Reykjavik’s whale watching tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Iceland. The tour takes guests aboard the country’s largest vessel, the Andrea, for a chance to spot majestic marine life like minke whales and humpbacks. With knowledgeable guides, heated indoor seating, and a complimentary return ticket if no whales are sighted, this 2-3 hour excursion provides an unforgettable adventure. But before setting sail, there are a few important details to consider.
Key Points

- Whale watching tours in Reykjavik offer the chance to spot various marine life, including minke whales, humpbacks, and dolphins, with a no-sightings guarantee.
- Tours range from 2-3 hours and are available year-round, with classic and express options offering flexible scheduling and departure times.
- Vessel amenities include spacious decks, heated indoor seating, an onboard café, and a souvenir shop, enhancing the overall whale watching experience.
- Tours are led by knowledgeable guides, and an interactive app in multiple languages provides an educational component to the excursion.
- Proper preparation, such as dressing warmly and bringing motion sickness relief, is recommended to maximize the chances of an unforgettable whale watching experience.
Tour Overview and Pricing

The Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavík offers a remarkable opportunity to witness the majestic marine life of Iceland.
Priced from $83.04 per person, the tour lasts 2-3 hours and provides savings of up to 15%. Guests can take advantage of the reserve now, pay later option and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
With a year-round Classic tour and a summer-only Express option, visitors have flexibility in their scheduling, with departures as early as 9 AM and as late as 9 PM during peak season.
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Tour Options

Two tour options are available for whale watching from Reykjavík: the Whale Watching Classic and the Whale Watching Classic Express.
The Classic tour runs year-round, with departures at 9 AM (March 1 – November 15), 1 PM (year-round), and 5 PM (May 15 – September 30).
The Classic tour runs year-round, with departures at 9 AM, 1 PM, and 5 PM during the specified seasons.
The Express tour runs June 1 to September 30, with departures at 10 AM, 2 PM, and 9 PM (June 15 – July 31, no transfers).
Both tours offer the chance to spot minke whales, humpbacks, dolphins, and more.
If no whales are seen, guests receive a complimentary return ticket.
Vessel and Experience

Guests aboard the Andrea, Iceland’s largest whale-watching ship, enjoy spacious viewing decks, heated indoor seating, and warm overalls provided for their comfort. An onboard café and souvenir shop offer refreshments and souvenirs, enhancing the overall experience. The tour features an educational component, with a live guide and an interactive app available in 5 languages, ensuring guests gain valuable insights into the marine life they encounter.
| Feature | Description |
| — | — |
| Vessel | Andrea, Iceland’s largest whale-watching ship |
| Viewing | Spacious decks, heated indoor seating |
| Attire | Warm overalls provided |
| Amenities | Onboard café, souvenir shop |
Wildlife and Sightings

Potential sightings on the whale watching tour include minke whales, humpback whales, white-beaked dolphins, harbour porpoises, and orcas.
The best time to spot these magnificent creatures is from April to September, though your chances may be lower outside this period. If no whales are spotted during your tour, you’ll receive a complimentary ticket to try again on another day.
The captains prioritize safety and comfort, so tour schedules may be adjusted based on weather conditions. Prepare for the elements and potential seasickness, and enjoy this immersive educational experience with a live guide and interactive app.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Feedback and Safety

The whale watching tour in Reykjavik has an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 from 2277 reviews. Customers highlight the knowledgeable guides and friendly staff.
However, weather conditions may affect the tours, so the captains prioritize safety and comfort. Travelers are advised to dress warmly and prepare for possible seasickness.
While the experience is generally positive, it’s important to be mindful of the unpredictable nature of outdoor activities. By following the crew’s guidance and packing appropriately, visitors can maximize their chances of an enjoyable and memorable whale watching adventure.
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Preparing for the Tour

How can travelers best prepare for the whale watching tour in Reykjavik? Dressing for the weather is key. Pack warm, waterproof layers and wear comfortable, non-slip shoes. Bring seasickness medication if prone to motion sickness. Stay hydrated and snack on light, easy-to-digest foods before the tour.
| Packing Essentials |
| — | — | — | — |
| Warm jacket | Waterproof pants | Hat and gloves | Comfortable shoes |
| Lightweight snacks | Water bottle | Motion sickness relief | Camera/binoculars |
With the right preparation, travelers can maximize their chances of an unforgettable whale watching experience in Reykjavik.
What to Expect on the Tour

Once travelers have their packing essentials ready, they can expect an engaging and informative whale watching experience aboard Iceland’s largest whale-watching ship, the Andrea.
Boasting spacious viewing decks, heated indoor seating, and warm overalls, the vessel provides optimal comfort for spotting marine life.
Onboard, a live guide and an interactive app in five languages educate guests about the whales and dolphins they might encounter, including minke whales, humpbacks, and orcas.
With an overall rating of 4.2/5, the tour promises knowledgeable staff, friendly service, and a high chance of wildlife sightings, weather permitting.
Additional Information

Although weather conditions may affect the whale watching tours, captains prioritize the safety and comfort of their passengers. They recommend guests dress warmly and prepare for possible seasickness.
The tours take place aboard the largest whale-watching ship in Iceland, Andrea, featuring spacious viewing decks, heated indoor seating, and warm overalls. An onboard café and souvenir shop are available.
Customers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and friendly staff. If no whales are sighted, guests receive a complimentary return ticket for another trip.
The best whale-watching season is April to September, though sightings are less likely outside this period.
Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Day to See Whales?
The best time to see whales is typically during the peak season of April to September. Daytime tours, such as 9:00 am and 1:00 pm, generally offer the highest chances of spotting whales in the region.
Can Children Participate in the Whale Watching Tour?
Yes, children can participate in the whale watching tour. The tour is suitable for all ages, and warm overalls are provided. Advance reservations are recommended, as there may be limited availability for families.
Do I Need to Book the Tour in Advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book the whale watching tour in advance. The tour offers a reserve now & pay later option, and free cancellation up to 24 hours before for a full refund.
What Should I Bring on the Whale Watching Trip?
For the whale watching trip, it’s best to bring warm, layered clothing and prepare for potential seasickness. The tour provides overalls, but additional warm layers are recommended to stay comfortable out on the water.
Are There Any Age or Health Restrictions for the Tour?
There are no age or health restrictions for the whale watching tour. However, the company recommends that guests with mobility issues or seasickness concerns discuss their needs with the staff prior to booking. Guests should be able to board and disembark the vessel safely.
The Sum Up
The Reykjavik Whale Watching Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness Iceland’s majestic marine life up close. With a spacious vessel, knowledgeable guides, and a money-back guarantee if no whales are spotted, this tour provides excellent value. Whether you’re an avid nature lover or simply seeking a unique adventure, this whale watching experience is not to be missed.
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