged if you should hook one up; they have been heavily exploited for their size (up to 320 kgs, or 710 lb) and have a slow reproductive cycle. You can still buy and eat it ethically in Iceland, however, as they are raised here on fish-farms to protect their wild populations.

Pollock  (Ufsi in Icelandic) is an abundant fish, up to one metre long, with the heaviest recorded weighing 21 kg (46 lb). Though often scorned at by foodies for its commonness (being the main ingredients of frozen junk-food like fish fingers), the Nordic countries have always held it in high regard for its distinctive yet mild flavour.

Only five species of fish live and breed in Iceland’s many rivers and lakes, two of which are not routinely eaten: the three-spine stickleback and the eel. The other three, however, are found in abundance, to the pleasure of fly-fishermen and foodies, as they are the main ingredients for many classic Icelandic dishes.

Brown Trout

Any fisherman used to cooler climes will be well-used to catching trout  (Urriði in Icelandic). While the species seems a little mundane, for this reason, they are rather special within Iceland’s largest natural lake, Þingvallavatn . Isolated from any other body of water for ten-thousand years, the trout population has evolved separately from its cousins globally, and are much larger as a result.

If you choose, therefore, to fish within Þingvallavatn, you may just hook up the largest trout you ever have, up to and exceeding 15 kilograms (33 lb). Such a catch makes for a great photo, but you must release it back into the water; at this location, their lives are protected by law.

To catch a trout you can eat, you should instead look for Sea Brown Trout as they travel upriver through September; the Varmá River is best for this. While they continue to move inland throughout October, the Sea Trout fishing season runs only from April to September 30th.

Atlantic Salmon

Although fishing for salmon  (Lax in Icelandic) is more regulated than fishing for Iceland’s other species, it is still more than possible across the country from June 1st to September 30th. Some very large specimens travel through Iceland’s waters; one of the biggest was caught by none other than singer Eric Clapton, weighing in at 28 lbs.

Arctic Char

The most commonly caught freshwater fish in Iceland, and the one which is seen in most restaurants sold as a classic national dish, is the Arctic Char (Bleikja in Icelandic). Its abundance makes up for its small size; they are usually between 0.2 to 5 kgs (0.5 to 10 lb), but individuals double that are caught on occasion.

Arctic Char prefer slower moving water at an even lower temperature than trout, but can be found in many common areas, such as Þingvallavatn. They are the most widespread fish in Iceland, found in most freshwater bodies.

Despite being a liberal leftie vegetarian and unquestionable Hufflepuff, whose empathy extends even to the cold, dead face of the ugliest cod, I can see why fly-fishing and angling are such popular activities. To be able to immerse yourself in the world’s quietest, most serene places is one of the privileges of visiting Iceland; to be able to hook yourself up an ethical, fresh, free meal would only add to the experience.

Before flocking over here expecting to empty the rivers and oceans, however, there are some things that those with a passion for fishing should know before arrival.

To protect stocks and the nature, fishing is heavily regulated in Iceland. Each river system has its own rules, and it is always best to check what they are before setting out. Using this website , you can easily find a river or lake that suits your needs.

The main general rules are as follows:

• Rod fishing is legal from 07.00 to sundown. Fishing at night is illegal, and you are not permitted to fish for over twelve hours.
• Net fishing for salmon is only legal on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.
• Salmon can only be fished from June to September, and only in freshwater.
• You cannot net fish for salmon in the same river that someone is fly-fishing for them, and visa versa.
• You cannot move salmon from one river and leave it in another.
• You must clean and sterilise any fishing equipment before using it in Icelandic waters if it has been used overseas.
• Fishing in any body is only allowed with express permission from whoever owns the land. In many places, there are total bans.

The trends in Iceland are moving quickly away from net-fishing; within a few years, it is expected to be fully banned in almost all rivers and lakes. Catch and release is also heavily encouraged, and in many places mandatory.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy the pleasure of fishing in Iceland, whether you seek to do so independently or with an experienced guide.

Some outfitters will rent you rods for multiple days, although you must always buy or bring your own fliers/spinners. You are, of course, welcome to bring your equipment from home; as mentioned above, however, it must be sterilised before being put in any Icelandic river or lake.

To fish in Icelandic rivers and lakes, you will need licences, which differ in cost and availability depending on where you look. You can, however, get a single licence for just 6,900 ISK which will allow you access to over thirty lakes in the country; as a bonus, any child under fourteen is allowed to fish with a cardholder for free.

You can purchase these online , or at an N1 or OLIS gas station, both of which are found all over the island.

The most popular lake for fishing in the country, as you may have guessed by now, is Lake Þingvallavatn. Its wealth of life, closeness to Reykjavík and beautiful surroundings make it a perfect place to unwind, and either catch a char for dinner or a record trout you can have a photograph with.

