Reykjavik: Whale Watching Morning Expedition

Setting sail from Reykjavik for a whale-watching adventure is one of those experiences that fits into the “must-do” category when visiting Iceland’s capital. This particular tour, offered by Reykjavik Sailors, is a 3.5-hour morning voyage that promises encounters with Minke and Humpback whales, along with dolphins, harbour porpoises, and an array of seabirds. What makes this trip appealing is its accessibility—departing from the historic Old Harbour, right in downtown Reykjavik, with a reasonable price point of $98 per person.

I noticed two things I genuinely appreciated—first, the warm overalls provided, which are essential given how chilly the North Atlantic can be, even in summer. Second, the indoor heated cabins and complimentary Wi-Fi make it surprisingly comfortable for a boat trip in the cold. On the flip side, a possible drawback is the uncertainty of sightings, which is common in wildlife tours; if no whales are spotted, you’re entitled to a free second tour or a refund. This flexible policy is a considerate touch that offers peace of mind for travelers.

Key points / Takeaways

• Close to downtown: The tour departs from the Historic Old Harbour, making it very convenient if you’re already exploring Reykjavik.
• Well-equipped for cold weather: Overalls, heated indoor cabins, and toilet facilities ensure comfort, especially in Iceland’s unpredictable climate.
• Wildlife sightings: You have good chances to see Minke and Humpback whales, as well as dolphins and porpoises, with a backup plan if sightings are scarce.
• Additional amenities: Free Wi-Fi and the bar for drinks help you relax and enjoy the experience.
• Flexible cancellation policy: Full refunds or rescheduling are available if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance.
• Cost and value: At $98, this tour offers decent value, especially considering the included gear and the likelihood of wildlife encounters.

When I picture this tour, I see a straightforward, well-organized excursion that’s designed to maximize your chances of spotting whales while keeping comfort a priority. The departure point at Geirsgata 11 is easy to find—just arrive about 30 minutes early to check in. The boat itself is described as spacious, with indoor cabins that are heated, so you can escape the chill if needed. This is key because Icelandic mornings, even in summer, can be brisk, especially on the open water.

The actual journey takes about 2.5 hours through Faxaflói Bay, a calm body of water that’s perfect for whale watching. The trip is operated by Reykjavik Sailors, who reportedly have attentive guides. The itinerary involves heading out from the harbor, cruising across the bay, and scanning the horizon for telltale signs of whales—like spouts or splashes. The chance to see Humpback whales and Minke whales is often highlighted by guides, and some reviews mention sightings of dolphins and porpoises, which add to the marine symphony.

What makes this trip stand out is the topside birdwatching. You might catch sight of seabirds soaring overhead, adding a lively backdrop to the experience. The bar onboard offers drinks to toast your sightings, and the complimentary Wi-Fi allows you to share photos or simply enjoy the gentle rocking of the boat.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Geirsgata 11, you’ll board the vessel approximately 30 minutes before departure—an easy and relaxed start. The initial wait is a good time to get your gear on, especially the warm overalls provided, which are invaluable. Once underway, you’ll leave Reykjavik’s bustling harbor behind and venture into Faxaflói Bay, known for its rich marine life.

The cruise lasts about 2.5 hours, which is enough time to venture into the bay’s calm waters without feeling rushed. During this period, the guides—whose names aren’t specified but are described as professional—keep a lookout for whale spouts and fins. They often share insightful commentary, making the experience more meaningful. If no whales are seen, the operator will offer a second tour ticket free of charge, a policy that some travelers have found reassuring.

Reaching the return point, the boat heads back to Geirsgata 11, where you can debrief over a warm drink at the harbor cafes or take a moment to appreciate Reykjavik’s scenery from the water.

The Marine Wildlife: Real Encounters and Chances

The main draw here is, of course, the chance to see whales in their natural habitat. Minke whales are known for being somewhat shy, but Humpbacks are more conspicuous, often breaching or slapping their fins. Reviews note that sightings are quite common, and guides are adept at pointing out signs of activity. Dolphins and harbor porpoises are considered playful additions, often seen darting alongside the boat.

Despite the hope for marine megafauna, some reviews mention that no sightings occur on certain trips. That’s the nature of wildlife tours—they depend on animals being present and active. The tour’s flexible refund policy helps, but I recommend managing expectations: patience and good weather are your best allies.

Another highlight is the birdlife—seabirds like puffins, gulls, and gannets are often soaring overhead, especially if you keep an eye out while scanning the waters.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is well-suited for travelers seeking a relaxing, comfortable experience that doesn’t require extensive physical activity. It’s especially appealing if you’re interested in marine wildlife and want a good chance of seeing whales without the expense or complexity of a longer or smaller-group tour. Families with children, as well as solo travelers, have found it to be a fun and engaging outing.

However, if you’re prone to seasickness, it’s worth considering that open-water boat trips can sometimes be choppy. While free seasickness tablets are included, the calmness of Faxaflói Bay generally minimizes this worry.

The cost of $98 is fair considering the equipment, indoor comfort, and wildlife chances. For travelers on a tight schedule or budget, this offers a solid introduction to Iceland’s marine life without the fuss of a multi-day cruise.

At $98 per person, this tour is priced slightly below some of the more exclusive whale-watching options, but it still delivers a quality experience. Included in the price are warm flotation overalls, indoor heated cabins, Wi-Fi, and complimentary seasickness tablets, which add to the overall value. The flexible cancellation policy—full refunds if you cancel more than 24 hours ahead—makes it a low-risk choice.

The tour’s timing at 9:00 AM makes it a smart way to start your day, leaving plenty of time afterward for other Reykjavik attractions. Plus, the small group feel—with a maximum group size of about 50—means you’re not lost in a crowd, and guides can give more personalized attention.

If you’re after a straightforward marine adventure with decent odds of seeing whales and enjoy comfort and convenience, this tour ticks many boxes. The friendly guides, well-maintained boat, and flexible policies mean you’re in good hands. It’s especially fitting if you’re new to whale-watching or want a relaxed experience without the fuss of smaller boats or longer excursions.

For those who value stunning views of Reykjavik’s coast, the chance to see iconic whales, and the comfort of indoor cabins, this trip offers a solid, reliable option. It’s not a guarantee of wildlife sightings, but that’s part of the charm of nature-based tours.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own warm clothing?
No, the tour provides warm flotation overalls, but it’s wise to bring your own extra layers, especially a hat and gloves, as mornings can be chilly.

Is the trip suitable for children?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for families, but keep in mind that boat trips can be rough for very young children or those prone to seasickness.

What time does the tour start?
The departure time is typically 9:00 AM, but check availability to confirm current schedules.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers flexibility.

What amenities are available on board?
There’s a bar for drinks, heated indoor cabins, toilet facilities, free Wi-Fi, and seating that allows you to relax comfortably.

What if I don’t see any whales?
The operator offers a complimentary second tour if no sightings occur, ensuring you don’t leave empty-handed.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity is described as wheelchair accessible.

How long is the actual whale-watching experience?
The cruise lasts about 2.5 hours within the 3.5-hour total trip.

Are seasickness tablets included?
Yes, they’re complimentary and can help ease discomfort on open water.

To sum it up, this Reykjavik whale-watching tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to see Iceland’s marine life in comfort. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate straightforward experiences with good value, flexible policies, and the chance to witness whales in their natural environment. While sightings are not guaranteed, the overall experience, including the cozy indoor amenities, makes it a worthwhile addition to any Iceland itinerary.