From Reykjavik: Whale Watching Tour

Exciting Whale Watching from Reykjavik at an Accessible Price

The Reykjavik Whale Watching Tour offers a 3.5-hour voyage starting at $100 per person, making it an appealing choice for travelers eager to see Iceland’s iconic marine creatures. Departing from Geirsgata 11, this tour takes you into Faxaflói Bay, a renowned spot for spotting minke whales, humpback whales, and dolphins. The tour includes guided commentary, flotation overalls, WiFi, and heated indoor cabins, providing comfort amid Iceland’s often brisk weather.

While the tour’s duration is relatively short, many reviews highlight the high success rate of whale sightings, with the boat often staying out longer if wildlife is spotted late. The $100 price point encompasses guides, safety gear, and the chance to witness Iceland’s abundant marine life, though snacks and drinks are available for purchase onboard. This trip is suited for adventurers, families, and wildlife enthusiasts who appreciate a well-organized, comfortable experience with the possibility of seeing majestic whales just off the coast.

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Key Points

• Duration: 3.5 hours, including stops and sightseeing
• Price: $100 per person, includes gear and WiFi
• Location: Departing from Geirsgata 11, Reykjavik
• Wildlife: Common sightings include humpback whales, minke whales, dolphins, and seabirds
• Comfort: Heated indoor cabins, flotation suits, and seasickness tablets are provided
• Guide: Knowledgeable guides offer engaging commentary, with many reviews praising their expertise and friendliness

Departure Point at Geirsgata 11 Offers Easy Access

This whale watching tour begins conveniently at Geirsgata 11, the Special Tours ticket office in Reykjavik. Travelers are advised to arrive 30 minutes early to ensure a smooth start. The departure point’s central location makes it simple for visitors staying in Reykjavik to join the cruise without extra hassle. Once aboard, the boat heads toward Faxaflói Bay, a waterway famous for its rich marine life and scenic surroundings.

The meeting point is close to the city’s vibrant harbor, making logistics straightforward. The boat’s capacity and the location are perfect for a comfortable experience, and the onboard WiFi allows guests to share photos or check messages during the voyage. The tour ends back at the starting point, making it easy for travelers to continue exploring Reykjavik immediately afterward.

The Itinerary and Marine Encounter Highlights

The tour’s main focus is whale and bird watching, with the boat cruising toward Faxaflói Bay, a hotspot for marine wildlife. Once underway, travelers are treated to spectacular views of Iceland’s coastline, including the mountain ring that surrounds the bay. On clear days, the Snaefellsjökull Glacier may be visible from the boat, adding to the scenic backdrop.

The journey includes a stop at Kollafjöður, a peaceful bay with a charming island and abundant birdlife, providing a tranquil setting before heading into the deeper waters of Faxaflói. Here, the crew actively searches for whales and dolphins, with many sightings occurring within the first hour. The guides provide informative commentary about the marine species you encounter, boosting the educational value of the experience. If wildlife is spotted, the boat often remains longer to maximize viewing time, and many guests appreciate the extra effort made to ensure sightings.

Wildlife Encounters: What You Might See

Whale sightings are the main highlight, with humpback whales being frequently observed, along with minke whales and dolphins. The reviews mention seeing multiple humpbacks, often surfacing close to the boat, allowing for impressive photo opportunities. Seals and various seabirds also make appearances, enriching the experience with diverse marine life.

Many guests note that the guides are excellent at spotting whales by observing bird activity and water signs, increasing the likelihood of sightings. Even if the wildlife is elusive, the crew’s warm flotation suits and indoor cabins ensure comfort, and the hot drinks or snacks available for purchase help make the trip enjoyable regardless of wildlife activity.

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Comfort and Safety on the Marine Voyage

The heated indoor cabins and toilet facilities create a cozy environment, especially beneficial in Iceland’s unpredictable weather. The flotation overalls provided are warm and waterproof, helping travelers stay dry and comfortable during the cruise. The seasickness tablets offered free of charge are a thoughtful addition, ensuring even those prone to nausea can enjoy the trip.

The boat’s WiFi allows guests to share photos or access additional information during the ride. The boat’s stability and crew’s experience contribute to a safe and smooth journey, with many reviews emphasizing the friendly and knowledgeable staff.

