Whale Watching Tours from Reykjavik for Cruise Visitors

Reykjavik is a top destination for whale watching. If you are visiting Iceland on a cruise, you have the perfect opportunity to join a whale-watching tour. The capital city offers many options, with tours departing right from the downtown area. 

These tours allow you to see incredible marine life, including humpback whales, minke whales, dolphins, and even puffins. Here is a detailed guide to the best whale-watching tours from Reykjavik for cruise visitors.

5 Best Whale Watching Tours from Reykjavik

1. Reykjavik Premium Whale Watching

This tour is perfect for those who want a more comfortable experience. It takes place on a luxury yacht, providing a smoother ride compared to standard boats. The yacht has indoor seating, a heated lounge, and an outdoor viewing deck. This is an excellent choice for visitors who want to watch whales in style while staying warm and dry.

• Tour duration: Around 2 hours
• Departure point: Downtown Reykjavik
• Best for: Those who prefer comfort and a relaxed experience
• Marine life sightings: Humpback whales, minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, and harbor porpoises
• Price: ISK 24,900

The premium whale-watching tour offers a calm and enjoyable ride, making it an excellent option for families or anyone looking for a luxurious experience.

2. RIB Express Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavik

If you are looking for a more adventurous experience, the RIB Express Whale Watching Tour is a great choice. This tour is conducted on a rigid inflatable boat (RIB), which allows you to get closer to the whales. The speed of the boat means you can cover more distance quickly, increasing your chances of spotting whales.

• Tour duration: About 2 hours
• Departure point: Downtown Reykjavik
• Best for: Adventure seekers and those looking for an up-close experience
• Marine life sightings: Humpback whales, minke whales, dolphins, and sometimes even orcas
• Price: ISK 23,490

This tour is an excellent option if you want to get as close as possible to the whales while enjoying a fast and exciting trip.

3. Whale Watching - Downtown Reykjavik

This is one of the most popular whale-watching tours available. It departs from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor and is a classic whale-watching experience. The boats are large, providing plenty of space for passengers to move around. There are both indoor and outdoor viewing areas.

• Tour duration: 3.5 hours
• Departure point: Old Harbor, Reykjavik
• Best for: Budget travelers and families
• Marine life sightings: Minke whales, humpback whales, dolphins, and porpoises
• Price: ISK 11,990

This tour is ideal for visitors who want a traditional whale-watching experience at an affordable price.

4. Whale & Puffin Watching from Downtown Reykjavik

If you are interested in seeing both whales and puffins, this tour is perfect for you. It combines whale watching with a visit to the puffin nesting areas near Reykjavik. Puffins are small seabirds with colorful beaks that nest on Iceland’s coastline during the summer months.

• Tour duration: Around 2 hours
• Departure point: Reykjavik’s Old Harbor
• Best for: Bird lovers and those who want a diverse wildlife experience
• Marine life sightings: Minke whales, humpback whales, dolphins, and puffins
• Price: ISK 21,490

This tour is an excellent way to experience Iceland’s rich marine and bird life in one trip.

5. Whale Watching Midnight Sun Tour

For a truly unique experience, consider joining the Whale Watching Midnight Sun Tour. This tour takes place in the evening during the summer months when Iceland experiences long daylight hours. The midnight sun creates a beautiful golden glow over the ocean, making for a magical experience.

• Tour duration: About 2.5  hours
• Departure point: Downtown Reykjavik
• Best for: Those who want a special evening experience
• Marine life sightings: Humpback whales, minke whales, dolphins, and porpoises
• Price: ISK 13,990

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a memorable and unique adventure during their visit to Iceland.

Tips for Whale Watching in Reykjavik

• Dress warmly: Even in summer, the ocean can be cold. Wear layers, including a windproof jacket.
• Choose the right tour: Pick a tour based on your preferences—luxury, adventure, or a mix of wildlife watching.
• Book in advance: Tours can fill up quickly, especially during the peak season.
• Be patient: Whale sightings are common, but nature is unpredictable. Guides will do their best to find whales for you.
• Bring a camera: Capture the incredible moments, but also take time to enjoy the experience in person.

Your Whale Watching Adventure Awaits

Reykjavik offers a variety of whale-watching tours for cruise visitors. Whether you choose a luxury yacht, an exciting RIB boat, or a classic tour, each option provides a great chance to see whales up close. Some tours also include puffin watching or a midnight sun experience. 

To make the most of your trip, book in advance and dress warmly. No matter which tour you pick, spotting whales in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience.