Whale-Watching Boat Tour with Expert Guide from Reykjavik

Reykjavik , Iceland

Whale-Watching Boat Tour with Expert Guide from Reykjavik

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(641 reviews)

Duration varies

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Set off in search of minke whales, humpbacks and more on this whale-watching cruise from Reykjavik. Pull on a pair of provided coveralls and then stay on the lookout for harbor porpoises, white-beaked dolphins and whales as you cut through the still waters of Faxaflói Bay. Throughout your cruise, listen to the knowledgeable guide’s insightful commentary, and have your camera ready to capture Reykjavik’s native marine life in the wild. Choose from a 3-3.5-hour Classic cruise or the 2-2.5-hour Express Cruise on a faster boat — perfect if you’re short on time. Please note that the 3-3.5 hour cruise sails at 9:00, 13:00 and 17:00. The 2-2.5 hour cruise sails at 10:00, 14:00 and 21:00. Please note that the departure times depend on time of year.

Available options

Express Whale Watching

Classic Whale Watching

Classic Whale Watching Tour: 3-3.5 hour Classic Whale Watching

What's included

Free WiFi

Complimentary sea sickness tablets, if needed

Use of thermal overalls - also available in children's sizes!

Heated indoor seating areas

Free ticket to try again if nothing is seen on your tour - sightings guarantee!

What you'll see

Choose from a leisurely 3.5-hour cruise or an express 2.5-hour high-speed boat version, and then make your own way to Reykjavik’s Old Harbor, where you’ll board your luxurious, whale-watching boat.

Find a comfortable spot on deck and pull on a pair of provided coveralls to keep you warm. Remember to also bring a hat, scarf and gloves with you to keep you extra toasty. Then, listen as your guide explains what species of marine life you can expect to see, and hear interesting facts and old sea stories about these magnificent mammals.

As your boat slips away from the harbor, scan the water for porpoises, white-beaked dolphins, minke whales and humpbacks whales. Make sure you have your camera ready — with up to 90% whale-spotting success, this Faxaflói Bay cruise provides a fantastic chance to see whales. In the unlikely event that you don’t spot a whale, you will receive a complimentary ticket for another boat ride.

If you feel cold during your cruise, warm yourself up inside the cozy viewing area, where coffee, tea, hot chocolate and light refreshments (own expense) are available.

After 2.5 or 3.5 hours, your experience ends with a drop-off back at your hotel (if booked directly with the supplier)

What's not included

Gratuities

Food and drink (can be purchased on board)

Hotel transfers (can be added for an additional fee)

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.8

359 reviews

5★

141

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.5

282 reviews

5★

213

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

German guidance available on Classic tours from May 1st - September 30th.

Operates in a variety of weather conditions, please dress appropriately

If cancelled due to unsuitable sailing conditions, you will be give the option of an alternative date or a full refund.

Hotel pick up: Available to book directly with supplier (extra fees apply).

Wheelchair accessible for the 3 - 3.5 hours trip

Meeting point

Please make your way to the Special Tours Ticket Office, located at Geirsgata 11, 101 Reykjavik.

Important notes

Please check in at the Special Tours ticket office 20 - 30 minutes before departure time to exchange your voucher for the boarding pass.

About Reykjavik

Reykjavik is the world's northernmost capital city, known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural surroundings, and unique Icelandic charm. It offers a blend of modern amenities and ancient geothermal wonders, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Top Attractions

Hallgrímskirkja

This iconic church is a landmark of Reykjavik, known for its distinctive architecture and towering spire. It offers panoramic views of the city from its tower.

Architecture/Religious 1-2 hours Moderate (ISK 1000 for the tower)

Harpa Concert Hall

A stunning modern concert hall with a glass facade that reflects the surrounding landscape. It hosts a variety of performances and events.

Architecture/Entertainment 1-2 hours Free to enter, performance tickets vary

Blue Lagoon

A geothermal spa known for its milky-blue waters rich in minerals. It's a popular spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Nature/Relaxation Half a day Expensive (ISK 49,900 and up)

Reykjavik Art Museum

A museum showcasing contemporary Icelandic and international art. It's housed in a striking building with a glass facade.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate (ISK 1400)

Perlan Museum

A unique museum located in a glass dome that offers a variety of exhibits, including a glacier exhibit and a planetarium.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate to Expensive (ISK 3,990 and up)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Plokkfiskur

A traditional Icelandic fish stew made with mashed potatoes, white fish, onions, and béchamel sauce.

Main Course Contains fish and dairy

Hákarl

Fermented shark, a traditional Icelandic delicacy known for its strong smell and taste.

Snack Contains fish

Skyr

A thick, creamy Icelandic yogurt-like dairy product, often served with berries or cream.

Dessert Contains dairy

Rúgbrauð

A dense, dark rye bread traditionally baked underground using geothermal heat.

Bread Vegan

Popular Activities

Glacier hiking and ice climbing Whale watching Snowmobiling on a glacier Caving and lava tunnel exploration Visiting geothermal spas like the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon Enjoying a traditional Icelandic massage or spa treatment Taking a leisurely walk around Tjörnin Lake in Reykjavik Visiting museums and galleries

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest time of the year with long daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is lively with numerous festivals and events.

8°C to 13°C (46°F to 55°F) 46°F to 55°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Icelandic
Widely spoken: English, Danish, German
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Icelandic Króna (ISK)

Time Zone

GMT+0

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Iceland is a very safe country with low crime rates. However, it's always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Be cautious when using ATMs, and only use ATMs located in secure, well-lit areas
• Research tour operators and rental companies before booking to ensure they are reputable and legitimate

Getting there

By air

Keflavík International Airport • 50 km (31 miles) from Reykjavik

By bus

BSÍ Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent services and easy-to-use ticketing.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bustravel, Uber (limited availability)

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Reykjavik Hlemmur Vesturbær

Day trips

Golden Circle

230 km (143 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day

A popular day trip route that includes three of Iceland's most famous attractions: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.

South Coast

150-200 km (93-124 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day or overnight

A scenic drive along Iceland's south coast, offering a variety of attractions, including waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers.

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

240 km (149 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day or overnight

A scenic peninsula known as 'Iceland in Miniature' due to its diverse landscapes, including mountains, glaciers, lava fields, and beaches.

Festivals

Reykjavik Arts Festival • Late May to early June Iceland Airwaves • Early November Reykjavik Winter Lights Festival • Late January to early February

Pro tips

Visit the Blue Lagoon or another geothermal spa for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience
Explore Reykjavik's street art and murals, which can be found throughout the city
Take a day trip to the Golden Circle or another nearby attraction for a taste of Iceland's natural wonders
Try traditional Icelandic food, such as lamb soup, fish stew, and fermented shark
Visit a local brewery or distillery and sample Icelandic craft beer or spirits