Midnight Sun Whale Watching from Reykjavik

Midnight Sun Whale Watching from Reykjavik: A Unique Icelandic Experience

Imagine heading out into Faxaflói Bay in the late evening, with the midnight sun casting a gentle, golden hue over the water, and the chance to spot humpback whales, minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, and harbor porpoises. For about 2 hours and 30 minutes, this tour offers a captivating blend of natural wonder and wildlife encounters. Priced at around $105.34 per person, it’s a journey that’s best booked well in advance—most travelers plan their trip about 41 days ahead to secure a spot.

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to combine two iconic Icelandic sights: the surreal midnight sun and the thrill of whale watching. It’s an intimate way to connect with nature after hours, with the bonus of thermal overalls to keep you warm—even on chilly nights—and free WiFi onboard. Another strong point is the sightings guarantee—if you don’t spot anything, you can return for free, which provides a reassuring safety net for those concerned about the unpredictability of wildlife tours.

One consideration to keep in mind is that weather conditions can influence the experience—poor weather may lead to cancellations or less optimal viewing conditions. The tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy marine wildlife, are comfortable on boats, and appreciate evening or night adventures. It’s particularly ideal if you’re eager to experience Iceland’s unique summer nights and aren’t fussed about the possibility of an uneventful trip, thanks to the money-back guarantee.

If you’re looking for a memorable, authentic activity that combines natural beauty with educational insights, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially appealing to those who value guides with local knowledge and enjoy sharing moments with small groups or families, making it suitable for both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers.

Key Points

• Combines two iconic Icelandic sights: the midnight sun and whale watching.
• Wildlife sightings are guaranteed, with a free retake if nothing is seen.
• Warmth and comfort are prioritized with thermal overalls, heated indoor seating, and WiFi onboard.
• Ideal for nature lovers willing to venture into the evening hours for a unique perspective.
• Weather can impact the experience, so flexibility is recommended.
• Small group size (max 65 travelers) enhances the chance to see wildlife and enjoy a personal experience.

A Detailed Look at the Midnight Sun Whale Watching Tour

Starting Point and Timing

The tour begins at Geirsgata 11 in the Reykjavik Old Harbour—an easily accessible spot, close to public transportation, which makes meeting up straightforward. The departure time is 9:00 pm, perfectly timed for those wanting to escape the daytime crowds and see the bay under the warm glow of the midnight sun. The duration of about 2.5 hours strikes a good balance—long enough to enjoy the sights without feeling fatigued.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Once aboard, you’ll be met with a welcoming crew, often praised for their knowledgeable guides. As the boat sets sail into Faxaflói Bay, the real magic begins. Expect scenic views of Reykjavik’s coastline and the surrounding mountains, especially as the sun dips lower but still provides ample daylight.

The main goal is wildlife spotting—humpback whales, minke whales, and other marine mammals are often seen during this time of year. The tour guides are skilled at spotting these creatures and will point them out, providing fascinating facts about their behavior. Several reviews highlight how guides like Tom keep things lively and informative, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

Along With whales, it’s common to see white-beaked dolphins and harbor porpoises—small but lively marine mammals that often come close to the boat, creating memorable moments. One reviewer even exclaimed, “We saw tons of birds, some dolphins, and another type of whale,” emphasizing the rich marine biodiversity in Faxaflói Bay.

Comfort and Safety

Warmth is key in Iceland’s unpredictable weather, especially late at night. The tour includes thermal overalls in all sizes, which keep you snug even if the wind picks up. Many reviewers appreciated this, noting they stayed dry and warm, allowing them to stay on deck longer and fully enjoy the experience.

Heated indoor seating is available, providing a cozy retreat if the cold becomes too much, while WiFi onboard lets you share your sightings in real-time or just relax with some music or messaging. The availability of complimentary sea sickness tablets adds peace of mind for sensitive travelers.

Wildlife Encounters and Guides

Authentic wildlife sightings are unpredictable, but the sightings guarantee offers reassurance. If nothing is seen, you can retake the tour at no extra charge. This policy is particularly appreciated in reviews, where travelers mention returning for a second try when the conditions weren’t ideal the first time.

Reviews consistently praise the guides’ local knowledge and their ability to enhance the experience. “Sophie was very friendly and knowledgeable,” one reviewer notes, which makes a big difference when trying to identify fleeting glimpses of whales or dolphins. The small group size fosters a more intimate environment, allowing everyone to get good views and ask questions.

Value for Money

At around $105, this tour offers a good deal considering the included amenities—thermal gear, WiFi, a money-back sighting guarantee, and the chance to see multiple species of marine mammals. When you factor in the quality of guides, the scenic setting, and the unique experience of watching the midnight sun from the water, it’s an activity that provides significant value for travelers seeking something beyond typical sightseeing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This whale watching trip is best suited for adventurous travelers who are comfortable on boats and eager to experience Iceland’s summer night. If you’re someone who loves wildlife, enjoys being outdoors after dark, or is fascinated by marine mammals, this tour hits the mark. It also works well for families, given the availability of children’s sizes for thermal overalls and the engaging guides.

Those who prefer predictable weather conditions or are sensitive to cold might want to prepare accordingly or consider flexible schedules, as weather can influence the experience. Plus, if your trip falls during a period of poor weather, there’s a chance the tour could be canceled with a full refund, which adds to the overall peace of mind.

The Sum Up

For those eager to see whales in their natural habitat while enjoying the extraordinary light of the midnight sun, this tour offers an engaging, well-supported experience. The combination of knowledgeable guides, comfortable amenities, and the chance to guaranteed sightings makes it a compelling choice for wildlife lovers and night-owl travelers alike.

While weather can be a variable factor, the full refund policy and retake offer provide reassurance that you’re not risking much. It’s an activity that suits those who appreciate authentic, outdoor adventures and are willing to venture into Reykjavik’s waters after sunset.

In essence, if you’re looking to combine Iceland’s stunning natural phenomena with a memorable marine wildlife encounter, this tour deserves a spot on your Iceland itinerary—just remember to dress warmly, bring your curiosity, and enjoy the spectacular summer night sky.

FAQs

Is hotel transfer included in the tour?
No, hotel transfers are not included. You meet at the Old Harbour in Reykjavik, which is easy to reach by public transportation or on foot.

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs at 9:00 pm, providing a late-evening experience under the midnight sun.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, allowing ample time for wildlife viewing and enjoying the scenery.

What amenities are provided onboard?
You’ll receive thermal overalls in children’s sizes, heated indoor seating, WiFi, and complimentary sea sickness tablets if needed.

Can I retake the tour if I don’t see any whales?
Yes, the tour offers a money-back sightings guarantee—if no marine mammals are seen, you can retake the trip at no charge.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, including families with children, thanks to the availability of thermal gear for kids.

Is the tour suitable for people with sea sickness?
Sea sickness tablets are available for free, and the boat’s stability, combined with the warm gear, helps mitigate discomfort.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 65 travelers, ensuring a relatively intimate experience.

What is the weather policy?
The tour requires good weather to operate. Poor weather may lead to cancellation, with options for rescheduling or full refunds.

How is wildlife viewed during the tour?
Guides are skilled at spotting animals, and small groups improve chances for close-up sightings. The sightings guarantee helps manage expectations.

This whale watching adventure from Reykjavik offers a genuine glimpse into Iceland’s extraordinary summer nights and marine life, making it a worthwhile experience for curious travelers ready for a bit of adventure and wonder.