Reykjavik: Premium Whale and Puffin Watching Evening Tour

If you’re visiting Reykjavík during the Icelandic summer, this evening whale and puffin tour offers a refreshingly different way to see some of Iceland’s most iconic wildlife. Priced at $187 per person, this 2-hour cruise takes you from the Old Harbour aboard a custom-made RIB speedboat, giving you a chance to witness whales, dolphins, and puffins in their natural habitat during the enchanting midnight sun hours.

What we love about this experience is how intimate and exhilarating it feels. With only 12 passengers per boat, you’re not lost in a crowd, and the small, stable vessel zips comfortably over the water, allowing for closer wildlife encounters than traditional boats. Plus, the chance to enjoy the bright Icelandic summer nights makes the experience feel like a special event rather than just another tour.

A potential consideration is the weather—like all outdoor adventures in Iceland, it can be unpredictable. While warm overalls are provided, it’s wise to come prepared with warm clothing, hats, gloves, and closed-toe shoes. This tour suits travelers who enjoy adventure, nature, and those keen on flexible, small-group experiences where they can get up-close wildlife sightings.

If you’re curious about Iceland’s waters, wildlife, and the long summer nights, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially good for those who want a more personal experience and are comfortable on the water, ready for a quick, action-packed voyage that offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing and stunning coastal scenery.

Key Points

• Small group size (only 12 people) enhances the chance for close encounters and personalized attention.
• High success rate of whale sightings, with over 95% of summer tours spotting whales.
• Unique experience of nighttime wildlife viewing during the midnight sun.
• Fast, stable RIB boats allow you to cover more area and get closer to marine life.
• Weather-dependent, so dressing appropriately and being flexible is important.
• A complimentary ticket is offered if whales are not seen, adding value and reassurance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Reykjavik: Premium Whale and Puffin Watching Evening Tour

Setting the Scene: What the Tour Offers

This evening cruise departs from Reykjavík’s historic Old Harbour, a lively spot filled with fishing boats, cafés, and a sense that you’re about to step into an Icelandic adventure. The cost of $187 might seem high compared to larger day trips, but it’s balanced by the small group setting, speed, and wildlife focus.

The tour lasts just two hours, making it manageable even after a full day of sightseeing. It’s scheduled to coincide with the bright summer nights, when the midnight sun casts a golden glow over the water, creating an almost surreal backdrop for wildlife watching.

Why We Love This Tour

First, the small group size means fewer people and more chances to see wildlife up close. One reviewer, Erin, wrote, “Boat tour was so much fun! Our guide and captain were great. Being out on the boat at night was exhilarating and we got to see puffins, whales, porpoises, and dolphins.”

Second, the speed and agility of the RIB boat allow you to cover larger areas and get closer to the animals. Donna mentions dolphins approaching and interacting with them — a rarity in larger, slower vessels. The boat’s design also provides a smooth ride, reducing the discomfort often associated with more traditional whale-watching vessels.

Considerations and Practicalities

Weather in Iceland can be unpredictable—especially on the water. While the company provides warm overalls, safety equipment, and advises bringing warm clothing, hats, gloves, and closed-toe shoes, you should be prepared for the possibility of wind and splashes.

The tour is not suitable for children under 10 or those with back, knee, or mobility issues, as the boat’s high speeds and short duration might be uncomfortable or unsafe for some.

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Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins at the Old Harbour, where you check in and get suited up with warm gear. Once aboard, your professional captain and wildlife guide set the course, zipping out of the harbor into Faxaflói Bay.

The first part of the journey involves looping around the wind-beaten islands—here, puffins are often seen in their natural habitat, No matter the weather, this part of the tour offers scenic views and chances to observe seabirds.

As you venture further, the boat reaches open water where whales and dolphins are commonly spotted. Iceland’s waters are some of the best in the world for whale sightings, with over 95% of summer tours reporting sightings of Minke and humpback whales.

The captain’s expertise is apparent here, as they constantly scan the horizon, and you might find yourself marveling at the close-up views of these gentle giants.

After the wildlife spotting, the boat returns to Reykjavík, riding along the shoreline—here, you’ll get views of Sun Voyager sculpture, Harpa Concert Hall, and the colorful fishing huts that line the harbor. It’s a lovely way to cap off an adventure, seeing Reykjavík lit up at night from the water.

Authentic Experiences & Unpredictable Moments

From Donna’s review, we learn that dolphins interacted with the boat, approaching closely and making the trip even more memorable. She notes, “Dolphins were everywhere, even approaching and interacting with the boat.” This kind of wildlife interaction highlights the unpredictability — and the magic — of marine excursions.

Erin’s account also mentions witnessing a volcano erupting during her tour, which, while rare, underscores the extraordinary nature of Icelandic waters.

The Value and Why It’s Worth It

While $187 may seem steep for a quick two-hour tour, you’re paying for expert guides, small-group intimacy, and the chance to see some of Iceland’s extraordinary marine life in a setting that’s both scenic and adventurous. The success rate of whale sightings — over 95% during summer — coupled with the warm gear and flexible ticket policy (if whales aren’t seen, you get another ride), make this a low-risk, high-reward outing.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure seekers, wildlife lovers, and those wanting to experience the Icelandic summer at night. It’s especially suited for travelers comfortable on boats and keen to see whales and seabirds up close. Families with children over 10 will find it a memorable outing, but it’s not recommended for those with mobility or back issues.

The Sum Up

The Reykjavík: Premium Whale and Puffin Watching Evening Tour offers a rare glimpse into Iceland’s vibrant marine ecosystem, all wrapped up in a small-group, high-speed adventure. You’ll love the close wildlife encounters and the stunning views of Reykjavík’s shoreline at night, making it a memorable addition to your Iceland itinerary.

While weather can always be a factor, the experience’s flexibility and the expert guidance ensure that even if whales stay elusive, you’ll have enjoyed a scenic, exhilarating ride. This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to see whales, dolphins, and puffins in a truly authentic setting and who appreciate the unique magic of Iceland’s midnight sun.

If wildlife, scenic waters, and a bit of speed appeal to you, this experience deserves a spot on your Iceland itinerary. Just remember to dress warmly and be ready for unpredictable weather — but rest assured, the memories you’ll make will be worth it.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a quick but intense wildlife adventure.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from the Old Harbour at Ægisgarður 5 in Reykjavík, a lively area full of shops and cafés.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for children over 10 years old and at least 145 centimeters tall, due to the boat’s speed and safety considerations.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, hats, gloves, and closed-toe shoes. The company provides warm overalls and safety gear.

What if I don’t see any whales?
If whales aren’t spotted during your tour, the captain will give you a complimentary ticket for another ride on the larger boats.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if weather or schedules change.

Is this tour recommended for pregnant women?
It’s not suitable for pregnant women, as per the safety guidelines.

Are meals or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly if you’d like to bring snacks or beverages.

This small but mighty tour offers a refreshing, authentic look at Iceland’s marine life, combined with the thrill of high-speed boat riding. If you’re after a personalized wildlife encounter during the magical Icelandic summer nights, it’s well worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: