Whale dorsal fin breaking the surface near Reykjavik with seagulls flying overhead
Whale surfacing near Reykjavik during whale watching boat tour in Iceland
Imagine Peace Tower beam of light shooting into night sky with snow-capped Icelandic mountains behind
Imagine Peace Tower cylindrical white monument on snowy Reykjavik waterfront at sunset
Humpback whale breaching ocean alongside silhouettes holding hands around Imagine Peace Tower lights in Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik Whale Watching & Imagine Peace Tower Boat Tour

5 hoursMin 1 guests
Listing ID : 20209
Duration5 hours
Group SizeVaries
Starts AtOld Harbour, Reykjavik
LanguagesEnglish
Reykjavik Sea and Island Experience

Reykjavík Whales and Imagine Peace Tower Tour

Whale watching in Faxaflói Bay followed by a guided evening visit to Viðey Island and the iconic Imagine Peace Tower.


This combined tour pairs an afternoon on the water spotting whales and seabirds with an evening crossing to Viðey Island whale and peace tower tour, where Yoko Ono's luminous tribute to John Lennon rises into the Reykjavik sky. It is one of the most distinctive ways to spend a full afternoon and evening in Iceland's capital.

Faxaflói Bay is one of the more reliable cetacean habitats in Iceland, regularly visited by minke whales and humpbacks, along with a variety of seabirds. The whale watching portion of the tour gives guests time at sea to observe these animals in their natural environment, guided by experienced naturalists who provide context on the marine life encountered.

After returning to the Old Harbour, there is time to explore the waterfront neighbourhood or find a meal before the ferry departs for Viðey Island. The short boat crossing offers views of Reykjavik and the surrounding landscape as the evening light settles over the bay.

Viðey Island is a place with deep historical roots, a protected nature reserve, and the site of Imagine Peace Tower, the tower of light designed by Yoko Ono. A guided walk takes visitors across the island, providing insight into its art, history, and ecology. On clear nights, the northern lights may appear above the beam of light, creating a genuinely memorable scene.

Tour Highlights

Whale watching in Faxaflói Bay with opportunities to spot minke and humpback whales alongside seabirds.

Evening visit to the Imagine Peace Tower on Viðey Island, a striking work of art dedicated to world peace.

A scenic 20-minute ferry ride to Viðey Island from the Old Harbour in downtown Reykjavik.

Guided walk across Viðey Island exploring its natural landscape, historical significance, and artistic installations.

Potential northern lights sighting on clear evenings above the island and the beam of light.

Panoramic nighttime views of Reykjavik from the water and from Viðey Island.

A well-paced itinerary that allows time at the harbour between the two main experiences.

Tour Itinerary

1
Whale Watching Departure from Old Harbour

The tour begins with a whale watching voyage departing from the Old Harbour in Reykjavik. Guests board the vessel and head out into Faxaflói Bay in search of whales, dolphins, and seabirds.

2
Wildlife Observation at Sea

Naturalist guides provide commentary as the boat searches for and observes marine wildlife. Minke whales are among the most commonly sighted species in these waters, with humpbacks and porpoises also possible.

3
Return to Harbour and Free Time

After approximately three to five hours at sea, the vessel returns to the Old Harbour. Guests have free time to stroll the waterfront district or enjoy a meal at one of the nearby restaurants before the evening ferry.

4
Ferry Crossing to Viðey Island

The ferry departs from the Old Harbour for the 20-minute crossing to Viðey Island. The boat journey itself offers views of the Reykjavik skyline and the surrounding volcanic landscape.

5
Guided Walk and Imagine Peace Tower

A guided walk across Viðey Island leads to the Imagine Peace Tower, covering the island's history, ecology, and the story behind Yoko Ono's memorial artwork. Clear skies may offer a chance to spot the northern lights.

What Is Included

Included

  • Afternoon whale watching tour from Old Harbour
  • Naturalist guide on the whale watching vessel
  • Evening ferry crossing to and from Viðey Island
  • Guided walk on Viðey Island
  • Imagine Peace Tower visit

Not Included

  • Meals and beverages during free time at harbour
  • Pickup and drop-off service (available at additional cost)
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Gratuities

Important Information

This tour takes place partly at sea and partly on a small island. Weather conditions in Iceland can change quickly. Guests should dress in warm, waterproof layers regardless of the forecast.
Duration
Approximately 5 hours in total, combining the whale watching voyage and the Viðey Island evening tour.
Meeting Point
Old Harbour, downtown Reykjavik. Both the whale watching and the Viðey Island ferry depart from this location.
What to Bring
Warm and waterproof clothing, sturdy footwear suitable for uneven terrain, and layered base clothing for cold sea air.
Cancellation
Please review the cancellation policy at the time of booking. Iceland's weather may affect operations, and tour providers handle disruptions according to individual policies.
Accessibility
This tour is rated very easy. The island walk involves paths that may be uneven. Guests with mobility concerns should contact the operator prior to booking.
Age Range
Suitable for all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult throughout both the sea and island portions of the tour.

Book Your Reykjavik Whale and Peace Tower Experience

Secure your place on this distinctive Reykjavik evening tour combining marine wildlife and one of Iceland's most iconic artworks. Availability is limited and advance booking is recommended, particularly during peak season.

Book Now

Frequently Asked Questions

What wildlife might I see on the whale watching portion of the tour?
Faxaflói Bay is home to minke whales and humpback whales, as well as white-beaked dolphins and various seabirds including puffins and Arctic terns depending on the season.
How long is the ferry ride to Viðey Island?
The ferry crossing from the Old Harbour to Viðey Island takes approximately 20 minutes each way.
Is pickup and drop-off service included in the tour price?
Pickup and drop-off service is not included in the standard tour price but is available as an optional add-on for an additional fee.
When does the Imagine Peace Tower operate?
The Imagine Peace Tower is lit annually between October 9 and December 8, and during other specific periods. Guests should confirm current operating dates with the tour operator at the time of booking.
Is there time for a meal between the whale watching and the Viðey Island ferry?
Yes. After the whale watching vessel returns to the Old Harbour, guests have free time before the evening ferry departs. The harbour area has several restaurants and cafes within easy walking distance.
Can I see the northern lights on this tour?
Northern lights sightings are possible on clear evenings during the aurora season, particularly during the Viðey Island portion of the tour. Sightings cannot be guaranteed as they depend on solar activity and weather conditions.
Reykjavik ToursWhale Watching IcelandViðey IslandImagine Peace TowerIceland Night ToursOld Harbour ReykjavikNorthern LightsFaxaflói BayIceland WildlifeYoko Ono IcelandReykjavik Evening ExperienceIceland Boat Tours
Last updated: 2025-07-10 | Product ID: rkv-whales-peace-tower-001

Activity

Availability

You can book up to the start time, as long as there are places remaining. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Additional Information

Physical: Wheelchair Not accessible

Duration

5 hours

Languages

English - Speaking Guide

Additional Information

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Cancellation Policy

Select Date

Meeting Point

Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.

Activity Site

Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.

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