From Reykjavik: Whale Watching Tour

If you’re heading to Reykjavik and love the idea of spotting whales in the wild, this whale watching tour might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the reviews and details paint a pretty compelling picture of what you can expect—an adventure that combines wildlife sightings with stunning coastal scenery.

One of the things I really appreciate about this tour is its emphasis on wildlife and natural environment. Being out on the Atlantic is a different experience than just checking off a list; it’s about the thrill of looking for giants like minke whales and humpbacks, plus the chance to see dolphins and various seabirds. Another highlight is the informative guides—reviewers consistently mention how knowledgeable and friendly the crew is, which can make all the difference when you’re on a boat trying to spot elusive creatures.

That said, it’s not a perfect fit for everyone. The trip lasts around 3.5 hours, which can feel long if you’re prone to seasickness or don’t love the cold. Plus, the experience is highly weather-dependent—sometimes the whales might be shy or not appear at all. Still, for travelers eager to see Iceland’s wildlife in their natural habitat, it seems like a pretty solid choice.

This tour will likely suit those who enjoy marine wildlife encounters, coastal scenery, and a well-equipped, comfortable boat experience. If you’re after a relaxing cruise with guaranteed sightings, this might be right up your alley. If you’re more particular about close-up encounters or don’t love chilly weather, you’ll want to weigh those factors.

Key Points

• Wildlife and scenery are the main draws, with chances to see whales, dolphins, and seabirds.
• Guides are experienced, friendly, and very knowledgeable—adding value and insight to your trip.
• The tour includes warm overalls and indoor cabins, making the cold manageable.
• Sightings are not guaranteed, but the crew will try their best and offer a second tour ticket if no whales are seen.
• The duration (around 3.5 hours) balances enough time at sea without being overly long.
• Price (~$100) offers good value considering the wildlife, scenery, guides, and included amenities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and First Stops

Your adventure begins at Geirsgata 11, in Reykjavik’s lively harbor. Arriving 30 minutes early is recommended so you can check in and settle before departure. This is a convenient start, right in the heart of the city, so it’s easy to include in your plans.

Once aboard, you’ll cruise towards Kollafjöður—a peaceful spot with a small island and a lively bird community. This part of the trip is about soaking in the scenery and getting comfortable on the boat before heading out into the wider Faxaflói Bay. Many reviewers mention how serene and beautiful this area is, with the chance to see various bird species.

Journey to Faxaflói Bay

From Kollafjöður, the boat heads into Faxaflói Bay, a well-known hotspot for whale watching. The bay’s open waters are where the magic happens—dolphins, whales, and seabirds are regularly spotted here. The bay’s environment is quite dynamic, and the view of the surrounding mountains, especially on clear days, adds a dramatic backdrop. On some days, the sight of Snaefellsjökull Glacier can be visible, making this a scenic highlight.

Wildlife Watching

This is the core of the tour: looking for whales and other marine life. The area is known for species like minke whales, humpback whales, and dolphins. Several reviews mention how active and close the whales can get, with some viewers describing spending significant time observing the humpbacks surfacing and flipping.

The crew, including guides, are praised for their keen eyes and knowledge, often alerting everyone to signs of whales or dolphins nearby. One reviewer emphasized how their guide was “incredible, so funny and knew exactly where to find the humpback whales,” which underscores the importance of a good guide in this kind of tour.

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Comfort and Amenities

The boat is well-equipped: heated indoor cabins with toilets, WiFi, and floating overalls are provided, which makes the experience comfortable despite Iceland’s chilly weather. Many travelers mention how helpful the overalls are, especially on windy days—they prevent the cold from spoiling the experience.

If seasickness is a concern, you’ll be glad to know that seasickness tablets are available and often provided, helping even the most sensitive adventurers stay comfortable. During the trip, the crew sometimes takes photos and videos of the whales, which are later available for free download—a nice touch that allows you to focus on enjoying the moment rather than frantically trying to capture it.

