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Sightseeing Cruises

Reykjavik: Whale Watching Boat Tour

Orca whales surfacing during a whale watching tour.
Cruise ship with tourists on deck during whale watching tour in Icelandic waters.
Inside seating area of a whale watching tour boat with rows of chairs and large windows.
Humpback whale breaching during whale watching tour.

Duration

3 hr

Open today

09:00am - 08:30pm

Free cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

Guided tour

    • Set sail on a 2.5 to 3-hour guided whale-watching cruise in Faxafloi Bay, to spot humpback whales, dolphins, and porpoises in their natural habitat.

    • Learn from expert whale-watching guides about the behavior of whales and other marine life as they help you spot them with ease.

    • Enjoy panoramic views of Reykjavík’s coastline and spot marine life from the open deck or stay warm in the heated indoor cabin.

    • Buy snacks from the onboard cafeteria, ensuring a comfortable experience no matter the weather.

    • Enjoy peace of mind with a free return ticket if no wildlife is spotted, giving you another chance for unforgettable sightings.

    • 2.5 to 3.5-hour cruise aboard a modern, spacious boat

    • English-speaking marine biologist guide

    • Warm flotation overalls

    • Access to indoor lounges, open decks & onboard café

    • Free Wi-Fi onboard

    • Food & drinks (available for purchase on board)

    • Hotel pick-up & drop-off

  • TOTAL DURATION3 hours
    MODE OF TRANSFERBoat
    Timeline
    Map
    Reykjavík Old Harbour
    Start point

    Reykjavík Old Harbour

    Get direction
    Faxaflói Bay

    1. Faxaflói Bay

    2 activities

    Things to do

    Reykjavík Old Harbour
    End point

    Reykjavík Old Harbour

    Get direction

    Your ending point would be same as your start point

  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

  • 4.3
    11 reviews

    How do we collect reviews?

    These ratings include verified reviews from both Headout guests and our trusted partners who operate this experience locally. All reviews come from real travelers who've taken this experience.

    5
    4
    2
    0
    0
    Guests from United Kingdom, Spain, Ireland and over 6 countries have loved this experience

    What our guests say

    Ms Gillian Lewis

    Ms

    Nov 2025
    Verified booking
    4/5
    Deyan Staykov

    Deyan

    Nov 2025
    Verified booking
    5/5
    Sherbanu Barker-Mawjee

    Sherbanu

    Nov 2025
    Verified booking
    3/5
    Elmar Kahlenbach

    Elmar

    Oct 2025
    Verified booking
    5/5
    Benedikte Wanscher

    Benedikte

    Oct 2025
    Verified booking
    3/5
  • Observe Iceland’s incredible marine life, including humpback whales and dolphins, on this classic whale-watching cruise from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour.

    Getting started

    Arrive at the Old Harbour House in Reykjavík (by yourself or get picked up at your hotel), where you can check in at a self-service kiosk for a smooth start. Board the whale-watching vessel, which features both indoor cabins and an open deck for optimal viewing.

    What to expect

    Faxaflói Bay

    Set sail into Faxaflói Bay, a prime whale-watching destination known for its rich marine biodiversity. The tour follows ethical whale-watching practices, ensuring a respectful and natural encounter with wildlife. Keep an eye out for minke and humpback whales, harbor porpoises, and white-beaked dolphins as they swim in their natural habitat.

    Exploring with a guide

    Your expert guide shares fascinating insights into the marine ecosystem, explaining the behaviors and characteristics of the whales and other sea creatures you encounter.

    Features

    • Spacious vessel: Enjoy one of Iceland’s largest whale-watching boats with indoor lounges, outdoor decks and a family-friendly environment.

    • Expert guidance: Learn from experienced specialists who share insights on whale behavior, seabirds and spotting techniques.

    • Interactive education: Explore onboard displays featuring whale teeth, bones, baleen and microscopes for a deeper understanding of ocean life.

    • Warm overalls: Stay comfortable with complimentary floatable overalls available in all sizes.

    • Free retry ticket: Receive a complimentary second tour if no wildlife is spotted on your trip.

  • Whale Watching Iceland

    Monday09:00am - 08:30pm
    Tuesday09:00am - 08:30pm
    Wednesday09:00am - 08:30pm
    Thursday09:00am - 08:30pm
    Friday09:00am - 08:30pm
    Saturday09:00am - 08:30pm
    Sunday09:00am - 08:30pm
  • What to Bring

    • Dress warmly with multiple layers and wear strong, non-slip shoes for your comfort.

    • Bring a camera or sunglasses to enhance your experience.

    • You will be required to present a valid form of identification upon arrival.

    What’s Not Allowed

    • You are not permitted to bring alcoholic beverages onto the boat.

    Accessibility

    • The vessel is wheelchair accessible.

    Additional Information

    • You must check in at least 30 minutes before the tour begins.

    • You may be relocated to another harbour during the winter months if sea conditions require it, with transport included.

    • If you're prone to seasickness, collect complimentary seasickness tablets before boarding or during the tour.

    • You are eligible for a free return tour if no sightings occur.

    • Feel free to bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks on board.

    • You should expect rapidly changing Icelandic weather, which may impact the tour’s operation.

    • At the harbor, you can explore the Whale Watching Centre, watch videos, view skeletons and information boards, or browse the gift shop.

    • By purchasing a ticket, you support summer research projects, eco-friendly tourism, and wildlife protection organizations.

    • Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

    • Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the meeting point.

    • Please arrive at the meeting point 30 mins before the scheduled time of your visit to avoid any delays.

    Meeting point

    • Please check your final voucher for the meeting point details and specific instructions.

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