Guided Whale Watching Experience from Reykjavik

If you’re heading to Iceland and love the idea of spotting whales in their natural habitat, this whale watching tour from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor might catch your eye. As we review it, we want to give you an clear picture of what to expect—both the highlights and the things to consider—so you can decide if it’s the right adventure for you.

What we like: First, the expert guides really know their stuff and keep the experience engaging, and the scenic views over Faxaflói Bay are stunning, especially with the mountains and islands framing your journey. Plus, the fact that you can join a second tour for free if no whales are spotted makes it a low-risk option to try again if the weather or luck doesn’t cooperate the first time.

A potential downside to keep in mind is the unpredictability of whale sightings. As some reviews point out, you may only see small whales like minkies, and larger whales can be rare near Reykjavik. Also, the tour gets quite cold on deck, so dressing warmly is essential.

This tour suits those who are eager for a chance to see marine life, enjoy a comfortable boat ride, and aren’t expecting a guaranteed whale spectacle. If you’re patient, curious, and ready for a scenic outing, it could be a memorable part of your Iceland trip.

Key Points

• Flexible tours offer a second chance if whales aren’t seen initially.
• Comfortable onboard amenities include heated cabins, toilets, Wi-Fi, and warm overalls.
• Sightings vary, mostly small whales like minkes, with chances to see dolphins and porpoises.
• Safety is prioritized, with experienced guides navigating rough waters and offering seasickness remedies.
• Timing and weather are crucial; tours depend heavily on conditions.
• Cost is reasonable for a 3.5-hour marine adventure, with added value in the guaranteed re-tours if needed.

What the Tour Involves

Departure from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor

The adventure kicks off at Geirsgata 11, right in downtown Reykjavik. Expect to arrive about 30 minutes early; it’s a good idea to dress in layers—think warm clothes, waterproof outerwear, and sturdy shoes. The boats are equipped with heated indoor cabins and toilets, which are a real plus if the weather turns chilly or windy.

The Journey into Faxaflói Bay

Once aboard, you’ll cruise into Faxaflói Bay, a vibrant stretch of water filled with birdlife and scenic views of Reykjavik’s mountains and islands. The guides will share insights about the local marine ecosystem, giving you context about the whales and other mammals you might encounter.

Whale and Marine Life Spotting

The main goal is to see whales, primarily minke and humpback whales, along with dolphins, harbor porpoises, and sometimes orcas. While sightings are promising, they aren’t guaranteed—some days produce more impressive displays than others. As one reviewer noted, “We saw 2 whales and it was a real highlight,” which underscores the unpredictability but also the potential for memorable moments.

The onboard experience

The boat itself is designed with comfort in mind. You can stay inside cozy with a hot chocolate in hand or brave the deck for closer looks at the water and wildlife. Free Wi-Fi allows you to share photos instantly, and the crew is attentive—offering seasickness tablets and ensuring everyone’s comfort.

The Second Tour Guarantee

If you don’t see whales during your first trip, don’t worry—most providers, including Reykjavik Sailors, will let you join a second tour free of charge. This policy is a nice safety net and shows their confidence in the chances of a better encounter on a different day.

What the Reviews Reveal

One happy traveler, Karen, summed it up well: “A great experience. We saw 2 whales and was a real highlight. It does get very cold on deck so make sure you wrap up warm but you can always go inside for a hot chocolate.” This underscores the importance of dressing appropriately but also highlights the cozy indoor spaces available.

In contrast, a more disappointed reviewer, Barbara, shared that their trip was canceled due to weather, which is a reminder that these tours are weather-dependent. Safety always comes first; if the conditions are unsafe, the tour might be canceled, and you’ll be offered a reschedule or refund.

Several guests mention the crew’s professionalism and attentiveness. Joseph praised the team: “Captain did a good job navigating despite the rough waters,” and highlighted the availability of seasickness remedies. That kind of onboard support can make or break your experience, especially if you’re prone to motion sickness.

However, not everyone had luck with sightings. Michael was disappointed, stating, “We saw no whales…what a complete waste of money,” which is a stark reminder that marine wildlife tours have inherent uncertainties. The best approach is to go with realistic expectations and an understanding that nature can be unpredictable.

