Whale Watching & Dolphin Yacht Cruise

Whale watching and dolphin cruises offer a unique opportunity to witness the majesty of marine life up close. Departing from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor, this intimate yacht experience provides the chance to spot humpback whales, minke whales, and playful dolphins in the stunning Faxafloi Bay. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable amenities, and the promise of a complimentary ticket if no wildlife is sighted, this cruise promises an unforgettable adventure. But what makes this particular tour stand out, and how can you prepare for the best possible experience?

Key Points

• Depart from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor for a whale watching and dolphin sighting cruise in the waters of Faxafloi Bay.
• Enjoy uninterrupted views from the observation deck and receive wildlife information from the onboard guide.
• Amenities include free WiFi and warm blankets, plus a complimentary ticket if no wildlife is sighted.
• Arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time and dress warmly for the chilly North Atlantic weather.
• Sightings may include humpback whales, minke whales, and dolphins, but experiences can vary due to weather and sea conditions.

Location and Overview

The Whale Watching & Dolphin Yacht Cruise departs from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor, providing travelers with the opportunity to explore the waters of Faxafloi Bay.

This highly-rated excursion boasts a 4.4/5 rating from 419 reviews and a Badge of Excellence. Operated by Harpa Yachts, the cruise has a maximum capacity of 95 travelers and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

Priced from $88.85 per person, the cruise promises sightings of whales, dolphins, and puffins during the summer months, accompanied by an onboard guide and amenities like free WiFi and warm blankets.

Cruise Experience and Amenities

Departing from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor, the Whale Watching & Dolphin Yacht Cruise takes travelers on a journey through the waters of Faxafloi Bay.

An onboard guide provides wildlife information as the yacht offers uninterrupted views from its observation deck. Passengers can enjoy free WiFi and warm blankets during the cruise.

The experience also includes a complimentary ticket if no sightings occur. With a maximum capacity of 95 travelers, the cruise aims to deliver an intimate and personalized encounter with the marine life of Iceland’s coastline, including whales, dolphins, and puffins (during summer months).

Meeting and Pickup Information

Travelers meet at the Old Harbour House, located at Ægisgarður 2 in Reykjavík, where they must check in at least 30 minutes before the cruise’s scheduled departure.

The cruise activity ends back at the meeting point. Passengers should arrive early to allow time for check-in and boarding.

The tour operator recommends traveling light, as storage space on the yacht may be limited. Upon arrival, guests will receive instructions on where to board the vessel.

Travelers are advised to double-check the meeting location and departure time to ensure a smooth start to their whale and dolphin sightseeing experience.

Traveler Reviews and Feedback

Traveler reviews for the Whale Watching & Dolphin Yacht Cruise offer a mixed assessment of the experience.

While many praise the knowledgeable guides and impressive wildlife sightings, some report inconsistencies in the boat size and comfort level.

Some travelers were placed on larger boats instead of the intimate yacht they’d booked. Reviewers recommend dressing warmly, as the North Atlantic weather can be quite chilly.

Feedback also suggests the boarding process and online boat images could use more clarity.

Wildlife Sightings and Experiences

Common sightings during the Whale Watching & Dolphin Yacht Cruise include humpback whales, minke whales, and dolphins.

Experiences vary, with some travelers reporting seeing multiple species and others seeing none. Those who were lucky enjoyed close encounters with the dolphins.

The crew’s helpfulness and the scenic views during the cruise received notable mentions. However, travelers with motion sickness may want to take medication, as the North Atlantic weather can make the ride uncomfortable at times.

Booking and Pricing

The Whale Watching & Dolphin Yacht Cruise in Reykjavik, Iceland, is priced from $88.85 per person.

The cruise has a maximum capacity of 95 travelers and is operated by Harpa Yachts. Customers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

The cruise departs from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor and explores Faxafloi Bay, with the possibility of sighting whales, dolphins, and puffins.

Onboard amenities include a knowledgeable guide, an observation deck, free WiFi, and warm blankets. A complimentary ticket is provided in case of no sightings during the tour.

Preparing for the Cruise

When planning for the Whale Watching & Dolphin Yacht Cruise, it’s essential to dress appropriately for the North Atlantic weather conditions.

Warm layers, waterproof jackets, and sturdy footwear are a must, as the cruise takes place on open waters. Bringing motion sickness medication is also recommended, especially for travelers prone to seasickness.

The cruise operator provides warm blankets, but packing an extra scarf or hat can ensure maximum comfort.

Arriving at the meeting point 30 minutes early allows ample time for check-in and ensures a smooth start to the adventure.

With the right preparation, travelers can fully enjoy the stunning scenery and wildlife sightings.

Company and Operator Information

Harpa Yachts, the operator of the Whale Watching & Dolphin Yacht Cruise, is a reputable company based in Reykjavik, Iceland.

They offer the cruise experience from the city’s Old Harbor, departing to the nearby Faxafloi Bay. The company has a maximum capacity of 95 travelers per tour, providing ample space on their vessels.

With a 4.4/5 rating from 419 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, Harpa Yachts is a trusted provider of whale and dolphin watching tours.

Customers can enjoy the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?

According to the information provided, passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the cruise. However, complimentary refreshments may be available on board, so it’s best to check with the operator beforehand.

Is the Cruise Wheelchair Accessible?

The cruise offers limited wheelchair accessibility. While the vessel has a few designated spaces, it may not accommodate all travelers with mobility needs. It’s best to check with the operator for specific details on accessibility before booking.

Do the Boats Have Restrooms on Board?

The boats have onboard restrooms for the convenience of passengers. This allows travelers to comfortably enjoy the whale and dolphin sightings during the cruise without having to leave the vessel.

Can I Bring Children on the Cruise?

Children are welcome on the cruise. The operator allows children of all ages to join the tour. Parents should ensure their children are dressed appropriately for the cold weather and bring any necessary supplies for their comfort.

Do the Guides Offer Any Language Options Besides English?

The guides on the cruise offer tours in multiple languages, including English. Travelers can inquire about language options when booking to ensure they receive the guided experience in their preferred language.

The Sum Up

The Whale Watching & Dolphin Yacht Cruise from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor offers an unforgettable opportunity to witness the wonders of Faxafloi Bay. Operated by the experienced team at Harpa Yachts, this intimate cruise provides cozy amenities, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to spot majestic whales and playful dolphins. With a complimentary ticket guarantee, it’s a must-do adventure for nature enthusiasts visiting Iceland.