NOAA Fisheries / Lisa Conger · Public Domain - NOAA · Image source

Quick facts

Length24–30 m
Weight100–150 tonnes
Lifespan70–100 years
Typical dive depth50 m
Maximum dive depth500 m
Typical dive5 minutes
Maximum dive20 minutes
Gestation10–12 months
Offspring1 young
Common around IcelandNo
Whale watchingYes
Best timeLate spring and summer.

About Blue Whale

The blue whale is the largest animal known to have lived on Earth. It visits Icelandic waters to feed, although sightings are considerably less frequent than those of minke and humpback whales.

Habitat

Open ocean and deep coastal waters.

Diet

Feeds almost entirely on krill.

Water-depth habitat

Open ocean and deep shelf waters where krill concentrates.

Distribution around Iceland

Occurs on feeding grounds around Iceland, particularly in northern and northeastern waters.
SourceLast verified: 08/09/2026