Duration and Return

The entire tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, starting and ending at Geirsgata 11. The last part of the trip is about returning to Reykjavik, with many travelers feeling that the time was just right—long enough to see a good number of whales, but not so long that it becomes tiring.

What We Loved About the Tour

Based on reviews and what the experience promises, here are the standout positives:

• Knowledgeable guides who explain marine life details clearly and keep the adventure engaging.
• Wildlife sightings—many travelers have been lucky enough to see humpbacks, dolphins, and even smaller whales like minke whales. Seeing these creatures in their natural environment is truly special.
• The scenic beauty of Faxaflói Bay and the surrounding mountains, especially on clear days, adds a layer of visual pleasure.
• The amenities onboard, such as heated cabins and warm overalls, make the experience comfortable despite Iceland’s often chilly and windy weather.
• The option for a second tour if no whales are seen demonstrates good customer care and commitment to providing a worthwhile experience.
• Photos and videos taken by the crew provide lasting memories without extra effort on your part.

A Few Things to Consider

While this tour offers a lot, it’s good to keep a few things in mind:

• The weather can be unpredictable, and the trip might be rougher or colder than expected; dressing warmly and in layers is essential.
• Sightings are not guaranteed — whales are wild animals and can be elusive. However, the crew’s willingness to offer a second trip helps manage expectations.
• It’s a longer trip for those sensitive to seasickness or prone to discomfort in the cold.
• The boat is described as “big,” so it’s not for those who prefer intimate, close-up encounters with the wildlife (though many reviews mention good viewing from the deck).

Who is This Tour Best For?

This whale watching experience is ideal for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts who enjoy boat trips and scenic coastal views. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want to see whales in their natural habitat without necessarily getting super close, but with the comfort of indoor cabins and helpful amenities. It also appeals to those who appreciate guides with knowledge and personality, making the trip more enjoyable.

If you’re traveling with kids or sensitive to cold, you’ll want to come prepared with warm clothing and be aware of the weather conditions. This tour may not be the best for those solely seeking a quick, casual boat ride, or for travelers who must see whales on their first try—they’re wild animals, after all.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the whale watching tour?
The entire experience lasts about 3.5 hours, including boarding, the cruise to Faxaflói Bay, wildlife watching, and return.

What species of whales and marine animals can I expect to see?
Most sightings include minke whales, humpback whales, and dolphins. You might also see seabirds and smaller aquatic species.

Is the tour suitable for people prone to seasickness?
Sea sickness tablets are provided, and the boat has heated indoor cabins, which help. Wearing warm clothing and staying inside during rough waters can help.

What amenities are included?
The tour offers guides, flotation overalls, WiFi onboard, heated indoor cabins with toilets, and seasickness tablets. Photos and videos are available for free afterward.

What should I bring?
Weather-appropriate clothing, layers, and possibly a camera if you want to capture sightings. The tour provides warm overalls, but dressing in layers ensures comfort.

What happens if no whales are seen?
You’ll receive a complimentary ticket for a second tour, so you have another chance at spotting whales without extra cost.

Can I join this tour if I have mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

Final Thoughts

This whale watching tour from Reykjavik offers a balanced mix of wildlife encounters, scenic beauty, and comfort. The emphasis on knowledgeable guides and amenities like heated cabins and free photos makes it attractive for travelers looking for a stress-free marine adventure. While sightings depend on nature’s mood, the crew’s professionalism and the experience’s overall value make it worth considering.

For those who are curious about Iceland’s marine life and enjoy boat trips in colder weather, this tour strikes a good chord. It’s especially suited for travelers who want more than just a quick glance—who are willing to spend a bit of time on the water to see these gentle giants in their natural environment.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable Icelandic experience, this whale watching tour can add a special chapter to your trip. Just remember to dress warmly, go with an open mind, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery and incredible creatures that call the Atlantic home.

You can check availability for your dates here: