Whale watching from Reykjavík or Akureyri
What you may see, how long it takes, and what happens if the whales stay away.
You do not need to cross the country to see whales. Boats leave from the Old Harbour in the middle of Reykjavík and from the harbour in Akureyri, and on both you get a free second trip if no whales are seen. The better choice is usually the one closer to where you are staying.
From Reykjavík
Reykjavik Sailors leave from Geirsgata 11 on the Old Harbour and sail into Faxaflói bay, looking for minke and humpback whales, dolphins and harbour porpoises, with killer whales a rare sighting. It takes 15 to 20 minutes to reach the whale watching area, and most trips last 2.5 to 3.5 hours. The boats have warm flotation overalls, heated indoor cabins, Wi-Fi and seasickness tablets.
There are several ways to go: the classic whale watching tour from 13.490 ISK per person, an express trip of 2 to 2.5 hours from May to September, a two-hour RIB expedition, and combinations with puffins or with a northern lights cruise the same evening.
From Akureyri
In the north, the Akureyri whale watching trip sails from Oddeyrarbót 1 into the fjord, looking for humpback and minke whales. It lasts 2 to 2.5 hours, from 13.490 ISK per person, with the same free second trip.
Before you go
Arrive 30 minutes before departure, and check the operator’s Daily Diary on the day for the tour’s status. Wear sturdy shoes and warm clothes. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure. Inside that, the operator charges the full price.
Book one of these
Whale Watching tour from Reykjavik
from 13.490 ISKper person
Whale Watching Express Adventure
from 13.490 ISKper person
Whale Watching and Puffin Tour from Reykjavik Old Harbour
from 18.990 ISKper person
Akureyri Whale Watching: Discover Oceanic Marvels
from 13.490 ISKper person
Questions
Is whale watching better in Reykjavík or Akureyri?
Both trips look for humpback and minke whales, and both give you a free second trip if none are seen. Choose by where you are: Reykjavík has more departures and combinations, and Akureyri suits a trip around the north.
What happens if we see no whales?
You get a free ticket for a second trip.
How long does whale watching take?
2.5 to 3.5 hours from Reykjavík, or 2 to 2.5 hours on the express trip. From Akureyri, 2 to 2.5 hours.
Do I need warm clothes?
Bring them, but the boats also provide warm flotation overalls and heated cabins.