The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
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.
Additional Info
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!
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Free WiFi on board
Excellent live guide
Overalls, raincoats and blankets
Admission to Wildlife Exhibition
Food and drinks
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Options
Classic Whale Watching
Duration: 3 hours: Total duration of the tour is approx. 2-3,5 hours, depending on factors such as wildlife sightings and weather conditions.
Refreshments: Light refreshments and beverages are available for purchase on board.
Whale Watching Zone: We sail from Reykjavík's Old Harbour and our search area is Faxaflói bay. On rare occasions, we depart from other harbours.
Boat Amenities: We operate on a specially modified 150-200 passenger boat. Heated indoor areas, toilets and bar available on board.
Dress Code: Please make sure to dress according to the weather at sea. If needed, we have overalls you can borrow for free.
Reviews
2,202 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great experience in...
Kelly b,
Apr 23, 2025
- Viator
5.00Great experience in winter months it is cold so need to wrap up warm definitely worth doing but sightings aren’t guaranteed
Great experience....
Niall R,
Apr 23, 2025
- Viator
4.00Great experience. Something i have wanted to do for a long time. Was fortunate to see a few Minke Whales and a Humpback on our way back in. Didnt get as close as i was hoping, but understandable as they will have the tendancy to flee boat activity
This was our second trip...
Bridgett W,
Apr 22, 2025
- Viator
5.00This was our second trip with this whale watching tour company and we were delighted yet again with our experience. The boat is well-maintained and the crew are helpful and knowledgeable. I especially appreciated that the all-weather coveralls (a must in colder weather) came in a diverse range of sizes which accommodated all the members of our party. We enjoyed great weather and a beautiful cruise out to the feeding grounds and were treated to ample sightings of humpback whales. One was so close off the starboard bow that we could hear it take a breath. The captain was very experienced and balanced respectfulness for the whale's habitat with the passengers' desires to witness one of nature's most magical sights. (We saw some not great behavior from other companies, so buyer beware.) The marine biologists who were offering commentary on whale behavior and on the activities of the many sea birds made the trip both educational and fun.
Great experience. We saw...
Kyriakos T,
Apr 20, 2025
- Viator
4.00Great experience. We saw some various types of whales and some flying puffins. The ship has everything you need along with a great guide. Be there at least 15 minutes before the start of the activity. The only reason I give it 5 stars is because I still think it's too expensive for a mass group tour. PS. Also loved the guy at the ticket office.
Great time whale watching with pictures to last a life time
Tamika R,
Apr 19, 2025
- Viator
5.00What a once in a lifetime experience!! The tour guides were great, so knowledgable, and included were photos taken by them of the whales and birds that we saw. The boat was nice, including the inside with seats where my older parents sat for the tour. Would 10000% recommend this tour company again and again,
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Operated by Elding Whale Watching