Reykjavik: Whale Watching in Faxaflói Bay & Live Lava Show

Exploring Reykjavik isn’t just about the colorful rooftops and cozy cafés — it’s about experiencing the raw power of Iceland’s nature. This tour blends two of the country’s most iconic attractions: a whale watching adventure across Faxaflói Bay and the only live lava show in the world. While the tour lasts around 4.5 hours, it offers a deep dive into Iceland’s marine and volcanic worlds, making it a compelling choice for curious travelers.

What makes this experience stand out is the combination of seeing majestic whales in their natural habitat and witnessing molten lava in a safe, educational environment. You’ll get a chance to learn about local whale species with knowledgeable guides and enjoy an up-close encounter with real lava. That said, one consideration is the weather — Icelandic conditions can be chilly and unpredictable, so packing warm layers is essential. This tour appeals most to those eager to explore Iceland’s natural phenomena in a fun and informative way, especially if you have an interest in marine life or volcanoes.

Key Points

• Authentic Icelandic experience combining marine wildlife and volcanic features
• Educational guides providing insights into whales and volcanoes
• Comfortable amenities onboard the boat, including heated cabins and free WiFi
• Unique lava show in Reykjavik, offering the rare chance to see live lava up close
• Good value: includes two major attractions for a reasonable price
• Weather preparedness is crucial due to Iceland’s unpredictable climate

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This combined tour is designed to bring together two of Reykjavik’s best natural attractions in one seamless package. Starting at Geirsgata 11, the activity kicks off with a whale watching tour that typically lasts about three hours. After an interval, you’ll be treated to the live Lava Show, which lasts approximately 50 minutes, in the heart of Reykjavik.

The whale watching component departs from the Old Harbour, sailing into Faxaflói Bay. The boat, operated by Reykjavik Sailors, prioritizes environmental responsibility by sharing the water with fewer boats, which hopefully means less disturbance to the wildlife. The boat is well-equipped with warm overalls, heated indoor cabins, and free WiFi, ensuring comfort even on cold days. The guides are praised for their professionalism, making the experience educational and fun. Expect to see minke and humpback whales, and with luck, dolphins, harbor porpoises, or even killer whales — rare sightings but possible.

After returning, the tour moves into the city for the LAVA SHOW, held at Fiskislóð 73. This isn’t your typical volcanic reenactment — it’s the only live lava show worldwide, and you’ll get the chance to see red-hot lava flow in a controlled environment. The host walks you through Iceland’s volcanic history with a brief educational video, then really starts playing with lava, making it both entertaining and insightful. Reviewers highlight how much they appreciated the interactive aspect, with one describing it as a show that “literally starts PLAYING WITH THE LAVA,” creating a vivid, unforgettable experience.

What You Can Expect from the Itinerary

Starting Point and Departure

Your adventure begins at the Geirsgata 11 ticket office. Arriving at least 30 minutes early is advised to ensure smooth check-in and to get suited up in the provided warm overalls. The boat departs in the morning at 09:00 or early afternoon at 13:00, depending on your booking.

Whale Watching Experience

The boat ride into Faxaflói Bay takes around three hours. The marine wildlife sightings are the highlight — and reports suggest that, if the weather cooperates, you’ll have a good chance of spotting whales and dolphins. One reviewer noted, “We managed to see the whales, and the view was fantastic,” emphasizing the scenic backdrop of Reykjavik’s surrounding mountains and islands.

Guides on board are experts in marine life, often pointing out different species and sharing interesting facts. Many travelers appreciated the warm cabins and free WiFi, which made the trip comfortable despite the cold outside. The boat also offers seasickness tablets, which can be helpful if you’re prone to motion sickness.

Post-Whale Tour: The Lava Show

After returning to land, the LAVA SHOW begins roughly an hour later. Located in Reykjavik, this show is designed to educate and entertain. The host introduces viewers to Icelandic volcanism, and the highlight is watching lava flow in real-time, all within a safe environment. One reviewer called it “a must-see,” noting that it changed how they viewed Iceland’s volcanic landscape.

Additional Details

The entire experience lasts around 4.5 hours, and you don’t need to worry about meal options as food and drinks are available for purchase onboard. The tour is designed to be accessible, with guided commentary in English and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, adding flexibility to your plans.

The Real Value of This Tour

At $149 per person, this experience offers an excellent way to see two of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders without the hassle of booking separate tickets. For marine enthusiasts, the chance to see whales like minke and humpback in the wild is genuinely special and often cited as a highlight in reviews. The guided explanations enhance the experience, making it educational for both adults and children.

The Lava Show, meanwhile, provides a rare opportunity to see live lava up close, which isn’t available anywhere else in the world. Visitors have described it as “WOW” and “exceptional,” which speaks volumes about its uniqueness. The fact that it’s a live show adds a level of excitement that static exhibits can’t match.

When you consider the comfort amenities—heated cabins, free WiFi, warm overalls—and the experienced guides, the overall value increases significantly. Plus, the optional free re-entry if no whales are seen underscores the tour’s commitment to customer satisfaction.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress warmly: Iceland weather can be unpredictable, so layers, hats, and gloves are recommended.
• Arrive early: to check-in and get suited up before departure.
• Bring a camera: especially for whale sightings or lava footage.
• Expect some motion: seasickness tablets are provided, but if you’re sensitive, taking one beforehand might help.
• Be flexible: whale sightings depend on weather and luck; the tour offers a free ticket to rejoin if no whales are seen.
• Combine with other Reykjavik activities: this tour fits well into a day of exploring the city or other natural sites.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience?

This tour suits travelers who want a balanced mix of wildlife and geology. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo adventurers with a curiosity for nature and a sense of adventure. The educational aspect, combined with the interactive lava show, makes it accessible for all ages, especially those keen to learn more about Iceland’s volcanic activity and marine environment.

It’s particularly recommended if you’re keen on seeing whales in their natural habitat — a rare chance for many visitors — and if you appreciate hands-on, visual experiences like the lava show. Keep in mind the weather and sea conditions, as they can influence the overall experience.

The Sum Up

This Reykjavik combo tour offers a compelling look into Iceland’s marine life and volcanic power. It’s a well-organized, family-friendly experience that balances educational content with interactive fun. You’ll come away with a deeper understanding of Iceland’s natural phenomena, plus memories of spotting whales in the wild and witnessing real lava flow.

For those who love nature, adventure, and learning, this tour provides excellent value for money. It’s particularly suitable for travelers wanting an immersive, authentic Icelandic experience without the hassle of multiple bookings or complicated logistics.

If you’re visiting Reykjavik and looking to get a taste of both oceanic wildlife and volcanic fire, this tour is a smart, memorable choice.

FAQ

How long does the entire tour last?
The total experience is approximately 4.5 hours, including the whale watching trip and the lava show.

What is the starting time for the tour?
You can choose from departures at 09:00 or 13:00, depending on your preference and availability.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, it begins and ends at Geirsgata 11 in Reykjavik. You’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point.

Are there facilities onboard the boat?
Yes, the boat has heated indoor cabins with toilets, warm overalls, and complimentary WiFi to keep you comfortable.

What if no whales are seen during the trip?
Reykjavik Sailors offers a free ticket to rejoin if no whale sightings occur during your scheduled trip.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely, the experience is family-friendly, and many reviews mention it being enjoyable for kids.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind for flexible planning.

Is food available during the tour?
Food and drinks can be purchased onboard, but they’re not included in the price.

This combination of marine adventure and volcanic spectacle encapsulates the essence of Iceland’s wild beauty. Whether you’re captivated by whales or fascinated by lava, this tour promises a memorable and authentic Icelandic experience.