Reykjavik: Whale Watching Tour with Expert Guide

Planning a trip to Iceland and considering a whale watching tour? If so, you’re in the right place. We’ve looked into one of the most popular options in Reykjavik, offered by Special Tours, and have all the insights you need. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or just craving a unique adventure, this experience might be just what you’re after.

What immediately stands out about this tour is the focus on comfort and education. You’ll be sailing on Andrea, Iceland’s largest whale-watching vessel, which means plenty of space and a stable ride. Plus, the guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the trip both fun and informative. The other thing we love? The flexibility—with a free re-ride if you don’t see whales, it’s a risk worth taking for most travelers.

However, it’s worth keeping in mind that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed. Weather and luck play a big role in whether you get to see whales on your trip. Also, the tours are more active during summer months — from April to September — so if you’re visiting outside that window, your chances may be lower.

All in all, this tour suits anyone who wants a relatively short, comfortable, and educational trip into the waters around Reykjavik. It’s especially great for those who value good guides and are okay with a little unpredictability when it comes to wildlife sightings. Ready to find out more? Let’s dive in.

Key Points

• Comfortable Vessel: Iceland’s largest whale-watching boat, Andrea, offers spacious decks and heated indoor seating.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share fascinating facts about marine life.
• Flexible Options: Choose between classic and express tours, depending on your schedule and preference.
• Wildlife Guarantee: No whales? Get a free ticket for another trip, so your chances of seeing something are high.
• Educational Experience: Learn about whales through onboard displays, an app in five languages, and guide commentary.
• Additional Amenities: Relax with snacks, drinks, and browse souvenirs onboard, making the trip comfortable and enjoyable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on Your Whale Watching Tour in Reykjavik

This tour promises more than just a boat ride; it’s about connecting with the sea and its creatures in a way that’s accessible and fun. Starting from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour, a short walk from the city center, you’ll meet your crew and board Andrea, which is known for its stability and spaciousness, making it a comfortable ride even if sea conditions aren’t perfect.

Departure and Duration

The typical tour lasts between 2 and 3 hours, with several departure times throughout the day, catering to different schedules. During summer (June to September), the Express tour is available, which gets you to the whale-watching zone faster — perfect if you’re short on time or want to maximize your chances.

Boarding and Onboard Comfort

Once aboard, you’ll be welcomed by a friendly, professional crew. Warm overalls are supplied in children’s and adult sizes, which are a godsend if the weather turns chilly or windy. Many reviews mention how nice it is to have these, especially in colder months or if seasickness is a concern.

The boat offers indoor heated seating with large windows, so even if the weather is rough, you stay warm and dry. You can move freely across the spacious decks to find the best vantage point for spotting whales. Multiple reviews rave about the view from all sides, with some saying it’s easier to see whales from the upper decks.

The Experience of Wildlife Sightings

While no wildlife tour can promise sightings, this one seems to give good odds. Common sightings include minke whales, humpback whales, white-beaked dolphins, harbour porpoises, and sometimes, orcas. As one reviewer put it, “We saw orcas, which was a surprise,” highlighting that unexpected sightings do happen.

Many guests share stories of seeing multiple whale species and even dolphins dancing around the boat. One noted, “We saw over 40 whales; it was incredible.” Others mention seeing tails, breaches, and even a humpback breach — a moment that stays with you.

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Guides and Educational Content

The guides are a highlight for many travelers. They’re described as knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share facts about the marine life and the region. An onboard app in five languages adds an interactive element, helping everyone learn more about what they’re seeing.

Some reviews mention how guides actively point out whales and share interesting tidbits. As one user said, “The guide was really fun and informative. The overalls were a nice touch and kept us warm.”

Food and Amenities

If you get hungry, the onboard café offers snacks and warm drinks, which many find convenient. The souvenir shop is also a good place to browse for mementos of your trip. Free WiFi is provided during the voyage, so you can share your photos or check in with friends.

Weather and Seasickness

Because the trip relies on weather conditions, it’s wise to dress warmly and be prepared for potential rough seas. Some reviews mention that the sea can be choppier than expected, so if seasickness is a concern, consider taking precautions.

Pricing and Value

The tour’s price covers a lot of what makes it worthwhile: spacious, comfortable boats, expert guides, warm overalls, and the chance to see whales. The cost might seem high to some—especially since wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed—but many reviewers feel the value is good, given the quality of the experience and the high likelihood of sightings.

Plus, the free return ticket if you don’t see whales offers peace of mind. Considering the effort and cost of similar tours worldwide, this one remains a popular choice for its combination of comfort, education, and wildlife potential.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This whale-watching experience in Reykjavik is ideal for travelers who prioritize comfort and informative guides over the solely adventurous aspect. It’s perfect if you want to relax aboard a spacious vessel and learn about marine life in a friendly environment.

It also suits those who prefer shorter trips, especially during the busy summer months, but want to maximize their chances of whale sightings. However, if you’re traveling outside the peak season or expect guaranteed sightings, it’s worth noting that nature can always surprise or disappoint.

Final Thoughts

To sum it up, the Reykjavik whale watching tour by Special Tours offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience that balances comfort with education. The spacious boat, friendly guides, and interactive displays elevate the trip beyond a simple boat ride. Even if you don’t end up seeing whales, most reviewers agree that the crew’s effort and the beautiful surroundings make it worthwhile.

This tour is best suited for those who value a relaxed, informative, and family-friendly outing. It’s also a good choice for travelers who appreciate good value for money and don’t mind a bit of unpredictability as part of wildlife adventures.

If you’re after a memorable Icelandic marine encounter with knowledgeable guides and a comfortable setting, this tour could be just right for you. Just remember to dress warmly, be prepared for weather changes, and enjoy the chance to see some of the ocean’s most magnificent creatures.

FAQ

What time does the whale watching tour depart?
The classic tour departs at 09:00, 13:00, and 17:00, with summer-specific options like the 10:00, 14:00, and late-night departures. Check availability for the exact timings.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, warm overalls are available in children’s sizes, and the overall experience is family-friendly. Just make sure children are prepared for potentially cold weather and some sea motion.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, as it can be cold on the water. Overalls are provided, but bring hats, gloves, and warm jackets for extra comfort.

Can I get a refund if I don’t see any whales?
Yes, if no whales are spotted during your tour, you’ll receive a free ticket to try again on another day.

Is WiFi available onboard?
Yes, free WiFi is offered, so you can share your experience or check messages during the trip.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included but are available for purchase at the onboard café.

Can I arrange hotel transfers?
Transfers are available on request for an extra fee, but many guests find the meeting point easy to reach on foot from Reykjavik’s city center.

If you’re curious about Iceland’s whales and want a comfortable, guided experience with a good shot at sightings, this tour hits most of the right notes. Just keep your expectations realistic, dress warmly, and get ready for a memorable adventure on the North Atlantic.

You can check availability for your dates here: