Reykjavik is a natural hub for marine excursions, thanks to its prime location along Faxaflói Bay. The city’s proximity to abundant wildlife—whales, dolphins, puffins—and dramatic coastlines makes it a perfect starting point for memorable boat tours. We particularly love the whale-watching adventures, like the Reykjavík: Whale Watching and Marine Life Cruise, which offers the chance to see several whale species in their natural habitat while enjoying Iceland’s striking scenery. The Northern Lights cruises and puffin trips are also favorites, especially for travelers seeking unique, close-up wildlife experiences.
What makes Reykjavik’s boat tours stand out is the diversity of options: from 1-hour puffin safaris to 14-hour glacier lagoon explorations. Whether you’re after a quick wildlife fix, an intimate small-group cruise, or a full-day adventure across icy landscapes, the list below covers it all.
1. Reykjavík: Whale Watching and Marine Life Cruise
This 3-hour cruise takes you from Reykjavik’s harbor into Faxaflói Bay, known for its rich marine life. The trip is popular for its variety of whales, including minkes and humpbacks, and the chance to see dolphins and porpoises. The boat itself is well-sized, avoiding the overly commercial feel of larger vessels, which makes for a more personal experience. Many reviewers mention the knowledgeable guides who explain the behaviors of the animals and Iceland’s ocean ecosystems.
What makes this tour appealing is the balance between scenery and wildlife. You get stunning views of the Icelandic coast, plus the thrill of possibly spotting a whale. The boat is equipped with indoor seating and outdoor decks, offering comfort in all weather conditions. At $83 per person, it’s a good value for a three-hour wildlife adventure. Expect some luck—seeing a whale isn’t guaranteed—but the experienced crew and scenic backdrop make it worthwhile.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a classic whale-watching experience with a relaxed vibe and plenty of chances to see marine life.
2. Reykjavík: Whale Watching Cruise on the Amelia Rose Yacht
Set sail on the elegant Amelia Rose yacht for this 3-hour whale-watching cruise. For around $99, you get the chance to explore Iceland’s waters in style, with three panoramic decks providing fantastic views. The yacht’s smooth ride and onboard lounge make it ideal for families or couples who prefer comfort. The crew is enthusiastic, and many reviews mention how well they spot whales, including dolphins, humpbacks, and even orcas.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on comfort and the opportunity to relax while wildlife observation happens around you. The bar and lounge area provide a cozy spot to unwind, and the open decks mean you can enjoy the scenery at your own pace. Many guests say they loved the animated guides and the chance to learn more about the ocean mammals.
Bottom Line: If you value comfort and style during your whale watching, this cruise offers both, along with excellent chances to see a variety of marine species.
3. Reykjavik: Puffin Watching Boat Tour
This one-hour tour is a quick, fun way to see one of Iceland’s most adorable creatures—the Atlantic puffin. Departing from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour, the trip guarantees sightings of puffins, with many reviews confirming 100% land sightings. The tour glides around nearby islands, exploring puffin colonies, especially in foggy or cloudy weather when they’re most active on land.
The guide, Rebecca, is known for her professionalism and fun personality, making the experience informative and lively. The tour offers a great mix of wildlife viewing and scenic water landscapes, perfect for those with limited time or families with kids. For $59 per person, it’s a charming, budget-friendly way to connect with Iceland’s seabirds.
Bottom Line: Ideal for bird lovers and those short on time, this puffin safari offers guaranteed sightings and engaging guides.
4. Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in Reykjavik
On this 3-hour cruise, you’ll sail aboard a spacious yacht with panoramic windows, ensuring excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Starting from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor, the trip targets minke and humpback whales, with a high likelihood of sightings. If you don’t see whales, the company offers a free return cruise—an excellent risk-free policy for wildlife tours.
Many reviewers highlight the well-organized trip, with a knowledgeable crew who point out the wildlife and Icelandic landmarks along the way. The boat’s design makes it easy to change viewing positions, which is handy in choppy waters. Indoor seating and the chance to see Reykjavik’s skyline from the water make this a versatile choice.
Bottom Line: This yacht cruise combines comfort, a high success rate, and the possibility for a second trip if the whales stay elusive.
5. Northern Lights Cruise from Downtown Reykjavik
For those seeking a magical night, this 2-hour cruise out onto Faxaflói Bay offers a chance to witness the aurora borealis. The trip includes a multimedia presentation explaining the science behind the Northern Lights, then wraps up in warm overalls and a heated lounge to maximize comfort. With unobstructed decks and warm drinks, your odds of seeing the dancing lights improve—away from city glow.
