The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik

If you’re eyeing a trip to Iceland, a whale-watching tour from Reykjavik might be high on your list. We’ve looked into the Original Classic Whale Watching tour offered by Elding Whale Watching, which is quite popular and highly rated. This kind of experience appeals to those who love nature and want to see marine mammals in their own habitat, all while enjoying the scenic coast of Iceland.

What we really like about this tour are its long-standing reputation and knowledgeable guides — both crucial for making the experience memorable. Also, the chance to see whales, dolphins, and seabirds, often all in the same trip, adds a special touch.

On the flip side, it’s worth noting that whale sightings aren’t guaranteed—the ocean is unpredictable after all. If you’re set on seeing whales specifically, be prepared for the possibility of a trip with no sightings, though the tour does offer a free re-try.

This tour suits travelers who are eager to combine wildlife watching with stunning ocean views and don’t mind the element of chance. It’s a good pick for those who want a well-organized, informative experience without the fuss of extra add-ons.

Key Points

• High likelihood of seeing marine mammals: Dolphins and whales are spotted on over 90% of trips, especially in summer and winter.
• Expert guides enrich the experience: Knowledgeable staff provide fascinating facts and photos of your sightings.
• Weather and sea conditions affect visibility: Be prepared for the possibility of no whale sightings if weather isn’t ideal.
• Comfort is prioritized: Warm overalls, raincoats, and blankets are included to keep you cozy, especially in colder months.
• Flexible timing options: Choose a morning or afternoon departure to fit your schedule.
• No food or drinks included: Plan accordingly if you want snacks or beverages onboard.

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

When considering a whale-watching trip from Reykjavik, it’s helpful to understand what you’re signing up for. The 3-hour cruise in Faxaflói Bay is the core of this tour. The bay’s location makes it a prime spot for spotting whales and other marine life. The boat departs from Elding’s meeting point at Ægisgarður 5c, which is conveniently close to public transportation.

The trip is designed to be accessible and comfortable. The boat itself is well-maintained, and on colder days, you’ll be given overalls, raincoats, and blankets—a thoughtful touch that many reviews highlight positively. Several travelers noted that in November, the weather could be chilly, so packing warm layers is smart, even with the gear provided.

Once onboard, the crew offers a safety briefing and then sets out across the bay. The experience is as much about the scenery as it is about marine life. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to relax on the upper deck, enjoying the panoramic views of the horizon and the chance to spot some sea birds. Many guests appreciated the inside seating area as well, especially if the weather turns.

A huge draw for this tour is the possibility of seeing humpback and minke whales, which are the most common sightings. A number of reviewers have mentioned how close they got to these gentle giants. One traveler even shared that they heard a whale breathe, which is a remarkable experience. However, it’s important to remember that whales are wild animals, and sightings can be unpredictable. This reality is reflected in reviews—some guests left disappointed after not seeing whales, but they appreciated the opportunity to try again free of charge.

The crew’s educational commentary stands out. According to reviews, guides are knowledgeable, engaging, and eager to share interesting facts about the marine ecosystem. Some reviews even mention that photos of whales and seabirds are taken onboard and sent via email afterward; this adds a nice keepsake to the experience.

If no whales are seen, the tour offers a free re-sail—a generous policy that shows confidence in their ability to find marine mammals. Many travelers have appreciated this guarantee, as it eases some of the disappointment if the weather or whale behavior doesn’t cooperate.

The wildlife encountered is often diverse: in addition to whales, dolphins and harbor porpoises are common sightings, and some trips have even seen puffins and other seabirds. Several reviews describe their excitement at spotting multiple species during a single trip, which makes the experience more engaging and educational.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price for the tour hovers around $93.45 per person, which seems reasonable considering the length and the chance to see whales in their natural habitat. The cost includes the live guide, onboard gear, and admission to the Wildlife Exhibition—a small but interesting addition that offers a little extra value. The WiFi on board is a bonus, allowing you to share photos or check in with friends during the trip.

However, food and drinks are not included, so plan ahead if you want snacks or beverages. The tour does not provide hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to make your own way to the meeting point. It’s located near public transportation, which is convenient for most travelers staying in Reykjavik.

The Real Deal – Pros and Cons

The Upsides

• High chance of wildlife sightings: Over 90% of trips see whales and dolphins, which is a pretty good track record.
• Knowledgeable, friendly guides: They provide not just commentary but also photos and educational info, making the trip informative and fun.
• Comfort and safety: Warm gear, blankets, and inside seating ensure you’re comfortable, even in colder weather.
• Flexibility: Morning or afternoon departures make it easier to fit into your day.
• Free re-sailing policy: If you don’t see whales, you can come back again without extra charge.

The Drawbacks

• Sightings are not guaranteed: Nature is unpredictable, and some guests have left disappointed with no whales spotted.
• Weather dependence: Strong winds and rough seas can impact the experience and reduce sighting chances.
• Limited inside facilities: The boat isn’t fully accessible due to stairs and thresholds, which could be a concern for some with limited mobility.
• No food included: If you’re hungry, you’ll need to bring your own snacks or plan to buy them onboard.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This whale-watching trip from Reykjavik is best suited for travelers who are passionate about marine wildlife and are okay with the uncertainty that comes with observing animals in the wild. If you’re eager to see whales and are prepared for the possibility of no sightings, you’ll likely be satisfied.

It also appeals to those who value comfort and education, thanks to the knowledgeable guides and included gear. If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy nature, this can be a memorable outing, especially if you’re lucky with the weather.

However, if your main goal is guaranteed sightings and you’re not comfortable with the possibility of a no-show, you might want to consider setting your expectations accordingly or exploring other options.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The trip lasts approximately 3 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife without feeling rushed.

Are there options for morning and afternoon departures?
Yes, you can choose between morning and afternoon trips to best fit your schedule.

What should I bring?
It’s a good idea to dress warmly, especially in colder months. The tour provides overalls, raincoats, and blankets, but bringing your own layers can add comfort.

Will I see whales on every trip?
Not necessarily. While sightings happen over 90% of the time, the ocean’s wild animals don’t follow schedules. If no whales are seen, you can join another trip for free.

Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
While warmly welcomed, the boat isn’t fully accessible due to stairs and thresholds, so travelers with mobility issues should consider this.

Are food and drinks included?
No, but you can bring snacks and beverages onboard. There are no food or drinks included in the package.

What if the weather is bad?
In bad weather, trips may be canceled or rerouted, possibly extending the tour by 1-2 hours. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are on the boat?
The maximum number of travelers is 196, which makes for a lively but manageable group.

Final Thoughts

The Original Classic Whale Watching tour from Reykjavik offers a solid mix of adventure, education, and scenic beauty. It’s well-suited for travelers who are excited about seeing marine mammals in their natural surroundings and appreciate guides who can enrich the experience with facts and photos. The inclusion of weather gear and the re-sailing option make it a practical choice, especially in Iceland’s variable climate.

Yes, sightings aren’t guaranteed, but if you’re flexible and truly love the idea of observing whales and dolphins, this tour can deliver some unforgettable moments. The overall positive reviews and attentive service suggest it’s a reputable choice for marine wildlife enthusiasts.

Whether it’s your first time whale-watching or you’re a seasoned marine lover, this trip offers a meaningful way to connect with Iceland’s coast and its incredible creatures. Just remember to dress warmly, bring patience, and enjoy the stunning views—whale or no whale, it’s a memorable experience.

Happy whale watching!