Reykjavík: Whale Watching and Marine Life Cruise

Reykjavík: Whale Watching and Marine Life Cruise — An Honest Review

If you’re considering a whale watching tour in Reykjavík, you’re in for a treat, but it’s good to go in with realistic expectations. We’ve looked into this experience, and from the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, it’s clear that a trip out into Faxaflói Bay can be incredibly rewarding — especially if you love wildlife and scenic coastlines.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see a good variety of marine animals, from minke and humpback whales to porpoises and dolphins. Plus, the professional guides make all the difference, sharing their expertise and making the trip both educational and fun. However, since nature is unpredictable, sightings can’t be guaranteed — a point worth considering if you’re mainly hoping for whale sightings.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy being on the water, appreciate coastal scenery, and are okay with a little unpredictability. It’s especially appealing for those who want a comfortable, well-organized trip with the chance to see Iceland’s incredible marine ecosystem up close.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, but the guides do their best to locate whales and other animals.
• The boat features indoor heated cabins as well as outdoor seating, making it comfortable regardless of weather.
• Expert guides, often marine biologists, enhance the experience with informative commentary.
• The tour lasts around 3 hours, with some variation depending on how far whales are.
• You can expect to see a variety of marine mammals and seabirds, including puffins.
• Snacks and drinks are available for purchase onboard, but there are no included refreshments.
• The seas can be choppy, so dressing warmly and comfortably is essential.
• This experience is highly rated, with an overall score of 4.4/5 from over 6,800 reviews.
• Booking flexibility: You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Family-friendly for those with adventurous kids, but check weather conditions and comfort levels.

What to Expect from the Whale Watching Cruise

This tour is a classic Icelandic adventure, combining marine wildlife spotting with stunning coastal scenery. Starting from the Old Harbour in Reykjavík, you’ll check in 30 minutes before departure, making the process smooth with a self-service kiosk. The boat itself is designed for comfort, offering both indoor seating with toilets and outdoor decks to enjoy the fresh sea air and views.

Once underway, the guides will start sharing insights about the local marine creatures and the environment, often pointing out seabirds like puffins and explaining whale behaviors. Having marine biologists as guides seems to be a highlight, especially for those who appreciate learning about wildlife in its natural habitat. A review mentions that the guide was “very knowledgeable,” and another praises the “friendly, helpful crew.”

The journey can range from 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on how far the whales are. This flexibility is good because whales are wild animals, and their appearance depends on various factors like season, weather, and luck. As one reviewer noted, “You need some luck,” but even if you don’t see whales, the trip offers beautiful views of the Icelandic coast and plenty of entertainment with seabird sightings and scenic landscapes.

The Experience of Wildlife Watching

The main draw of this tour is the chance to see whales and other marine mammals. The reviews consistently mention sightings of minke whales, humpbacks, harbor porpoises, and dolphins. For example, one traveler shared, “We saw a humpback multiple times, and it played next to our boat for ages,” highlighting how memorable these encounters can be.

While some guests, like Emma, mention “seeing a whale wasn’t guaranteed,” they emphasize the enjoyment of the boat ride itself and the scenery. Another review states, “We got very lucky to see a whale, but it wasn’t looking likely at first,” which is a reminder that wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, but the experience still remains worthwhile.

The guides do a great job keeping everyone focused on possible sightings, often staying within a few tens of meters of the animals when they do appear. One review notes, “The crew was on point in keeping us close to the whales,” which adds a lot to the experience, making it more immersive and exciting.

The Boat and Facilities

The vessel used for this tour is described as modern, spacious, and well-maintained, with multiple decks. This allows plenty of room for everyone to find a comfortable spot, no matter if they prefer to stand outside or sit inside in the heated cabin. The indoor space is appreciated by travelers who want to stay warm and dry, especially since the weather in Iceland can be unpredictable.

