Reykjavik’s location on the edge of Faxaflói Bay makes it a natural hub for boat tours and cruises that showcase Iceland’s incredible marine wildlife and stunning coastal scenery. Whether you’re eager to spot majestic whales, curious dolphins, or adorable puffins, Reykjavik offers a variety of marine excursions that suit different interests and schedules. One standout is the Reykjavík: Whale Watching and Marine Life Cruise, which combines a scenic boat ride with the thrill of spotting whales in their natural habitat. We love this tour for its reputation, friendly atmosphere, and the chance to learn about ocean ecosystems from knowledgeable guides. For those seeking a bit more style and comfort, the Whale Watching Cruise on the Amelia Rose Yacht offers a smooth, luxurious experience with panoramic decks and indoor lounge spaces.
Reykjavik’s marine tours are not just about wildlife—they also provide a chance to see the city from a different perspective, with stunning views of landmarks like the Harpa Concert Hall and the Sun Voyager sculpture. Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply in search of a memorable adventure on the water, these tours promise an authentic encounter with Iceland’s natural beauty. Let’s explore each of the top options and what makes them special.
1. Reykjavík: Whale Watching and Marine Life Cruise
At number 1 on our list, this whale watching and marine life cruise from Reykjavik is a tried-and-true favorite. The tour lasts about 3 hours and takes you into Faxaflói Bay, where sightings include whales, dolphins, porpoises, and more. The boats are of a size that feels intimate but stable enough for a comfortable ride, with reviews praising the “personalized experience.” The trip highlights Iceland’s rich marine biodiversity, and the guides are eager to share their knowledge about the animals and the ocean environment. Many guests mention the thrill of seeing a humpback or minke whale, with some lucky enough to spot several species. The indoor and outdoor decks provide great viewing options, and the trip’s price of $83 per person offers excellent value, given the chance to witness nature’s giants in action.
Bottom Line: If wildlife encounters top your list and you don’t mind the element of luck, this tour offers a well-organized, friendly experience that’s highly rated.
2. Reykjavík: Whale Watching Cruise on the Amelia Rose Yacht
For around $99, the Reykjavík: Whale Watching Cruise on the Amelia Rose Yacht combines wildlife viewing with comfort and style. The yacht features triple panoramic decks, perfect for spotting whales, dolphins, and even porpoises in the clear waters of Faxaflói Bay. Guests rave about the smooth ride and the friendly, energetic guides who point out marine wildlife and share insights about the ocean mammals. The onboard lounge and bar make relaxing easy after a day of wildlife spotting. Many reviews mention sightings of minke and humpback whales, with one guest noting, “Saw whales and dolphins — absolutely great trip.” The tour’s slightly higher price reflects its more luxurious setting, making it ideal for those seeking a memorable but comfortable experience.
Bottom Line: This cruise offers a blend of wildlife discovery and top-notch amenities, perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a relaxed yet exciting outing.
3. Reykjavik: Puffin Watching Boat Tour
If you’re after adorable birds and scenic island views, the Reykjavík: Puffin Watching Boat Tour is a short, sweet 1-hour trip. Departing from the Old Harbour, this tour guarantees sightings of the Atlantic Puffin, known for their colorful beaks and comical expressions. Guides are often praised for their knowledge, and the tour is a quick way to combine birdwatching with a scenic cruise around nearby islands. Many guests note that puffin activity is highest in foggy or cloudy conditions, so booking early or late in the day can enhance your chances. For just $59, it’s a budget-friendly option that’s perfect for families or travelers pressed for time but eager for a wildlife fix.
Bottom Line: A fast, fun, and guaranteed puffin encounter, ideal if you want a brief but rewarding experience with Iceland’s most charming seabird.
4. Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in Reykjavik
At number 4, this Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht offers a more elegant way to see Reykjavik’s marine life. The spacious yacht boasts panoramic viewing windows and comfortable indoor seating, ideal for those who want to avoid the cold but still experience the thrill of whale spotting. The trip covers Faxaflói Bay, with the chance to see minke and humpback whales, orcas, and even dolphins. If no whales are encountered, you can enjoy a free return cruise—a great safety net. Guests report the onboard guides are very knowledgeable, and the boat’s design offers excellent visibility. This is a great choice for travelers looking for a more relaxed, less crowded environment, with prices around $88.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a comfortable, scenic whale watching experience with the bonus of a no-risk return if no wildlife appears.
