Whales of Iceland from Land and Sea

A Good Look at Iceland’s Whale-Watching Tour from Land and Sea

This review focuses on the Whales of Iceland from Land and Sea experience in Reykjavik, a popular choice for those eager to see Iceland’s majestic marine life. Priced at about $114.64 per person, this tour combines a 3 to 4-hour whale cruise with a visit to the Whales of Iceland museum, offering a well-rounded look at the country’s ocean giants. It’s a highly booked activity, typically reserved 38 days in advance, which tells you how popular and valued this experience is among travelers.

The boat tour is operated by Special Tours Iceland and offers a small group experience, with a maximum of just 10 people. This intimate size means you’ll get more space to relax, and hopefully, a better chance to see whales since the crew can spend more time searching rather than managing large crowds. The tour starts from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor, with options to choose your preferred departure time, and includes helpful extras like thermal overalls and free Wi-Fi onboard.

Two things that stood out to me from various reviews are the quality of the guides and the unforgettable coastal views. Several travelers praised the knowledgeable onboard biologists—like Jonathan—who shared fascinating insights about the whales and marine ecosystem. As one reviewer noted, “Humpbacks put on a show”, which is a reminder that even in unpredictable wildlife encounters, your chances of witnessing spectacular moments are good. The scenery over the Icelandic mountains and the chance to see porpoises, dolphins, and even the elusive humpback whales make this trip worth considering.

A potential drawback? Some reviews mentioned the big boat size slightly reducing maneuverability and visibility of the whales. Others pointed out that weather conditions—like high winds or big waves—can impact the experience, especially if you’re prone to motion sickness. The tour does include complimentary motion sickness tablets, which is a definite plus. It’s also worth noting that there’s a full refund if the trip is canceled due to poor weather, so your safety and comfort are prioritized.

Key Points

• Small group size enhances the chances for a more personalized experience.
• Expert guides and onboard commentary enrich your understanding of the marine life.
• Includes entry to the Whales of Iceland museum, offering a valuable educational complement.
• Weather-dependent: conditions can affect wildlife sightings, but the tour offers peace of mind with flexible rescheduling or refunds.
• Comfortable amenities like thermal suits, heated indoor seating, and free Wi-Fi make the trip more enjoyable.
• Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, but many travelers have unforgettable encounters with humpbacks, dolphins, and porpoises.

A Detailed Look at What to Expect

Starting from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor, the experience kicks off with a friendly meet-and-greet, a safety briefing, and distribution of thermal coveralls. These suits can be lifesavers in Iceland’s chill, and many reviews praise the staff for offering children’s sizes and friendly service. Once on board, you’ll find a cozy indoor seating area and plenty of space outside on deck—perfect for spotting whales and soaking up the stunning coastal scenery.

The adventure lasts roughly 3 to 3.5 hours, which means it’s long enough to improve your chances of wildlife sightings but not so lengthy that it drains your energy or patience. As the boat pulls away from the harbor, onboard commentary from a biologist provides context and excitement, telling you about the creatures you’re watching for—mainly minke and humpback whales—plus porpoises and dolphins. Several travelers have called out guides by name, such as Jonathan, and highlighted their knowledgeable explanations that helped them appreciate what they were observing.

The scenery on this cruise is genuinely impressive. You’ll see the rugged Icelandic coastline from a different perspective—mountains, cliffs, and the open sea—which adds a scenic backdrop to the wildlife adventure. And if the whales decide to stay hidden, the crew’s professionalism and the opportunity to visit the Whales of Iceland exhibition afterward are still worthwhile. The museum is open daily, with life-size models of whales and dolphins, including belugas and killer whales, plus replicas of minkes and humpbacks. Many reviewers mentioned how seeing these models beforehand helped them recognize whales in the wild, especially if you’re new to whale watching.

The museum visit, included in the ticket, is a handy way to extend your whale experience—ideal if you’re traveling with kids or simply want to learn more at your own pace. Plus, you can relax at the café afterward, enjoying snacks and drinks (own expense) while reflecting on your adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This activity suits travelers looking for an authentic, intimate encounter with Iceland’s marine life. The small group size makes it perfect for those who prefer a more personalized experience, and the inclusion of a knowledgeable biologist adds educational value. If you’re interested in wildlife photography, you’ll appreciate the stunning views and opportunities for those memorable shots. It’s also ideal for families, as the provided thermal gear helps keep everyone comfortable.

However, if you’re highly sensitive to motion sickness or expect to have a whale sighting on every trip, you might want to manage expectations or consider alternative activities. The weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, and sightings aren’t guaranteed, but many travelers enjoy the adventure regardless, thanks to the beautiful scenery and educational component.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Book early — 38 days in advance is typical, especially in peak seasons.
• Dress in warm layers and use the thermal overalls provided; if you tend to feel cold, stock up on warm clothing.
• Arrive at the meeting point—Geirsgata, 101 Reykjavík—on time to avoid missing your departure.
• If you’re prone to motion sickness, take advantage of the complimentary tablets offered.
• After the cruise, consider visiting the Whales of Iceland museum—it’s close by and provides a great visual reference for what you saw at sea.
• Keep your camera handy—many reviews mention impressive sightings of humpbacks breaching and porpoises swimming alongside.

FAQ

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, hotel transfers are not included but can be requested for an extra fee. The meeting point is near public transportation, making it easier if you’re on your own.

What is the tour duration?
The whale-watching cruise lasts approximately 3 to 3.5 hours. You can choose your preferred departure time when booking.

Will I see whales every time?
Whale sightings depend on the season, weather, and luck. If whales aren’t spotted, you’ll receive a ticket to go again at no extra cost. Many reviews mention seeing humpbacks, dolphins, and porpoises, but it’s not guaranteed.

Are there amenities onboard?
Yes, there are heated indoor seating areas, free Wi-Fi, and thermal suits in multiple sizes.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, especially in colder months. The tour provides thermal overalls, but additional warm clothing is recommended.

Can children participate?
Yes, children are welcome, and thermal gear is available in children’s sizes. The tour’s small group nature makes it suitable for families.

Overall, the Whales of Iceland from Land and Sea tour offers a balanced blend of wildlife adventure and educational insight, making it a worthwhile addition to your Reykjavik itinerary. While wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, the quality of guides, cozy amenities, and the chance to visit the whale museum combine to create a memorable Icelandic experience. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or a family seeking an engaging outing, this tour promises moments of awe—and perhaps a splash of wildlife surprise.