
The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik
Traveler rating
4.6/5
Based on 2,983 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik worth booking?
The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik is a 3-hour experience in Reykjavik, Iceland, from $105 per person. It scores 84 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.6/5 rating across 2,983 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 84 / 100
- Rating
- 4.6/5 (2,983)
- Duration
- 3 hours
- From
- $105 per person
Encounter whales, dolphins, porpoises and birds on this cruise from Reykjavik and see the wildlife in their natural habitat off the capital’s coast. Whales and dolphins are seen on more than 90% of tours in both summer and winter! In the unlikely event you do not see a whale or a dolphin you receive a complimentary ticket to join us again another day. Elding is an environmentally friendly company and recognised worldwide for its sustainability efforts. Our aim, mission and goal is to minimise the operational impact on the environment while offering an unforgettable experience at sea. We follow a code of conduct for responsible whale watching, which ensures that our tours respect marine life by minimising disturbance, keeping a safe distance from the animals.
What you get
About this experience
Encounter whales, dolphins, porpoises and birds on this cruise from Reykjavik and see the wildlife in their natural habitat off the capital’s coast. Whales and dolphins are seen on more than 90% of tours in both summer and winter! In the unlikely event you do not see a whale or a dolphin you receive a complimentary ticket to join us again another day. Elding is an environmentally friendly company and recognised worldwide for its sustainability efforts. Our aim, mission and goal is to minimise the operational impact on the environment while offering an unforgettable experience at sea. We follow a code of conduct for responsible whale watching, which ensures that our tours respect marine life by minimising disturbance, keeping a safe distance from the animals.
What's included
Included
- Free WiFi on board
- Excellent live guide
- Overalls, raincoats and blankets
- Admission to Wildlife Exhibition
Not included
- Food and drinks
- Gratuities
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Reykjavik
Meet us in the ELDING ticket office located at Ægisgarður 5c by the Old Harbour district in Reykjavík. Once at the pier, simply follow the red colour to find us! Be sure to arrive at least 15 min. before departure to ensure enough time to check in and to board the boat.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Meet us in the ELDING ticket office located at Ægisgarður 5c by the Old Harbour district in Reykjavík. Once at the pier, simply follow the red colour to find us! Be sure to arrive at least 15 min. before departure to ensure enough time to check in and to board the boat.
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 30 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Elding Whale Watching
Know before you go
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Passengers with limited mobility are warmly welcome. However, please note that our boats are not fully accessible, as steep stairs and high thresholds may limit access to inside areas and toilet facilities.
- Wheelchair users are welcome to bring a light-weight chair on board our larger boats. If possible, please notify us of your arrival in advance, as assistance with boarding may be required.
- If conditions in Reykjavík are unfavourable, the tour may either be cancelled or depart from an alternative harbour, which could extend the duration by 1-2 hours.
- No whales or dolphins spotted on your tour? Join us again another day for FREE!
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 2,976 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
2 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
2 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Traveler reviews
2,976 verified traveler reviews for The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Wonderful tour
Really well organised and respectful of the whales
via Tripadvisor
Fantastic experience!
Fantastic experience! We saw three humpback whales and were able to watch them for a long period of time - it was amazing - the captain and crew were tremendous!
via Viator
Awesome.
A great experience and the highlight of our Iceland trip. The guides we were with were very educational and ensured we had a great time. A truly must stop while in Iceland.
via Tripadvisor
Amazing!!
A truly great experience! We saw three humpback whales, which was absolutely amazing. Despite the somewhat rough seas, the staff were incredibly attentive to everyone’s well-being. They were so kind, helpful, and caring throughout the trip. Highly recommended!
via Tripadvisor
Amazing **
Amazing experience. So easy and straight forward, we see 3 humpback whales close and dolphins. Highly recommend
via Viator
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
- $105 to $109
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 1,044
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Who runs this experience
Operated by Elding Whale Watching, who run 9 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 67.1.
See everything Elding Whale Watching runsWhy this scores 84
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Reykjavik.
How much does The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik cost?
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Prices start at $105 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 The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik take?
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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 The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 84 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.6/5 across 2,983 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Reykjavik, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik?
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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 The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik suitable for kids and families?
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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 The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik?
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Around 1,044 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?
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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 The Original Classic Whale Watching 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?
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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, Silfra Snorkeling Between Continents Photos Included- Self Drive, Small-Group Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon with Ticket & Kerid Crater. 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?
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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?
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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?
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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.
What is included in The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik?
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Included: Free WiFi on board; Excellent live guide; Overalls, raincoats and blankets; and Admission to Wildlife Exhibition. Not included: Food and drinks; Gratuities; and Hotel pickup and drop-off. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik?
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Meet us in the ELDING ticket office located at Ægisgarður 5c by the Old Harbour district in Reykjavík. Once at the pier, simply follow the red colour to find us! Be sure to arrive at least 15 min. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Passengers with limited mobility are warmly welcome. However, please note that our boats a; and Wheelchair users are welcome to bring a light-weight chair on board our larger boats. If p. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik?
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Across 2,983 reviews averaging 4.6 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
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