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Tours leave straight from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour, famous for its lively waterfront, colourful boats, and easy access to the city’s best marine adventures.
- Blue Lagoon Iceland
- Perlan Museum Tickets
- Golden Circle Tours
- Vok Baths Tickets
- Whale Watching Iceland
- Secret Lagoon Tickets
- Reykjavik Northern Lights Tours
- Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Tours
- Whales of Iceland Museum
- Hvammsvik Hot Spring
- Sky Lagoon
- Krauma Geothermal Baths
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- Langjökull Glacier
- Whale Watching Tours from Akureyri
- Whale Watching Husavik Tours
Whale Watching Tours from Reykjavik
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION3 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERBoat
TimelineMap
Start point
Reykjavík Old Harbour
1. Faxaflói Bay
Things to do
Whale watching
Bird watching
End point
Reykjavík Old Harbour
Your ending point would be same as your start point
Spot whales with a marine biologist and enjoy Iceland’s coastal views from a heated indoor areas.
- Starting point: Set sail from Reykjavík's Old Harbour, just steps from the city center.
- Everything you get: 2.5–3.5 hour whale-watching tour on a modern boat "Andrea", with indoor lounges, open-air decks, free Wi-Fi, warm overalls, and onboard café access.
- Sights covered: Spot humpback and minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, harbour porpoises, plus diverse seabirds across Faxafloi Bay’s stunning waters.
- Why choose this: Choose this experience for comfort, expert guidance, and an engaging, educational journey at sea. Enjoy a stable vessel, warm gear, and a flexible free-retry policy, ensuring a rewarding wildlife adventure in Icelandic waters.
Spot whales with a marine biologist and enjoy Iceland’s coastal views from a heated indoor areas.
- Starting point: Set sail from Reykjavík's Old Harbour, just steps from the city center.
- Everything you get: 2.5–3.5 hour whale-watching tour on a modern boat "Andrea", with indoor lounges, open-air decks, free Wi-Fi, warm overalls, and onboard café access.
- Sights covered: Spot humpback and minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, harbour porpoises, plus diverse seabirds across Faxafloi Bay’s stunning waters.
- Why choose this: Choose this experience for comfort, expert guidance, and an engaging, educational journey at sea. Enjoy a stable vessel, warm gear, and a flexible free-retry policy, ensuring a rewarding wildlife adventure in Icelandic waters.
Inclusions
- 2.5 to 3.5-hour cruise aboard a modern, spacious boat
- English-speaking marine biologist guide
- Warm flotation overalls
- Access to indoor lounges, open decks & onboard café
- Free Wi-Fi onboard
Exclusions
- Food & drinks (available for purchase on board)
- Hotel pick-up & drop-off
What to Bring
- Wear warm layers, sturdy footwear, a hat, and gloves due to changing weather conditions.
- Bring a camera to capture wildlife and scenic views.
- You must show a valid ID at check-in.
What’s Not Allowed
- You are not allowed to bring alcoholic drinks on board.
Accessibility
- The cruise is wheelchair accessible
Additional Information
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure.
- You may experience sailing from a different harbour in winter for better sea conditions, with transport provided.
- You may request free seasickness tablets at the ticket office or onboard.
- You will receive a free return ticket if no wildlife is spotted.
- Feel free to bring food and non-alcoholic drinks on the tour.
- Please note that weather and sea conditions may impact departure decisions.
- Arrive early, as parking is not provided by the operator but is available nearby.
- At the harbor, you can explore the Whale Watching Centre, watch videos, view skeletons and information boards, or browse the gift shop.
- By purchasing a ticket, you support summer research projects, eco-friendly tourism, and wildlife protection organizations.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Bonus museum entry with RIB tours
RIB whale watching tours include free entry to the Whales of Iceland Museum. Stop by either before or after your tour to explore Iceland’s marine life at your own pace.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION3 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERYacht
Start point
Ægisgarður 2, 101 Reykjavík, IS
Passes By
Harpa Concert Hall
1. Faxaflói Bay
Whale watching
Passes By
Engey
Lundey
Videy Island
End point
Ægisgarður 2, 101 Reykjavík, IS
Your ending point would be same as your start point
Spot whales and Icelandic wildlife from a luxury yacht, cruising Reykjavík’s scenic coastline
- Starting point: Set sail from Reykjavík's Old Harbour, just steps from the city center.
- Everything you get: Set sail on a luxury yacht for a 2.5–3 hour whale-watching experience led by professional wildlife guides. Enjoy sweeping panoramic views, stay warm with cozy blankets and indoor seating, and make use of free Wi-Fi as you scan the bay for whales, dolphins, and porpoises.
- Sights covered: Sights covered: You'll be passing by Harpa Concert Hall, Reykjavík’s coastline, Faxaflói Bay, and nearby islands including Engey, Lundey (Puffin Island), and Viðey.
- Why choose this: Because true luxury is slowing down on a stylish yacht as Reykjavík’s coastline, islands, and wildlife come into view with facilities onboard.
Spot whales and Icelandic wildlife from a luxury yacht, cruising Reykjavík’s scenic coastline
- Starting point: Set sail from Reykjavík's Old Harbour, just steps from the city center.
- Everything you get: Set sail on a luxury yacht for a 2.5–3 hour whale-watching experience led by professional wildlife guides. Enjoy sweeping panoramic views, stay warm with cozy blankets and indoor seating, and make use of free Wi-Fi as you scan the bay for whales, dolphins, and porpoises.
- Sights covered: Sights covered: You'll be passing by Harpa Concert Hall, Reykjavík’s coastline, Faxaflói Bay, and nearby islands including Engey, Lundey (Puffin Island), and Viðey.
- Why choose this: Because true luxury is slowing down on a stylish yacht as Reykjavík’s coastline, islands, and wildlife come into view with facilities onboard.
Inclusions
- Whale-watching tour lasting for 2.5–3 hours
- Knowledgeable crew and wildlife experts
- Cozy blankets provided to keep you warm out on deck.
- Complimentary onboard Wi-Fi
- Restroom facilities onboard
- Heated indoor lounge with ample seating
- Optional pickup service from Reykjavík for an additional fee.
What to bring
- Dress in warm layers and carry a windproof, waterproof jacket. Reykjavík’s sea breeze can feel sharper once you’re out on Faxaflói Bay.
- Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear suitable for moving around the deck.
- Pack gloves and a scarf. Temperatures on the water are often cooler than in the city.
- Bring a camera or binoculars if you want to catch close-up moments with whales, dolphins, or seabirds.
What’s not allowed
- Large bags, suitcases, or oversized luggage cannot be brought on board for safety reasons.
- Smoking is prohibited anywhere on the yacht.
- Flash photography is discouraged as it can disrupt wildlife behaviour.
- Pets are not permitted unless they are registered service animals.
- Alcohol and illegal substances are strictly prohibited.
- This whale watching experience is wheelchair accessible, with crew ready to assist as needed.
Additional information
- If the North Atlantic chill catches up with you, warm blankets are provided during the cruise.
- Tours operate in most weather, though departures may be rescheduled if conditions in Faxaflói Bay become unsafe.
- Children under 7 join for free and must sit on an adult’s lap; reduced fares apply for ages 7–15. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
- Arrive at the harbor at least 15 minutes before departure to allow time for boarding.
- Restrooms are available onboard.
- Hotel pickup is offered for an additional cost.
- Should your tour miss any whale sightings, you’ll be invited back for a free repeat experience.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION2 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERSpeedboat
TimelineMap
Start point
Old Harbor, Reykjavik
1. Reykjavik Coast
Passes By
Harpa Concert Hall
2. Faxafloi Bay
Things to do
Whale-watching
Dolphin-spotting
Porpoise-spotting
3. Engey Island
4. Lundey Island
Things to do
Puffin-spotting
End point
Old Harbor, Reykjavik
Your ending point would be same as your start point
High-speed RIB boat gets you closer to whales with unmatched comfort and thrilling coastal views.
- Starting point: Reykjavik’s Old Harbour near the city center.
- Everything you get: Enjoy a 2-hour RIB adventure with close-up whale encounters in Faxaflói Bay, a scenic Reykjavík coastline cruise, expert guiding, warm gear, safety equipment, and admission to the Whales of Iceland museum, plus a free return ticket if no marine life is spotted.
- Sights covered: Spot humpbacks, minkes, dolphins, porpoises, and summer puffins, along with Reykjavík’s stunning coastline and the wildlife-rich waters of Faxaflói Bay.
- Why choose this: This RIB tour provides a more personal and close wildlife experience compared to larger vessels, thanks to its smaller size, speed, and agility.
High-speed RIB boat gets you closer to whales with unmatched comfort and thrilling coastal views.
- Starting point: Reykjavik’s Old Harbour near the city center.
- Everything you get: Enjoy a 2-hour RIB adventure with close-up whale encounters in Faxaflói Bay, a scenic Reykjavík coastline cruise, expert guiding, warm gear, safety equipment, and admission to the Whales of Iceland museum, plus a free return ticket if no marine life is spotted.
- Sights covered: Spot humpbacks, minkes, dolphins, porpoises, and summer puffins, along with Reykjavík’s stunning coastline and the wildlife-rich waters of Faxaflói Bay.
- Why choose this: This RIB tour provides a more personal and close wildlife experience compared to larger vessels, thanks to its smaller size, speed, and agility.
Inclusions
- 2-hour whale-watching RIB boat tour
- English-speaking expert guide
- Small-group; 12-seater boat
- Suspension seats for comfort
- Warm flotation overalls, life vests, gloves & goggles
- Safety equipment
- Admission to Whales of Iceland museum
- Visit to Puffin Island (summer)
- Free retry ticket if no sightings
Exclusions
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Food & drinks
- Parking
What to bring
- Warm layers should be worn under the provided overalls to stay comfortable outdoors.
- Guests are encouraged to bring sturdy shoes, as the harbor and boat areas can be slippery.
- Carrying a hat, gloves, and sunglasses ensures protection from changing weather and glare.
What’s not allowed
- Children under 10 years old or anyone shorter than 140 cm are not allowed to join this tour.
- The tour restricts access to anyone unable to fit properly into the flotation overalls.
- Alcoholic beverages are not allowed on board.
Accessibility
- The RIB speedboat cannot accommodate wheelchair users due to the vessel's design.
- Guests must be in good physical condition, as boarding and movement on the boat require stability.
- Participation isn’t permitted for pregnant travelers or individuals with back or severe heart conditions.
Additional information
- Arriving at least 30 minutes before departure is required to ensure on-time check-in.
- A valid photo ID must be presented at the ticket office before the tour begins.
- All guests will be asked to read and sign a safety waiver prior to boarding.
- Sea conditions may vary, and seasickness tablets are available at the ticket redemption point and on board.
- A minimum of four passengers is needed for departure, and tours may be rescheduled if this isn’t met.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION2 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERBoat
Start point
Old Harbour
Passes By
Faxaflói Bay
End point
Old Harbour
Your ending point would be same as your start point
Experience Iceland’s wildlife up close on a high-speed RIB boat
- Starting point: Depart from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour, just steps from the city center.
- Everything you get: Embark on a 2-hour small-group whale-watching adventure aboard a custom RIB boat, with a maximum of 12 passengers. Expert guides and a certified RIB captain ensure a safe, informative, and thrilling ride. Warm overalls, goggles, and safety equipment are provided, while high-quality suspension seats offer comfort even on faster rides.
- Sights covered: Cruise through Faxaflói Bay and enjoy Reykjavik’s coastline, passing landmarks such as the Sun Voyager sculpture, Harpa Concert Hall, and scenic islands. From late April to mid-August, puffins can also be spotted, alongside whales, dolphins, and porpoises in their natural habitat.
- Why choose this: Experience up-close whale and puffin sightings aboard a high-speed, stable RIB boat, designed for small groups and panoramic views of Reykjavík’s coastline, with a free return if no whales appear.
Experience Iceland’s wildlife up close on a high-speed RIB boat
- Starting point: Depart from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour, just steps from the city center.
- Everything you get: Embark on a 2-hour small-group whale-watching adventure aboard a custom RIB boat, with a maximum of 12 passengers. Expert guides and a certified RIB captain ensure a safe, informative, and thrilling ride. Warm overalls, goggles, and safety equipment are provided, while high-quality suspension seats offer comfort even on faster rides.
- Sights covered: Cruise through Faxaflói Bay and enjoy Reykjavik’s coastline, passing landmarks such as the Sun Voyager sculpture, Harpa Concert Hall, and scenic islands. From late April to mid-August, puffins can also be spotted, alongside whales, dolphins, and porpoises in their natural habitat.
- Why choose this: Experience up-close whale and puffin sightings aboard a high-speed, stable RIB boat, designed for small groups and panoramic views of Reykjavík’s coastline, with a free return if no whales appear.
Inclusions
- Small group RIB boat tour
- Guidance from marine biologist
- Access to crew photos
- 2-hour whale and puffin watching tour
- Specially trained whale-watching guide
- Fully certified RIB boat captain
- Warm overalls, gloves, goggles
- All necessary safety equipment
What to bring
- Dress for the weather and layer up.
- Bring a hat, gloves, and sturdy shoes suitable for the boat deck.
- Thermal overalls, life vests, gloves, and goggles are provided for your comfort and safety.
- Sunglasses, cameras, or phones are welcome but at your own risk. Bags are not allowed onboard, but can be stored at the office.
What’s not allowed / Restrictions
- This tour is not suitable for children under 10, pregnant guests, or those with back, knee, or mobility issues.
- Participants must be at least 145 cm (4 ft 8 in) tall, weigh no more than 140 kg (309 lbs), and be able to sit in the RIB’s saddle-style seats comfortably.
Accessibility
- This tour is not wheelchair accessible and may not suit those with mobility challenges.
Additional information
- Arrive at Reykjavík’s Old Harbour at least 30 minutes before departure to check in.
- The tour runs from April to October and the puffin season is from April to August.
- The experience lasts approximately 2 hours and requires a minimum of 2 passengers to proceed. If minimum numbers aren’t met, you can reschedule or receive a full refund.
- Whale and dolphin sightings are never guaranteed. If no wildlife appears, you’ll be offered a complimentary ticket valid for the Classic Whale Watching tour.
- All encounters follow a responsible whale-watching code of conduct, keeping a safe distance to minimize disturbance.
- You are required to sign a safety waiver confirming that you are physically fit for the tour.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Experience Reykjavík by day and night with whale watching and a Northern Lights cruise
- Starting point: Reykjavík’s Old Harbour
- Everything you get: Start with a 3-hour Classic Whale Watching tour led by a marine biologist, who guides you through sightings of marine wildlife. After a break, return to the harbour for a 2-hour Northern Lights Cruise.
- Sights covered: By day, explore Faxaflói Bay’s wildlife-rich waters with views of Reykjavík’s coastline and surrounding winter landscapes. By night, see the glowing city skyline, landmark silhouettes, the Peace Tower’s beam (when lit), and hopefully the Northern Lights.
- Why choose this: It’s the rare chance to witness whales, seabirds, Reykjavík’s nightscape, and the aurora, all within the same day. One ticket gives you two standout Icelandic experiences.
Experience Reykjavík by day and night with whale watching and a Northern Lights cruise
- Starting point: Reykjavík’s Old Harbour
- Everything you get: Start with a 3-hour Classic Whale Watching tour led by a marine biologist, who guides you through sightings of marine wildlife. After a break, return to the harbour for a 2-hour Northern Lights Cruise.
- Sights covered: By day, explore Faxaflói Bay’s wildlife-rich waters with views of Reykjavík’s coastline and surrounding winter landscapes. By night, see the glowing city skyline, landmark silhouettes, the Peace Tower’s beam (when lit), and hopefully the Northern Lights.
- Why choose this: It’s the rare chance to witness whales, seabirds, Reykjavík’s nightscape, and the aurora, all within the same day. One ticket gives you two standout Icelandic experiences.
Inclusions
- 3 hour whale watching tour
- 2 hour Northern Lights cruise
- Entry to Wildlife Exhibition
- Excellent guidance
- Use of overalls onboard
- Free WiFi on board
- Large viewing windows
- Heated indoor saloon
- Cafeteria and bar on board
Exclusions
- Pick up and drop off available at request
- Refreshments (can be purchased on board)
What to bring
- Dress for Icelandic weather. Layers, a warm hat, gloves, and sturdy footwear are essential, especially with time spent outdoors between the two tours.
- Thermal overalls are available on board to borrow if the cold catches up with you during either cruise.
What’s not allowed
- Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
- Outside food and drinks may not be brought on board.
- Smoking is strictly prohibited anywhere inside the vessel.
Accessibility
- This experience is not wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for guests with mobility challenges.
Additional information
- The combined duration varies depending on your chosen whale watching time slot. You’ll have several hours of free time between the two tours. Confirmation email will outline the exact schedule.
- Hotel pickup and drop-off are optional. If selected, pickup happens only before the whale watching tour and drop-off only after the Northern Lights cruise.
- Both tours depend on sea conditions; schedules may change or be cancelled on short notice for safety reasons. You’ll be notified whenever possible, but it’s wise to check the operator’s website for real-time updates.
- Whale sightings and Northern Lights displays are never guaranteed. If neither appears on your tour(s), you can come back for another tour for free of cost. r
- Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, a heated indoor lounge with wide viewing windows, and a café/bar with refreshments available for purchase.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION60 minutes
MODE OF TRANSFERBoat
Start point
Special Tours Ticket Office
Passes By
Akurey
End point
Special Tours Ticket Office
Your ending point would be same as your start point
Experience Reykjavík’s vibrant birdlife on a close-up puffin watching cruise
- Starting point: Depart from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour
- Everything you get: Step aboard Old Skúli, a shallow-draft boat specially designed to bring you closer to the nesting grounds than any standard vessel can. Enjoy a guided cruise led by experienced wildlife experts with over 20 years in the region.
- Sights covered: Glide across Faxaflói’s calm inshore waters, taking in Reykjavík’s skyline from the sea before reaching Akurey. Watch them dive, flap, bob on the waves, and tuck into their burrows along the island’s grassy slopes.
- Why choose this: This tour gives you the rare chance to approach Reykjavík’s puffin colonies at eye level, aboard a purpose-built boat. With live commentary, guaranteed puffin sightings, a quick travel time, and panoramic views of the city and its offshore islands, it’s one of the most effortless wildlife experiences you can have from Reykjavík.
Experience Reykjavík’s vibrant birdlife on a close-up puffin watching cruise
- Starting point: Depart from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour
- Everything you get: Step aboard Old Skúli, a shallow-draft boat specially designed to bring you closer to the nesting grounds than any standard vessel can. Enjoy a guided cruise led by experienced wildlife experts with over 20 years in the region.
- Sights covered: Glide across Faxaflói’s calm inshore waters, taking in Reykjavík’s skyline from the sea before reaching Akurey. Watch them dive, flap, bob on the waves, and tuck into their burrows along the island’s grassy slopes.
- Why choose this: This tour gives you the rare chance to approach Reykjavík’s puffin colonies at eye level, aboard a purpose-built boat. With live commentary, guaranteed puffin sightings, a quick travel time, and panoramic views of the city and its offshore islands, it’s one of the most effortless wildlife experiences you can have from Reykjavík.
Inclusions
- Traditional wooden boat tour
- 100% guaranteed puffin sightings
- Knowledgeable guide
- Small-group experience
- Binoculars on board
- App available in 5 languages
Exclusions
- Transfers
- Food and drink
What to bring
- Temperatures on the water can feel cooler than in the city. Dress warmly in layers.
- A windproof or waterproof jacket and sturdy footwear are recommended.
- If you’re sensitive to motion, bring seasickness medication as the ride can be bumpy on windy days.
- A valid photo ID is required at check-in.
What’s not allowed
- Outside food and drinks should not be brought on board.
- Pets are not allowed, with the exception of registered service animals.
- Alcohol, drugs, and boarding under the influence are strictly prohibited for safety reasons.
Accessibility
- Accessibility varies depending on the vessel used. Old Skúli has limited space, so guests using wheelchairs may not be able to board comfortably.
Additional information
- Tours are weather-dependent and may be cancelled if sea conditions are unsafe. In the event of a cancellation, you’ll receive a full refund.
- You may cancel your booking up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund.
- The boat ride to Akurey is short but can be choppy. Carry motion sickness medication if you’re prone to seasickness.
- Binoculars are available on board to help you get an even closer look at the puffins.
- An expert guide will be on board, and the Special Tours Iceland app (available in 5 languages) offers additional text and audio commentary.
- Parking is not available directly at the harbour, but there are several paid parking spots and a nearby parking garage within walking distance.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Make the most of Reykjavik
What to expect on whale watching tours in Reykjavik?
Enjoy direct harbour departures from the capital
Find you perfect whale watching tours in Reykjavík
Tour
Boarding point
Duration
Boat type
Inclusions
Ideal for
Reykjavik: Whale watching boat tour
Special Tours office, Reykjavík’s Old Harbor
2 - 3 hours
Motor yacht
Indoor seating for every passenger, professional guides, warm overalls, free WiFi
Ideal for families, first-time whale watchers, comfort-seekers, and anyone wanting a stable, spacious ship with expert guides
Reykjavik: Whale watching on luxury yacht
Old Harbour House, Aegisgardur
3 hours
Sailing yacht
Professional guide, free WiFi, warm blankets, optional hotel pickup and drop-off
Ideal for travelers who want a premium, smooth-sailing experience, couples, photographers, comfort-seekers, and anyone prone to seasickness
Reykjavik: whale watching tour on RIB speedboat
Aegisgardur 5E, 101 Reykjavik
2 hours
RIB boat
Professional guided, warm overalls, safety equipment, visit to the puffin island nesting grounds in the summer, entry ticket to the Whales of Iceland Museum
For thrill-seekers, adventure travelers, and wildlife enthusiasts who want a fast, close-up experience of whales and puffins
Reykjavik: Whale watching and puffin tour on RIB speedboat
Elding Whale Watching ticket office, Old Harbour
2 hours
RIB boat
Specially trained whale-watching guide, fully certified RIB boat captain, warm overalls, safety equipment
Adventure seekers, small-group enthusiasts, and wildlife lovers who want a fast, intimate RIB tour combining whale and puffin spotting
Reykjavik: Whale watching + northern lights cruise combo
Elding Whale Watching ticket office, Old Harbour
5 hours
Cruise
Professional guide, warm overalls onboard, free WiFi on board, entry to Wildlife Exhibition, large viewing windows, heated indoor saloon, cafeteria & Bar on board
For travelers who want a full-day Icelandic experience, first-timers and photographers
Reykjavik: Puffin watching boat tour
Special Tours ticket office, Geirsgata, Reykjavík
1 hour
Traditional oak boat
Professional guided, 100% whale sightings guarantee, binoculars on board, Special Tours Iceland app with 5 languages (English, German, French, Spanish, and simplified Chinese)
Bird enthusiasts, families, and wildlife photographers seeking close-up puffin encounters
Your Reykjavik whale watching tour itinerary
- Check in at Reykjavík’s Old Harbour: Arrive at the floating Visitor Centre, meet the crew, and browse the onboard wildlife exhibition before boarding.
- Depart into Faxaflói Bay: Cruise past Reykjavík’s skyline and surrounding mountains as you enter one of Iceland’s richest whale habitats.
- Whale Watching in Faxaflói Bay: Search for minke whales, humpbacks, white-beaked dolphins, and harbour porpoises with real-time guidance from expert marine specialists.
- Bird watching opportunities: Spot puffins (in season), Arctic terns, and seabirds gliding above the bay while using binoculars provided on board.
- Return to Reykjavík’s Old Harbour: Sail back to the same harbour where your journey began, with time to explore cafés, viewpoints, and the waterfront.
Whale species and marine animals you can spot in Faxaflói Bay
Humpback whale
Humpbacks frequent Faxaflói Bay in summer to feed on krill and small fish concentrated by mixing Arctic and Atlantic currents. Their acrobatic breaches and tail slaps are common here, making them one of Reykjavík’s most reliably spotted whales.
Whale-safe practice and eco standards in Reykjavik
Whale watching tours in Reykjavík follow strict, research-informed guidelines shaped by IceWhale and long-term monitoring in Faxaflói Bay. These standards define how vessels approach wildlife, manage time spent near animals, and navigate feeding corridors so that whale behaviour and not schedules, set the pace of encounters. The goal is to protect the bay’s seasonal feeding activity while ensuring sightings remain responsible and sustainable as tour numbers grow.
Noise reduction and low-impact viewing
Tours in Reykjavík minimise underwater noise inside the bay’s core feeding areas. Captains reduce speed or idle engines once whales are sighted, allowing animals to surface, dive, or move away on their own terms. Instead of circling pods, crews maintain parallel movement and rely on radio-linked observations between boats to avoid crowding a single animal. Guides prioritise quiet viewing, using hand signals, binocular spotting, and careful route planning. These low-impact methods reduce disruption to whales’ energy use, especially important during peak summer feeding and create calmer, more natural encounters for passengers.
Plan your whale watching tour in Reykjavik
Timings
Boarding point & getting there
Facilities
Tips
Rules
- Standard whale watching boat tour: Daily slots at 9am and 1pm.
- Whale Watching Tour on RIB Speedboat: Daily slots at 9am, 11am and 2pm.
Best time to go whale watching in Rekjavik
April to October is when humpbacks and minke whales feed intensively in Faxaflói Bay. Summer offers calmer seas, midnight light, and peak activity, while early autumn brings steady sightings with fewer boats and clearer conditions.
Reykjavík: Old Harbour | Find on map
- On foot: The harbour is a 10–20 minute walk from most downtown hotels. Simply follow the shoreline paths toward Harpa Concert Hall and continue westward along the waterfront until you reach the piers.
- By taxi: Taxis reach the Old Harbour in 5–10 minutes from central Reykjavík. Drop-off points are right next to the main piers for easy boarding.
- By bus: The Old Harbour area is served by several Strætó bus lines; stops such as “Ráðhúsið” (City Hall) and “Grandagarður” are a short walk from the harbour.
- Safety briefing
- Outdoor decks (on select boats)
- Light refreshments (on select tours)
- Heated indoor seating (on select boats)
- Restrooms (on select boats)
- Snack bars and refreshments (on select boats)
- Free WiFi (on select boats)
- Warm flotation suits and life jackets
- Safety equipment
- Onboard guides and educational commentary
- Pick a morning departure for calmer seas: Reykjavík often has the lightest winds before noon, giving you smoother sailing and better visibility across the bay.
- Stand on the starboard side when exiting the harbour: Many early sightings happen along the Kjalarnes and Esja side of Faxaflói, where herring schools often gather.
- Watch for bird behaviour, not splashes: Diving gulls and Arctic terns usually indicate baitfish at the surface, which is often your best cue that humpbacks may be feeding nearby.
- Use the onboard wildlife app or screens: Several Reykjavík operators share real-time sightings and migration notes, helping you understand why whales are feeding in specific pockets of the bay that day.
- Bring extra layers even in summer: Winds funnel straight into the bay from the North Atlantic, making it noticeably colder on deck than in the city centre.
- Stay outside during slow cruising segments: The bridge between Harpa and the open bay is where many dolphins and porpoises surface briefly—easy to miss if you're indoors.
- Some tours require you to check in 30 minutes before departure at Reykjavík’s Old Harbour, so arrive early to avoid delays.
- Tours depend entirely on sea and weather conditions; captains make the final call based on safety and decades of local experience.
- Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed. Many operators offer a free return ticket if no whales (or northern lights on combo tours) appear.
- Tour duration can vary. Whales may surface close to the harbour or much farther out, so expect anywhere between 2.5 and 3.5 hours at sea.
- Age, height, and weight restrictions may apply on RIB speedboats, and some tours require passengers to sign a safety waiver.
- Passengers must follow onboard safety instructions, including wearing provided flotation suits, avoiding restricted areas, and preparing for potentially rough seas.
Frequently asked questions about whale watching tours from Reykjavik
What is the best time of year to go whale watching in Reykjavík?
Summer is considered peak season because of longer daylight hours and abundant marine activity, especially from humpback whales. Winter tours still run and offer chances to see minke whales along with dramatic coastal scenery.
How do I get to Reykjavík’s Old Harbour for my whale watching tour?
You can walk from downtown in under 10 minutes, take local buses that stop close to the marina, or hire a taxi for quick point-to-point access. Each option is straightforward and well-signed.
How long do whale watching tours usually last?
Most standard tours last around 3 hours. Extended tours or wildlife safaris may run longer depending on conditions and sightings.
Which whales can I expect to see around Reykjavík?
Common sightings include humpback whales, minke whales, white-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoises. Species vary by season and feeding conditions.
What should I wear on a Reykjavík whale watching tour?
Dress in warm, layered clothing. Even in summer, the wind on Faxaflói Bay can be cold. Waterproofs and hats are strongly recommended.
Is whale watching suitable for children?
Most operators welcome families and offer warm overalls and indoor seating. The smooth ride of larger vessels makes them a good choice for younger travellers.
What are the chances of actually seeing whales?
Reykjavík has one of Europe’s highest sighting success rates thanks to the nutrient-rich bay. Many operators even offer complimentary return tickets if no whales appear on your initial trip.
Are there insider tips to improve my chances of spotting whales?
Yes. Watch for bird behaviour because diving gulls and Arctic terns often signal feeding activity. Stay near the railings of course and use binoculars to identify movement on the horizon.
From happy customers
Lina
nov, 2025
Just got back from the combo whale watching and northern lights trip and honestly, I’m still BUZZING. Went with my partner (who gets seasick but did fine, thanks to the ginger biscuits they give out!). Saw two whales up close, like literally you could hear them breathe. Crew was suuuper friendly, even offered to lend us extra gloves. Lights were a bit shy at first but then—boom—green streaks all over the sky. Boat has indoor heated seating, so you don’t freeze ur butt off. If you’re on the fence, just go for it.
Reykjavik: Whale Watching & Northern Lights Cruise Combo
Lars
set, 2025
Went with my girlfriend. The crew was super helpful, especially when she felt seasick (they gave her ginger tea and checked on her). Saw dolphins, seals, and one BIG whale. Northern lights were out for like 10 mins, looked surreal. Worth every penny.
Reykjavik: Whale Watching & Northern Lights Cruise Combo
Nikolai
set, 2025
Booked with my partner for our anniversary. The guides gave us a shoutout on the boat which was cute. Saw whales, seals, and a surprise pod of dolphins. Unforgettable.
Reykjavik: Whale Watching Tour on RIB Speedboat
Irina
set, 2025
Cool trip, whales really do come right up to the boat. The suits they give you are warm but kinda bulky. Take layers underneath. Our group had 14 ppl so not too crowded.
Reykjavik: Whale Watching Tour on RIB Speedboat