Snacks and drinks aren’t included but are available for purchase on board. Several reviews praise the bar and cafeteria, noting that the seats outside are the best for whale viewing, but the indoor area is perfect for when it gets chilly or choppy. Some travelers mentioned taking seasickness tablets, which can make the ride much more pleasant, given that the ocean can be quite choppy at times.

The onboard WiFi helps guests share their adventure live, which is a nice touch for those wanting to post photos or stay connected. The boat’s interior facilities are sufficient for a comfortable 3-hour trip, with toilets on board adding convenience.

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Weather and Clothing Tips

Since the tour takes place in open water, dressing appropriately is crucial. Several reviews mention the importance of warm, weather-appropriate clothing; it can be much colder on the ocean than on land, and wind chill can make it feel even chillier. Travelers recommend layering up, including waterproof jackets and sturdy shoes.

The weather can be unpredictable, and if it’s very choppy, some guests might experience seasickness. Having sea sickness tablets on hand or taking precautions beforehand can significantly improve the experience. Many reviewers appreciated the availability of sea sickness pills on board.

Price and Value

At $83 per person, this whale-watching trip is a solid choice considering what’s included: expert guides, indoor heated cabins, WiFi, and the chance to see a variety of marine animals. While the actual sightings depend on nature, the overall value for money is high because of the professionalism, comfort, and educational aspect.

It’s also worth noting that if you don’t see whales, the company offers a free return ticket valid for up to three years (subject to availability), which gives peace of mind for those worried about missing out.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone curious about Iceland’s rich marine ecosystem. It’s suitable for travelers who are comfortable on boats, as the trip can be a bit choppy. Families with older children who enjoy outdoor adventures could find it especially memorable.

If your main goal is to see whales and marine life, remember that sightings are not guaranteed, so keep your expectations flexible. For those who enjoy scenic boat rides with the added bonus of wildlife, this tour offers a well-organized and enjoyable way to experience Iceland’s coast.

Final Thoughts

The Reykjavík Whale Watching and Marine Life Cruise provides a balanced experience—combining the thrill of wildlife encounters with the beauty of Iceland’s rugged coast. Guides seem to be a key part of making this trip special, offering knowledge and a friendly presence that elevates the outing. While you can’t control the animals’ schedules, the chance to see whales, dolphins, and puffins, coupled with the scenic views, makes it worthwhile for many.

If you’re prepared for the weather and have a flexible attitude about sightings, this tour can be a highlight of your Iceland trip. It’s a chance to get close to the ocean’s inhabitants and learn about them from people who truly love sharing their knowledge.

FAQ

Do I need to know how to boat or be experienced?
Not at all. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including those new to boat trips, but be prepared for some choppiness if the weather is rough.

How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts around 3 hours, but it can be between 2.5 to 3.5 hours depending on how far the whales are.

Is there a guarantee I will see whales?
No, whale sightings depend on nature. If no whales are spotted, the company offers a free return ticket valid for up to three years.

What should I wear?
Dress in warm, weather-appropriate clothing; layering is recommended, including waterproof jackets and sturdy shoes.

Are onboard refreshments included?
No, but drinks and snacks are available to purchase. Many reviews mention the bar and cafeteria as convenient and good quality.

Can I bring children?
While not explicitly specified, the trip is generally suitable for those comfortable on boats. It might be best for children who enjoy outdoor adventures and can handle the weather.

Is WiFi available on board?
Yes, free WiFi is provided, helping you share your experience live.

Are toilets available on the boat?
Yes, the vessel has toilet facilities onboard.

What is the best time of year for whale watching?
While the peak season is from April to October, the ocean is always full of marine life. The longer you wait, the more likely you are to see whales, but sightings are never guaranteed.

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

Whether you’re after a wildlife adventure or simply want to enjoy the stunning Icelandic coast, this whale watching trip offers a good balance of professionalism and natural beauty. With a bit of luck and the right gear, you might just find yourself with unforgettable memories of Iceland’s wild marine inhabitants.

You can check availability for your dates here: