The Great Whaling Massacre Tour

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The Great Whaling Massacre

A Historic Diving Tour

In the mid 19th century whaling increased dramatically all over the world as new technologies, such as steam ships and explosive harpoons, allowed whalers to hunt more whale species than had been possible before.  In 1883 Norwegian whalers began hunting whales from shore stations in Iceland. They built seven stations in the Vestfirðir peninsula and five in the east part of Iceland. In the period between 1883 and 1900 Norwegian whalers almost wiped out many whale species off the coast of Iceland and official records indicate that in this period at least 17.000 whales were killed. These species included among others; humpbacks, blue whales, fin whales and right whales.

Dive into the blue waters of Álftafjörður and Seyðisfjörður fjords and visit the long forgotten remains of the whaling industry. You will explore a shipwreck, tools and various artefacts, which ones belonged to the whalers. You will also see the bones of the giants of the seas, which lie strewn across the seabed as silent witnesses to the great whaling massacre of the 19th century.  It will also be possible in summer and autumn to witness the arrival of juvenile saith and cod, as they migrate into the Ísafjarðardjúp.

Participants must:

  • Be at least 17 years of age
  • Be a certified diver at the level of PADI Open Water or equivalent
  • Be a Dry suit diver or Drysuit experience within the last 2 years
  • Bring proof of their diving certification
  • Be at least 150cm tall and weigh at least 45kg
  • Be physically fit

Please bring:

  • Logbook with recent Drysuit Dives
  • Thermal underwear (base layer)
  • Thick warm socks
  • Appropriate outdoor clothing ( we are in Iceland and the weather changes quickly )
  • Towel
  • Underwater camera

Includes:

  • Transport to the dive site´s and back
  • Two guided dives (4 hours on each site)
  • Local guides with knowledge of the area and underwater artifacts of Norwegian Whaling Stations.
  • All the equipment you need
  • Light snack between dives ( hot chocolate and cookies)
  • Drinks (water)
  • Photo stops on the way there

Duration:

  • 8 hours.

Min Persons on this tour:  2

Max Persons on this tour: 4

Departure:

  • 10 am

  • Price 49.990.- ISK per person