The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Encounter whales, dolphins, porpoises and birds on this cruise from Reykjavik and see the wildlife in their natural habitat off the capital’s coast. Whales and dolphins are seen on more than 90% of tours in both summer and winter! In the unlikely event you do not see a whale or a dolphin you receive a complimentary ticket to join us again another day.
Elding is an environmentally friendly company and recognised worldwide for its sustainability efforts. Our aim, mission and goal is to minimise the operational impact on the environment while offering an unforgettable experience at sea.
We follow a code of conduct for responsible whale watching, which ensures that our tours respect marine life by minimising disturbance, keeping a safe distance from the animals.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Passengers with limited mobility are warmly welcome. However, please note that our boats are not fully accessible, as steep stairs and high thresholds may limit access to inside areas and toilet facilities.
Wheelchair users are welcome to bring a light-weight chair on board our larger boats. If possible, please notify us of your arrival in advance, as assistance with boarding may be required.
If conditions in Reykjavík are unfavourable, the tour may either be cancelled or depart from an alternative harbour, which could extend the duration by 1-2 hours.
No whales or dolphins spotted on your tour? Join us again another day for FREE!
What To Expect
Enjoy a 2-3,5 hr. cruise in Faxaflói bay in search for whales and other wildlife. Stunning views on the horizon and excellent onboard services provided. Feel free to borrow our overalls to stay warm on the outside deck. Most common whales we encounter are humpback whales and minke whales, although other species make their way into the bay a handful of times a year. If no whales or dolphins make an appearance on the tour, we will offer you to try again another day, free of charge!
Options
Classic Whale Watching
Duration: 3 hours: Total duration of the tour is approx. 2-3,5 hours, depending on factors such as wildlife sightings and weather conditions. Refreshments: Light refreshments and beverages are available for purchase on board. Whale Watching Zone: We sail from Reykjavík's Old Harbour and our search area is Faxaflói bay. On rare occasions, we depart from other harbours. Boat Amenities: We operate on a specially modified 150-200 passenger boat. Heated indoor areas, toilets and bar available on board. Dress Code: Please make sure to dress according to the weather at sea. If needed, we have overalls you can borrow for free.
What‘s Included
Free WiFi on board
Excellent live guide
Overalls, raincoats and blankets
Admission to Wildlife Exhibition
Food and drinks
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
2,766 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great experience! Saw two...
Gary M,Jun 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great experience! Saw two different kinds of whales, dolphins. Weather was wonderful, crew very friendly. Highly recommend !
very nice
demeln2026,Jun 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had some luck and saw some dolphins, a humpback whale and different kind of seabirds. It was amazing. The guide provided us with very good information about the animals as well as Iceland itself. What I also really like is that they send you some pictures of the sightings after the tour. All in all a very good trip.
Nice
Natalia B,Jun 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Saw dolphins and whale. Took little longer than 3hrs, so plan your day with a little wiggle room. Otherwise very nice experience
A Whale of a time
Bradley P,Jun 8, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great crew and guide Very knowledgeable and informative Would definitely recommend. You'll see more than whales
Perfect Day for whale watching
marcusrd3,Jun 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We were so lucky that day. Sunny and clear and not freezing. Saw many whales but the highlight was the dolphins, they on a pretty great show. I have gone whale watching before, this ship went further out and followed the whales. I would do it again.
A WHALE IS BETTER THAN NONE!
epaminondas2016,Jun 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00A very pleasant experience on a boat that is not too large but still comfortable. We enjoyed a calm sea and even a bit of sunshine, which is exceptional in Iceland. To be honest, we saw ONE whale, but it was moving to see it dive and come back to the surface.
Very good whale watching
davidsL7174AU,Jun 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Easy booking and boarding vessel and saw many whales
Relaxing and well run
Matt L,Jun 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Very fun and relaxed experience. They were well organized and on time. They had complimentary warm winter overalls and anti nausea meds in case. We saw some dolphins and a humpback whale for a long time
Whale watching tour
MHK7777,Jun 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00While I had some issues trying to reserve on-line, since the office was 5 minutes from our apartment, I was able to go there and book directly with them. My husband and son had a great time on the tour and was able to see humpback whales and some puffins in the water! Elding even shared pictures of the tour as part of the package which was awesome to have! Highly recommend!
Such a good trip. Staff...
Erin P,May 31, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Such a good trip. Staff are all very friendly, happy to help if needed and knowable. We saw a humpback whale it was honestly so surreal. Defo book this trip if you want to see and find out some facts about the whales and seabirds.
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