Reviewers emphasize the rarity of clear nights and how lucky some are to see the phenomenon. Many mention the helpful staff and the cozy atmosphere, making it a memorable experience even if the lights are shy. For $105 per person, it’s an engaging way to spend an evening under the Icelandic sky.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers eager to see the Northern Lights in comfort and willing to wait for the right weather conditions.
6. Puffin Cruise with Expert Tour Guide from Reykjavik
This eco-friendly, one-hour puffin safari takes you aboard a custom boat to Akurey Island, home to thousands of puffins. Led by a local guide, you’ll learn about these seabirds’ habits and see them close by, with binoculars included. The tour is flexible, with multiple departure times, making it easy to fit into your sightseeing schedule.
What makes this trip especially appealing is its small size—limiting to 12 people—creating a more intimate experience. Passengers often praise the enthusiastic guides and the close-up encounters with puffins flying or nesting. The tour costs $60.38 per person, offering excellent value for birdwatching enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: Perfect for bird lovers and those wanting a personal, educational experience with puffins.
7. Reykjavik: Northern Lights Yacht Tour
This 2-hour luxury yacht cruise offers a stylish way to see the Northern Lights. With three panoramic decks and a cozy bar lounge, it caters to travelers who want both comfort and adventure. The reviews highlight lucky sightings of dancing auroras, with some stating it was their best Northern Lights experience.
The boat’s design allows for unobstructed views, and the onboard staff work hard to give visitors a memorable night. Many guests found the experience relaxing and atmospheric, especially in good weather. The ticket price is $124, reflecting its upscale ambiance and exclusive feel.
Bottom Line: For those seeking a premium, comfortable Northern Lights experience, this yacht cruise provides both style and a good chance for spectacular sights.
8. Reykjavik: Whale Watching Tour by RIB Boat
This 2-hour RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) tour offers a fast-paced, intimate experience close to the whales. With a maximum of 6 passengers, it favors small groups and quick access to wildlife hotspots like the whale feeding grounds. Many reviews praise the enthusiastic guide Rebekka and the flexibility of the smaller boat.
The ride is exhilarating and provides excellent opportunities to see humpbacks, dolphins, and even puffins in summer. Waterproof gear and goggles are included, and the captain’s expertise ensures you’re in good hands. At $160 per person, this is a high-end choice for thrill-seekers wanting a personalized adventure.
Bottom Line: Best for adventure lovers who want a close, exciting connection with Iceland’s whales and marine life.
9. Whale Watching & Dolphin Yacht Cruise
This 3-hour cruise combines whale and dolphin watching aboard a spacious yacht. Many reviewers mention the knowledgeable onboard guide who explains marine behaviors, plus the opportunity to photograph humpbacks, dolphins, and even puffins in season. The onboard Wi-Fi and live photos add a modern touch.
With a focus on education and comfort, the tour is suited for travelers wanting a relaxed, informative wildlife encounter. If no wildlife is seen, the company offers a second free tour. Prices are around $96.14, making it a good value considering the scope.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for travelers who want a detailed, comfortable, and activity-rich wildlife cruise.
10. Reykjavik: Whale Watching and Dolphin Watching Yacht Cruise
This 3-hour yacht adventure offers a more personalized experience, with a focus on whales, dolphins, and the scenic coastline. The observation deck allows for unobstructed views, and reviews note the friendly crew and the chance to see puffins in summer.
It is ideal for those seeking a quieter, more intimate setting—especially since if no wildlife is seen, a second tour is available for free. For $95, the mix of wildlife and scenery makes it worth considering.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers wanting a small-group, flexible wildlife experience with high chances of seeing multiple species.
How to Choose Your Best Boat Tour in Reykjavik
When selecting the right boat trip, consider your priorities: are you after wildlife sightings like whales or puffins? Or do you prefer comfort and luxury such as on the Amelia Rose yacht or Northern Lights cruises? Budget-conscious travelers might opt for the quick puffin tour, while adventure seekers may prefer the RIB whale-watching for its speed and proximity. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons for the chance to see the northern lights or migratory wildlife.
Think about the season—summer months are best for puffins and dolphins, whereas winter offers the best chance at witnessing the aurora borealis. Pay attention to reviews about weather and success rates to make sure your experience matches expectations. Check the individual tour links for availability and any specific gear or clothing recommendations.
In summary, Reykjavik offers a fantastic range of marine tours—from the classic whale-watching cruises like the Reykjavík: Whale Watching and Marine Life Cruise to specialized trips like puffin safaris and Northern Lights cruises. For families, small-group excursions provide personal touches, while adventure lovers may prefer RIB boat trips for their speed and intimacy. Whichever you choose, these tours promise memorable encounters with Iceland’s rugged marine environment. Book early, dress warmly, and keep your camera ready—you’re about to experience Iceland from a whole new angle.