Reykjavik’s whale watching tour is a captivating 3.5-hour adventure that takes visitors on an unforgettable journey to Faxaflói Bay, where they can spot humpback, minke, and orca whales in their natural habitat. The tour includes a visit to the Whales of Iceland exhibition, featuring life-size models that provide a fascinating insight into the anatomy and behaviors of these magnificent marine creatures. With thermal overalls, free WiFi, and a complimentary ticket to revisit the exhibition, this tour offers an immersive and educational experience for nature enthusiasts and whale lovers alike. As the best time to spot whales is from April to September, this tour is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Reykjavik during the peak season.
Key Points
- The Reykjavik whale watching tour departs from the Old Harbor and sails to Faxaflói Bay to spot humpback, minke, and orca whales.
- The Whales of Iceland exhibition features life-size whale models and provides insights into whale anatomy, behaviors, and challenges.
- The tour includes thermal overalls, free WiFi, and a complimentary ticket to revisit the Whales of Iceland exhibition.
- The best whale watching season is from April to September, when the whales thrive in the warmer conditions.
- Visitors should bring warm, layered clothing and comfortable, closed-toe shoes for the excursion.
Overview of the Tour
The Reykjavik whale watching tour and Whales of Iceland exhibition package whisks visitors away on a 3.5-hour adventure, offering the chance to spot marine life and explore a captivating exhibition.
Departing from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor, guests board a boat and sail to Faxaflói Bay, where they’ll scan the waters for whales and other creatures.
Once back on land, they’ll visit the Whales of Iceland exhibition, which showcases life-size models of these magnificent ocean giants.
The tour includes thermal overalls, free WiFi, and a complimentary ticket to revisit the exhibition if no sightings occur.
With flexible scheduling and the option to participate in activities in any order, this excursion provides a seamless and memorable whale watching experience.
Boat Tour and Whale Watching
Typically, the whale watching tour begins with guests boarding a boat at Reykjavik’s Old Harbor, where they’ll sail out to the renowned Faxaflói Bay in search of these majestic creatures. As the boat glides across the water, guests eagerly scan the horizon for any signs of whale activity. With a bit of luck, they may spot humpback whales, minke whales, or even the elusive orca, commonly known as the killer whale. The on-board guides provide knowledgeable commentary, sharing fascinating facts about the whales’ behaviors and habitats.
| Whale Species | Average Size | Distinguishing Features |
|---|---|---|
| Humpback | 40-50 ft | Distinctive humped back, long flippers |
| Minke | 25-30 ft | Sleek body, white band on flippers |
| Orca | 20-30 ft | Black and white coloration, tall dorsal fin |
Whales of Iceland Exhibition
After the boat tour, visitors can explore the Whales of Iceland exhibition, a captivating display featuring life-size models of these magnificent marine creatures.
Housed in a purpose-built facility, the exhibition offers a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with whales, learning about their anatomy, behaviors, and the challenges they face in the ocean environment.
The exhibit showcases a variety of whale species, from the massive blue whale to the graceful humpback, allowing visitors to marvel at their sheer size and impressive features.
Interactive displays and informative signage provide insight into the lives of these gentle giants, fostering a deeper appreciation for the ocean’s most iconic inhabitants.
The Whales of Iceland exhibition is a must-see component of the whale watching tour, enriching the overall experience.
Tour Inclusions and Exclusions
Included in the whale watching tour are:
- A guided boat excursion
- Thermal overalls to keep guests warm on the water
- Free WiFi
- A complimentary ticket to revisit if no whales are sighted
- Admission to the Whales of Iceland exhibition
The tour excludes:
- Hotel transfers, leaving guests responsible for their own transportation to the Old Harbor
- Food and drinks, so travelers should plan to bring their own refreshments
- Guaranteed wildlife sightings, as the tour’s success relies on the unpredictable nature of these majestic creatures
German-language guides are only available on some boats during the peak season from May 1 to September 30.
Logistical Details
The best whale watching season runs from April through September, when guests are likelier to spot these majestic creatures in Faxaflói Bay.
Visitors should come prepared with warm, comfortable clothing and sunscreen, as the weather can be unpredictable near the water.
While wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, the tour offers audio guides in multiple languages to enhance the educational experience.
Plus, German is available as a second language on some boats from May 1 to September 30.
Guests have the option to revisit the exhibition free of charge if no whales are spotted during the tour.
With its life-size whale models, the Whales of Iceland exhibition provides an immersive look at these incredible marine mammals.
Best Whale Watching Season
Starting from April through September, the best whale watching season in Reykjavik typically offers guests the highest chances of spotting these majestic marine creatures in Faxaflói Bay.
During this prime time, visitors can expect to see a variety of whale species, including:
- Humpback whales, known for their impressive breaching and acrobatic displays.
- Minke whales, the smallest baleen whales in the region, often seen feeding close to the surface.
- Orcas, or killer whales, the largest members of the dolphin family, occasionally making appearances.
- Harbor porpoises, the most common cetacean in Icelandic waters, frequently spotted along the coastline.
The warmer spring and summer months provide the ideal conditions for these magnificent creatures to thrive and put on a show for eager whale watchers.
What to Bring
For a comfortable and enjoyable whale watching experience in Reykjavik, visitors should wear warm, layered clothing and bring along sun protection.
The weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to dress in thermal wear, such as wool or fleece, and bring a waterproof jacket.
Sunscreen and sunglasses are also recommended, as the glare from the water and reflections can be intense.
Plus, comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must, as the boat deck can be slippery.
While the tour provider supplies thermal overalls, packing a few extra layers can help ensure you stay cozy during the excursion.
With the right attire and accessories, visitors can focus on spotting whales and enjoying the stunning Icelandic scenery.
Multilingual Audio Guides
To further enhance the linguistic accessibility of the Whales of Iceland exhibition, audio guides are available in multiple languages.
Visitors can conveniently choose from a selection of foreign language options to accompany their tour, ensuring a more personalized and enriching experience. These include:
- English
- German
- French
- Spanish
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Request a Specific Language for the Boat Tour?
Yes, you can request a specific language for the guided boat tour. Audio guides are available in multiple languages, so you can enjoy the experience in your preferred language.
Is There a Minimum or Maximum Age Requirement for the Tour?
The whale watching tour doesn’t have a minimum age, but children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. There’s no maximum age, making it suitable for all ages to enjoy the marine life sightings and exhibition.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Food and Drinks?
There are no dietary restrictions for the food and drinks on this tour. Participants can bring their own snacks and beverages to enjoy during the boat ride or at the Whales of Iceland exhibition.
Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment on the Boat?
Guests are welcome to bring their own camera equipment on the boat for this whale watching tour. However, they should take care to secure their gear and avoid interfering with the guide’s instructions or other passengers’ experience.
What Happens if the Weather Conditions Are Not Suitable for the Tour?
If weather conditions are not suitable for the tour, the operator will reschedule the tour or offer a full refund. They prioritize passenger safety and will only proceed if conditions allow for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Recap
Reykjavik’s whale watching tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to witness the majestic creatures of the sea.
Sail through Faxaflói Bay, spotting humpback, minke, and orca whales in their natural habitat.
Complement the boat tour with a visit to the Whales of Iceland exhibition, providing fascinating insights into whale anatomy and behaviors.
With thermal overalls, free WiFi, and multilingual audio guides, this 3.5-hour adventure is a must-do for nature enthusiasts exploring Iceland’s captivating coastline.
