Luxury yacht salon with cream leather sofa, wooden dining table, and helm station for whale watching tour from Reykjavik
Tourists sitting on yacht deck during whale watching tour from Reykjavik with ocean views
Photographer on yacht watching a whale surfacing and spouting in Reykjavik waters
Humpback whale breaching out of the ocean on a whale watching tour from Reykjavik
Aerial view of a whale swimming near the surface in turquoise Icelandic waters
Humpback whale breaching out of the ocean near Reykjavik during a whale watching tour
Smiling woman wearing captain's hat on yacht bridge with navigation controls in Reykjavik
Smiling blonde bartender behind a yacht bar counter with liquor bottles, ice buckets, and fresh garnishes
Humpback whale breaching and blowing near rocky shoreline in Reykjavik harbor waters
White yacht cruising calm blue waters near rocky Reykjavik coastline on a whale watching tour
Aerial view of a white luxury yacht cruising through deep blue ocean waters on a whale watching tour from Reykjavik
Humpback whale breaching out of the ocean on a whale watching tour from Reykjavik
Elegant wooden interior salon of a whale watching yacht with cream sofas and dining area in Reykjavik
Tourists on yacht bow watching dolphin leap from ocean during Reykjavik whale watching tour

Reykjavik, Iceland

Whale Watching Guided Tour from Reykjavik by Yacht

3 hours and 30 minutesMin 1 guests
Listing ID : 28931
Duration3 hours 30 minutes
Group SizeSmall Group
Starts AtOld Harbour House, Aegisgarður 2, Reykjavik 101
LanguagesEnglish
Reykjavik Marine Wildlife Experience

Reykjavik Whale Watching Adventure Aboard the Amelia Rose Yacht

Sail through Faxaflói Bay in comfort and witness Iceland's incredible marine life up close.


This Reykjavik whale watching yacht tour aboard the Amelia Rose offers a rare opportunity to observe minke whales, humpback whales, dolphins, and porpoises in their natural habitat while sailing in a purpose-built offshore vessel. Departing from Reykjavik's historic Old Harbour, the journey covers Faxaflói Bay and the scenic coastline framing the city. The experienced crew are trained wildlife spotters dedicated to maximizing every sighting opportunity.

The Amelia Rose is equipped with three panoramic decks, giving passengers multiple elevated vantage points suited for wildlife observation and photography. Partially covered deck areas provide shelter against Iceland's unpredictable weather without restricting movement or sightlines. The vessel's offshore design also helps absorb the chop common in Icelandic coastal waters, contributing to a more stable and comfortable passage.

The route passes alongside smaller islands and follows Reykjavik's coastline, offering scenic perspectives of the capital from the water. While minke and humpback whales are the most frequently spotted species, occasional encounters with orcas and other rare marine animals have been recorded on this route. A small snack bar on board keeps passengers refreshed throughout the outing.

This tour is graded easy, requiring no prior experience or physical fitness beyond the ability to board and move around a vessel. It is well suited for families, solo travelers, and groups seeking a well-organized wildlife excursion without sacrificing comfort. Check-in takes place at Old Harbour House thirty minutes before sailing, where the crew provides a safety briefing before departure.

Tour Highlights

Opportunity to spot minke whales, humpback whales, dolphins, porpoises, and occasional orca sightings in Faxaflói Bay.

Three panoramic decks provide outstanding 360-degree vantage points for both wildlife observation and coastal photography.

Offshore-grade vessel construction reduces the effects of choppy seas, making for a smoother and more comfortable experience.

Partially covered deck areas offer wind and rain protection while keeping guests free to move and find the best viewpoints.

Small-group format ensures a more personal experience with attentive crew and better access to prime viewing positions.

Scenic route past Reykjavik's coastline and nearby islands offers striking views of the capital from the open water.

On-board snack bar provides light refreshments and drinks to keep passengers comfortable throughout the voyage.

Itinerary

1
Check-In at Old Harbour House

Arrive at Old Harbour House, Aegisgarður 2, Reykjavik 101, at least 30 minutes before departure. The check-in team will confirm your booking and direct you to the vessel.

2
Safety Briefing and Boarding

The crew delivers a concise safety briefing covering on-board conduct and emergency procedures before casting off. Passengers are then free to choose their preferred deck and settle in for the voyage.

3
Departure from the Old Harbour

The Amelia Rose sets sail from Reykjavik's Old Harbour, passing the city's coastal landmarks as the vessel heads into Faxaflói Bay. The crew begins active wildlife scanning from the moment the boat leaves the dock.

4
Wildlife Search in Faxaflói Bay

The main portion of the tour takes place in the open waters of the bay, where the crew uses experience and observation to locate whale and dolphin activity. When animals are spotted, the captain maneuvers the vessel to allow safe, close viewing from multiple decks.

5
Coastal Scenery and Refreshments

As the yacht cruises along the coastline, passengers can visit the snack bar for drinks and light snacks. The backdrop of Reykjavik's skyline and surrounding landscape provides additional photo opportunities throughout the return leg.

6
Return to Old Harbour

The Amelia Rose returns to Reykjavik's Old Harbour, completing the approximately 3.5-hour round trip. Guests disembark at the same pier and are free to continue exploring the city independently.

What Is Included

Included

  • Whale watching tour aboard the Amelia Rose yacht
  • Professional wildlife-spotting crew
  • Access to all three panoramic decks
  • Safety briefing and on-board instruction
  • Snack bar access with refreshments available for purchase

Not Included

  • Food and beverages from the snack bar
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Gratuities for crew
  • Transportation to and from the departure point

Important Information

Please arrive at the meeting point at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure. Late arrivals may not be accommodated and refunds are subject to the cancellation policy.
Duration
Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes from departure to return at the Old Harbour.
Meeting Point
Old Harbour House, Aegisgarður 2, Reykjavik 101. Check in at least 30 minutes before departure.
What to Bring
Dress in warm, windproof, and waterproof layers suitable for open sea conditions. Bring a camera, sunglasses, and any personal medication including seasickness remedies if needed.
Cancellation
Please refer to the booking confirmation for the applicable cancellation and refund policy. Tours may be affected by severe weather conditions at the operator's discretion.
Accessibility
The tour is graded easy and suitable for most fitness levels. Guests with mobility concerns should contact the operator in advance to confirm suitability of the vessel's deck access.
Age Range
This tour is suitable for all ages. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times on board.

Reserve Your Place on the Amelia Rose

Places on this small-group yacht tour are limited. Secure your spot to avoid missing one of Reykjavik's most sought-after wildlife experiences.

Book Now

Frequently Asked Questions

What marine animals can I expect to see on this tour?
The most commonly encountered species in Faxaflói Bay are minke whales and humpback whales, along with white-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoises. Orca sightings are rarer but have been recorded on this route.
Where does the tour depart from?
The tour departs from Old Harbour House at Aegisgarður 2, Reykjavik 101, located in Reykjavik's Old Harbour district. Check-in is required at least 30 minutes before the scheduled sailing time.
Is this tour suitable for people prone to seasickness?
The Amelia Rose is an offshore-designed vessel built to handle Iceland's often choppy coastal conditions, which helps reduce vessel motion compared to smaller boats. Passengers who are sensitive to sea motion are still advised to take preventive measures before boarding.
What should I wear for the tour?
Conditions at sea can be significantly cooler and windier than onshore, even during summer months. Wear multiple warm layers, a windproof and waterproof outer jacket, and sturdy footwear suitable for a moving deck.
Is food available on board?
Yes, the Amelia Rose has a small on-board snack bar where passengers can purchase light refreshments and drinks during the tour. Snack bar purchases are not included in the tour price.
How large are the groups on this tour?
This is a small-group experience, meaning the number of passengers is kept deliberately limited to ensure more space on deck and better interaction with the crew. The exact maximum group size should be confirmed at the time of booking.
Whale Watching ReykjavikIceland Wildlife TourAmelia Rose YachtFaxafloi BayHumpback Whale IcelandMinke Whale TourReykjavik Boat TourIceland Dolphin WatchingOld Harbour ReykjavikSmall Group IcelandIceland Marine WildlifeLuxury Whale Watching
Last updated: 2025-07-01 | Product ID: reykjavik-whale-watching-amelia-rose

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

3 hours and 30 minutes

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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