Midnight Sun Whale Watching from Reykjavik

An Authentic Look at Midnight Sun Whale Watching from Reykjavik

If you’re dreaming of Iceland’s summer wonders, a whale watching tour under the midnight sun offers a truly unforgettable experience. This particular tour takes you out into Faxaflói Bay during late evening hours, when the sun barely dips below the horizon, creating a surreal glow over the water. It’s a chance to spot humpback whales, minke whales, dolphins, and harbor porpoises in their natural habitat, all while basking in the warm, post-sunset light.

What we love about this tour is how it combines Iceland’s two iconic summer sights — the midnight sun and whale watching — into one seamless adventure. It’s a perfect option for those who want a memorable, nature-packed experience with a good dose of comfort. However, a potential challenge is the weather — as with all outdoor activities in Iceland, conditions can be unpredictable, and being prepared for cold or damp weather is essential.

This tour suits travelers eager for a relaxed, yet exciting wildlife encounter and those interested in experiencing the late-evening magic of the Icelandic summer night. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a photography buff, or simply seeking a different perspective on Reykjavik’s surroundings, this tour offers a unique way to connect with Iceland’s marine life.

Key Points

• Unique Experience: Combines the midnight sun with whale watching for a one-of-a-kind adventure.
• Wildlife Encounters: High chances of seeing humpback, minke whales, dolphins, and porpoises, with a sightings guarantee.
• Comfort & Extras: Includes thermal overalls, heated indoor seating, free WiFi, and sea sickness tablets.
• Flexible Re-Booking: If no animals are spotted, you can retake the tour at no extra charge.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, entertaining guides like Tom and Sophie enhance the experience.
• Value for Money: At around $105, the tour offers a mix of wildlife, scenic views, and comfort, making it a good investment for nature lovers.

A Detailed Look at the Midnight Sun Whale Watching Tour

Starting Point and Timing

The adventure begins at Geirsgata 11 in Reykjavík, conveniently located near public transportation. The tour departs at 9:00 pm, aligning with the late-night sun and maximizing chances to see marine life during the extended daylight hours of Iceland’s summer. The journey lasts about 2.5 hours, giving ample time to soak in the scenery and enjoy the wildlife.

The Boat and Comfort Features

Once aboard, you’re welcomed into heated indoor seating and provided with thermal overalls in adult and children’s sizes—a thoughtful touch considering Icelandic weather can be unpredictable, even in summer. Several reviewers liked the warmth and comfort, with one mentioning that the thermal suits kept them warm enough to stay on deck throughout the trip.

Free WiFi is a surprising bonus, allowing passengers to share pictures or check-in on the tour’s progress. Plus, complimentary sea sickness tablets are available, which is helpful if you’re prone to motion sickness, especially on a boat that can rock a bit in the open water.

Wildlife Sightings and Marine Life

The real highlight of this tour is the chance to see humpback whales, minke whales, dolphins, and harbor porpoises. One traveler, Cade, described it as “a must-see,” having spotted multiple whale species along with dolphins and birds. Notably, some guests have observed dolphins playing near the boat and even a curious whale poking its head up — a magical sight, especially under the glow of the midnight sun.

The guides are praised for their knowledgeable narration, explaining whale behavior and marine ecology, which adds educational value to the trip. One review mentioned a guide named Tom, who was “funny and very entertaining,” making the trip both informative and enjoyable.

Sightings Guarantee and Re-Booking Policy

This tour offers a reassuring money-back guarantee if no marine mammals are seen. If your first try doesn’t produce sightings, you can retake the tour for free — a smart move considering that whale sightings can depend heavily on weather, water conditions, and animal movements. Several reviews highlighted the professionalism of this policy, with one traveler stating they appreciated the flexibility after a less successful first outing.

Additional Experiences and Considerations

While food and drinks are not included, you can purchase snacks or beverages onboard. The tour does not provide hotel transfers, so you’ll need to plan to meet at the designated meeting point. The small group size (max 65 travelers) ensures a more intimate experience, with plenty of opportunities for everyone to see the wildlife.

The Value and Cost

At around $105 per person, this tour offers a balanced mix of wildlife, scenic beauty, comfort, and expert guidance. Compared to similar excursions, the inclusion of thermal suits and WiFi adds value that compensates for the relatively modest price point, especially when you consider the memory of seeing whales in the warm glow of the midnight sun.

Review Highlights: Authentic Traveler Perspectives

Many reviews emphasize the quality of guides and crew—calling them “great,” “friendly,” and “very knowledgeable.” One reviewer, Susanne, called the trip “a wonderful tour,” noting the abundance of whales and dolphins they saw, along with the great crew and guide.

Some guests did mention weather as a challenge; one person felt the experience was “average” because it was “freezing and soaking wet,” highlighting how important it is to come prepared for Iceland’s unpredictable weather. Still, most found the experience “highly recommended” or “superb,” especially those who saw whales and dolphins up close.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This midnight sun whale watching tour is ideal for adventurous travelers looking for something a bit different from typical daytime excursions. The late-evening departure allows for stunning sunset and dawn-like vistas, making it perfect for photographers eager for dramatic shots. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the high likelihood of sightings, especially with the tour’s sightings guarantee.

However, it’s best suited for those comfortable with outdoor conditions and willing to dress warmly. If you’re traveling with children, they will likely enjoy the experience, especially since thermal suits are available for kids. It’s also a good choice if you want a relaxing yet engaging activity that pairs well with other Reykjavik adventures.

This tour offers a worthwhile blend of scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and comfort—a memorable way to experience Iceland’s summer nights. Just be sure to come prepared for Iceland’s ever-changing weather, and you’re in for a truly enchanting adventure.

FAQ: Practical Questions About the Midnight Sun Whale Watching Tour

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs at 9:00 pm, aligning with the midnight sun period for optimal viewing.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, giving enough time for wildlife spotting and enjoying the scenery.

Is transportation included?
No, the tour begins at Geirsgata 11 in Reykjavík, near public transportation, but hotel transfers are not provided.

What should I wear?
Thermal overalls are included, but it’s wise to dress in layers, as it can still be chilly or damp at night.

What animals might I see?
The main sightings are humpback whales, minke whales, dolphins, and harbor porpoises, with a sightings guarantee if none are seen on your first trip.

Can I retake the tour if I don’t see any wildlife?
Yes, if no animals are spotted during your tour, you can retake it at no additional cost.

Are food and drinks available on board?
No, but you can purchase snacks or beverages during the trip.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, and thermal suits are available in kids’ sizes to keep them warm.

To sum it up, this Midnight Sun Whale Watching tour from Reykjavik combines Iceland’s surreal summer lighting with the chance to see some of the ocean’s most magnificent creatures. It’s a well-rounded experience with warm comfort, expert guides, and a flexible sightings policy—making it a compelling choice for those eager to explore Iceland’s marine life in an unforgettable setting.