Reykjavik: the Original 3-Hour Whale Watching Tour

When it comes to Iceland, the idea of seeing whales in their natural habitat is often at the top of the list. This 3-hour tour from Reykjavik takes you into Faxaflói Bay, where you’ll encounter humpback whales, minke whales, dolphins, porpoises, and an array of seabirds. At $94 per person, it’s a solid choice for those wanting a short but immersive wildlife experience that combines nature, education, and a dash of adventure.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour: first, the live commentary by a trained marine biologist that enriches the experience with fascinating facts and insights; second, the guarantee of sightings or a free try again, which speaks to their confidence and commitment to providing a memorable wildlife encounter.

A possible caveat? The success of spotting whales depends on natural conditions, so despite a high success rate of over 90%, seeing whales isn’t always guaranteed. That said, many travelers have praised the professional crew and their efforts to make every trip worthwhile.

This tour is ideal for travelers who seek an authentic, educational experience, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends. If you’re eager for a well-organized, eco-conscious adventure that emphasizes responsible wildlife viewing, then this one should be on your list.

Key Points

• Wildlife Guarantee: Sightings are expected in over 90% of missions, with a free reattempt if no whales are seen.
• Expert Guides: Live commentary by trained marine biologists enhances your understanding of the marine ecosystem.
• Eco-Friendly Focus: The company is environmentally certified, contributing to whale research and wildlife conservation.
• Comfort & Convenience: Warm overalls, WiFi on board, and access to the whale-watching center make your trip comfortable and informative.
• Flexible Planning: Cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund, and reserve now to keep your plans adaptable.
• Authentic Experience: Many reviews highlight the enthusiasm and professionalism of guides like Mila and Pedro, making the trip lively and educational.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point: The Old Harbour in Reykjavik

Your adventure begins at the Old Harbour, a lively hub packed with fishing boats, cafes, and souvenir shops. Check in at the red Elding ticket office—simple and straightforward. Before departure, you’re free to explore the Whale Watching Centre, which features informative displays, videos, skeletons, and souvenirs. It’s a good way to get your bearings and learn a bit about local marine life before heading out.

The Cruise Into Faxaflói Bay

Once aboard, you’ll notice the warm overalls provided, a thoughtful touch considering Iceland’s brisk weather—even in summer, the sea breeze can be chilly. The boat itself is designed for comfort and stability, with WiFi onboard, so you can share your photos or follow sightings with friends back home.

The cruise takes you into Faxaflói Bay, a site renowned for its favorable whale-watching conditions. The boat will explore the southern part of the bay, where ocean currents create an ideal habitat for whales and other marine creatures. Many reviews mention how close and accessible the wildlife often is, with whales surfacing just meters from the boat.

The Main Attraction: Marine Wildlife Encounters

Here’s where things get exciting. The tour’s goal: spot whales, dolphins, porpoises, and seabirds. According to reviews, the success rate is impressively high—more than 90% of trips result in sightings. Some travelers, like Alex, shared how their first trip was unsuccessful but the company offered free tickets to try again. On the second attempt, they saw a pod of six killer whales, describing it as “the most incredible experience ever.”

Guides like Mila and Pedro are praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge. Mila, in particular, gets glowing reviews for her passion for whales, which she shares with visitors, making the experience both fun and educational. Their extensive training ensures you’re not just looking at the water blindly; instead, you’ll learn about whale behaviors, migration patterns, and local ecosystems.

The Environment and Responsible Wildlife Watching

This tour is operated by the only environmentally certified whale-watching company in Iceland. Their commitment extends beyond just avoiding disturbance—your ticket purchase also supports whale research and conservation efforts. They abide by responsible whale-watching codes, ensuring the animals are not disturbed during their natural routines.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The ticket price includes the 3-hour cruise, guide, use of warm overalls, and access to the whale-watching center. There’s WiFi onboard, which is perfect for sharing your whale sightings or catching up on photos. They also offer a sighting guarantee—if you don’t see whales, you can try again for free, which adds peace of mind.

Food and drinks are not included but are available for purchase onboard—hot chocolate, snacks, and drinks help keep you warm and comfortable. Transport to the harbor is not included, so plan accordingly. Many reviews note the importance of arriving early to secure the best viewing spots and to be prepared for standing outside for extended periods.

The Overall Experience: Authentic, Educational, and Fun

Many travelers rave about the knowledgeable guides who make the trip lively and informative. Some mention how guides like Lasse kept everyone well-informed about marine life, turning what could be a simple boat ride into a learning adventure.

Seeing whales breaching, lunging, or just calmly surfacing provides unforgettable moments. For example, one reviewer shared their joy at seeing humpback whales breaching in the first 20 minutes, while others enjoyed seeing dolphins and seals during quieter parts of the trip.

The Weather and How It Affects Your Trip

Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable. Some reviews highlight how calm seas and sunny days improve the experience, making sightings easier and the ride more comfortable. Others mention the importance of warm clothing, as even in summer, the wind can make it feel much colder. The provided waterproof gear and snowsuits help you stay warm and dry, which is crucial for enjoying the trip fully.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits those who value responsible wildlife encounters and want a high chance of seeing whales. It’s family-friendly, with many reviews noting how children enjoyed the adventure. Nature lovers, photographers, or anyone eager to learn about Iceland’s marine ecosystem will find this trip rewarding. If you’re luckier than some, you might catch a whale breach or a pod of dolphins jumping alongside the boat.

Absolutely. For the price of $94, you get a well-organized, eco-minded adventure that often exceeds expectations. The combination of knowledgeable guides, the chance to see majestic whales and playful dolphins, and the comfort of warm gear makes it a top pick. Plus, the sighting guarantee adds a layer of confidence that you’ll come away with stories—and hopefully photos—of incredible marine encounters.

The tour’s focus on responsible tourism and wildlife conservation means you’re directly supporting efforts to protect these magnificent creatures. The trip’s flexibility with cancellation also makes it easy to plan around Iceland’s often unpredictable weather.

Whether you’re visiting Iceland for the wildlife, the scenery, or the adventure, this whale-watching tour offers a genuine, memorable experience that’s worth the time and money.

How long is the whale watching tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy the sea, spot whales, and learn from guides without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the cruise, guide, warm overalls, WiFi, and access to the whale-watching center. Food and drinks are available for purchase onboard.

Is there a guarantee of seeing whales?
Yes, they offer a sighting guarantee—if no whales are seen, you can try again for free on another tour.

Are the tours suitable for families with children?
Yes, many reviews mention children’s enjoyment, and the trip’s duration and safety measures make it family-friendly.

What should I wear?
Bring layers, waterproof clothing, and be prepared for wind and spray. The tour provides warm overalls and snowsuits to help you stay comfortable.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the departure for a full refund. Reserving in advance is advisable as spots fill quickly, especially in peak seasons.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a family looking for an adventure, or a photographer chasing that perfect shot, this Reykjavik whale-watching tour offers a balanced mix of excitement, education, and responsible action. It’s a well-reviewed, value-packed experience that many travelers cherish long after their trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: