Reykjavik Shore Excursion: Whale-Watching Cruise

The Reykjavik Shore Excursion: Whale-Watching Cruise offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the majestic marine life of Faxaflói Bay. Whether seeking a high-speed thrill or a more leisurely journey, this tour promises an unforgettable encounter with nature, showcasing the breathtaking beauty of Iceland’s coastline and the chance to spot whales, dolphins, and other captivating creatures. With expert guides, cozy amenities, and accessible meeting points, this cruise provides a unique and memorable experience for all who embark on its waters.

Key Points

• Explore Faxaflói Bay in Reykjavik, Iceland on a half-day whale-watching cruise that offers opportunities to spot minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, porpoises, and humpback whales.
• Choose between high-speed or relaxed-pace cruise options, both with knowledgeable guides providing commentary on the local geography and marine life.
• Enjoy onboard amenities like thermal overalls, sea sickness tablets, and free WiFi, with a free voucher if no whales are spotted.
• The tour departs from Geirsgata 11 or Skarfabakki Harbour, with pickup service available and a maximum capacity of 189 travelers.
• Customer reviews highlight varied whale sightings, knowledgeable guides, and efficient organization, with some critiques about limited sightings and seasickness.

Overview of the Whale-Watching Cruise

The whale-watching cruise in Faxaflói Bay, Reykjavik, Iceland, offers visitors a half-day tour to spot a variety of marine life, including minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, porpoises, and humpback whales.

An expert guide provides commentary on the local geography and marine life throughout the tour. Travelers can choose between a high-speed or relaxed-pace cruise option.

The tour includes free use of thermal overalls, complimentary sea sickness tablets, and free WiFi onboard. A free ticket for another tour is provided if no whales are seen during the excursion.

Marine Life Encountered on the Tour

Visitors on the whale-watching cruise can expect to encounter a variety of marine life in Faxaflói Bay.

The most commonly sighted species include:

• Minke whales, the second-smallest baleen whale, known for their sleek, dark bodies and white bands on their flippers.

• White-beaked dolphins, a lively species that often bow-rides the boat’s wake.

• Harbor porpoises, the smallest cetacean in European waters, easily identified by their rounded heads and short, stocky builds.

• Humpback whales, with their distinctive humped backs and long, white-speckled flippers.

• Diverse seabirds, including arctic terns, gulls, and fulmars soaring overhead.

Cruise Options and Inclusions

Two cruise options are available for the whale-watching tour in Faxaflói Bay.

Travelers can choose between a high-speed or a relaxed pace cruise. The high-speed option provides a thrilling ride to quickly reach the whale watching areas, while the relaxed pace allows for a more leisurely journey.

Regardless of the selected option, the tour includes several amenities. Visitors receive free thermal overalls, complimentary sea sickness tablets, and access to onboard WiFi.

Plus, the tour operator offers a voucher for a future tour if no whales are spotted. Gratuities and food/drinks aren’t included.

Meeting Points and Pickup

The meeting point for the whale-watching cruise is at Geirsgata 11, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland or Skarfabakki Harbour.

Pickup is available, and travelers should be ready 1 hour before departure.

The tour ends at the original meeting point.

• Pickup service provided
• Be ready 1 hour before departure
• Tour concludes at original meeting point
• Wheelchair and stroller accessible
• Maximum of 189 travelers per tour

Accessibility and Group Size

The whale-watching cruise caters to a range of travelers, as it’s wheelchair and stroller accessible.

The transportation and surfaces onboard are all wheelchair-friendly, ensuring a comfortable experience for those with mobility challenges.

The tour can accommodate up to 189 travelers, providing ample space and flexibility.

Whether you’re exploring with a group or individually, the cruise offers an inclusive and accessible option for whale-watching in Reykjavik.

With its thoughtful amenities and accommodations, the tour ensures that everyone can enjoy the marine life sightings and scenic beauty of Faxaflói Bay.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

According to 40 reviews, the overall rating for the whale-watching cruise stands at 3.9 out of 5.

Experiences varied, with some customers spotting whales while others did not. Positive remarks highlighted the knowledgeable guides and efficient organization.

However, critiques included limited whale sightings and seasickness issues. To address this, the company offers free vouchers for future tours if whales aren’t observed.

• Varied experiences with whale sightings
• Knowledgeable guides and efficient organization
• Limited whale sightings and seasickness issues
• Free vouchers for future tours if whales not seen
• Overall rating of 3.9 out of 5 from 40 reviews

Planning Your Whale-Watching Adventure

When planning your whale-watching adventure in Reykjavik, it’s important to consider the cruise options and amenities available.

The tour offers two cruise options: a high-speed or a relaxed pace. Regardless of the pace, the tour includes use of thermal overalls, complimentary sea sickness tablets, and free WiFi onboard.

The meeting point is conveniently located at Geirsgata 11 or Skarfabakki Harbour, with pickup service available. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, accommodating up to 189 travelers.

Be sure to arrive at the meeting point at least an hour before departure to ensure a smooth start to your whale-watching adventure.

Common Questions

Are Life Jackets Provided on the Cruise?

Life jackets are provided on the whale-watching cruise. The tour includes the use of thermal overalls, which help keep passengers warm and protected while on the water.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

The whale-watching cruise does not allow passengers to bring their own food and drinks onboard. However, complimentary sea sickness tablets are provided, and food and drinks may be purchased during the tour.

Is There a Bathroom on the Cruise Ship?

Yes, the whale-watching cruise ship has onboard bathrooms available for passengers’ use. The facilities are clean and accessible, providing a convenient option during the half-day tour.

Can I Take Photos/Videos During the Tour?

Yes, passengers can take photos and videos during the tour. The cruise provides free WiFi onboard, allowing travelers to capture memorable moments of the whales and other marine life they encounter.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Cruise?

There’s no minimum age requirement for the cruise, though thermal overalls are available in children’s sizes. Passengers of all ages can join the tour and enjoy the whale-watching experience.

The Sum Up

The Reykjavik Shore Excursion: Whale-Watching Cruise offers an unforgettable opportunity to witness the majestic marine life of Faxaflói Bay. With a choice of high-speed or relaxed journeys, expert guides, and essential amenities, this tour provides an accessible and guaranteed experience for all. Whether seeking minke whales, humpbacks, or playful dolphins, visitors can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Iceland’s coastal waters.