Reykjavík: Whale Watching and Marine Life Cruise

If you’re heading to Iceland and love the idea of spotting whales in their natural habitat, this whale watching cruise from Reykjavík is a solid choice. Operating from the busy Old Harbour, this 3-hour adventure offers a balanced mix of wildlife encounters, scenic views, and educational commentary, all in a comfortable setting. Whether you’re an avid wildlife enthusiast or simply want to see the Icelandic coast from a different perspective, this trip promises a memorable experience.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is the expert guidance provided by knowledgeable guides, often marine biologists, who make spotting marine animals both fun and educational. The boat is also well-equipped with heated indoor cabins and WiFi, so you can stay warm and connected even when the weather turns chilly. A potential consideration is the unpredictable nature of wildlife sightings—whales are wild animals, after all, and their appearances can’t be guaranteed. This tour tends to suit travelers who enjoy a relaxed, scenic cruise with a good chance of wildlife spotting and are okay with a bit of luck.

This experience caters well to those wanting an authentic marine adventure in Iceland, combining comfort, expert insight, and the thrill of spotting large marine mammals. It’s especially appealing for families, first-time whale watchers, or anyone who appreciates a well-organized, reasonably priced tour with plenty of opportunities to see Iceland’s stunning marine ecosystem.

Key Points

• Wildlife and Scenic Views: Offers a chance to see whales, dolphins, porpoises, and seabirds with dramatic Icelandic coastlines as a backdrop.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable and entertaining, often marine biologists who provide valuable insights into whale behavior.
• Comfort & Convenience: The boat features heated indoor cabins, outdoor and indoor seating, WiFi, and toilet facilities.
• Flexible Experience: Tour durations vary slightly depending on whale activity, generally lasting around 3 hours.
• Wildlife Sightings are Not Guaranteed: The ocean is unpredictable, and sightings depend on nature’s luck, but the trip is enjoyable regardless.
• Good Value: Priced at $83 per person, it offers a memorable wildlife experience with plenty of comforts and educational value.

A Deep Dive into the Whale Watching Experience

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Your day begins at the Old Harbour House in Reykjavík, where check-in is simple—just scan your QR code at the self-service kiosk, and you’re all set. The tour departs approximately 30 minutes later, giving you time to settle into the boat and enjoy the scenic views of the harbor. The vessel used is described as lovely, with multiple deck levels for optimal viewing—outdoor decks are perfect for those wanting a more “close to nature” vantage point, while indoor areas provide comfort and protection against the elements.

Once underway, the guides kick off with a briefing about the marine life you’re likely to see and some safety tips, especially about the choppy conditions that can sometimes occur. They also share interesting facts about the whales and seabirds, making the trip both informative and engaging. Many reviews mention that guides are highly knowledgeable, with some being marine biologists, further enhancing the educational aspect.

As you cruise further out into Faxaflói Bay, the scenery becomes breathtaking—rugged coastlines, distant mountains, and endless ocean. The guides actively search for signs of whales—blowing, fins, or tails breaking the surface. The experience is very much about patience, as sightings depend on whale behavior and luck. Some lucky travelers have watched humpbacks and minkes for extensive periods, while at other times, people enjoy spotting porpoises and playful dolphins.

The Marine Wildlife

While whales are the main attraction, the tour’s reviews highlight a variety of marine animals you might encounter. Common sightings include minke and humpback whales, as well as harbor porpoises and white-beaked dolphins. For bird lovers, puffins and other seabirds are often seen floating or flying nearby, adding visual interest to the trip.

One reviewer shared their excitement about seeing a humpback whale repeatedly, sometimes staying close to the boat for 20-30 minutes, giving plenty of opportunities for photos and videos. Others have seen Mr. Bubbles, a famous whale that makes regular appearances, and some have even caught glimpses of whales feeding beneath the surface.

