Whale Watching and FlyOver Iceland: Reykjavík’s Coastal Adventure
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels—requires boarding a boat and standing or moving on deck for the whale portion.
Overview
Combine sea-spray whale watching from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour with a cinematic FlyOver Iceland virtual flight. This half-day combo trades the hush of whale blows for an exhilarating aerial sweep of Iceland’s waterfalls and glaciers.
Whale Watching and FlyOver Iceland: Reykjavík’s Coastal Adventure
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You step out of the ticket office on Geirsgata and the harbor air hits you—brisk, saline, and sharp with promise. Boats bob like patient beasts against the quay while seabirds wheel and quarrel overhead. By mid-morning the boat slips from the Old Harbour and the city falls away; the sea takes charge, its grey surface reflecting cliffs and black lava mouths carved by ancient fire.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early
Plan to be at Geirsgata 11 at least 30 minutes before departure to check in and get flotation overalls fitted.
Dress in Layers
Wind and spray make the harbor chillier than the city—wear insulating layers and a waterproof outer shell.
Bring Binoculars and a Tele Lens
A small pair of binoculars or an 200–300mm equivalent lens will help you spot distant blows and dorsal fins.
Use Seasickness Tablets Proactively
Tables are provided, but take them before boarding if you’re prone to motion sickness for maximum effectiveness.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Humpback whale
- White-beaked dolphin
History
Reykjavík’s harbor has been the commercial and cultural heart of the city since settlement, evolving from a fishing outpost into a gateway for marine tourism.
Conservation
Operators follow guidelines to minimize acoustic disturbance and avoid sensitive areas; visitors are encouraged to respect wildlife distances and avoid littering.
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Adventure Hotspots in Reykjavík
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof jacket
Blocks spray and wind during the open-water portion of the trip.
Warm base layers
Retain heat when temperatures drop at sea, especially in shoulder seasons.
Binoculars or telephoto lens
Helps identify distant whale blows and capture close-up photos.
Non-slip shoes
Provide traction on wet decks and slippery harbor quays.