Sea Fishing Experience from Reykjavik

Discover the Authentic Icelandic Sea Fishing Experience from Reykjavik

Thinking about trying something uniquely Icelandic? A sea fishing trip from Reykjavik offers a fantastic way to spend a few hours on the water, combining the thrill of fishing with breathtaking views. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a complete novice, this tour caters to all skill levels and promises fresh catches, scenic vistas, and some good old-fashioned fun.

What really sets this experience apart is the friendly, knowledgeable crew—many reviews highlight their professionalism, warmth, and even their culinary skills. A particular highlight for many travelers is the opportunity to grill your catch right on the boat, turning your fishing adventure into a delicious meal. However, one consideration is the weather—since the tour depends on good weather conditions, cancellations can happen if the seas turn rough.

This trip is perfect for outdoor lovers, families, and anyone eager to enjoy Iceland’s quintessential fishing culture. If you’re after a mix of adventure, scenery, and authentic local cuisine, this tour might be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Equipment: No need to pack your own gear—the boat supplies everything, including rods, bait, and safety clothing.
• Ideal for Beginners: The crew provides guidance, making it accessible even for first-time fishers.
• Scenic Views: Pass by Akurey and Lundey islands in summer, famous for seabirds and puffins.
• Flexible Options: You can choose to cook your catch on the boat or take it home.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Usually limited to 65 participants, ensuring a more personal experience.
• Great Value: At around $141, the tour offers a mix of adventure, scenery, and a unique Icelandic activity.

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Reykjavik Sea Fishing Trip

When you arrive at Geirsgata 11, in the heart of Reykjavik, you’ll get a warm welcome from the crew of Special Tours Iceland. The experience starts with a quick briefing, where they hand out protective clothing—a must-have for Iceland’s often chilly, windy conditions. Most travelers find this gear keeps them cozy, even in less-than-perfect weather.

Once aboard the comfortable fishing boat, you’ll set out into Faxaflói Bay. The boat, often praised for its spaciousness with indoor seating and onboard toilets, ensures comfort during the approximately 3-hour journey. As the boat glides through the waters, you’ll enjoy impressive views of the surrounding islands, especially during summer when Akurey and Lundey are visible, teeming with seabirds and puffins.

The crew is not only seasoned fishermen but also passionate guides. They provide all necessary equipment, including fishing rods and bait, which means you just need to bring your enthusiasm. They’ll give a quick tutorial—especially helpful for first-timers—to explain how to set up and cast your line, so no prior experience is necessary.

Once everyone is ready, the real fun begins. You’ll drop your lines into the water, trying your luck at catching species like cod, halibut, haddock, rockfish, and pollock. Several reviews praise the crew’s ability to put everyone on fish, with one saying, “We caught fish like crazy!” Others mention the thrill of snagging a good-sized cod or pollock, which makes the experience genuinely rewarding.

Passing by the Islands and Birdwatching

In summer months (May to August), the boat passes the islands of Akurey and Lundey. Reviewers loved the chance to see puffins and other seabirds nesting in these areas, adding a visual treat to the fishing. This makes the trip more than just fishing—it’s also a scenic cruise with plenty of wildlife sightings.

The Catch and Cook Option

One of the standout features is the opportunity to prepare your catch right on the boat. Many reviewers rave about the delicious grilled fish, often seasoned and cooked by the crew. Imagine sitting on the deck, enjoying your freshly caught cod or halibut, seasoned and grilled to perfection—what a way to end a fishing trip.

Alternatively, if you prefer, you can take your catch back to your hotel or accommodation to have it prepared locally. This flexibility adds a practical touch, especially for those staying nearby or wanting to enjoy a home-cooked Icelandic seafood meal.

The Value: Is It Worth the Price?

At around $141.65 per person for a 3-hour trip, this experience offers notable value. It includes all necessary equipment, professional guidance, and the chance to catch and cook fresh fish. Many reviews highlight the generous and helpful crew, with comments like, “The crew works hard ensuring everyone can fish,” and “They are very experienced and knowledgeable.”

In addition, the boat’s amenities—inside seating, toilets, and the option to buy drinks—add comfort and convenience. For families or groups, this can be an excellent bonding activity, with the bonus of a delicious meal at the end.

While the price might seem a little steep compared to simple sightseeing tours, the authenticity and hands-on nature of this experience justify the cost. You’re not just observing; you’re actively participating in a core Icelandic tradition.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

Many travelers express how memorable this trip is. Mona_H describes it as “What an amazing experience,” praising the crew’s fun and professional attitude. Melissa_R notes, “We caught big cod, haddock, and pollock,” and mentions the delicious dinner on board, which adds a unique culinary aspect to the tour.

Families especially love how the crew makes everything accessible. Ana_F shares, “We had such a great time exploring different fishing locations and having a meal prepared,” making it clear that this activity suits all ages and energy levels.

Even in challenging weather conditions, travelers like Gail_K found the trip exhilarating—“Rough seas, cold, rainy, and windy—did I care? No!” she says, because the fun was worth every splash and gust.

Of course, a few reviews mention issues like lost weights or equipment problems, but these are rare and don’t overshadow the overall positive feedback. The crew’s efforts to ensure everyone has a good time shine through, with many reviews describing them as “terrific,” “friendly,” and “hardworking.”

Practical Details: Logistics and Tips

Meeting point is conveniently located at Geirsgata 11, Reykjavík, within walking distance from central Reykjavik and close to public transportation. The tour starts at 5:00 pm, making it suitable for a relaxed evening activity.

Most travelers can participate, and those with limited mobility or children generally find it manageable, especially since the boat is equipped with indoor seating and toilets.

Booking ahead is strongly recommended—on average, trips are booked about 40 days in advance. This not only guarantees your spot but also helps avoid disappointment if the tour sells out.

Weather considerations are important. Since the trip depends on good sea conditions, cancellations due to poor weather are possible. If that happens, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund. Some travelers suggest dressing warmly and bringing rain jackets, especially if the forecast isn’t perfect.

Optional hotel transfers are available for an additional fee, which can be a big help if you prefer to skip the logistics of finding the meeting point.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This sea fishing adventure is an excellent choice for those looking to connect with Iceland’s maritime traditions. It’s perfect for families, couples, or even solo travelers eager to try something different. The friendly and expert crew focus on making sure everyone has a good time, whether that’s catching a cod or simply enjoying the scenery and fresh sea air.

The opportunity to cook your fish on the boat adds a memorable culinary dimension, making this experience stand out from standard sightseeing trips. It’s also a fantastic way to gain an authentic insight into Iceland’s coastal lifestyle—something that many visitors cherish.

However, those prone to seasickness or who prefer dry land might want to consider their comfort in rougher waters. Since the trip is weather-dependent, flexible travelers should also be prepared for possible cancellations.

All in all, whether you’re an avid angler or just looking for a fun, scenic adventure, this Reykjavik sea fishing tour offers genuine value, beautiful views, and a chance to take home some Icelandic seafood.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the crew provides guidance and all necessary equipment, making it accessible for first-timers and experienced anglers alike.

What species can I expect to catch?
Common catches include cod, halibut, haddock, rockfish, and pollock. Many reviews highlight catching large cod and other sizable fish.

Do I need to bring my own fishing gear?
No, all equipment, including rods and bait, is provided onboard. Just bring your enthusiasm and warm clothes.

Can I take my catch home?
Absolutely. You can opt to have your fish grilled on the boat or take it back to your accommodation to prepare.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, and bring rain jackets if the weather forecast suggests rain. The boat supplies protective clothing.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, hotel transfers can be booked separately for an extra fee, but the meeting point in Reykjavik is centrally located and accessible.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours depend on good weather conditions. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This Reykjavik sea fishing trip offers a genuine taste of Iceland’s coastal life, combining the joy of fishing with stunning scenery and delicious food. Whether you’re after a fun family outing, a new hobby, or a memorable adventure, this experience delivers.