Reykjavik: 9pm Whale Watching Cruise in the Arctic Sun

Reykjavik: 9pm Whale Watching Cruise in the Arctic Sun — A Detailed Look

If you’re considering a whale watching tour in Reykjavik, the 9pm Arctic Sun cruise is one of those experiences that promises a special blend of wildlife sightings and breathtaking scenery. While we haven’t personally done this exact trip, plenty of travelers have, and their feedback paints a picture of a pretty memorable adventure.

What really caught our eye are the enchanting atmosphere created by the sunset and the chance to see majestic humpback and minke whales in their natural setting. We also appreciate that this tour offers a free re-entry if you don’t spot any whales — a thoughtful touch that shows the effort to make the experience worthwhile.

One potential downside? Given the timing, it’s an evening trip, so if you’re not a fan of late-night outings or limited daylight, it might not suit everyone. But for those who love the idea of golden hour on the water, this cruise could be a real highlight. It’s best suited for travelers who want an atmospheric experience, enjoy wildlife, and don’t mind evening boat trips.

Key Points

• Stunning Evening Atmosphere: Watch the sunset over Arctic waters, creating a magical backdrop.
• Wildlife Sighting Promise: Chances to see humpback and minke whales in their natural habitat.
• Expert Guides & Insight: Guides provide informative commentary about the local marine life.
• Flexible Re-Entry Policy: No sightings? Get a free ticket to try again.
• Short & Sweet: 2.5 hours is a manageable duration, ideal for fitting into a Reykjavik itinerary.
• Practical Tips: Warm clothing, camera, and binoculars enhance the experience; seasickness tablets are available.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

This tour kicks off at the Special Tours ticket office at Geirsgata 11, right in downtown Reykjavik. Arriving 30 minutes early is a good idea — especially in cooler weather — so you’re comfortably settled before departure. Once aboard the Arctic Sun, the boat departs into Faxaflói Bay, a prime fishing ground and whale habitat.

Unlike daytime whale tours, this late evening trip offers a different kind of atmosphere. Instead of bright sunlight, you’ll be treated to the warm hues of sunset, which makes the whole journey feel almost like a quiet, almost meditative experience. The darkening sky and the shimmering waters set a peaceful tone, perfect for wildlife viewing and photography.

As the boat moves into the bay, guides share their knowledge about the whales and local marine ecosystem. They focus on maximizing your chances of sightings, and from reviews, it sounds like they’re good at it. The likelihood of spotting humpback whales and minke whales is quite high, but it’s important to remember that nature isn’t a guarantee — the guides are honest about that. A review mentions that sightings do occur, although whales often only surface briefly, which is typical behavior.

Apart from whales, you might see puffins in the distance, adding to the charm of the trip. Since puffins are only visible emerging briefly from the water, don’t expect a full-on show, but it’s still a nice bonus.

The duration of around 2 to 2.5 hours means it’s not overly long, but enough time to get a good feel for the environment and enjoy the views. The boat itself is designed for comfort, and the guides are experienced, offering insightful commentary that helps you understand what you’re seeing and why it matters.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The timing of this cruise is a big plus. Most whale-watching trips are scheduled during daylight hours, but this evening cruise offers a unique perspective. Watching the sun set over the Arctic waters casts a beautiful glow that makes the experience more special. It’s a scenic journey that not only satisfies your wildlife curiosity but also provides an atmospheric backdrop.

Value for money is another strong point. At $107 per person, the price seems quite reasonable considering the experience — especially when you factor in the free re-entry ticket if no whales are seen. That’s a nice insurance policy for peace of mind, and it reflects the company’s confidence in their ability to find marine life.

The guides are described as experienced and professional, which is important for a trip that relies heavily on spotting elusive animals. Their commentary adds depth to the experience, so you learn a bit about the whales, the bay, and the local environment.

Practical Considerations

For most travelers, the trip is quite manageable. However, dress warmly — even in summer, the Arctic waters can be chilly, especially in the evening. Layers, hats, and gloves are recommended. Bringing a camera and binoculars will help you capture the moments and get a closer look at the whales if they surface far off.

Seasickness tablets are available on board, which is helpful if you’re prone to motion sickness. The boat is designed for comfort, but if you’re sensitive, taking precautions before departure is wise.

The tour does not include snacks or beverages, so plan to bring some if you want a drink or light snacks during the trip. The boat is a shared experience, and pets or smoking are not allowed, so plan accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise appeals to those wanting an atmospheric, scenic experience rather than a purely wildlife-focused trip. If you enjoy sunset views, marine wildlife, and a peaceful boat ride, you’ll likely find this trip rewarding. It’s also a good choice for travelers who want a shorter, manageable tour that fits into an evening schedule.

While families with children can enjoy this trip, it’s worth noting that the late hour might not be ideal for very young children. The experience is also suited for those who are comfortable with boat trips and don’t mind potential chilliness or the unpredictability of wildlife sightings.

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The Sum Up

All in all, the Reykjavik 9pm Whale Watching Cruise offers a uniquely atmospheric way to see whales and enjoy Iceland’s Arctic scenery at sunset. The combination of scenic views, professional guides, and the chance to spot whales in their natural habitat makes it a worthwhile experience, especially if you’re after something a bit different from daytime whale tours.

While it’s not a guarantee of sightings — as with any wildlife adventure — the fact that you get a free re-entry ticket makes it more appealing for careful planners. The relatively short duration and stunning setting make it accessible and enjoyable, even for travelers with tight schedules or those who prefer evening activities.

If you’re keen on combining wildlife with unforgettable scenery and don’t mind the late-night hours, this cruise could be just what you’re looking for. It’s a gentle, scenic adventure that captures the quiet magic of Iceland’s oceanic wilderness.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
While families can enjoy the trip, the late evening schedule might not be ideal for very young children. It’s best suited for older kids or travelers comfortable with boat trips at night.

What should I bring onboard?
Warm clothing, a camera, binoculars, and seasickness prevention are recommended. Layers are key since it can get chilly even in summer.

Are snacks or drinks available?
No, snacks and beverages are sold on board, so consider bringing your own if desired.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, giving enough time for wildlife viewing and enjoying the scenery without feeling rushed.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
The ethereal sunset atmosphere combined with the chance to see humpback and minke whales in their natural habitat.

What if I don’t see any whales?
You’ll receive a free ticket to join the cruise again, which makes the experience less risky in terms of value.

Is the tour boat comfortable?
Yes, the Arctic Sun is designed for comfort, and guides are experienced and informative.

Can I expect to see puffins?
Yes, puffins can sometimes be seen in the distance, but they’re usually only emerging briefly from the water.

Is this tour environmentally friendly?
The tour provider makes efforts to keep the environment pristine and tries to limit the number of boats on the water.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended. You can reserve and pay later, which provides flexibility.

Thinking about Iceland’s wild side? This evening cruise might just be the atmospheric adventure you’re after — beautiful, peaceful, and full of potential surprises.

You can check availability for your dates here: