Reykjavik , Iceland

Whales of Iceland from Land and Sea

Active

(21 reviews)

3h - 4h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Watch for whales in the Icelandic sea and visit the Whales of Iceland exhibition on this experience from Reykjavik. Choose from a 2.5- or 3.5-hour whale watching cruise to watch for minke and humpback whales, white-beaked dolphins and harbor porpoises in Faxaflói Bay. Then, admire full-scale models of whales and dolphins at Whales of Iceland, Europe’s largest whale exhibition. Explore independently to learn about the different species and grasp the magnitude of these giants of the sea. You can join a live-guided tour at Whales of Iceland at 10:30 and 13:30 every day (free for all ticket holders).

Please note that the Whales of Iceland Exhibition is open daily from 10:00-17:00 (closed Dec. 25th)

Available options

Classic Departures

Classic Whale Watching: 3-3.5-hour express whale watching tours from Reykjavik

Express Departures

Whale Watching Express: 2-2.5-hour express whale watching tours from Reykjavik

What's included

Complimentary sea sickness tablets, if needed

Experienced biologist on Whale Watching tour

Heated indoor seating areas

Free WiFi on board and at Whales of Iceland

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

Admission to the Whales of Iceland Exhibition (Open 10:00-17:00)

What you'll see

Enjoy this 3-3.5 hour whale watching adventure, sailing out from Reykjavik´s Old Harbor, selecting your preferred departure time. Meet your captain, listen to a safety briefing, pull on a pair of provided coveralls, and find a spot on deck or in the indoor cabin.

As your boat pulls away, listen to onboard commentary about the marine life of Faxaflói Bay, and learn about the minke and humpback whales that can frequent the waters. Enjoy the views over the Icelandic mountains while scanning the water for whales, porpoises and white-beaked dolphins - and keep your camera ready!. In the unlikely event that you don’t spot a whale, you’ll receive a ticket for another cruise.

Either before or after you join the whale watching tour, make your way independently to the Whales of Iceland exhibition, Europe's largest exhibition dedicated to whales. Ogle life-size models of whale and dolphin species including belugas and killer whales, and see replicas of the minkes and humpbacks you may have seen or will be seeing on the boat tour. Learn about these giants of the sea from the displays, and perhaps relax over drinks and snacks (own expense) at the café before you leave. The Whales of Iceland museum is open daily from 10:00-17:00 (Closed December 25th).

What's not included

Gratuities

Hotel transfers (available for whale watching on request for an additional cost)

Food and drink (available to purchase at both locations)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.8

12 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

9 reviews

5★

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

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Exhibition is Wheelchair Accessible

Meeting point

Please meet us for the whale watching at our Special Tours Ticket Office, located at Geirsgata 11 in Reykjavik's Old Harbour.

Important notes

Please check in at the Special Tours ticket office 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