The whale watching Reykjavik price starts lower than most visitors expect, and this tour adds a guarantee that removes the biggest risk: if you don’t see whales or dolphins, you sail again another day for free. Departing from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour, this 3 to 3.5-hour cruise takes you into Faxaflói Bay, one of the most reliable whale-watching areas in Iceland, in search of minke whales, humpbacks, dolphins, and porpoises.
Whale Watching Reykjavik Tour Details and Price (2026)
Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavik Old Harbour
- From $86 per person (discounted rates for children)
- 3 to 3.5 hours at sea
- Departs from Reykjavik Old Harbour (walkable from downtown)
- Expert guide and experienced crew
- Warm overalls provided on board
- Indoor heated saloon and outdoor viewing decks
- Onboard cafe for hot drinks and snacks
- If no whales or dolphins are seen, you sail again another day for free
- 4.4 stars from 3,200+ reviews, 87% recommendation
The “sail again free” guarantee is the key feature. Whale sightings are never 100% guaranteed anywhere in the world, but this policy means you’re not paying to see nothing. Book early in your Iceland trip so you have backup days available.
👉 Book your whale watching tour in Reykjavik
Whale Watching Tour: What You’ll See
Minke whales. The most commonly spotted whale in Faxaflói Bay, present throughout the season. Sleek and fast, they surface to breathe near the boat.
Humpback whales. Larger and more acrobatic, sometimes breaching or slapping their tails. The most spectacular sighting when they appear.
White-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoises. Playful and frequently seen riding the bow wave or swimming alongside the boat.
Seabirds. Puffins (in summer), Arctic terns, gulls, and other seabirds are common throughout the bay.
Your guide narrates the experience, explaining the behavior of the animals and helping you spot them. The crew knows where sightings have been recent and heads to the most promising areas.
When to Go and What to Expect
- Best months. April through October is peak season, with the highest sighting rates in summer (June to August). Winter tours run but with fewer daylight hours and rougher seas.
- Sighting success rate. High in summer (often 90%+), lower in winter. The “sail again free” policy protects you either way.
- Sea conditions. The North Atlantic can be rough. If you’re prone to seasickness, take medication before boarding. The crew has sickness bags, but prevention is better.
Before You Book
- Dress very warm. Even in summer, it’s cold and windy on the open water. Warm overalls are provided, but wear layers, a hat, and gloves underneath.
- Bring your camera with a zoom. Whales surface briefly and often at a distance. A zoom lens or good phone camera helps.
- Arrive 30 minutes early. Check in at the Old Harbour ticket office before departure.
- Seasickness. Take medication 30 to 60 minutes before boarding if you’re prone to it. Faxaflói Bay is calmer than the open ocean but still moves.
- Not guaranteed. No tour can promise whales. Use the free re-sail if needed, which is why booking early in your trip matters.
- Combine with Reykjavik. The Old Harbour is walkable from downtown, so you can easily build the tour into a day exploring the city.
- Cancellation: free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Book Your Whale Watching Tour
Minke whales, humpbacks, and dolphins in Faxaflói Bay, with warm overalls, an expert guide, and a free re-sail if the whales don’t show. From $86 per person from Reykjavik Old Harbour.
👉 Check availability and book your tour
Prices based on 2026 rates. Whale sightings are never guaranteed. Free re-sail available if no whales or dolphins are seen. Confirm details at checkout.
