Husavik harbor
Begin your journey in Husavik, the Whale Capital of Iceland. Arrive at the ticket office at least 30 minutes before departure to check in and gear up with a warm safety overall provided by the crew. After departure, your expert wildlife guide will walk you through all the onboard safety procedures, ensuring you're fully prepared to enjoy the adventure ahead.
1
Husavik Coastline
As you depart from the harbor, you'll pass by the picturesque Husavik coastline, known for its colorful houses, quaint lighthouse, and sweeping views of the surrounding cliffs and hills. This stretch offers a peaceful introduction to the region’s coastal beauty and charm.
Snacks
Snacks
Included (based on selection)
Enjoy hot chocolate and cinnamon buns on your way to the bay if they are included in your selected ticket option.
2
Skjálfandi Bay
3 activities
Free Admission
Cruise smoothly into Skjálfandi Bay, a tranquil expanse of sea bordered by the majestic Vík Mountains. Take in the breathtaking scenery and feel the crisp sea air as you enter one of Iceland’s richest marine habitats.
1. Whale watching
Included in price
Keep your eyes peeled for the awe-inspiring sight of humpback whales breaching, elusive minke whales surfacing, and playful white-beaked dolphins leaping alongside the boat.
2. Puffin spotting
Included in price
The bay is also a haven for sea birds, including puffins, known as the 'clowns of the sea,' offering a rare opportunity to observe their colorful beaks and lively antics up close.
3. Sightseeing
Included in price
Enjoy panoramic views of Skjálfandi Bay’s dramatic coastline and snow-capped mountains, soaking in the serene beauty and learning about Iceland’s rich marine ecosystem from your knowledgeable guide as you sail
3
Husavik harbor
Sail Iceland’s best whale-watching bay with 97-99% sighting success and expert guides.
Sail Iceland’s best whale-watching bay with 97-99% sighting success and expert guides.
Inclusions
Oddeyrarbót pier
Arrive at Akureyri Harbor, collect your cozy overalls and safety gear, then board a comfortable boat with both indoor and outdoor seating to embark on a scenic whale-watching journey through Eyjafjörður fjord.
1
Eyjafjörður fjord
2 activities
Cruise through the serene Eyjafjörður fjord, one of Iceland’s most sheltered fjords and a fantastic whale watching area. Keep watch for magnificent whales while your expert guide shares fascinating insights about the region’s marine life and landscapes.
1. Whale watching
Included in price
Spot awe-inspiring humpback whales, elusive blue whales, and other whale species gliding through the fjord’s tranquil waters, creating unforgettable wildlife encounters.
2. Porpoises and white-beaked dolphin spotting
Included in price
The bay is also a hotspot for porpoises and playful dolphins for a diverse wildlife adventures.
3. Snacks
Snacks
Additional cost (on-site)
Savor delicious snacks from the onboard snack bar as you relax and soak in panoramic fjord views, making the most of your Icelandic adventure.
2
Forest Lagoon
Tickets included (based on selection)
If your ticket includes it, unwind at the Forest Lagoon geothermal spa after your cruise, soaking in mineral-rich hot pools surrounded by birch and pine forest with breathtaking views over Eyjafjörður fjord
3
Oddeyrarbót pier
Whale watching meets an optional spa visit and golden sunsets in Iceland’s largest fjord.
Whale watching meets an optional spa visit and golden sunsets in Iceland’s largest fjord.
Inclusions
Reykjavík Old Harbour
Begin your adventure at Reykjavík’s Old Harbour, checking in at the floating Visitor Centre aboard a converted fishing vessel, where you’ll meet the crew and explore an engaging wildlife exhibition before departure.
1
Faxaflói Bay
2 activities
Sail into the expansive Faxaflói Bay, surrounded by sweeping views of Reykjavík’s skyline and distant mountains, setting the stage for an unforgettable marine exploration.
1. Whale watching
Included in price
Scan the bay’s waters for minke whales, humpbacks, white-beaked dolphins, and harbour porpoises, guided by expert commentary that brings Iceland’s marine life to life.
2. Bird watching
Included in price
Keep your binoculars ready for bird watching, as Faxaflói Bay is home to a variety of seabirds, including puffins, Arctic terns, and gulls, often spotted soaring above the waves.
2
Reykjavík Old Harbour
If you’ve selected the hotel transfer option, your experience begins with a convenient pick-up from your accommodation in Reykjavík, ensuring a stress-free start to your whale-watching adventure.
1
Reykjavík Old Harbour
Arrive at the Old Harbour pier and check in at the floating Visitor Centre, where you’ll meet your friendly crew, explore a fascinating wildlife exhibition, and enjoy an immersive multimedia introduction to Iceland’s marine life.
2
Faxaflói Bay
2 activities
Set sail into the scenic Faxaflói Bay, surrounded by Reykjavík’s skyline and distant mountains, as you prepare for an exciting search for whales and other marine creatures.
1. Whale watching
Included in price
Keep your eyes on the water for minke whales, humpbacks, white-beaked dolphins, and harbour porpoises, while your knowledgeable guide shares captivating stories and insights about these incredible animals.
2. Bird watching
Included in price
Watch for a variety of seabirds, including puffins and Arctic terns, soaring above the bay, offering fantastic opportunities for birdwatching enthusiasts.
3
Reykjavík Old Harbour
Cruise back to Reykjavík’s Old Harbour, soaking in the final panoramic views and reflecting on the unforgettable moments from your journey.
4
Hotel drop-off
Your adventure concludes with a comfortable drop-off back at your hotel, making your return as seamless and relaxing as your departure.
Spot whales with a marine biologist and enjoy Iceland’s coastal views from a heated indoor areas.
Spot whales with a marine biologist and enjoy Iceland’s coastal views from a heated indoor areas.
Inclusions
Exclusions
Husavik harbor
Arrive at Husavik harbor, gear up in cozy overalls and safety gear, and prepare to board a 12-passenger RIB boat for a close-up whale-watching journey on Skjálfandi Bay.
1
Puffin Island
Cruise to Puffin Island during nesting season (April 15–August 15) and witness thousands of vibrant puffins in their natural habitat, offering a rare opportunity for birdwatching and photography.
2
Skjálfandi Bay
3 activities
Glide across the serene waters of Skjálfandi Bay, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery, as your expert guide provides live commentary while you search for blue whales, humpbacks, and playful dolphins.
1. Whale-watching
Included in price
2. Dolphin-spotting
Included in price
3. Porpoise-spotting
Included in price
3
Husavik harbor
High-speed RIB tour for close-up whale and puffin encounters in Husavik’s Skjálfandi Bay.
High-speed RIB tour for close-up whale and puffin encounters in Husavik’s Skjálfandi Bay.
Inclusions
Exclusions
Old Harbor, Reykjavik
Reach Reykjavik's Old Harbor area to set sail to its surrounding islands and coasts for an intimate whale-watching adventure. Collect your warm overalls, goggles, gloves, and other safety equipment here before boarding the 12-passenger capacity, RIB boat.
1
Reykjavik Coast
Tickets included
Pass by the Reykjavik coast, lined with vibrant cafes, restaurants, and shops. After your boat tour, you can plan to explore the Reykjavik Maritime Museum to learn about Iceland's fishing and ship-building history.
Harpa Concert Hall
2
Faxafloi Bay
3 activities
Tickets included
After you pass the coast, you will reach the Faxafloi Bay, where you will then venture into the open sea to spot the whales and other marine life.
1. Whale-watching
Included in price
Admire the serenity of the bay and keep your eyes peeled for majestic whales, including minkes and humpbacks, to show up. Your RIB will take you up close to these beautiful giants to observe their behavior in their natural habitat.
2. Dolphin-spotting
Included in price
Along with whales, you can spot white-beaked dolphins which make frequent appearances in this region. They are friendly and you can find them leaping out of the water often.
3. Porpoise-spotting
Included in price
Reykjavik is quite a popular place for harbor porpoises to show up especially during summer months. Unlike dolphins, they don't leap out of the water but instead swim on the surface.
3
Engey Island
Tickets included
Pass by Engey Island, the second-largest island of the Kollafjörður (Faxa Bay) fjord in western Iceland. This is a peaceful spot popular for spotting birds like puffins.
4
Lundey Island
1 activities
Tickets included
Cruise by Lundey, meaning 'Puffin Island' in Icelandic, a small, uninhabited island located off Reykjavík’s western coast.
Puffin-spotting
Included in price
During puffin season, you can spot these unusual birds along Lundey Island, making it a great spot to capture them on camera and observe them line the coast.
6
Old Harbor, Reykjavik
Get up close to Iceland’s marine life on a thrilling small-group RIB speedboat trip from Reykjavik.
Get up close to Iceland’s marine life on a thrilling small-group RIB speedboat trip from Reykjavik.
Inclusions
Exclusions
Oddeyrarbót pier
Check in at the floating pier by the HOF Cultural Center in downtown Akureyri. Meet your expert guide, receive a safety briefing, and board the custom-made RIB speedboat, designed for small groups.
1
Eyjafjord
2 activities
Feel the thrill of the RIB boat ride as you zip across Iceland’s longest fjord, surrounded by dramatic mountains and pristine waters. The RIB boat’s agility allows you to reach optimal whale watching areas quickly.
1. Whale-watching
Included in price
Scan the waters for humpback whales, minke whales, and white-beaked dolphins, and listen to your guide share insights about the local wildlife and ecosystem.
2. Bird-watching and scenic fjord views
Included in price
Watch for seabirds like puffins and Arctic terns, and take in the breathtaking scenery of Eyjafjörður as you cruise along the coastline.
2
Oddeyrarbót pier
See whales and seabirds up close on a small group RIB speedboat adventure.
See whales and seabirds up close on a small group RIB speedboat adventure.
Inclusions
Exclusions
Iceland is one of the world’s top whale watching destinations, thanks to its nutrient-rich waters that attract a wide range of whale species. During peak months, some tours achieve incredible sighting rates of 97-99%. Expert guides use their deep local knowledge and real-time tracking to help you get the best possible whale encounters.
Best for: Travelers who value comfort, stability, and a relaxed pace on their whale watching experience.
Note: The onboard amenities differ based on the tour but generally include spacious and larger boats with snack bars, indoor and outdoor seating, and Wi-Fi, among others, to ensure utmost comfort.
Best for: Thrill seekers, and those wanting a close-up look at the marine giants. The rigid inflatable boats are fast and easy to maneuver so they quickly reach whale hotspots, giving you the chance to observe marine life at close range.
Note: The small group size of 12 people on these tours ensures you get to engage with your expert guide and ask questions, ideal for true wildlife enthusiasts. All essential safety equipment is included in the tickets.
Your adventure begins with a warm welcome and a detailed safety briefing. Guides explain the day’s plan, distribute flotation suits and life jackets, and share tips for spotting whales and staying comfortable at sea.
As you leave the harbor, take in stunning views of Iceland’s dramatic coastline—whether it’s Reykjavík’s cityscape, Húsavík’s colorful harbor, or Akureyri’s mountain-framed fjord. The journey itself is a feast for the eyes, with volcanic islands and distant peaks on the horizon.
Expert guides enrich your tour with insightful commentary on whale behavior, marine ecology, and local conservation efforts. Their engaging stories and real-time observations turn each sighting into a learning experience, deepening your appreciation for Iceland’s unique marine life.
Guides and crew help you scan the waves for telltale blows, fins, and breaches. Depending on the season and location, you may see humpbacks, minkes, dolphins, porpoises, and even blue whales or orca whales in Iceland. Puffins and seabirds often join the show in summer.
Enjoy the excitement of seeing whales breach, tail-slap, or feed at the surface. Some tours even pause the engines so you can listen to the sounds of whales and seabirds, creating a truly immersive Arctic experience.
Reykjavik whale-watching cruise boats are designed to offer comfort in the best way possible. With heated indoor and outdoor seating options, provision for warm overalls, necessary safety equipment, and an onboard cafeteria to grab a bite, the choice is yours!
In Reykjavik, they ensure eco-conscious methods of conducting whale-watching tours by maintaining distance and using environmentally friendly boats. Here are some of the things that are followed:
The Humpback whale is a commonly seen species in the waters around Reykjavík. They are known for their long pectoral fins and broad tails and their size is up to 52 feet long, which is as tall as “The City of Los Angeles” mural. Humpbacks are often seen performing acrobatic breaches, fluke (tail) lifting, and peeping with their heads up depending on how they are communicating.
Best time to go on whale watching tours in Iceland:
Reykjavík: Old Harbour | Find on map
Husavik: Húsavík harbor | Find on map
Akureyri: Oddeyrarbót pier | Find on map
In Icelandic folklore, whales were seen as mysterious creatures, believed to bring either storms or good fortune. Encountering a whale at sea was considered to signal the presence of a hidden force or spirit, and their appearance was often believed to be an omen. These massive animals were seen as both mystical and powerful symbols.
Icelandic sagas often feature whales or whale-like creatures. In "The Saga of Grettir the Strong," Grettir, a warrior, faces a giant sea monster resembling a whale. These encounters blend myth with reality, symbolizing both the physical and metaphysical challenges of the sea. Whales represent the powerful forces and mysteries of the ocean in these stories.
During the Viking Age, whales were seen as powerful, terrifying creatures symbolizing the untamable forces of nature. They could bring destruction, like storms or shipwrecks, but also awe, reflecting the ocean's raw power. Whales held a significant symbolic role in Viking culture, especially in tales of voyages and maritime adventures, where the sea was central.
Some sagas feature beings that can transform between human and whale forms, such as the "Whale Kings." These transformations symbolized spiritual journeys or crossing realms. Whales were also seen as protectors of seafarers, with sightings near ships believed to signal safety from storms or predators. This belief stemmed from the reverence for whales as rulers of the sea.
In winter, join a Northern Lights boat tour from Reykjavík for the chance to witness the aurora borealis dancing above the Arctic waters for a magical complement to your wildlife adventures.
Northern Lights tours
After your Iceland whale safari, relax in one of the famous geothermal hot springs, such as the Blue Lagoon near Reykjavík or Mývatn Nature Baths near Akureyri, soaking in mineral-rich waters with breathtaking views.
Iceland hot springs tickets
Combine your whale watching with a classic Golden Circle tour, visiting Þingvellir National Park, Geysir hot springs, and the mighty Gullfoss waterfall for a full day of Icelandic wonders.
Golden Circle toursThe best whale tour Reykjavik offers for first-timers is a classic cruise from the Old Harbour, featuring comfortable boats, expert guides, and high sighting rates of minke and humpback whales year-round.
Whale watching Reykjavik tours are the most convenient, departing from the city center and offering a mix of urban and marine scenery. Húsavík is known for the highest sighting rates, while Akureyri tours explore the calm waters of Iceland’s longest fjord.
The peak season for a whale trip in Reykjavik is from May to September, when sighting rates and species diversity are at their best. However, tours operate year-round, and winter trips offer a unique experience with fewer crowds.
RIB whale safari Reykjavik tours are best for adventure seekers and older children (typically ages 10+ and over 145 cm tall). Classic boat tours are more suitable for families with young kids or those seeking a gentler ride.
Husavik whale watching tours are famous for their high sighting rates—often 95% or higher—and the chance to see a wide variety of species, including blue whales. Eco-friendly options like traditional oak boats are also available.
If you join a whale safari from Husavik, especially on a RIB speedboat, you can get remarkably close to the whales while still respecting safe wildlife distances. The small group size and agile boats maximize your chances for up-close encounters.
The best whale watching tour Iceland offers for close encounters is a RIB speedboat tour from Reykjavik, Húsavík, or Akureyri. These tours use small, fast boats that can approach whales more closely and cover more area in search of wildlife.
Yes, you can see whales in Iceland year-round, especially in Reykjavik and Akureyri. While summer offers the greatest diversity, winter tours still have good sighting rates and the added bonus of dramatic Arctic scenery.
Yes, if you choose the Akureyri whale watching tour, you can opt for the option that includes a Forest Lagoon spa visit.
Yes, whale watching from Akureyri is available year-round, with standard tours operating in all seasons and RIB speedboat tours running from April to October. Summer months offer the greatest species diversity, but humpbacks can be seen in Eyjafjörður throughout the year.
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