5. Northern Lights Cruise from Downtown Reykjavik
During winter, the Northern Lights Cruise from Downtown Reykjavik offers a magical chance to see the aurora borealis. Spanning approximately 2 hours, this tour takes you out on Faxaflói Bay, where unobstructed views increase your odds of witnessing this natural phenomenon. The boat provides warm overalls and has viewing decks and a heated lounge, so you stay cozy while watching the sky. Many reviews mention the rarity of seeing the northern lights, but guests who do get lucky describe it as “dancing lights” that leave unforgettable memories. Priced at $105, it’s an experience well worth the investment for a once-in-a-lifetime sighting.
Bottom Line: Best suited for winter travelers eager for the celestial show, especially if you’re prepared for cold but want comfort.
6. Puffin Cruise with Expert Tour Guide from Reykjavik
The Puffin Cruise with Expert Tour Guide is an eco-friendly, 1-hour voyage that gets you up close to Akurey Island’s puffin colonies. Your local guide offers engaging commentary about puffin behavior and biology, making this a learning experience as well as a wildlife adventure. The tour uses binoculars and an audio guide app to enhance your viewing experience. Many reviewers highlight how active the puffins are during foggy, cloudy conditions—so timing your trip can boost your chances. For $60.38, it’s a fantastic option for bird lovers or those with limited time.
Bottom Line: A highly recommended, informative tour for bird enthusiasts that guarantees excellent puffin sightings.
7. Reykjavik: Northern Lights Yacht Tour
At number 7, this Northern Lights Yacht Tour offers a luxurious way to chase the aurora borealis. The boat features three panoramic decks and a cozy bar lounge, turning a natural wonder into a stylish experience. Many travelers share stories of seeing dancing northern lights in a comfortable setting, with easy access to drinks and warmth. Although sightings depend on weather conditions, the guides are well-prepared, and rebooking is simple if clouds block the view. Priced at $124, it’s a pricier but comfortable way to enjoy Iceland’s night sky.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a refined, relaxed viewing experience of the northern lights from the water.
8. Reykjavik: Whale Watching Tour by RIB Boat
The Whale Watching Tour by RIB Boat combines speed and intimacy, perfect for adrenaline lovers. At just $160, this 2-hour trip takes you into Faxaflói Bay aboard a rigid inflatable boat, allowing you to get close to marine wildlife like minke whales, humpbacks, dolphins, and even potential orcas. The small group size means better chances of sightings and a more personal experience. Many reviewers mention the fast, stable ride and the knowledgeable crew. The boat’s design means you can quickly cover a larger area, increasing your chances of spotting whales.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want an active, close-up wildlife experience with a smaller group and a high-energy boat.
9. Whale Watching & Dolphin Yacht Cruise
This Whale Watching & Dolphin Yacht Cruise offers a 3-hour journey to see both whales and dolphins in their natural environment. The spacious yacht features observation decks and Wi-Fi, so you can share your sightings live. Many travelers are impressed by the diversity of species, including porpoises and during summer puffins. The onboard guides are eager to share insights, and if nothing is seen, you can rebook at no extra cost. The tour is priced at $96.14, providing good value for a multi-species experience.
Bottom Line: Great for wildlife enthusiasts who want a relaxed, comfortable cruise with the chance to see multiple marine animals.
10. Reykjavik: Whale Watching and Dolphin Watching Yacht Cruise
Number 10 combines whale and dolphin watching on a 3-hour yacht trip. The spacious yacht has three decks, offering excellent views and comfort. Many reviews highlight the friendly crew and the chance to see puffins in summer. The tour is priced at $95 and is suited for travelers who want a balance of wildlife viewing and scenic water. The possibility of seeing white-beaked dolphins or orcas makes it stand out, especially if you’re interested in multiple marine species in one trip.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for those wanting variety and comfort, with good odds of seeing whales and dolphins.
11. Reykjavik: Glacier Lagoon Boat Ride & Diamond Beach Day Tour
For a longer, more comprehensive day out, the Glacier Lagoon Boat Ride & Diamond Beach Tour is perfect. This 14-hour trip from Reykjavik combines a boat ride among icebergs at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon with visits to waterfalls and volcano views. It’s a full-day adventure offering spectacular landscapes and the chance to see massive icebergs from an amphibian boat. Many travelers appreciate the variety and the photo opportunities, with stops at Vik, Seljalandsfoss, and Stjórnarfoss. This experience is best suited for those with a flexible schedule and a love for dramatic scenery.
