Settle on the observation deck as Reykjavík falls away and Faxaflói Bay opens. This three‑hour yacht cruise searches for minkes, humpbacks and orcas while offering guided coastal history and island views.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A salt wind pulls at your hood as the yacht slips out of Reykjavík’s Old Harbour and into Faxaflói Bay. City roofs and Harpa’s prismatic glass recede; the bay opens, gray and alive, and every swell seems to be watching back. Guides scan the horizon with binoculars while passengers cluster on observation decks, wrapped in blankets or layered jackets, waiting for the first fluke or blow to punctuate the sea.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires short periods of standing and some stairs to board smaller vessels
Wildlife
History
Reykjavík’s Old Harbour evolved from a commercial fishing quarter into the city’s main gateway for marine tours; nearby Harpa’s glass façade references Iceland’s basalt formations.
Conservation
Operators follow responsible whale‑watching codes—maintain distance, limit interaction time and avoid pursuit; visitors are encouraged to minimize noise and pack out all waste.
Reserve your spot on the Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in Reykjavik today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive 30 minutes early
Check in at Old Harbour House (Ægisgarður 2) 30 minutes before departure to scan your ticket and choose a good viewing spot.
Dress in layers and bring a waterproof
Wind and spray are constant; a warm mid‑layer plus a waterproof shell will keep you comfortable on the deck.
Take seasickness measures in advance
If you’re sensitive to motion, take or bring medication or acupressure bands; standing on deck and watching the horizon helps too.
Bring binoculars and a stabilized camera
Binoculars improve early detection and a camera with stabilization or a fast shutter will capture distant blows and tails.
Waterproof wind shell
Blocks spray and wind on exposed decks and provides a lightweight outer layer.
Warm midlayer (fleece or down)
Insulates against cold sea air between bursts of sun and wind.
winter
Seasickness medication or bands
Reduces nausea risk on choppy crossings so you can stay on deck to spot wildlife.
Binoculars
Helps spot distant blows and follow animals without crowding the bow.