Midnight Sun Whale Watching from Reykjavik

If you’re visiting Iceland during the summer, you’ve probably heard about its midnight sun and whale watching—two experiences that seem almost too magical to be real. This tour promises to let you enjoy both in a single evening outing. While we haven’t done it ourselves, we’ve gathered enough info to help you decide if this adventure is worth your time.

What we like about this tour is how it combines two iconic Icelandic sights—the glowing midnight sun and the chance to spot various whales and marine mammals. Plus, the sightings guarantee offers some peace of mind if Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that some travelers found the experience a bit chilly and felt unprepared, which could be a concern during the late-night outing. This tour is best suited for those who want to maximize their time in Reykjavik and aren’t shy about braving the weather for a unique experience.

Key Points

• Two Icelandic marvels in one tour: Experience the midnight sun and whale watching simultaneously.
• Sightings guarantee: If no whales are seen, you get to go again for free.
• Comfortable amenities: Thermal overalls, heated indoor seating, free WiFi, and free sea sickness tablets.
• Late evening adventure: Departure at 9:00 pm, perfect for seeing the midnight sun.
• Group size: Max of 65 travelers, keeping things lively but manageable.
• Price point: Around $105, offering fair value given the experience and amenities.

Setting the Scene: What to Expect on This Tour

This tour kicks off at Geirsgata 11 in Reykjavík, where you’ll meet your crew and board the boat just as the sun begins its slow descent. Unlike daytime whale trips, this one takes advantage of the midnight sun, casting a constant warm glow over the bay. The atmosphere on board is relaxed, with heated indoor seating and the option to stay outside on the deck for the best views.

You’ll cruise out into Faxaflói Bay, a prime location for whale sightings. The boat’s crew and guides are experienced, and many reviews praise their knowledgeable, friendly attitude. As you head into the bay, your guide will share insights into the behavior of whales, dolphins, and porpoises, helping you understand what you’re seeing and adding an educational component to the adventure.

The boat is equipped with thermal overalls, also available in children’s sizes, so you’ll stay warm even if the wind picks up. Many travelers appreciate these, especially since the tour operates late at night, and the weather can be unpredictable.

Marine Life Encounters: What You Might See

The main goal of this tour? To spot humpback and minke whales, as well as white-beaked dolphins and harbor porpoises. These creatures are quite active in Faxaflói Bay, especially during the summer months. Multiple reviews mention successful sightings, with some lucky travelers even catching glimpses of puffins or other seabirds.

One reviewer happily exclaimed, “Saw a humpback whale!!” and described the experience as “really a must-see if you are going to Iceland.” Others report “tons of birds, some dolphins, and another whale type,” confirming that the Bay is a vibrant marine playground.

However, note that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, even with the sightings guarantee. If no whales or marine mammals are seen, you can retake the tour free of charge, which many travelers find reassuring. Still, the unpredictability of nature means you might have an uneventful trip, so it’s good to keep expectations realistic.

The Experience: More Than Just Wildlife

What sets this tour apart is the combination of the midnight sun and the marine adventure. The warm glow of the sun lingering well past sunset creates a surreal backdrop—imagine whales breaching against a hazy, golden sky. It’s an atmospheric experience, often described as magical by travelers.

The tour lasts around 2 hours and 30 minutes, which is enough time to venture into the bay, scan the waters, and soak up the scenery. The boat’s WiFi makes it easy to share the moment or check in with friends back home.

A highlight for many is the entertaining and informative guides. Arturo, one reviewer, called out how “Tom is a fantastic guy… funny and very entertaining,” which hints at how the guides keep the trip engaging. Having someone to explain whale behaviors and point out different marine animals adds value, especially for first-timers.

Comfort and Convenience

This tour doesn’t skimp on amenities. Besides the thermal overalls, which many reviewers praise, there’s heated indoor seating—great if you want to stay warm without braving the elements. The free WiFi is a bonus, helping you snap some photos or stream a song during the trip.

For those prone to seasickness, the complimentary sea sickness tablets are available, making the experience more comfortable for sensitive travelers. It’s worth noting that no food or drinks are included, but you can purchase snacks and beverages on board if needed.

The meeting point at Geirsgata is accessible by public transportation, which makes logistics easier. The tour departs at 9:00 pm, aligning well with the midnight sun, giving you plenty of time to enjoy Reykjavik during the day beforehand.

Price and Value

At about $105 per person, this tour is reasonably priced considering the amenities and the chance to see wildlife in a stunning setting. When you factor in the possibility of retaking the trip for free if no whales are seen, it adds to the value. Plus, the experience of being out on the water with the midnight sun—something you can’t easily replicate elsewhere—is pretty special.

Reviews suggest that many travelers find this tour a worthwhile expense, especially if wildlife sightings happen. The good reviews about the guides, scenery, and overall experience support that this is a solid choice for wildlife lovers and those wanting a memorable Icelandic adventure.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy nature, wildlife, and unique landscapes. It’s suitable for those who are okay with being outdoors late at night and can handle some cold weather, especially since thermal gear is provided. Families with older children may find it a fun, educational outing, but small kids might find the late hours and chilly conditions less ideal.

If you’re after a relaxing but adventurous evening with a good chance of wildlife encounters, this tour checks the boxes. It’s especially appealing if you’re eager to combine the magic of the midnight sun with the thrill of whale watching, all without breaking the bank.

The Bottom Line

This Midnight Sun Whale Watching tour from Reykjavik offers a compelling glimpse into Iceland’s natural wonders. The combination of scenic views, marine mammals, and the warm glow of the midnight sun makes for a memorable, if occasionally unpredictable, adventure. The sightings guarantee and friendly guides add peace of mind and educational value.

While the weather can be a bit chilly and wildlife sightings are never 100% assured, the amenities—thermal overalls, heated indoor areas, free WiFi—help make the trip comfortable. If you’re someone who loves wildlife, stunning scenery, and unique natural phenomena, this tour is likely to leave you with stories to tell.

However, if you’re sensitive to cold or prefer daytime excursions, you might want to consider other options. Overall, it’s a solid choice that balances fun, education, and breathtaking views—perfect for those wanting to make the most of Iceland’s summer nights.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While families with older kids might enjoy it, the late-night schedule and outdoor conditions might not be ideal for very young children. Always check the weather forecast and your child’s comfort level.

What is the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 41 days in advance, which suggests it’s popular. Booking early ensures you secure a spot and possibly get better prices.

What if I don’t see any whales?
You’re covered! The tour offers a sightings guarantee—if no marine mammals are spotted, you can retake the tour for free.

How long does the tour last?
Expect approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes on the water, including boarding, cruising, and wildlife watching.

Are the amenities comfortable?
Yes, with thermal overalls, heated indoor seating, and free WiFi, the boat is well-equipped for a late-night trip.

Does it include hotel transfers?
No, hotel pickups are not included. You’ll need to get to the meeting point at Geirsgata on your own or arrange transportation.

What is the departure time?
The tour departs at 9:00 pm, timed to coincide with the midnight sun.

Can I purchase food and drinks on board?
No, but you can buy snacks and beverages during the trip if desired.

What weather conditions affect the tour?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this a crowded experience?
The maximum group size is 65 travelers, so it tends to be lively but not overly crowded, allowing for good visibility and interaction.

If you’re curious about combining this with other Iceland adventures, consider checking out local full-day tours or experiences like the South Coast or Golden Circle. But for a special, wildlife-focused outing during Iceland’s endless summer nights, this whale watching tour is a solid pick.