Marie Mrusczok stands wide-legged on the swaying deck of the Íris, her gaze fully concentrated on the grey-blue shimmering sea. Her eyes are scanning the Breiðafjörður for fins, blows, or any other signs of whales. Up to 70 passengers place their hopes for a whale encounter on the spotter of the afternoon tour. Mrusczok is not alone. Her six-year-old Icelandic Sheepdog Sara is always by her side and has already proven her spotting skills, especially in foggy conditions.