It is far from the only option, however. Laugarvatn , known best for the geothermal heat that rises from its bed, is also home to many trout and char. It is on the Golden Circle route, like Þingvallavatn. Lake Elliðavatn is within the Greater Reykjavík area, and here you have a better chance of catching salmon.

In north Iceland, you can fly-fish in Lake Mývatn , a diverse region of birdlife, craters, geothermal areas, spectacular lava formations, and, of course, freshwater systems. In the east, the most popular spot is Lake Lögurinn; because of the murky glacier water, lures tend to be ineffective, so net fishing is the best option here.

Keep an eye out on the lake here while waiting for your catch; it said to contain a mythical wyrm creature, records of which date back centuries.

• See also: Lakes in Iceland

Rivers snake all across Iceland, most originating at the glaciers and containing many spectacular waterfalls. It is not possible to fish in all of them, and even where it is, there are different regulations on whether or not you can net-fish, how many rods may be used in the area at once, and what times you are allowed to be angling.

To catch Atlantic Salmon, however, you generally have to fish in the rivers; they can occasionally be hooked up in a lake, but this is uncommon. The four best rivers to fly-fish for salmon in Iceland are:

• The Fossá River, a two-rod river in south Iceland (catch-and-release only)
• The Laugardalsá River, a three-rod river in west Iceland
• The Miðfjarðará River, a six-to-ten-rod river in north Iceland (catch-and-release only)
• The West Rangá River, a fourteen-rod river in south Iceland

If you wish to net-fish for salmon, the Þjórsá river is best.

If you prefer fly-fishing but are not fussed about catching salmon, the Varmá, Brúará and Holaá Rivers are both very easy to access from Reykjavík, and excellent locations to hook up trout and char.

• See also: Rivers in Iceland

In spite of its name, Iceland is not cold enough to support reliable ice fishing, even in the depths of winter. The most frozen lakes are in the Highlands, which are almost entirely inaccessible in this season, and those in the North that used to freeze over for months of the year are becoming less dependable as the climate of the country is rapidly warming.

Sea angling is difficult to do independently unless you wish to from the shore. The easiest, most stress-free place to do this is at Reykjavík’s Old Harbour. Here, you can rent a rod for approximately $30 an hour, and start angling from the end of the pier. This is a great way to break up a day of city sightseeing and to hook up a meal without leaving the capital.

Boat tours which will take you to much more bountiful fishing spots, however, run all around the country and are discussed in more detail below.

Fishing holidays will often allow you to head to the lesser-known rivers but tend to be incredibly pricey. Day tours, or shorter multi-day tours, are usually a lot cheaper, easier, and more readily available.

This day tour , for example, will allow you to fish in Lake Þingvallavatn and the Brúará River, and is tailored for the experienced and beginners alike; you are likely to catch brown trout and arctic char.

You can also combine a fishing tour with sightseeing around the popular Golden Circle route, which includes visits to Gullfoss Waterfall , the Geysir Geothermal Area , and Þingvellir National Park . You will fish in up to three different spots, including the Lake Laugarvatn, the nearby Holaá River, and the Brúará river, time and conditions depending.

Both of these tours include pick-up from Reykjavík, and all equipment is provided for you.

If you are more interested in sea angling than river or lake fishing, there are options all over the country. The best from Reykjavík is undoubtedly this tour , which combines sea angling with whale watching in Faxaflói Bay. As well as catching yourself a fresh meal, you are likely to see incredible animals, such as minke and humpback whales, white-beaked dolphins, puffins, and even orcas and harbour porpoises.

You can barbecue your catch after the angling component of the tour, or else take it to the restaurant MAR, where the experienced chefs will cook it up for you. Of course, you can also take it home and prepare it yourself.

If you are spending more time in north Iceland, then this sea angling tour from Húsavík may have more appeal. You will be taken out into Skjálfandi Bay, which has the highest concentration of different whale and dolphin species in Iceland as well as many puffins, to try and hook up cod or haddock. The captain can fillet the fish on your request, and, again, you can either take it home or to a local restaurant for a delicious meal.

For a more immersive experience, you could even look into this three-day tour from Reykjavík, which focuses on sea angling but will also take you whale-watching, bird-watching, sightseeing, hiking and to the Herring Era Museum. You will be driven to the north of Iceland via some spectacular sites, then take a ferry over to Hrísey Island, where excellent fishing awaits. On the third day, you will return to the capital via the Golden Circle route.

To conclude, fishing has always been an intrinsic part of the Icelandic character; while it is no longer the island’s primary means of survival, it still has a huge amount of historical, commercial, cultural and recreational value.

To have the opportunity to stand at the edge of a serene lake, or to sit on a boat undisturbed in a northern fjord, angling for your dinner is something no-one who loves fishing should miss out on.

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