Jules Verne Times Two · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Image source

Quick facts

Length11–18 m
Weight15–50 tonnes
Lifespan60–70 years
Typical dive depth400 m
Maximum dive depth2250 m
Typical dive35 minutes
Maximum dive120 minutes
Gestation14–16 months
Offspring1 young
Common around IcelandNo
Whale watchingNo
Best timeYear-round, but not among the most common species on standard whale-watching tours.

About Sperm Whale

The sperm whale is the world's largest toothed whale. It is an extraordinary deep diver that hunts squid far beneath the surface and occurs in deep waters around Iceland.

Habitat

Deep oceanic waters.

Diet

Squid and deep-sea fish.

Water-depth habitat

Deep oceanic waters, continental slopes and submarine ridges.

Distribution around Iceland

Occurs in deep waters around Iceland; large males are most likely in northern waters.
SourceLast verified: 08/09/2026