Ecotours and Adventures Iceland has numerous glacial fjords that offer excellent whale watching. One whale in particular that kids are interested in watching is Keiko, the killer whale that starred in the movie Free Willy . Finally home after a turbulent life of stardom, mistreatment, and recovery, Keiko is healthy and thriving in a large pen off the island of Heimaey. Heimaey is the largest of 15 islands, about 10 km. Day tours to the Westman Islands are available, and a trip out there makes a special family excursion.
Accommodations range from five-star hotels to backpacking holidays.
If you have more time, take a flight north to Akureyri, about 60 miles from the Arctic circle. This sleepy Icelandic town surrounded by fjords boasts some of the best whale watching imaginable. On a recent trip, my boat was literally surrounded by the playful creatures. In the distance, snow-capped glaciers and endless white mountain chains will doubtlessly inspire awe and respect for a people who not only survive against such odds, but are quite happy doing so.