The Itinerary in Detail

1. Meeting Point and Preparation

The tour departs from Geirsgata 11, practically in the heart of Reykjavik. Arriving about 30 minutes early is recommended so you can get suited up with warm gear, find your group, and listen to any safety instructions.

2. Embarking on the Scenic Voyage

The boat, with its heated cabins, offers a comfortable environment to start your journey. You’ll get panoramic views of Reykjavik’s waterfront, mountains, and small islands—perfect for photography. Most travelers find the scenery alone worth the trip, even if whale sightings are rare.

3. Cruising into Faxaflói Bay

As you leave the harbor, the crew will likely share info about the local marine ecosystem, birdlife, and the area’s geography. This is a good moment to settle into the experience, keep your camera ready, and soak in the views.

4. Wildlife Encounters

The core of the tour is spotting whales and marine mammals. The guides, with their local expertise, take you to areas where sightings are most frequent. Expect to see smaller whales like minkes and humpbacks, and if you’re lucky, dolphins or porpoises. Some guests have reported seeing only small whales, which is common, but the guides do their best to locate larger species.

5. Inside Comfort and Socializing

If the weather turns rough or cold, you’ll likely head inside the heated cabins, where you can warm up, chat, and enjoy a hot beverage. The availability of Wi-Fi means you can even upload your photos on the spot or check out more info about the marine life you’ve seen.

6. Return and Reflection

The tour lasts around 3 to 3.5 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity. Returning to the harbor, you’ll already be planning your next Icelandic adventure, perhaps with a second whale tour lined up if you didn’t see whales the first time.

Pricing and Value

At $87 per person, this tour offers pretty good value considering the duration, onboard amenities, and the chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural setting. The inclusion of warm overalls, Wi-Fi, and toilets enhances comfort, especially in Iceland’s often brisk weather. The option to join again for free if you don’t see whales makes it even more attractive. It’s an investment for nature lovers and those eager to add a marine adventure to their Iceland itinerary.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

• Wildlife enthusiasts keen to see whales and marine mammals.
• Travelers who value comfort and onboard facilities during outdoor excursions.
• Those on a flexible schedule who can attend multiple tours if needed.
• Photographers looking for scenic vistas and wildlife moments.
• It’s less ideal for those expecting guaranteed sightings or who have limited time, given the variability of whale activity.

Final Thoughts

If you’re visiting Reykjavik and want a reasonably priced, well-organized chance to see whales and other marine life, this tour is a solid pick. The knowledgeable guides, scenic setting, and comfortable accommodations make it a memorable experience—if whales cooperate. Be prepared for the weather, and keep your expectations realistic, but don’t let that dissuade you from trying.

For nature lovers, photography buffs, or anyone wanting a taste of Iceland’s marine environment, this trip offers a blend of adventure and comfort. Remember, in wildlife tours, patience pays off, and even if you don’t see whales on your first try, the option to go again at no extra cost makes it worth a shot.

FAQ

• How long is the tour?
  The tour lasts approximately 3 to 3.5 hours, giving you plenty of time on the water to spot marine life.

• What is included in the price?
  Your ticket covers the boat ride, experienced guides, warm flotation overalls, Wi-Fi, heated indoor cabins, and toilet facilities.

• Can I join the tour if I get seasick easily?
  Seasickness tablets are available onboard, and the boat’s indoor cabins provide a warm refuge if needed.

• What should I wear?
  Dress warmly in layers, including waterproof outerwear. Good footwear is also recommended.

• Is there a guarantee I’ll see whales?
  Sightings depend on weather and whale activity, but if you don’t see whales on your first trip, you can join a second tour for free.

• What types of whales might I see?
  The tour often features minke and humpback whales, along with dolphins, harbor porpoises, and occasionally orcas.

• Are meals or drinks included?
  No, snacks and beverages are sold on board, but they’re not included in the ticket price.

• Can I reschedule if the weather cancels the tour?
  Yes, if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

• Is it suitable for children?
  While not specifically targeted at families, older children with an interest in wildlife and weather-tolerant should find it enjoyable.

• Where do I meet for the tour?
  At Geirsgata 11, right in downtown Reykjavik, about 30 minutes before departure.

In the end, this whale watching experience is about the anticipation of spotting these majestic creatures in their natural environment, combined with the comfort of a well-equipped boat. If you’re flexible and love marine wildlife, it’s likely to be a highlight of your Iceland trip.