Bottom Line: If you seek a comprehensive Icelandic landscape experience with a bit of boat cruising, this tour delivers.
12. 1-Hour Small Group Sightseeing Boat Tour in Vestmannaeyjar
This intimate small-group tour takes you around the smaller islands of Vestmannaeyjar. Limited to 12 people, it offers a personalized experience exploring sea caves, rock formations, and wildlife like puffins and seals. Rave reviews praise the guides’ enthusiasm and the “breathtaking scenery” encountered during the 1-hour cruise. The tour is priced at $146.30, reflecting its limited group size and detailed focus. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a quieter, more engaging experience, away from larger tour crowds.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a personalized, smaller group adventure with a focus on wildlife and coastal scenery.
13. Reykjavik: Whales and Puffins Express Cruise Combo Tour
This combo tour combines whale watching and puffin spotting in about 4 hours. The larger boat takes you out in search of whales, with chances to see dolphins and porpoises, while the smaller boat offers a close-up puffin experience. Many reviews mention the expert guidance and the value of seeing multiple species in half a day. If you’re pressed for time but want diversity, this tour balances wildlife encounters with efficiency. The price varies, but the value depends on whether you want both experiences in one trip.
Bottom Line: Excellent for wildlife lovers who want both whales and puffins, especially if they have limited time.
14. Reykjavik: Whale and Puffin Watching RIB Boat Tour
Number 14 offers adventure and wildlife on a 2-hour RIB boat. Its speed and maneuverability make it ideal for covering more ground in search of whales, puffins, and other seabirds. Reviewers highlight the safe, stable ride and the personalized guidance that leads to sightings of humpbacks, puffins, and dolphins. The tour is priced at a reasonable rate, making it a fun, active choice for travelers wanting an exciting, close-up marine experience.
Bottom Line: For thrill-seekers who want to get close to nature and enjoy a dynamic boat ride, this tour delivers.
15. 2 Hour Round Trip in Vestmannaeyjar on a RIB Boat
This 2-hour RIB trip around Vestmannaeyjar is a small-group adventure with five-star reviews. It offers fast-paced exploration of sea caves, cliffs, and bird colonies, including puffins and seals. The tour is praised for expert guides and breathtaking scenery, with many noting it as “truly unforgettable.” The price of $225.14 reflects the small-group, high-energy experience. It’s best suited for travelers wanting an active, immersive tour with lots of photo opportunities.
Bottom Line: A top choice for those who want a fast, fun, and wildlife-rich adventure with a small group.
16. RIB Whale Watching Small-Group Boat Tour from Reykjavik
Lastly, the RIB Whale Watching Small-Group Boat Tour blends speed, intimacy, and wildlife in a 2-hour experience. It’s limited to around 12 people, ensuring you get a personalized encounter with whales, dolphins, and puffins during the season. Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable crew and small group size increase the chances of sightings and make for a more engaging trip. The high-speed RIB lets you cover large areas quickly, perfect if timing is tight but wildlife viewing is a priority.
Bottom Line: Ideal for adventurous travelers who want to maximize their chances of close-up wildlife encounters in a small, lively group.
How to Choose Your Perfect Reykjavik Boat Tour
Choosing between these dynamic options depends on your budget, interests, and comfort level. For wildlife enthusiasts eager for detailed animal sightings, the whale-watching tours and the RIB whale tours are excellent choices. If you’re after birdwatching, especially puffins, the puffin boat trips and puffin cruise with guide are ideal. For a luxury experience with comfort and panoramic views, the Northern Lights Yacht Tour or the Northern Lights Cruise are perfect winter options. Longer trips like the Glacier Lagoon boat ride suit travelers looking for a full-day adventure, while smaller group tours offer more intimacy and personalized attention.
Reykjavik’s marine tours cover a wide spectrum—from quick wildlife glimpses to luxurious sailing or adventurous RIB rides. For families, tours with guaranteed sightings, like the whale cruises, provide peace of mind. If you’re prone to seasickness, some boats are better suited than others, so check reviews carefully. Booking early, especially in peak seasons, helps secure your spot on the best tour for your plans. Whether you want a relaxing cruise, a thrilling ride, or a wildlife-focused expedition, Reykjavik’s waters have something for every traveler ready to experience Iceland’s marine marvels.