Whale Watching Tour Reykjavik
Embark on an unforgettable whale watching adventure from Reykjavik, Iceland's vibrant capital. Witness majestic whales, playful dolphins, and charming...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for sightings
Whale Watching Tour Reykjavik
Best Time
Best chance for sightings
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Embark on an unforgettable whale watching adventure from Reykjavik, Iceland's vibrant capital. Witness majestic whales, playful dolphins, and charming puffins in their natural Arctic habitat.
"An amazing experience, we saw Humpback & Minke Whales and White Beaked Dolphins! Definitely recommend."
🧥 Dress in Layers
Icelandic weather is unpredictable! Bring warm, waterproof clothing, even in summer. :cloud:
🤢 Motion Sickness Prep
If you're prone to seasickness, take medication beforehand. The ocean can get choppy! :pill:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Humpback Whale Encounters
Witness these gentle giants breaching and feeding. A truly awe-inspiring sight that makes the trip unforgettable.
Dolphin and Minke Whale Sightings
Spot playful dolphins leaping through waves and the sleek minke whales as they glide through the Arctic waters.
Puffin Colonies (Seasonal)
During summer, catch a glimpse of adorable puffins nesting on nearby islands. A delightful bonus to your whale watching tour.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Whale Sightings
Choosing Your Whale Watching Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Dress in Layers
Icelandic weather is unpredictable! Bring warm, waterproof clothing, even in summer. :cloud:
🤢 Motion Sickness Prep
If you're prone to seasickness, take medication beforehand. The ocean can get choppy! :pill:
📸 Camera Ready!
Bring your camera and extra batteries. You'll want to capture every moment! :camerawithflash:
⏰ Book in Advance
Popular tours fill up fast, especially during peak season. Secure your spot early! :ticket:
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Dress in Layers
Icelandic weather is unpredictable! Bring warm, waterproof clothing, even in summer. :cloud:
🤢 Motion Sickness Prep
If you're prone to seasickness, take medication beforehand. The ocean can get choppy! :pill:
📸 Camera Ready!
Bring your camera and extra batteries. You'll want to capture every moment! :camerawithflash:
⏰ Book in Advance
Popular tours fill up fast, especially during peak season. Secure your spot early! :ticket:
🧐 Ask Your Guide
Guides are incredibly knowledgeable. Don't hesitate to ask questions about the whales and marine life. :man_teacher:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Reykjavik's whale watching tours for their incredible wildlife encounters, with many spotting humpback whales, dolphins, and puffins. Guides are frequently commended for their knowledge and enthusiasm, enhancing the educational aspect of the trip. While sightings are never guaranteed, the professional service and fair policies, like offering return vouchers, leave many feeling satisfied.
"Awesome experience. We had a family of five, and I was a touch concerned about "not seeing land", but we were not that far off the coast. We all sorts of whales, dolphins, sea puffins, etc! It was a great trip, and our guide was really knowledgeable. I was able to ask her a bunch of questions, and learn a lot about whales that I never knew! Our photos were great, and she sent us her photos as well. I'd highly recommend if you're spending time in Reykjavik!"
Brendan Newman
"What an amazing experience, we booked a Whale watching experience at short notice, following our original provider cancelling and gave the cancellation reason - bad weather, which did not seem to be the case, since Elding were providing a Whale Watching experience and the weather was acceptable.
A very professional service was provided and we an amazing experience and had the opportunity to see Humpback & Minke Whales and White Beaked Dolphins, what an amazing experience and definitely definitely recommend.
An experience not to be missed."
Ian Porter
"I really enjoyed this tour! Even though it was a classic package, I could see the whales up close. The guide was very informative and kept explaining along the way, which made the experience both exciting and educational. Highly recommend!"
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Most whale watching tours depart from Reykjavik Harbour. You can easily walk there from the city center or take a short taxi ride. Many tour operators offer pick-up services from hotels or designated bus stops. :bus:
Reykjavik Harbour is the central hub for most whale watching tours. Companies like Elding and Special Tours operate from here, offering various types of excursions. :ship: 
Yes, while Reykjavik is popular, Húsavík in North Iceland is often called the 'Whale Watching Capital of Iceland' and offers excellent opportunities. Akureyri also has summer tours. :flag_is:
Absolutely! Reykjavik Harbour is very accessible. If you're staying in the city center, it's a pleasant walk to most tour departure points. :walking:
Most visitors arrive at Keflavík International Airport (KEF) and take a bus or taxi to Reykjavik. The city center is compact and walkable, making it easy to reach the harbour. :airplane:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Prices vary depending on the tour operator and duration, but expect to pay around $80-$150 USD per person for a classic tour. RIB boat tours can be more expensive. Booking online in advance might offer discounts. :moneybag:
You can book directly through tour operator websites like Elding, Special Tours, or Laki Tours, or through online travel agencies such as Guide to Iceland or Viator. :computer:
It's highly recommended to book in advance, especially during the summer months, to guarantee your spot and potentially get better prices. :calendar:
Elding and Special Tours are frequently recommended for their professionalism and success rates. Laki Tours is known for its orca sightings in Ólafsvík. Research reviews for the best fit for you. :star:
Some operators offer discounts for children, students, or seniors. Using promo codes, like the one mentioned by @asasteinars, can also save you money. :discount:
🎫 🐳 Onboard Experience
You can commonly see humpback whales, minke whales, and white-beaked dolphins. Orcas are rarer but possible, especially with specific tours. Puffins are also a common sight in summer. :whale2:
The peak season is from May to September, with June to August offering the highest chances of sightings and generally calmer seas. :sun:
Most classic whale watching tours last around 3 hours. RIB boat tours might be shorter but offer a faster, more adventurous experience. :clock:
Dress in warm, waterproof layers. Thermal suits are often provided by the tour operators, but bring a hat, gloves, and windproof jacket. :parka:
It's possible, as the sea can be rough. It's advisable to take motion sickness medication beforehand if you are prone to it. :sea_lion:
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Use a fast shutter speed to freeze motion and a wide aperture for low light. Consider a telephoto lens to get close-ups of the whales. :camera:
Stabilize your camera by bracing yourself against the boat or using a monopod. Focus on capturing the whale's fluke or a breach for dramatic shots. :camerawithflash:
A waterproof camera or a waterproof case for your phone is a great idea, especially if you're on a RIB boat or if the sea spray is heavy. :water_wave:
Absolutely! Modern smartphone cameras are excellent. Focus on composition and capturing the moment. The sheer scale of the whales is impressive even with basic equipment. :iphone:
Some tours offer to share photos taken by their crew, or even have onboard photographers. It's worth asking your guide! :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many tours provide warm overalls to keep everyone cozy, a big plus for kids. The excitement of spotting whales, dolphins, and puffins is often a highlight for children, making it a memorable educational experience. Consider booking a tour during the summer months for milder weather and the best chance of seeing puffins. Always check the tour operator's age recommendations and inquire about any specific family-friendly amenities they might offer. The knowledgeable guides often make the experience engaging for all ages with their stories and insights.
💰 Budget Travelers
Compare prices across different operators and consider booking through local tourism websites that might have package deals. While not always the cheapest, some tours offer a free voucher for a second trip if no whales are spotted, providing good value.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a camera with a good telephoto lens to capture detailed shots of the whales, and ensure you have a fast shutter speed to freeze their movements. Consider a waterproof camera or housing for your gear, as sea spray is common, especially on RIB tours.
Don't forget extra batteries and memory cards, as you'll be taking a lot of photos!Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Choosing Your Whale Watching Vessel
+1For a more adventurous and intimate encounter, consider a RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) tour. These smaller, faster boats can get closer to the wildlife and cover more ground. However, they are more exposed to the elements, so be prepared for a wetter and windier ride.
Some operators also offer midnight whale watching tours during the summer months, providing a unique perspective under the midnight sun.
What Wildlife to Expect
Dolphins, particularly the white-beaked dolphin, are frequent companions, often seen playing in the boat's wake.
It's important to remember that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed. However, the experienced guides and captains are skilled at locating these magnificent creatures, and the sheer beauty of the Icelandic coastline is a reward in itself.
Ethical Whale Watching Practices
Look for operators who prioritize ethical wildlife viewing. This means they respect the animals' space and natural behaviors, rather than chasing or harassing them for a sighting.
Many companies are committed to conservation efforts and educating visitors about the importance of protecting these ocean giants. By choosing a tour that emphasizes sustainability and respect for marine ecosystems, you contribute to the long-term health of whale populations and ensure future generations can also experience these incredible encounters.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit