Humpback whale breaching the ocean surface near Reykjavik with Reykjavik Sailors logo
Humpback whale breaching out of ocean waters near Reykjavik with mountains in background
Tourists disembarking a white whale watching boat docked at Reykjavik harbor with Icelandic flag and mountains
Person holding orange Reykjavík Sailors flag at harbor with whale watching boat Rósin in background
Humpback whale breaching out of the ocean during a whale watching tour from Reykjavik
Humpback whale breaching out of the ocean surrounded by seagulls near Reykjavik Iceland
Reykjavik Sailors orange flag held on whale watching cruise boat deck with Icelandic flag and ocean wake
Reykjavik Sailors whale watching boat with 'We Go The Extra Mile' text docked at Reykjavik harbor
Tourists on deck of whale watching boat sailing from Reykjavik on sunny day
Reykjavik Sailors. Whale in front of boat
Whale surfacing beside a whale watching tour boat in Reykjavik with orange flag visible
Humpback whale dorsal fin and back surfacing from calm ocean waters near Reykjavik
Hand holding orange Reykjavik Sailors flag on a whale watching boat with ocean waves behind
Humpback whale breaching out of calm ocean waters near Reykjavik with misty mountains in background
Humpback whale tail fluke rising above ocean surface during whale watching tour from Reykjavik
Humpback whale surfacing near Reykjavik during a whale watching cruise in Iceland
Humpback whale tail fluke rising from ocean near whale watching boat in Reykjavik Iceland
Humpback whale breaching the ocean surface during a whale watching tour in Reykjavik, Iceland
Humpback whale lunge feeding at ocean surface surrounded by flock of seagulls near Reykjavik
Humpback whale surfacing near Reykjavik with seagull flying overhead during whale watching cruise

Reykjavik, Iceland

Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavik | 2.5-Hour Cruise

3 hoursMin 1 guests
Listing ID : 19349
Duration3 hours
Group SizeSmall to medium groups
Starts AtGeirsgata 11, Reykjavik Old Harbour
LanguagesEnglish
Wildlife Tours in Iceland

Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavik

Sail into Faxaflói Bay and encounter some of the ocean's most remarkable creatures.


This whale watching tour from Reykjavik offers a genuine encounter with marine wildlife in one of Iceland's most productive bays. Departing from the historic Old Harbour, the experience combines natural discovery with comfortable onboard facilities. The tour is rated very easy, making it accessible for a wide range of travelers.

Faxaflói Bay is a well-known feeding ground for Minke and Humpback whales, and sightings of Dolphins, Harbour porpoises, and even Killer whales have been recorded here. As the vessel moves through the bay, passengers also enjoy open views of Reykjavik's surrounding mountains and offshore islands. Seabird activity along the route adds further depth to the wildlife experience.

The boats are outfitted with heated indoor cabins, warm overalls provided onboard, and a bar, ensuring comfort regardless of Atlantic weather. Complimentary seasickness tablets and free Wi-Fi are available throughout the journey. The crew keeps guests informed about wildlife activity and conditions in real time.

In the rare event that no whale is spotted during the tour, passengers are invited to return for a complimentary rescheduled trip. Tour status updates are posted daily on the operator's website, so checking in before departure is strongly recommended. Flexibility and transparency are central to how this experience is managed.

Tour Highlights

Sail through Faxaflói Bay, one of Iceland's prime whale watching areas, within easy reach of downtown Reykjavik.

Watch for Minke and Humpback whales, Dolphins, Harbour porpoises, and the occasional Killer whale sighting.

Take in panoramic views of Reykjavik's volcanic mountains and surrounding islands during the voyage.

Stay warm in provided full-body overalls and relax in spacious heated cabins designed for Iceland's coastal conditions.

Observe vibrant seabird activity along the route, adding a layer of wildlife diversity to the outing.

Benefit from a free return policy: if no whale is sighted, you are welcome back at no additional cost.

Stay connected with free onboard Wi-Fi and access complimentary seasickness tablets throughout the journey.

Tour Itinerary

1
Check Tour Status

Before heading to the harbour, review the Daily Diary on the operator's homepage for the latest updates. Notifications about any changes are also sent by email to registered participants.

2
Arrival at Meeting Point

Arrive at Geirsgata 11, the Special Tours ticket office at Reykjavik Old Harbour, at least 30 minutes before departure. Passengers who arranged a pickup service should be at their designated point 60 minutes before the scheduled departure.

3
Boarding and Embarkation

Collect your warm overalls at the dock and board the vessel. Find a comfortable spot in the heated indoor cabins before the boat departs into the bay.

4
Wildlife Watching in Faxaflói Bay

The vessel sails out into Faxaflói Bay, where the crew scans for Minke and Humpback whales, Dolphins, Harbour porpoises, and Killer whales. Scenic coastal and mountain views are visible throughout the voyage.

5
Return to Reykjavik Old Harbour

After approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours at sea, the vessel returns to the Old Harbour. If no sightings occurred, staff will assist with arranging a complimentary return visit.

What Is Included

Included

  • Guided whale watching experience in Faxaflói Bay
  • Warm overalls provided onboard
  • Access to heated indoor cabins
  • Complimentary seasickness tablets
  • Free onboard Wi-Fi
  • Bar service onboard
  • Free return tour if no whale is spotted

Not Included

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off (available for an additional fee)
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Gratuities
  • Food and beverages beyond bar service

Important Information

Please check the Daily Diary on the operator's website before your tour for real-time updates on weather conditions and tour status. Arriving early ensures a smooth boarding process.
Duration
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours on the water, departing from Reykjavik Old Harbour.
Meeting Point
Meet at Geirsgata 11, Special Tours ticket office, Reykjavik Old Harbour. Arrive 30 minutes before departure. Pickup service requires booking at least one hour in advance.
What to Bring
Dress in warm, layered clothing as Atlantic conditions can be cold and unpredictable. Overalls are provided, but personal layers and waterproof footwear are recommended.
Cancellation
Tours may be cancelled due to weather conditions. In such cases, a full refund or rescheduling option is offered. Guests are encouraged to monitor email updates and the Daily Diary.
Accessibility
This tour is rated very easy and is suitable for most fitness levels. The vessel has indoor cabin space for guests who prefer shelter from wind and spray.
Age Range
The tour is suitable for all ages. Children should be accompanied by an adult at all times while onboard.

Book Your Whale Watching Adventure

Secure your place on one of Reykjavik's most popular wildlife experiences. Departures run from the Old Harbour, and flexible rebooking options are in place for weather-related changes.

Book Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the whale watching tour depart from?
The tour departs from Geirsgata 11, the Special Tours ticket office at Reykjavik Old Harbour. Passengers should arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
Which whale species can be seen on this tour?
Common sightings include Minke and Humpback whales, Dolphins, and Harbour porpoises. Killer whale sightings are rare but have been recorded in Faxaflói Bay.
What happens if no whales are spotted during the tour?
If no whale is sighted during the tour, passengers are invited to join a future tour free of charge. The crew will assist with arrangements before disembarkation.
Is the tour suitable for people who experience seasickness?
Complimentary seasickness tablets are available onboard. The vessel also features heated indoor cabins where passengers can sit in a sheltered environment during the voyage.
Can I arrange a hotel pickup for this tour?
Yes, a pickup service is available but must be booked at least one hour before departure. An additional fee applies, and the service is available for the first boat tour only.
How should I check if the tour is running on my chosen day?
The operator publishes a Daily Diary on their homepage with real-time tour status updates. Email notifications are also sent to registered participants if any changes occur.
Whale Watching ReykjavikIceland Wildlife ToursFaxaflói BayHumpback WhaleMinke WhaleOld Harbour ReykjavikDolphin Watching IcelandFamily Friendly ToursIceland Sea ToursArctic WildlifeReykjavik Day TripsMarine Wildlife Iceland
Last updated: 2025-01-01 | Product ID: whale-watching-reykjavik-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

3 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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