Whale Watching from Reykjavík: Guided Boat Tours in Faxaflói Bay
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–3.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires basic mobility for boarding and moving on deck
Overview
Head out from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour into Faxaflói Bay for a focused, three-and-a-half-hour whale-watching tour with experienced guides, heated cabins, and warm overalls. Expect humpbacks, minkes, dolphins and seabird colonies—plus practical comforts and rebooking guarantees if sightings are scarce.
Whale Watching from Reykjavík: Guided Boat Tours in Faxaflói Bay
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The boat pulls away from the Old Harbour and Reykjavík’s glassy Harpa recedes into a ribbon of chrome. Cold sea air hits your face, a clean, saline slap that wakes up every sense. Ahead, the bay opens—Faxaflói, a broad bowl of water ringed by volcanic ridges and, on clear days, the distant silhouette of Snæfellsnes. Conversation from the heated cabin drops to a hum as the crew scans the swell; every head tilts toward the same horizon.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Arrive early to get outfitted
Be at Geirsgata 11 at least 30 minutes before departure to collect warm overalls and hear the safety briefing.
Dress in layers and windproof outerwear
Even on sunny days the bay can be cold and windy—bring a waterproof shell and insulating layers.
Take seasickness measures proactively
Accept complimentary tablets or take your preferred medication before boarding; mid-deck seats reduce motion.
Bring a zoom lens or binoculars
Wildlife often appears at a distance; a 200mm+ lens or compact binoculars improve your viewing and photos.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Humpback whale
- Minke whale
History
Reykjavík’s Old Harbour evolved from a local fishing port into the city’s maritime gateway; its working docks and crew knowledge still guide local whale-watching practices.
Conservation
Operators follow distancing protocols to reduce disturbance and encourage passengers to avoid feeding or chasing wildlife; rebooking policies reduce pressure to pursue animals aggressively.
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Adventure Hotspots in Reykjavík
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof outer shell
Protects against spray and wind, especially on open-deck observation.
Warm mid-layer (fleece or down)
Retains heat when wind and sea spray lower perceived temperature.
Binoculars (8–12x)
Helps identify distant blows, fins, and bird colonies on offshore islets.
summer specific
Telephoto camera lens (200mm+)
Captures close-up behavior without disturbing animals by getting too near.