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Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavík

About 3 hoursGroup: Shared boatEasyBoatAll agesAll year
5.0(11 reviews)

A whale watching tour from Reykjavík's Old Harbour out into Faxaflói Bay. Guides watch for minke whales, dolphins and seabirds, and the trip runs year round with a morning departure.

Old Harbour, ReykjavíkFaxaflói BayReturn to harbour
  • Departs from the Old Harbour in downtown Reykjavík
  • Faxaflói Bay is home to minke whales, dolphins and porpoises
  • Guides point out seabirds and explain what you're seeing
  • Runs year round, with daily departures
  • No long drive needed, the trip starts right in the city

Your day, stop by stop

Click a stop for photos and practical tips.
1Meet at the Old HarbourCheck in at the ticket office at Geirsgata 11, 30 minutes before departure.
2Whale beside the bow of the boatOut into Faxaflói BayThe boat heads out to known whale and dolphin feeding areas.
Whale beside the bow of the boatWhite-beaked dolphins in Faxaflói Bay

The boat heads out from the Old Harbour to the feeding areas in Faxaflói Bay, where minke whales and dolphins are regularly seen and the guides know where sightings are most likely. There is an indoor cabin and an outdoor deck, and warm flotation overalls are provided.

Facilities · indoor cabin and outdoor deck
3Humpback whale breachingWatching for wildlifeGuides look for whales, dolphins and seabirds as the boat moves through the bay.
Humpback whale breachingDolphin leapingWhale feeding at the surface

You spend most of the trip on deck or by the windows, with the guides pointing out whales, white-beaked dolphins, harbour porpoises and seabirds as they appear. Sightings are never guaranteed, but you get a free ticket for another tour if nothing is seen.

4Return to the harbourBack to the Old Harbour in Reykjavík.

About the whale watching tour from Reykjavík

This trip leaves straight from Reykjavík's Old Harbour, so there's no early bus ride out of the city before you even start. The boat heads into Faxaflói Bay, a stretch of water known for minke whales, white-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoises, plus plenty of seabirds along the way.

As with any wildlife trip, sightings are never guaranteed, but the bay has a good record for whale and dolphin activity, especially from spring through autumn. Guides keep an eye out and explain what species you're likely to see and why.

It's a relaxed few hours on the water rather than a physical activity, so it suits most ages and fitness levels. Dress warmly regardless of the season; it's noticeably colder on the water than on land, and Icelandic weather can change quickly.

Included

  • Guided boat trip into Faxaflói Bay
  • Warm flotation overalls
  • Heated indoor cabin with toilets
  • Free Wi-Fi on board
  • Seasickness tablets
  • A free second tour if no sightings occur

Not included

  • Snacks and drinks (for sale on board)
  • Hotel pick-up (optional, extra charge)

What to bring

  • Warm, waterproof layers
  • Hat and gloves
  • Camera or binoculars

Good to know

  • Runs all year, with departures at 9:00, 13:00 and 17:00
  • Duration is about 3 hours (2.5 to 3.5 hours depending on the wildlife)
  • Whale and dolphin sightings are never guaranteed; if nothing is seen, you get a free ticket for another tour
  • It's colder on the water than on land, so dress warmly
  • Meet at the ticket office at Geirsgata 11, Reykjavík Old Harbour, 30 minutes before departure. Hotel pick-up can be added for an extra charge
  • All ages welcome
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure. No refund within 24 hours.

Questions people ask

Are sightings guaranteed?

No. This is a wildlife trip, but Faxaflói Bay has a good record of sightings, and if nothing is seen you get a free ticket for another tour.

What should I wear?

Warm layers and sturdy shoes. Warm flotation overalls are provided, and the boats have heated indoor cabins.

Where does it leave from?

From the ticket office at Geirsgata 11 in the Old Harbour. Please arrive 30 minutes before departure.

Is it suitable for children?

Yes, it's a relaxed boat trip that suits most ages.

Reviews

Reviews from travellers who took this tour. A local reads every review before it is shown.
5.0Based on 11 reviews
5 stars11
4 stars0
3 stars0
2 stars0
1 star0
Amazing

Saw 10 whales and it was amazing!

Idlo · March 2026
Whale Watching in Reykjavik was very unique!

Amazing experience - highly recommend!

Jason H. · May 2025
Unforgettable

The entire experience was fantastic from beginning to end. The marine biologist was incredibly knowledgeable and did an excellent job engaging with all the guests, making the tour both informative and enjoyable.One of the highlights was how uncrowded the boat felt, allowing everyone a clear and unobstructed view of the majestic humpback whale we encountered.

Yvonne D. · December 2024
Unforgettable!

Whale watching in Reykjavik was an unforgettable experience. We saw multiple whales, and the crew was fantastic, making sure we had the best views. This tour is a must if you’re visiting Iceland!

Emma C.
Must-Do in Reykjavik!

This whale watching tour exceeded my expectations! The crew was friendly and shared great information, and we saw several whales during the trip. The boat was comfortable, and the whole experience was well-organized. A must-do for nature lovers and a great experience for your day in Reykjavik.

Michael W.
Wonderful

We had a beautiful day on the water, and we spotted several whales! The guide was excellent, sharing lots of information about each species. It was a magical experience, and I would highly recommend this tour to anyone in Reykjavik. Our kids had the best time!

Julia
From13,490 ISKPer person

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