Comfort and Facilities

The boat’s heated indoor cabins are a big plus, especially considering how cold it can get out on the water, even in summer. Many reviews mention how important it is to dress warmly—wear layers, waterproofs, and maybe a seasickness patch if you’re sensitive. The presence of toilet facilities on board enhances comfort, making the trip suitable for families or those who prefer a bit more convenience.

WiFi on the boat is an unexpected bonus, so you can share your highlights in real-time or check messages between whale sightings. There’s also a café lounge where you can purchase hot drinks, snacks, and other refreshments, ideal for warming up after spotting a whale or just relaxing on the deck.

The Realities of Wildlife Watching

It’s worth noting that sightings are not guaranteed. Several reviews mention the importance of managing expectations: “You need some luck,” as one reviewer put it. The ocean’s creatures are wild and unpredictable—sometimes whales stay below the surface, showing only their tails or fins. In fact, the tour’s policy is that if no whales are seen, passengers can return for free within three years, which underscores how unpredictable wildlife encounters can be.

The tour duration can vary slightly—anywhere from 2.5 to 3.5 hours—depending on whale activity and weather conditions. Some trips may involve traveling further out to find the animals, which can extend the ride, but most reviews say the time flies because of the scenery and the excitement of the search.

Guides and Personal Touches

Many travelers highlight the guides’ friendly, informative approach. They are praised for their patience, especially when explaining whale behaviors or answering questions. A particularly frequent compliment is about guides who are marine biologists, providing detailed insights into the species being observed.

The onboard commentary and the ability to move freely between indoor and outdoor spaces allow for a flexible, enjoyable experience. Some reviews mention that the guides are attentive and keep everyone informed about where activity is happening, which helps maximize your chances of a sighting.

Cost and Value

Priced at around $83 per person, this tour offers good value considering the length, comfort, and quality of guides. Many reviews describe it as worthwhile, especially for those interested in marine wildlife and scenic coastlines. Even if whales don’t appear, most guests say they appreciated the boat ride, the stunning views, and the educational commentary.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families, wildlife enthusiasts, first-time whale watchers, and anyone curious about the ocean. It’s well-suited for those who appreciate a relaxed pace and enjoy learning from guides. The tour’s accessibility (wheelchair-friendly and optional pickup in Reykjavík) makes it convenient for a wide range of travelers.

The Sum Up

This whale watching cruise from Reykjavík offers a well-rounded, enjoyable look into Iceland’s marine environment. The combination of knowledgeable guides, comfortable boat facilities, and the chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat makes it a good value for most travelers. While wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed, the experience’s scenic beauty and educational value make it worthwhile.

It’s best suited for those who enjoy a relaxed, scenic adventure with the possibility of a wildlife encounter, rather than a certainty. If you’re patient and ready for a boat trip in sometimes unpredictable conditions, you’ll probably come away with unforgettable memories—whether you see a whale or not.

FAQs

How long does the whale watching tour last?
The tour generally lasts between 2.5 and 3.5 hours, depending on whale activity and weather conditions.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You meet at the Old Harbour House, Aegisgardur 2, 101 Reykjavík, 30 minutes before departure. You can check in conveniently via a QR code at the self-service kiosk.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it accessible for a wide range of travelers.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly, with weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes, as it can be colder on the ocean, even in summer.

Are food and drinks included?
No, but there are drinks and snacks available for purchase onboard at the café lounge.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for last-minute plans.

What happens if we don’t see any whales?
If no whales are spotted, you can return for a free ticket valid for up to three years, though sightings are never guaranteed.

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

Who are the guides?
Guides are friendly and often experts or marine biologists, providing educational commentary and helpful spotting tips.

In summary, this Reykjavík whale watching tour is a rewarding choice for travelers who want to combine scenic beauty with the thrill of marine wildlife. Its balance of comfort, expert guides, and authentic experience makes it a worthwhile addition to any Iceland itinerary—just remember, nature is unpredictable, and that’s part of the adventure.