Iceland has resumed commercial whaling operations with the capture of two fin whales following a two-year hiatus [1, 2].

The return to whaling marks a shift in the country's maritime industry as operators seek to restore profitability after two seasons of inactivity [4].

Two whaling vessels, including the ship Hvalur, departed from port to begin the season [5, 6]. The fleet began operations on Friday, June 19, 2024 [5]. This seasonal window typically remains open from mid-June until mid-September [3].

During the initial phase of the restart, the vessels captured two fin whales [1]. The Icelandic government has established specific quotas for the current season to regulate the harvest. These limits include 150 fin whales, and 168 sei whales [3].

The decision to restart the industry follows a period where no commercial whaling occurred for two years [4]. The remaining vessels in the Icelandic fleet are now attempting to make the practice economically viable again [4].

“Iceland has resumed commercial whaling operations with the capture of two fin whales.”

The resumption of commercial whaling in Iceland highlights the ongoing tension between traditional maritime industries and international conservation efforts. By setting specific quotas for fin and sei whales, Iceland is attempting to balance economic viability for its remaining whaling fleet with regulatory oversight, despite a prolonged period of inactivity.