From Reykjavik: Whale Watching Tour

Whale Watching from Reykjavik: An Up-Close Encounter with Marine Giants

Starting at Geirsgata 11, this 3.5-hour tour takes you on a journey through Iceland’s Atlantic waters, with a focus on spotting minke whales, humpbacks, dolphins, and other marine life. Priced at around $100 per person, it’s a reasonably priced adventure that offers a mix of wildlife and Icelandic coastal scenery. The tour typically begins with a brief guided walk in Reykjavik, followed by a cruise across Faxaflói Bay, one of Iceland’s richest whale habitats.

What we love about this trip is the knowledgeable guides, like Lukas, who make the experience both educational and entertaining. They help you understand what you’re seeing and even take photos during the trip, so you can enjoy the moment without worrying about snapping the perfect shot. The heated indoor cabins and flotation overalls are real highlights, especially on chilly days, making sure comfort isn’t sacrificed for adventure.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is the uncertainty of wildlife sightings. While the reviews show many lucky travelers see whales, dolphins, and more, nature doesn’t always cooperate. So, if you’re fixated on a perfect whale encounter, be prepared for the possibility of no sightings and the reassurance that the tour offers a free second trip if that happens.

This adventure suits nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone curious about marine life, especially those who appreciate good value and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. If you’re eager to combine scenic coastal views with wildlife spotting, this tour offers a memorable slice of Icelandic nature without too much fuss.

Key Points

• Wildlife and Scenic Combo: Combines whale spotting with stunning coastal landscapes.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Lukas provide informative commentary and photography.
• Comfort & Convenience: Heated indoor cabins and flotation overalls enhance comfort.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, with the option to reserve now and pay later.
• Wildlife Guarantee: If no whales are seen, a free second tour is offered.
• Group Size & Duration: 3.5 hours on a well-equipped boat, balancing time and chance for sightings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and First Impressions

Your adventure kicks off at Geirsgata 11, the ticket office of Reykjavik Sailors. We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes early to check in comfortably. From the moment we stepped onto the boat, it was clear this is a well-organized operation, with friendly staff ready to make sure everyone stays comfortable.

The boat itself was spacious, clean, and equipped with heated indoor cabins and toilet facilities. The guides, including personable ones like Lukas, quickly made us feel at ease, explaining safety procedures and what to expect during the trip.

The Journey Begins: From Harbour to Faxaflói Bay

The initial part of the tour includes a guided walk through Reykjavik, giving a quick overview of the city’s maritime history and the current environment. It’s a nice touch, setting the scene before heading out onto the water.

Once aboard, you’re heading toward Faxaflói Bay, a well-known hotspot for whale activity. The boat moves steadily across the water, and the views of Reykjavik’s colorful rooftops shrinking in the distance are a visual treat. The crew provides WiFi onboard, which we found handy for sharing photos or catching up on messages.

Wildlife and Coastal Views: What You Can Expect

The main event is whale watching, which can vary depending on the day and season. Many reviews highlight seeing humpback whales, dolphins, and even minke whales — all of which are known to frequent this part of the North Atlantic. Several travelers mention how lucky they felt to spot these giants, with one saying, “We saw a few different humpback whales and spent a lot of time watching them surface,” which perfectly captures the excitement.

Birdwatching is also part of the package. The bay’s abundant seabirds add to the scenic beauty, especially when they circle overhead or rest on nearby islands. The guides are quite skilled at spotting signs of whales — like splash patterns or bird activity — which increases your chances of sightings.

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The Highlight: Close Encounters and Photography

One of the most praised features was the guides taking photos throughout the trip, which you can download afterward. As one reviewer put it, “Patrick took photos for us, which meant we could just enjoy the experience.” It’s a thoughtful touch that lets you focus on the whales rather than trying to get that perfect shot.

Seeing whales flipping, surfacing close to the boat, or even breaching is awe-inspiring. Several reviews mention how fortunate they felt to witness these moments, with some noting that the whales stayed nearby for up to 40 minutes. The guides also shared interesting facts about the whales and other marine creatures, making the experience both fun and educational.

Comfort and Practical Details

The boat’s heated indoor cabins are a blessing, especially when the weather turns chilly or rainy, which is common in Iceland. The flotation overalls provided are highly recommended, as they keep you warm and dry, even when standing on the deck to get a better view. Many travelers reported feeling pleased with these provisions, especially on windy days.

The boat also offers snacks and drinks for purchase, which can be handy if you get hungry during the trip. The seasickness tablets supplied on board help minimize discomfort, a thoughtful addition for those prone to motion sickness.

What Could Be Better?

While the tour generally receives high praise, some travelers noted that crowding can be an issue on the boat, especially when multiple groups are sharing the vessel. One review mentioned that 10-15 fewer people would make for a more comfortable experience, particularly for getting unobstructed views.

Another point to consider is the uncertainty of sightings. Even with experienced guides, wildlife can be unpredictable. However, the company’s offer of a free second trip provides reassurance that you won’t be wasting your money if the whales decide to stay hidden.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is an excellent choice for families, couples, solo travelers, and anyone interested in marine wildlife and scenic coastlines. It’s particularly suitable for those who value guides with expert knowledge and are willing to accept a bit of luck when it comes to whale sightings. The relaxed pace, comfort features, and the opportunity to see multiple species make it a worthwhile addition to your Reykjavik itinerary.

The Sum Up: Why Choose This Whale Watching Tour?

In the end, this Reykjavik whale watching tour offers a well-rounded experience at a reasonable price. The chance to see humpbacks, dolphins, and other marine creatures in their natural environment is genuinely exciting — many reviews describe it as a “magical” or “breathtaking” experience. The friendly guides and comfortable onboard amenities elevate the experience from just a wildlife hunt to a memorable outing.

If you’re someone who appreciates the combination of wildlife, scenic views, and cultural insights, this trip hits the mark. It’s especially suited for travelers who don’t mind some unpredictability but want good value and a professional, friendly crew. It’s a fantastic way to connect with Iceland’s natural environment in a setting that balances adventure with comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to have previous experience or special skills?
No, this tour is suitable for all levels of experience. Just bring weather-appropriate clothing and a sense of wonder.

What should I bring?
Layered clothing, waterproof gear, and something warm. The tour provides flotation overalls and indoor cabins, but dressing warmly helps.

Are there restrooms on the boat?
Yes, the boat has toilet facilities onboard.

What is the likelihood of seeing whales?
Many reviews mention successful sightings, including humpbacks, dolphins, and minke whales. However, wildlife is unpredictable, and sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Can children join the tour?
Yes, the tour is accessible to families, and children as young as six have enjoyed it according to reviews.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

What if we don’t see any whales?
The company offers a complimentary ticket for a second tour if no sightings occur during your first trip.

How long does the trip last?
Approximately 3.5 hours, with some variation depending on conditions and sightings.

To sum it up, this whale watching tour from Reykjavik balances professionalism, comfort, and adventure. It’s a chance to see some of the North Atlantic’s most impressive creatures while enjoying Iceland’s stunning coastlines. Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and those seeking a memorable, authentic Icelandic experience that’s both affordable and well-managed.

You can check availability for your dates here: