Guided Whale Watching Experience from Reykjavik in Reykjavik
Reykjavik, Iceland

Guided Whale Watching Experience from Reykjavik

Outty Ranking 70 4.7 · 64 traveler reviews3 hoursFrom $49

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September 2026

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Adults

Age 13 and over

2

Children

Age 12 and under

0

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From, per person$49
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Outty Ranking

70/100

Strongly Recommended. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.7/5

Based on 64 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Guided Whale Watching Experience from Reykjavik worth booking?

Guided Whale Watching Experience from Reykjavik is a 3-hour experience in Reykjavik, Iceland, from $49 per person. It scores 70 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended, based on a 4.7/5 rating across 64 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
70 / 100
Rating
4.7/5 (64)
Duration
3 hours
From
$49 per person

Discover the wonders of Iceland through our unparalleled Whale Watching excursions. Embark on a memorable journey from Reykjavik's Old Harbour, venturing into Faxaflói bay to encounter Minke and Humpback whales, Dolphin

What you get

    About this experience

    Discover the wonders of Iceland through our unparalleled Whale Watching excursions. Embark on a memorable journey from Reykjavik's Old Harbour, venturing into Faxaflói bay to encounter Minke and Humpback whales, Dolphins and Harbour porpoises. Admire the stunning vistas of Reykjavik's surrounding mountains, islands, and vibrant birdlife. Ensuring your comfort, our boats provide snug overalls, cozy indoor cabins, a delightful bar, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

    What's included

    Included

    • Free WiFi on board
    • Free ticket to join again in case of no sightings
    • Heated indoor cabins with toilet facilities
    • Experienced and professional guides
    • 2,5-3,5 hours Whale Watching tour
    • Complimentary seasickness tablets available
    • Warm flotation overalls

    Not included

    • Snacks and beverages sold on board
    • Pickup is available for extra charge

    What you'll see and do

    1. Faxafloi Bay

      Your adventure begins at Reykjavík’s Old Harbour, where you’ll board one of our comfortable whale watching boats. As you set sail into Faxaflói Bay, take in panoramic views of the city skyline and surrounding mountains while the crew shares insights about Iceland’s marine wildlife and natural environment.

      Pass by without stopping

    2. Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre

      As you depart or return to the harbour, enjoy views of Harpa, Reykjavík’s iconic glass concert hall. Its shimmering façade reflects the light of the bay, making it one of Iceland’s most photographed landmarks.

      Pass by without stopping

    3. Mount Esja

      On clear days, admire breathtaking views of Mount Esja rising behind Reykjavík and, in the distance, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula — often called “Iceland in Miniature” for its diverse landscapes and volcanic peaks.

      Pass by without stopping

    4. Old Harbour

      After few hours at sea, the tour concludes back at Reykjavík’s Old Harbour. Warm up with complimentary overalls and enjoy a hot drink on board as you reflect on your unforgettable whale watching experience.

      Pass by without stopping

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Reykjavik

    Meet us at Geirsgata 11, Special Tours ticket office, for your upcoming tour. Please arrive 30 minutes early at the meeting point.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    Meet us at Geirsgata 11, Special Tours ticket office, for your upcoming tour. Please arrive 30 minutes early at the meeting point.

    Options you can book

    • 09:00 departure

      Classic tour 3-3.5 hours

    • 13:00 departure

      Classic tour 3-3.5 hours

    • 17:00 departure

      Classic tour 3-3.5 hours

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Reykjavik Sailors

    Know before you go

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • NOTE: You should schedule to be at our departure point at least 30 minutes before scheduled departure.
    • Please, check our DAILY DIARY before you come for the tour, all the important daily information of all our tours will be notified on our website.
    • If you have a boat tour booked, please check your email before the tour as all important daily information will be notified via email.
    • We recommend wearing good footwear and warm clothing. Don´t forget to bring your camera to take amazing photos!
    • Kindly notify us if you require wheelchair access, as not all of our boats are equipped for accessibility.

    Photos

    Ocean views, endless memories.Mid-air magic! Witness the thrill of a breaching whale against Iceland’s deep blue waters — an unforgettable sight in Faxaflói Bay.Pointing toward your next adventure.Grace and power collide as a humpback leaps from the North Atlantic — feel the splash, the awe, the pure Icelandic adventure!A gentle giant glides just beneath the surface, sunlight dancing across its back — Iceland’s marine life at its most serene.A whale exhales, catching a rainbow in its mist — nature’s artistry on full display in Reykjavík’s pristine waters.

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 64 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    5 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    3 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Traveler reviews

    64 verified traveler reviews for Guided Whale Watching Experience from Reykjavik. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    53
    4 star
    7
    3 star
    1
    2 star
    1
    1 star
    2
    Sort
    BoardingPass490530 · August 2026

    Whale watching

    Great service. Friendly staff. We were lucky to see humpback and minke whales. Definitely recommend.

    via Tripadvisor

    juttahY3392QD · August 2026

    Excellent experience

    very easy to manage, not complicated toi find, the guide was extremely both professionnel and entertaining and told a lot of interesting things about the whales, Reykjavik, the birds. Really great !

    via Tripadvisor

    792alicek · August 2026

    No whales

    Crew was very nice. Unfortunately we only saw birds. No whales. They do offer another trip if you have time

    via Tripadvisor

    MartinC892 · July 2026

    Excellent way to see whales

    We had an excellent time on this cruise. We saw plenty of humpback whales and even some rare Finn whales. Plenty of bird life too including puffins on the sea. The guide was very good and knowledgeable (as well as speaking in both English and German). It was cold so wrap up well. The only complaint was that we got there early to get a good seat. However a large tour group turn up after us but were let on first and took all the best seats.

    Response from the operator: Hello, Thank you for your wonderful review! We're delighted to hear you had such an enjoyable cruise and were lucky enough to see humpback whales, the rare fin whales, puffins, and other seabirds. It's also great to know you appreciated our guide's knowledge and multilingual commentary. We're sorry to hear about the boarding experience. Occasionally, larger groups are boarded together for operational reasons, but we understand your disappointment after arriving early and appreciate you bringing this to our attention. Thank you for your feedback, and we hope to welcome you on board again soon! Best regards, Reykjavik Sailors Team

    via Tripadvisor

    Cleo I · July 2026

    Wonderful whale watching with lovely guides

    We saw all 4 species that are common in the bay. Humpback using a bubble net was the highlight. Great guide, very enthusiastic and knowledgeable

    Response from the operator: Hello, We're delighted to hear that you were able to see all four of the species most commonly found in Faxaflói Bay. Witnessing a humpback whale using a bubble net feeding technique is a truly remarkable sight and definitely a special highlight! We're also very pleased that you enjoyed the enthusiasm and knowledge of your guide. Our team loves sharing their passion for Iceland's incredible marine life, and it's wonderful to know that this helped make your experience even more memorable. Thank you for choosing Reykjavík Sailors, and we hope to welcome you back on board for another unforgettable whale watching adventure! Best regards, Reykjavik Sailors

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    3 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $49 to $97
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    22
    Verdict
    Strongly Recommended

    Why this scores 70

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)80
    Review evidence (18% weight)53
    Booking momentum (14% weight)46
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)68
    Local standing (8% weight)44
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Guided Whale Watching Experience from Reykjavik: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Reykjavik.

    How much does Guided Whale Watching Experience from Reykjavik cost?

    +

    Prices start at $49 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Reykjavik usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Guided Whale Watching Experience from Reykjavik take?

    +

    Plan for about 3 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Reykjavik is not rushed.

    Is Guided Whale Watching Experience from Reykjavik worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 70 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.7/5 across 64 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Reykjavik, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Guided Whale Watching Experience from Reykjavik?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Guided Whale Watching Experience from Reykjavik suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Guided Whale Watching Experience from Reykjavik?

    +

    Around 22 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Reykjavik can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Reykjavik and add a light layer if any part of the 3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Guided Whale Watching Experience from Reykjavik start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Reykjavik within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Reykjavik?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Reykjavik experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Reykjavik Food Walk - Local Foodie Adventure in Iceland, Small-Group Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon with Ticket & Kerid Crater, Reykjavík Small group Walking Tour - by CityWalk. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Reykjavik?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Reykjavik?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

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