The Experience with Guides and onboard Amenities

Guides leading the tour are widely praised for their enthusiasm, expertise, and ability to communicate clearly. Many reviews highlight guides like Patrick and Lukas, noting their engaging storytelling and willingness to answer questions. Several guests admire how guides take photos and videos during whale sightings—these images are often available for free download after the trip, adding to the tour’s value.

The onboard amenities include a snack bar with hot drinks and hot waffles, which guests find especially comforting on chilly days. The indoor space ensures guests can retreat from the cold when needed, making the experience enjoyable for families and those sensitive to weather conditions.

Success Rate and Flexibility of the Tour Schedule

Reviews frequently mention the high success rate of whale sightings, with many trips capturing multiple whales and dolphins. The crew’s flexibility is evident as they often extend the trip if wildlife is present late in the schedule, giving everyone more time to enjoy the marine life.

In cases where no sightings occur, guests are offered a complimentary ticket to return for another tour, reflecting the operator’s confidence and commitment to customer satisfaction. The 3.5-hour duration strikes a good balance between adventure and comfort, suited for travelers wanting a comprehensive yet manageable cruise.

Accessibility and Practical Tips for Travelers

This tour is wheelchair accessible, catering to a range of mobility needs. Travelers should dress in weather-appropriate clothing, as Iceland’s climate can be unpredictable, and wear layers for comfort. Pets and smoking are not permitted onboard to ensure safety and cleanliness.

Since snacks and drinks are not included in the price, guests may want to bring their own or plan to purchase onboard. The meeting point is easy to locate, and arriving 30 minutes early is recommended to avoid missing the departure.

Comparing This Tour to Other Whale Watching Options in Reykjavik

While other tours may offer smaller groups or more specialized experiences, the Reykjavik Sailors offering provides a good balance of value, comfort, and wildlife sightings. The $100 price includes guides, gear, WiFi, and indoor facilities, making it a practical choice for a mid-range whale watching adventure.

The tour’s positive reviews for guide knowledge, scenic views, and wildlife sightings place it among the top options available. Its longer duration compared to some shorter trips allows for more relaxed wildlife observation and scenic enjoyment.

Final Thoughts on the Reykjavik Whale Watching Tour

This 3.5-hour cruise from Reykjavik provides a practical and enjoyable way to experience Iceland’s marine environment. The friendly guides, comfortable amenities, and high likelihood of whale sightings make it a strong choice for those wanting to see humpbacks, dolphins, and seabirds in their natural habitat.

While the boat size and weather conditions can influence the experience, the extra efforts from the crew—such as extending trips when wildlife appears and providing seasickness tablets—highlight their commitment to customer satisfaction. The $100 price offers good value for an immersive marine adventure, especially considering the free photos and comfort features included.

This tour suits families, nature lovers, and wildlife enthusiasts who appreciate a well-organized, scenic, and wildlife-rich experience in Reykjavik’s waters.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, including the trip from Reykjavik to Faxaflói Bay and back.

What is included in the price?
The $100 fee includes guides, flotation overalls, WiFi onboard, heated indoor cabins, and seasickness tablets. Snacks and drinks can be purchased during the trip.

Where does the tour depart from?
The tour begins at Geirsgata 11, the Special Tours ticket office in Reykjavik.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for children, with warm gear provided to ensure comfort.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Most tours aim to spot humpback whales, minke whales, and dolphins, with seabirds and occasionally seals also present.

What happens if no whales are seen?
Guests are offered a complimentary ticket to return for another trip, in line with the operator’s commitment.

Should I bring anything on the tour?
Weather-appropriate clothing and layers are recommended. The onboard snack bar is available for drinks and hot snacks.

Can I go on this tour if I get seasick easily?
Yes, seasickness tablets are provided for free, and the indoor cabins offer a warm refuge when needed.

How good are the chances of seeing whales?
Many reviews mention successful whale sightings, including multiple humpbacks surfacing near the boat, especially if the weather is clear.

Is this tour better than other whale watching trips?
Compared to other options, this tour offers good value, comfortable amenities, and a high success rate—making it a reliable choice for wildlife viewing in Reykjavik.

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