
Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in Reykjavik
Traveler rating
4.4/5
Based on 726 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in Reykjavik worth booking?
Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in Reykjavik is a 3-hour experience in Reykjavik, Iceland, from $102 per person. It scores 73 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.4/5 rating across 726 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 73 / 100
- Rating
- 4.4/5 (726)
- Duration
- 3 hours
- From
- $102 per person
Join our 3-hour whale watching cruise, starting in the Old Harbour, and traveling through the spectacular Reykjavík Coast. Our whale watching tour focuses on Minke Whales, Humpback Whales, Orca Killer Whales, and other marine wildlife. Please note, the tour takes place in wild nature, sightings cannot be predicted or guaranteed. If there are no sightings on the tour, we do not offer refunds but instead, we offer our passengers a free return to join our tour depending on availability, valid for up to three years. Weather is a big factor for the tour, and we may have to cancel the tour. Additional Information We also offer private yacht rental in Reykjavík. Whether it’s a romantic cruise or an evening sailing adventure for all your friends, we’ve got you covered.
What you get
About this experience
Join our 3-hour whale watching cruise, starting in the Old Harbour, and traveling through the spectacular Reykjavík Coast. Our whale watching tour focuses on Minke Whales, Humpback Whales, Orca Killer Whales, and other marine wildlife. Please note, the tour takes place in wild nature, sightings cannot be predicted or guaranteed. If there are no sightings on the tour, we do not offer refunds but instead, we offer our passengers a free return to join our tour depending on availability, valid for up to three years. Weather is a big factor for the tour, and we may have to cancel the tour. Additional Information We also offer private yacht rental in Reykjavík. Whether it’s a romantic cruise or an evening sailing adventure for all your friends, we’ve got you covered.
What's included
Included
- Panoramic views
- On-board WiFi
- All Fees and Taxes
- Drinks and snacks are available for purchase
- Professional guides
- Spacious observation decks
- On-board restrooms
- Warm blankets
What you'll see and do
Old Harbour
The ship sets sails from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour and during your journey, you’ll sail among the small islands in the Faxaflói Bay, as well as along the coast of Reykjavík, providing you with a fantastic view of the city as you search for the wildlife in the water. The most common sights are minke and humpback whales, dolphins, and porpoises. However, there is always a chance to spot a few orcas (also known as killer whales) as well as a wealth of other species. The professional team onboard is very experienced in spotting whales and is dedicated to making sure their passengers leave with a smile!
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Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre
Harpa is a concert hall and conference centre in Reykjavík, Iceland. The opening concert was held on May 4, 2011. The building features a distinctive colored glass facade inspired by the basalt landscape of Iceland.
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Faxafloi bay is situated on its southern shore. From Reykjavik it is possible to see the peninsula of Akranes in the northeast and even the Snæfellsjökull at a distance of about 120 km (75 mi). This bay has few islands and the ones it does have are close to land, in particular contrast to the bay directly north of it, Breiðafjörður, which has the most islands of any bay in Iceland.
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Engey is the second largest island of the Kollafjörður (Faxa Bay) fjord in western Iceland.
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Lundey, literally "Puffin Island" in Icelandic, is a small, uninhabited island off the western coast of Reykjavík, Iceland.
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Videy Island
Viðey is the largest island of the Kollafjörður Bay in Iceland, near the capital of Reykjavík.
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Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Reykjavik
We are located at the Reykjavík Old Harbour close to the city's center. It is the main port of departure for whale watching and northern lights tours. *Please arrive at the meeting point 30 MINUTES BEFORE DEPARTURE.
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 50 minutes before departure.
Ends at
We are located at the Reykjavík Old Harbour close to the city's center. It is the main port of departure for whale watching and northern lights tours. *Please arrive at the meeting point 30 MINUTES BEFORE DEPARTURE.
Options you can book
3-Hour Whale Watching Cruise + Reykjavík Pickup & Drop-Off
Reykjavík Pickup & Drop-Off: Includes pickup and drop-off at eligible central Reykjavík hotels and official bus stops. A pickup location is required.
3-Hour Whale Watching Cruise - Meet at Reykjavík Old Harbour
No Pickup - Meet at Reykjavík Old Harbour: Pickup is not included. Meet at Old Harbour House, Ægisgarður 2, 30 minutes before departure.
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
- Iceland Discover
Know before you go
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 726 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
4 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
3 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Pace and timing
2 mentionsSeveral reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Traveler reviews
726 verified traveler reviews for Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in Reykjavik. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
The guide was extremely...
The guide was extremely knowledgeable! The boat was charming and the crew were terrific! Worth every penny!
via Viator
Becyase this depends on...
Becyase this depends on nature, this is a bit of a pot luck option, but they know what they are doing and have spotters checking the horizon. In the end we say a pair of hump back whales. The trip out into the bay was also really good.
via Viator
Great Whsle Watching Experience
Our captain got us safely out to see where we followed a humpback whale for quite a while. The whale came close to the boat which was really exciting. Once it was time to head back we had a nice warm cabin to stay in until we docked!
via Viator
The best option
There are several firms offering whale watching and the other boats went to the same area as ours. Looking at the other boats, I was glad we were on Amelia Rose. Two of the others were very big, ours was smaller and less crowded. The other was a rib, whereby the passengers had to don waterproof gear and life jackets, and could not move from their seats. All the others bobbed around on the waves, our boat was very stable. So, if I did whale watching in Reykjavik again, I would choose this your again. If you go, wrap up with layers... It is very chilly on deck!
via Viator
Great experience.
Awesome day for a whale watch! Saw lots of humpbacks and a minke. Saw a humpback breach for the first time and another whacking his tail multiple times. Boat was clean and comfortable. Operator was knowledgeable. Well done.
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
- $102 to $129
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 254
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by Iceland Discover, who run 3 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 64.6.
See everything Iceland Discover runsWhy this scores 73
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in Reykjavik: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Reykjavik.
How much does Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in Reykjavik cost?
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Prices start at $102 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 Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in 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 Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in Reykjavik worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 73 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.4/5 across 726 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 Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in 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 Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in 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 Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in Reykjavik?
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Around 254 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 Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in 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 Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in Reykjavik?
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Included: Panoramic views; On-board WiFi; All Fees and Taxes; Drinks and snacks are available for purchase; and Professional guides. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in Reykjavik include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 70 listed pickup locations in and around Reykjavik. Be ready about 50 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in 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 Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in 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 Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in Reykjavik wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; and Wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in 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 Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in Reykjavik?
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Across 726 reviews averaging 4.4 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
What booking options are available for Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in Reykjavik?
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There are 2 options to choose from, including 3-Hour Whale Watching Cruise + Reykjavík Pickup & Drop-Off, 3-Hour Whale Watching Cruise - Meet at Reykjavík Old Harbour. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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