Guided Tours

Reykjavik: Whale Watching on a Luxury Yacht

Duration

3 hrs 30 mins

Open today

9:00am - 8:30pm

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 off from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour aboard the Amelia Rose, a luxury yacht designed for smooth, comfortable sailing on Iceland’s open waters.

Glide past Faxaflói Bay’s islands and coastline while searching for humpbacks, minkes, dolphins, porpoises and even orcas. You'll be guided by an expert crew trained in spotting wildlife.

Enjoy sweeping, unobstructed views from three panoramic decks, with partially covered areas that let you take in Reykjavík’s skyline and rugged seascapes in any weather.

Experience a calmer, more stable ride thanks to the yacht’s offshore-ready design, ideal for guests prone to seasickness.

Capture incredible photos and soak in Iceland’s marine world up close, all while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of a small-group luxury cruise.

Whale-watching tour lasting for 2.5–3 hours

Knowledgeable crew & wildlife experts

Cozy blankets provided to keep you warm out on deck

Complimentary onboard Wi-Fi

Restroom facilities onboard

Heated indoor lounge with ample seating

Pickup service from Reykjavik (at an additional fee)

TOTAL DURATION3 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERYacht
Timeline
Map
Start point
Ægisgarður 2, 101 Reykjavík, IS
Get direction
Passes By
Harpa Concert Hall
1. Faxaflói Bay
Whale watching
Scenic bay famed for whale sightings near Reykjavík.
Passes By
Engey
Lundey
Videy Island
End point
Ægisgarður 2, 101 Reykjavík, IS
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.

112 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.
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What our guests say
Lasse P
Couple
Verified booking
Apr 2026
Nov 2025
Went with my brother and my dad (he’s a whale nerd) and it was COLD but the crew handed out blankets which helped a lot. We actually saw a humpback breaching, which was a first for us. It felt like the boat was rocking a bit much but nobody seemed to mind. There’s a bar but I just stuck to hot chocolate. Crew was chatty, knew so much. Would go again tbh, just bring extra socks.
Oct 2025
Pretty decent trip overall. Bit crowded on deck but I managed to get a good spot. Saw dolphins before whales, so that was a bonus. It got super windy and my hat almost blew off, so hold onto ur stuff. Crew were friendly, but wish the guide spoke a little slower.
Sep 2025
I had high hopes but think I picked the wrong day (sooo foggy, couldn’t see much). We did see a whale tail but it was pretty far away. Staff were nice tho and offered ginger tea for sea sickness. If you get motion sick, take something before you go!
Aug 2025
Saw two humpbacks and a pod of dolphins! The guide explained everything in detail, some facts I never heard. Loved that the yacht wasn’t packed and you could move around. Bring gloves – I learned the hard way. Totally worth it, best part of the trip.

Spot whales and Icelandic wildlife on a luxury yacht cruise departing from Reykjavík harbor.

Getting started

Arrive at Reykjavík harbor and check in at the designated meeting point before boarding your yacht. Crew members will validate your ticket and provide a brief introduction to the cruise and safety guidelines.

What to expect

Sail out from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour into Faxaflói Bay, one of Iceland’s most active whale-watching grounds. As you explore its coastal waters, your guide explains the bay’s unique marine ecosystem and the whales, dolphins, and seabirds that regularly appear here.

About Amelia Rose vessel

Amelia Rose is a 108-foot luxury yacht designed for smooth, spacious whale-watching experiences. With three panoramic outdoor decks, elegant interiors, and expert crew and guides, the vessel offers unmatched comfort and stunning views as you explore Reykjavík’s wildlife-rich waters.

What to bring

Layer up and carry a windproof, waterproof jacket. Once you leave Reykjavík’s shoreline, the chill over Faxaflói Bay can feel more intense.

Choose sturdy, non-slip shoes to stay steady while moving around the deck.

Pack a warm hat, gloves, and a scarf—conditions out at sea often dip a few degrees below city temperatures.

Bring a camera or binoculars so you can fully enjoy any close encounters with whales or passing seabirds.

What’s not allowed

Oversized luggage, suitcases, or large bags cannot be taken on board for safety purposes.

Smoking is strictly prohibited on the yacht.

Flash photography is discouraged to avoid disturbing the wildlife.

Only registered service animals are permitted; all other pets must stay ashore.

Alcohol and illegal substances are not allowed on the vessel.

Accessibility

The yacht is wheelchair accessible, and the crew is prepared to help guests with mobility needs.

Additional information

If the sea breeze feels colder than expected, blankets are available during the cruise.

Tours generally run in varying weather, though departures may be postponed if conditions on Faxaflói Bay become hazardous.

Children under 7 travel free but must sit on an adult’s lap; discounted rates apply for guests aged 7–15. All children must remain with a supervising adult.

Plan to arrive at the harbor at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure to ensure smooth boarding.

Restrooms are available on board.

Optional hotel pickup can be arranged for an added fee.

If you don't spot any whales then you can come back another day for free of cost.

Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.

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

Please check your final voucher for the starting point details & specific instructions.